ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC

August 7, 2010

Saturday night acclaimed musician Van Morrison transferred the Rogers Arena stage into an intimate lounge, filled with bluesy rock and roll. The set up was relaxed, simple and focused on the music.

The legendary singer songwriter opened the show on the piano for “Northern Muse (Solid Ground)" accompanied by a six-piece band arranged in a circle, highlighted by spotlights.

The Belfast Cowboy known for being reclusive and idiosyncratic, as well as producing some of the most celebrated albums, including “Astral Weeks” and "Moondance”, treated the Vancouver crowd to a live performance worthy of his legendary status.

The concert embodied an inspired blend of blues, jazz, soul, rock and Celtic influence, trolling decades of definitive music.

A critically acclaimed musician, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, recipient of six Grammy Awards, Morrison continues to connect with his audience through his music.

The 64 year old artist displayed his musical prowess and range taking to the sax and guitar, even breaking out the harmonica later in the night.

Much to the crowd's delight, the Irish musician wasted no time laying out the popular favourite, “Brown Eyed Girl” as the second song of the concert. The evening then took a distinctively blues-infused turn, a style that Morrison's voice was born to explore.

From his debut solo album Blowin' Your Mind! in 1967 to his Astral Weeks Live at the Hollywood Bowl in 2009, his gift is undeniable. His passion for performing is less so. However this doesn't seem to bother his fans, who simply embraced the opportunity to see Morrison in action.

Besides, special guest and opening act Mavis Staples, covered the fan interaction quota for the evening, treating early birds to a spiritual set of gospel blues. Her powerful voice and friendly demeanor charmed the Vancouver crowd.

There was no need for flashy sets, shout outs or encores - that’s not really Morrison’s style anyways - he gave his fans exactly what they were looking for in the 90 minute show.

From the minute he stepped on the stage to the last note, Van the Man didn't say a word to the crowd. It was all about the music, true to Morrison’s signature style.