Van Morrison's 'Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge': A Deep Dive into the Blues
The legendary Van Morrison, a music icon with a career spanning over 60 years, continues to captivate audiences with his 51st solo album, 'Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge'. This album is a testament to his enduring love for the blues, showcasing his timeless vocals and masterful interpretations. Despite his age (80), Morrison's voice remains intact, and he continues to collaborate with renowned musicians, ensuring his music remains fresh and relevant.
The album pays homage to the blues, drawing inspiration from Chicago to Memphis to Texas. It features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Elvin Bishop, Taj Mahal, and Buddy Guy, alongside seasoned session players. The result is a solid and reverent exploration of the blues, with good pacing and variety throughout.
Morrison's songwriting shines on this album, with a mix of his own compositions and interpretations of classic blues songs. He showcases his unique style, slowing down songs like 'Ain't That a Shame' and 'Madame Butterfly Blues' to emphasize their emotional depth. His vocal interpretations are truly remarkable, as he shares vocals with Taj Mahal on 'Can't Help Myself' and 'Delia's Gone', adding a touch of harmony to these timeless tracks.
The album opens with Eddie 'Cleanhead' Vinson's songs, showcasing Morrison's excellent saxophone riffs. It then delves into blues staples, with Morrison's skilled interpretations standing out. His ability to transform songs like 'Stormy Monday/Lonely Avenue' into modern interpretations is a testament to his innate knack for timing. The album also features original compositions, such as 'Monte Carlo Blues' and 'Loving Memories', which further showcase Morrison's songwriting prowess.
One of the highlights is 'Play the Honky Tonks', a lively R&B soul track with a catchy lyric. Morrison's next contribution, 'Social Climbing Scene', takes a 60s doo-wop approach, while the title track draws inspiration from an early 1900s idiom. The album concludes with a mix of gospel blues and Chicago blues standards, including 'You're the One' and 'I'm Ready', showcasing the blues guitar skills of Buddy Guy and Morrison's unique interpretations.
'Somebody Tried to Sell Me a Bridge' is a must-listen for blues enthusiasts and Van Morrison fans alike. It demonstrates Morrison's continued relevance and his commitment to exploring the rich history of the blues. With its solid arrangements, reverence for the genre, and exceptional musicianship, this album is a testament to Morrison's enduring legacy in the world of music.
Rating: 7/10
