28-February-2024
Fox Theater
 Oakland, USA

Last night, Van Morrison and his band seamlessly merged into the slipstream at Oakland's historic Fox Theater. The last time we were here, Van concluded his performance with the captivating "Madam George," a gem from the 1968 album "Astral Weeks." This evening, Van and his ensemble shone brightly, performing a variety of engaging covers. These selections are reminiscent of their recent work on albums like "Movin on Skiffle," "What's It Going to Take" and Accentuate the Positive," encompassing genres such as jazz, rock, blues, and country, and weaving them into a rich tapestry that took us all into the music. There were several standout moments. The rendition of Sam Cooke’s "Laughin' and Clownin'" was notable, as was their interpretation of the traditional song "Green Rocky Road," which Van and the band infused with a mystical quality. Cold, Cold Heart by Hank Williams, Bye, Bye Johnny by Chuck Berry, the venerable Help Me, Sonny Boy Williamson, No Other Baby, The Vipers were covered exceptionally well and were made their own as only Van and the band can do. Van’s own Precious Time and Enlightenment punctuated the set along with the performance of "Gloria," first recorded by Van and Them in 1964. This is a timeless classic and was an exceptional finale. The band extended "Gloria" for an additional 15 minutes, skillfully integrating "Moondance" into the mix.

Van Morrison continues to evolve, both personally and through his band's lineup, which is currently, and always, remarkable. While I can't name everyone, members like Dave Keary, David Hayes (on bass) were instrumental to the night's success. Other members on piano and Hammond organ, multi-instrumentalist (including clarinet, sax and flute), percussion perfection and the beautiful, soulful sound of the backing vocalist put us all on the invariable wavelength for the entire evening. Tomorrow night two at The Fox and then to Carmel for two shows at the intimate Sunset Cultural Center. Thank you Van Morrison. 

-Dave Bartlett 

Setlist

You Are My Sunshine
I Want a Roof Over My Head
Accentuate The Positive
Bonaparte's Retreat
Shakin' All Over
When Will I Will Be Loved
Sea of Heartbreak
The Shape I'm In
Bye Bye Johnnie
Lucille
Cold Cold Heart
No Other Baby
Red Sails In the Sunset
Enlightenment 
Precious Time
Laughin' and Clownin' 
Have I Told You Lately 
Green Rocky Road
Flip Flop and Fly
Help Me 
Gloria

Big Hand for The Band!

David Hayes (Bass)
John McCullough (Keyboards)
Robert Ruggeiro (Drums)

Jeff Taylor (Sax, Guitar, Vocals, Clarinet)
Omega Rae Brooks (Vocals)
Dave Keary (Guitar)