Van Morrison's latest release, Somebody Tried To Sell Me A Bridge, finds the legendary Northern Irish musician returning to his blues roots with characteristic depth and authenticity. Released in 2026 on the Orangefield label, this vinyl collection represents a significant artistic statement from an artist whose career has spanned decades of musical exploration and innovation.
The album showcases Morrison's deep connection to classic blues traditions, drawing from country blues, electric blues, and rhythm and blues styles that have long influenced his work. The twenty-track collection demonstrates his reverence for blues standards and his ability to interpret them with personal conviction. Standout tracks include the opening "Kidney Stew Blues" and the album's title track "Somebody Tried To Sell Me A Bridge," which bookend the release with compelling storytelling characteristic of Morrison's approach to blues material.
Throughout the record, Morrison navigates classic blues fare with seasoned expertise. Notable selections like "Ain't That A Shame," "Betty And Dupree," and "I'm Ready" showcase the breadth of blues traditions represented here, while deeper cuts such as "Madame Butterfly Blues" and "Loving Memories" reveal Morrison's interpretive nuance. The album's structure, spread across four sides of vinyl, allows listeners to fully appreciate the artist's immersive journey through the blues canon.
This release will particularly resonate with collectors who appreciate Morrison's serious engagement with blues heritage and those seeking substantial vinyl listening experiences that reward repeated exploration.
