Into the Music
This 1979 release marked both a restoration of Van Morrison's full arsenal of powers as writer, performer, and bandleader after five years of uneven albums and a turning point toward the more interior works that would dominate his next decade. Gone is the lack of direction behindA Period of Transitionas well as the commercial pragmatism of the sleeker but shallowerWavelength, replaced by an appealing synthesis of Celtic, gospel, and blues accents that mirror Morrison's own array of earthly joys and spiritual yearnings. On highlights like "Full Force Gale" and "Bright Side of the Road," the sense of revival is palpable, echoed by the lively paean of "You Make Me Feel So Free" and the welcome optimism that brightens "And the Healing Has Begun." Added luster is supplied by a superb studio cast augmenting Morrison's own band, featuringMark Ishamand Pee Wee Ellis in the horn section, withRobin Williamson's evocative Irish whistles andRy Cooder's guitars.--Sam Sutherland