A music legend's journey through the blues, one album at the time.
Prepare to be captivated by the timeless artistry of Sir Van Morrison, a musical icon who continues to defy age and genre boundaries. With over 60 years in the industry and a staggering 51 solo albums under his belt, Morrison's latest release, 'Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge', is a testament to his enduring talent and love for the blues.
Morrison's musical odyssey began in the late 1950s, mastering the guitar and saxophone as a teen and gracing various bands before forming Them in 1963. This quasi R'n'B group left an indelible mark with singles like 'Gloria' and 'Baby Please Don't Go'. However, monetary disputes led to Morrison's departure in 1967, marking the beginning of his solo career.
The year 1967 witnessed the release of 'Brown-Eyed Girl', the single that skyrocketed Morrison to fame. This song, appearing on a debut album released without his consent due to contractual misunderstandings, became a significant hit and featured on numerous reviewers' lists of the best pop and rock songs.
But here's where Morrison's genius truly shines. His subsequent albums, 'Astral Weeks' and 'Moondance', are hailed as masterpieces in modern popular music. 'Moondance', in particular, showcased Morrison's versatility, blending folk, rock, jazz, R'n'B, pop, and Irish and Celtic folk influences.
While not every album has garnered universal acclaim, Morrison's distinctive vocals and masterful arrangements on cover versions have consistently captivated audiences. His enigmatic songwriting and diverse musical styles have earned him praise, but it's his affinity for the blues that truly stands out. Despite not replicating the booming depths of the original blues masters, Morrison's voice is perfectly suited to the genre.
Interestingly, only one previous album in Morrison's extensive catalog has delved deeply into the blues, the 2017 release 'Roll with the Punches'. This album featured 10 blues covers and 5 Morrison originals, showcasing his ability to modernize traditional blues while preserving its essence.
Fast forward to 2026, and Morrison releases 'Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge', once again demonstrating his blues prowess. At 80 years young, his voice remains as powerful as ever, and his ability to collaborate with star names and select exceptional musicians is on full display. The album features 20 tracks, including 4 Morrison originals, and boasts a runtime of over 80 minutes.
The album opens with a tribute to Chicago blues, showcasing the talents of veteran session musicians like David Hayes, Larry Vann, and Bobby Ruggiero. Morrison's saxophone riffs introduce the first songs, setting the stage for an exceptional musical journey. The album then explores various blues styles, from Memphis to Texas, with standout performances by Elvin Bishop, Taj Mahal, and Buddy Guy.
'Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge' is a celebration of blues songwriting and musicianship. Morrison's interpretative skills shine on tracks like 'Ain't That a Shame' and 'Madame Butterfly Blues', while his vocal collaborations on 'Can't Help Myself' and 'Betty and Dupree' add depth and emotion. The album also features lesser-known blues gems, such as Blind Blake's 'Delia's Gone', showcasing Morrison's respect for the genre's history.
Morrison's songwriting prowess is evident in 'Monte Carlo Blues' and 'Loving Memories', while 'Play the Honky Tonks' and 'Social Climbing Scene' display his versatility. The title track, inspired by an early 1900s conman's phrase, adds a touch of humor and historical context.
The album concludes with powerful renditions of Willie Dixon's 'I'm Ready' and BB King's 'Rock Me Baby', showcasing Morrison's interpretative genius and Buddy Guy's blues guitar mastery.
'Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge' is a blues lover's delight, offering a rich tapestry of musical storytelling. With its reverence for the genre, impeccable pacing, and Morrison's enduring talent, this album is a must-listen for fans and a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft.
And the question remains: can Morrison ever truly slow down? The answer, it seems, is a resounding no. His relentless creativity and passion continue to inspire and entertain, leaving us eagerly awaiting his next musical adventure.
