If you have already checked out this week’s Vox online content, then you probably noticed that Van Morrison’s newest album Born to Sing: No Plan B was briefly covered in our “Hear This” section alongside Muse’s latest project The 2nd Law. So why did I decide to review it in the blog too, you ask? Because this album is really, REALLY fantastic and deserves more of an explanation, that’s why.

In his most vocally-driven studio album to date (and there have been 34, so that’s saying something), Van Morrison has managed to cloak some pretty irritated lyrics in a nest of warm, soothing jazz. And even though a few tracks surpass the seven minute mark, it doesn’t feel like a massive time commitment at all.

Amidst the smooth horns and beats, Van Morrison growls about a range of topics that are really getting his goat. “Goin’ Down to Monte Carlo” expresses his disdain for “phony psuedo-jazz” and humans in general with lines such as, “Satre said hell is other people/I believe most of them are.” He goes on to declare that God is dead and materialism is on the rise on “If In Money We Trust,” and “End of the Rainbow” bashes social climbers and all of their intentions.

If these lyrics seem a little intense for your taste, never fear; the comforting, soulful instrumentals take the edge off of Morrison’s harsh words.

After listening to Born to Sing: No Plan B, it’s safe to say that Van Morrison is angry. But his anger has manifested into one of his most beautifully-crafted projects to date.