Van Morrison - Accentuate The Positive

by Nick Dent-Robinson

published: 19 / 1 / 2024

Label: Exile
Format: CD X2

Surprisingly upbeat double album of 1950s rock and roll and 1960s pop covers from Van Morrison

Review

Van Morrison has often been called “the grumpiest man in pop”. And some of his past material has rather lived up to that reputation. But his last album 'Moving On Skiffle' released in March this year was more agreeable - and he now goes even further with this welcome lighter mood on his latest release, 'Accentuate The Positive'. It is a joyous double album that sees Van returning to two of his childhood loves, 1950s Rock and 1960s pop. The album sees Van covering hits made famous by Chuck Berry, the Everly Brothers, Fats Domino and many others - taking Van, now 78, back to his early days as a hugely talented and soulful rhythm and blues singer. The rock era offers many rich pickings and Van is a skilful interpreter who knows all these songs intimately but still sounds totally engaged as he delivers them in his own powerful style. The enjoyment and sheer fun he gets from performing this material is very evident – and contagious, too. Throughout the album Van interacts smoothly with his band and a trio of excellent female singers. Some famous friends help out. Rockabilly hit 'Lonesome Train' is a duet between Van and Chris Farlowe. The late guitarist Jeff Beck features in what was to be one of his last studio sessions and blues musician Taj Mahal duets on Little Richard's 'Lucille' and 1950s standard 'Shake, Rattle And Roll'. Some country tunes and Broadway standards are included and there is a reference to Van's Northern Irish upbringing on 'Red Sails In The Sunset', inspired by the beautiful harbour resort of Port Stewart in County Londonderry. The title track - once sung by Bing Crosby & The Andrews Sisters - sets the tone for this latest release from Van Morrison - which truly is a very positive and happy pre-Christmas record!

Track Listing:-

1 Are You My Sunshine
2 When Will I Be Loved?
3 Two Hound Dogs
4 Flip, Flop & Fly
5 I Want A Roof Over My Head
6 Problems
7 Hang Up My Rock & Roll Shoes
8 The Shape I'm In
9 Accentuate The Positive
10 Lonesome Train
11 A Shot Of Rhythm & Blues
12 Shakin' All Over
13 Bye Bye Johnny
14 Red Sails In The Sunset
15 Sea Of Heartbreak
16 Blueberry Hill
17 Bonaparte's Retreat
18 Lucille
19 Shake Rattle & Roll