Sparks of emotions, fleeting flashes of feeling, run like a swing across the vocal lines of Saint Dominic's preview.
Perhaps the most carefree and energetic Van Morrison; removing the melancholic and introspective veneer of "Astral Weeks" and mitigating the dance-like moods of "Moondance," we find the man telling his story in a more carefree way, with the ethereal atmospheres or bruised fervors of previous records gone, what remains is the most immediate and effective Van Morrison.
Songs where the lyrics interpenetrate the melody, so much so that it seems like the latter is speaking and not the other way around, jazz and folk atmospheres mixed with delightful symphonic interludes complete that essential amalgamation to give spirit to the entire album.
So, listen to what Jackie Wilson said, stop under the tree and smell the rain, and above all, listen to what the lion has to say to you, the old lion has seen much and will offer you some wise words...