Still On Top, the new Van Morrison compilation: three questions

The new Van Morrison compilation, Still On Top – The Greatest Hits, released next Monday, 22 October (UK), raises three questions:

1. Why? It’s the third Morrison compilation of 2007. You wait 14 years for a Van comp, then three turn up at the same time!

Almost certainly the rush to compile is the result of two record labels – EMI and Polydor – wanting their due from a leaving/returning artist. EMI’s two compilations were both valid – creatively and commercially. The new (Polydor) comp heralds an exciting re-release project of the Van Man catalogue. Watch this space…

2. Is it worth buying? You kidding? The 3CD Ltd Ed has 51 tracks. By my reckoning, all but six tracks are simply wonderful: almost 90% of the collection hits the spot. Missing? Summertime In England… , and there’s nothing from Astral Weeks… .

3. Is “Greatest Hits” an accurate title? Naaaah. The Ulsterman’s had very few “hits”. Didn’t he once confide to a small, rapt audience in South Wales: “F*ck the f*cking pop charts…”?

The record shops have been denuded of Morrison product for many months. The new Polydor release programme will put the legacy back in front of music buyers. And persuade some hardcore fans to buy the product, yet again, for the promised bonus additions.

What a legacy! Rave on.


Gerry Smith