Van Morrison – Wavelength (1978)

I heard the Voice of America / Callin’ on my wavelength.

Van Morrison’s Wavelength marks a clear shift in his musical style. Instead of his usual jazz and R&B influences, he opts for a more commercially accessible sound, featuring synthesizers, electric guitars, and powerful drum beats. Released in 1978, this album became his best-selling record at the time, leaning heavily on pop rock and R&B.

The opening track, Kingdom Hall, carries an energetic, almost gospel-like vibe, referencing Morrison’s childhood in Belfast, where he attended services with his mother. The title track, Wavelength, is a nostalgic reflection on his adolescence and the impact of the Voice of America radio station. The album also includes longer, immersive songs like Take It Where You Find It, a nearly nine-minute ballad that evokes an epic atmosphere.

Regarding the guitar, Wavelength is one of the few Van Morrison albums that features a true guitar solo. The electric guitar plays a significant role, giving the album a stronger and more dynamic feel compared to much of his earlier work. However, Morrison’s signature soulful and introspective style remains evident, particularly in tracks like Santa Fe/Beautiful Obsession, where he takes a more poetic approach.

While Wavelength may not have the depth of albums like Astral Weeks or Moondance, it offers a fresh and accessible look at Morrison’s musical evolution. It’s an album that can appeal to both longtime fans and new listeners.

Tracklist

A1 Kingdom Hall
A2 Checkin’ It Out
A3 Natalia
A4 Venice U.S.A.
A5 Lifetimes
B1 Wavelength
B2a Santa Fe
B2b Beautiful Obsession
B3 Hungry For Your Love
B4 Take It Where You Find It

Vinyl Specs

Streaming

Links

https://www.discogs.com/release/1341325-Van-Morrison-Wavelength

https://www.waxlog.com/collection/cave/year-v/release/1800219457/van-morrison-wavelength