Photo: Bengt Oberger, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Our Top 10 Van Morrison albums list looks at the brilliant body of work of one of the most prolific musical artists of the past sixty years years. Born in Northern Ireland, Van Morrisons celtic roots have long played a major role in his music as well as the genres of soul and rock and roll. and at times demeanor. Van Morrison’s professional career began in the mid 1960s as a member of the band Them. In 1967, Van Morrison began his solo career releasing his first album entitled Blowin’ Your Mind! which was really just a compilation of songs that were intended to be just released as singles and some throw away tracks by his record company. Despite the albums shortcomings, it did contain what would become one of his ealy signatures songs in the track “Brown Eyed Girl.”
Van Morrison second album Astral Week would set the tone for the rest of his career. To this date, most critics and a large percentage of his fans believe it is Van Morrison’s ultimate masterpiece and his greatest album of his career. It stands as one of the most highly rated and respected albums ever released. His next album entitled Moondance would turn Van Morrison into an International star.
Stardom was something Van Morrison never seemed to be interested in. Despite amazing success in the rock and roll world, Van Morrison has always been the anti-Rock Star type. Van Morrison has done very few interviews through his career. He has always shunned the spotlight and it’s only recently that his views against the pandemic lockdowns have surfaced in the press. Eve on stage, Van Morrison lets his bandmates do all the talking to the audiences as he stands usually more towards the back of the stage hiding behind dark sunglasses and usually a long overcoat and hat. Yet, despite his lack of stage presence, his vocals and music completely overwhelm the audiences delivering a musical performance of the highest quality.
Van Morrison has been one of the most consistent solo musical artists in classic rock history. He has never stopped releasing albums since his 1967 debut. Van Morrison has so far released forty two studio albums in his career. That number will continue to grow as the man is still active in releasing new material. His latest album entitled Latest Record Project, Volume 1 was just released in 2021 and stands as a two CD set containing twenty eight new songs. Van Morrison has actually been more productive in the past five years as he has been throughout his entire career as he has released seven new albums in just the past five years. That’s what we call prolific.
In addition to the forty two solo studio albums, Van Morrison has also released seven live albums, nine compilation albums and eighty singles. Our top 10 Van Morrison albums list is meant more for fans that are unfamiliar with his work and set to serve the purpose of introducing some of his best records from various points in his career. It is meant to be utilized as just a starting point as there is so much more to discover form this once in a lifetime artist.
# 10 – Hymns to the Silence
We open up our top 10 Van Morrison Albums list with Van Morrison’s grand two CD set entitled Hymns To The Silence. The album was originally released in two single cd cases as opposed to the traditional double CD cLam cases that 2 cd sets were released in during the CD’s golden era of the 1990s. Hymns To The Silence would stand as Van Morrison’s first double studio album of his career. The album was released in 1990. What one will notice immediately upon listing to the album is just how good the sound quality of the record is. The separation between the instruments is simply outstanding as it gives one a feeling that the band is performing right in your living room. It’s one of the best sounding CDs I have ever heard.
How does a man write so many great songs for just one album and make it sound so easy. The albums is a mix of spiritual songs that really don’t sound too spiritual but you know it’s there. There are various other styles of music included on the record from soul to r&b to gospel to celtic to just about everything. Most of the album’s twenty one tracks are originals with a couple of traditional pieces thrown in, The one cover is a soaring version of Don Gibson’s “I Can’t Stop Loving You.” Overall this is a great way to start out our Van Morrison albums list as it serves as a record that defines so many of his styles in a spectacular sounding package.
# 9 – Avalon Sunset
Continuing with our top 10 Van Morrison Albums list we take a listen to the sensational album Avalon Sunset. This is one of his best 1980’s releases. It capped of a decade in which Van Morrison turned to spiritual themes in similar fashion to what Bob Dylan went through in his late 70s born again period. Yet, Van Morrison keeps the spirituality a little more ambiguous in the material with the exception of the album’s opening track “Whenever God Shines His Light.” The album contained one of the biggest songs of Van Morrison’s career in the beautiful and soulful ballad entitled “Have I Told You Lately.”
# 8 – Too Long in Exile
In the number eight spot on our Top 10 Van Morrison Albums list we present the album Too Long In Exile. Van Morrison takes a break from his spiritual period and heads deep into the blues and jazz. Fans of his early 1970s work were ecstatic ats this change. To cap off the blues immersions, Van Morrison recorded the album with blues legend John Lee Hooker. There are some great cover versions of classic blues songs recorded for the album including outstanding reads on songs such as “Good Morning Little Schoolgirl,” and “The Lonesome Road.”
# 7 – Beautiful Vision
Van Morrison’s wonderful album Beautiful Vision was released 1982. The album sort of got lost among the new wave era and the popularity of MTV in 1982. Nonetheless, it’s a brilliant album that featured some big time rock stars which was unusual for a Van Morrison album. The great Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits played guitar on the album’s standout cut “Cleaning Windows.” Steve Miller’s drummer Gary Mallaber who also played with Bruce Springsteen and many other legendary rockers played drums on the track. Other standout cuts that became concert staples all throughout the 80s included the songs “Dweller on the Threshold” “Beautiful Vision,” and “Vanlose Stairway.”
# 6 –Tupelo Honey
There are a lot of Van Morrison fans who would just chooses Van Morrison’s first ten albums of his career as his top 10. It’s hard to argue against that as Van Morrison released an unbelievable series of brilliant albums early in his career. One of those would be the magnificent album Tupelo Honey. Long a favorite among many Van Morrison fans the album takes the listener on a ride through the countryside in shoes filled with r&b and soul. It mixes it up as all great Van Morrison albums do but yet the countryside of things is more present in this album than most Van Morrison records. The album spawned the hit single “Wild Night,” which was later covered by John Mellencamp.
# 5 – Wavelength
Everyone has their favorite Van Morrison period. Ours was his late 1970s period. One of the albums from that period stands as the phenomenal album entitled Wavelength. The album was released in 1978. Fueled by the very successful hit single “Wavelength” the album would become Van Morrison’s biggest selling album so far. The record also included the song “Hungry For You Love,” which was placed in the movie An Officer And A Gentleman a few years later. Other standout tracks included the album’s opening track “Kingdom Hall,” and the breathtaking song “Natalia.”
# 4 – Saint Dominic’s Preview
At the number four spot on our top 10 Van Morrison Albums list we present the album entitled Saint Dominic’s Preview . Van Morrison put on his soul pants for this one. While the album’s cover may have been a little misleading as to what type of music may appear on the record, as soon as the needle was dropped on the albums opening track “Jackie Wilson Said (I’m in Heaven When You Smile)” it was clear that Van Morrison has taken a huge step in his musical directions. This was truly a groundbreaking album in his career and was preview of all the styles of music he would soon explore.
# 3 – Astral Weeks
I am sure there will be some fans that will be pretty upset that we did not put Astral Weeks at number one, let alone placing it at number three. It is regarded by many as Van Morrison’s masterpiece. Van Morrison once described the writing for the album as being engaged in a “stream of consciousness,” that just took over. It’s an album that is as organic as one could get to connecting with the themes of earth and love. Released in 1968 it’s also a product of the times. Most people who love this album were teenagers when it first came out. It’s an album that connects people to a certain in their lives. It’s a great record but we don’t believe it’s his best and we only ranked it this high out of respect for all those who love this album.
# 2 – Into The Music
This one is probably the surprise of the lists. It shouldn’t be because it’s simply one of the best albums he has ever released. Hands down it’s his most melodic and romantic record he ever composed. Maybe that’s why some people don’t like it. It’s also another album that got lost during the popularity of new wave music at the end of the 1970s as the album was released in 1979. While Bruce Springsteen once claimed that Van Morrison was one of his influences, it’s easy to hear that the tables were turned on this album as Van Morrison seemed to be influenced by Springsteen’s music on this album. The piano stands front and center on many of the albums glorious tracks. The opening track on the album entitled Bright Side of the Road was the lead single. However it’s side two where we find the most gorgeous and emotional tracks on the record. Songs like “Angeliou” “And the Healing Has Begun” and “It’s All in the Game” are just striking performances that will forever be some of the best recordings he has ever laid down on vinyl.
# 1 – Moondance
We wrap up our top 10 Van Morrison Albums list with the album Moondance. This was Van Morrison’s third solo album and the record that brought him stardome. The song Moondance would become a new standard crossing the genres of pop rock and jazz. It would serve as an inspiration for so many musicians like Bruce Springsteen whose song “Kitty’s Back,” was very much inspired by Moondance. Other standout tracks from the album included “And It Stoned Me” “Caravan,” Into The Mystic, Crazy Love and just about every songs on the record. This one was perfect.
Van Morrison Complete Studio Albums Discography
Blowin’ Your Mind!
Released in 1967
Astral Weeks
Released in 1968
Moondance
Released in 1970
His Band and the Street Choir
Released in 1970
Tupelo Honey
Released in 1971
Saint Dominic’s Preview
Released in 1972
Hard Nose the Highway
Released in 1973
Veedon Fleece
Released in 1974
A Period of Transition
Released in 1977
Wavelength
Released in 1978
Into the Music
Released in 1979
Common One
Released in 1980
Beautiful Vision
Released in 1982
Inarticulate Speech of the Heart
Released in 1983
A Sense of Wonder
Released in 1985
No Guru, No Method, No Teacher
Released in 1986
Poetic Champions Compose
Released in 1987
Irish Heartbeat with The Chieftains
Released in 1988
Avalon Sunset
Released in 1989
Enlightenment
Released in 1990
Hymns to the Silence
Released in 1991
Too Long in Exile
Released in 1993
Days Like This
Released in 1995
How Long Has This Been Going On
Released in 1995
Tell Me Something: The Songs of Mose Allison
Released in 1996
The Healing Game
Released in 1997
Back on Top
Released in 1999
You Win Again
Released in 2000
Down the Road
Released in 2002
What’s Wrong with This Picture?
Released in 2003
Magic Time
Released in 2005
Pay the Devil
Released in 2006
Keep It Simple
Released in 2008
Born to Sing: No Plan B
Released in 2012
Duets: Re-working the Catalogue
Released in 2015
Keep Me Singing
Released in 2016
Roll with the Punches
Released in 2017
Versatile
Released in 2017
You’re Driving Me Crazy
Released in 2018
The Prophet Speaks
Released in 2018
Three Chords & the Truth
Released in 2019
Latest Record Project, Volume 1
Released in 2021
Top 10 article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2021
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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
Thanks for this! Moondance is an all-time fave. But I appreciate you not topping the list with Astral Weeks. To me, it has its moments but rambles too much and lacks the tunefulness of Moondance. Listening to “Into the Music” now. Only knew a couple songs from that but wow, I’ve been missing out.
Yeah, Into The Music is such an overlooked gem in his catalog. Thanks for coming to the site.