Van Morrison's forty-third studio album, What's It Gonna Take? features 15 new compositions that collectively reflect the artist's indefatigable drive to record and perform live in front of audiences. The 2LP-set is preceded by "Pretending" - a gorgeous, restless soul track - produced by Morrison and recorded between Real World Studios, Bath Spa Hotel, Richard Dunn's Studio, Culloden Hotel Holywood Studio and Musicbox Studios. What's It Gonna Take? is the follow up to Morrison's 2021 release - the 28-track double album Latest Record Project, Vol. 1 - and is further evidence of the rich creative streak that one of the world's greatest artist's is currently on. "Van's voice is still a supple marvel. Outstanding and ebullient, they don't call him The Man for nowt," writes The Mirror.
Morrison is one of music's true originals - utterly unique and inspirational with a legacy that spans the last seven decades. Born in Belfast in 1945 and inspired by blues, country and gospel, he formed the hugely successful R&B band Them in 1964 before moving on to a different realm as a solo artist. One of the most prolific recording artists and hardest working live performers of his era, Van has crafted an unparalleled catalogue of releases that moves effortlessly through his myriad influences, including visionary street poetry, jazz, swing, skiffle and Celtic roots and includes some of the best loved songs of the 20th century. He has also managed to maintain a work ethic both on stage and in the studio that would shame younger artists.
1. Dangerous
2. What's It Gonna Take?
3. Fighting Back is the New Normal
4. Fodder for the Masses
5. Can't Go On This Way
6. Sometimes It's Just Blah Blah Blah
7. Money From America,
LP2
1. Not Seeking Approval
2. Damage and Recovery
3. Nervous Breakdown
4. Absolutely Positively the Most
5. I Ain’t No Celebrity
6. Stage Name
7. Fear and Self-Loathing in Las Vegas
8. Pretending