VAN MORRISON

Accentuate The Positive (Exile)

Van Morrison continues to draw inspiration from the music that he heard as a child that became embedded in his DNA and influenced his decision to write songs. Hot on the heels of Moving On A Skiffle – Van’s well-received and, yes, skiffle-inspired album from earlier this year – comes Accentuate The Positive. The 45th Van Morrison studio album, remarkably, on Accentuate The Positive he reimagines some of his favourite rock’n’roll 45s from his Belfast youth.

He’s aided by the now late guitarist Jeff Beck in this particular rock’n’roll quest, with further guitar assistance provided by Taj Mahal, and there’s guest vocals from Chris Farlowe to boot. Van’s version of The Johnny Burnette Trio’s Lonesome Train has enough zest to derail the original, while Johnny Kidd & The Pirates’ Shakin’ All Over is also given a thunderous makeover. Undeviating, energetic and fun, just like the best rock’n’roll should be. 

words DAVID NOBAKHT