This autumn, the acclaimed Van Morrison Alumni Band returns to UK stages launching a brand new debut album honouring one of music’s most iconic songwriters. As Sir Van Morrison celebrates his milestone 80th birthday, this remarkable ensemble will bring his rich catalogue to life, playing live for audiences across the country, alongside the issue of a much anticipated debut studio album.
The project is curated and led by internationally renowned saxophonist and broadcaster Leo Green, whose long association with Van Morrison and passion for his music makes him the ideal musical director.
Hand-picked for their outstanding credentials, the members of the Alumni Band are drawn from a pool of world-class musicians who, between them, have performed at over 3,000 concerts and contributed to more than 500 recording credits alongside Van Morrison himself.
The self titled album, curated and produced by Leo Green, features the core of the touring Alumni - namely notably Matt Holland (horns), Robin Apsland (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass), and Geoff Dunn (drums) with additional guest musicians Matt White (guitar) and Jim Watson (Hammond organ). Vocal duties are shared by the soulful Jo Harman and Hayley Sanderson (of BBC's 'Strictly' band fame) together with a cameo appearance by Oliver Award nominee Natalie May Paris performing a unique reimagining of the Van classic 'Brown Eyed Girl'. Other tracks on the near hour long album include favourites such as 'Have I Told You Lately That I Love You', 'Into The Mystic' and 'Someone Like You', alongside deeper cuts such as 'Queen Of The Slipstream', 'Philosopher's Stone' and more, often joined together as 'Suites', under bandleader Green's expert hand.
The accompanying tour features two exceptional co-lead vocalists well known within the soul, blues and roots communities: namely the aforementioned Jo Harman and Georgia van Etten. Both artists add to the magic bringing their own soulful artistry to Morrison’s repertoire, ensuring each performance is a heartfelt tribute while remaining fresh, dynamic, and unique.
Importantly, the project carries Van Morrison’s personal blessing. Speaking about the project, Sir Van remarked: “These songs are meant to be sung and heard, and I am really happy that Leo is carrying the torch.”
Audiences can expect a career-spanning celebration, from Morrison’s early hits and fan favourites through to the deeper gems of his legendary catalogue. With world-class musicianship and vocal power at the forefront, the Van Morrison Alumni Band promises an unforgettable night of music honouring one of the true greats.
The Van Morrison Alumni Band Tour Dates.
30th September – London, Adelphi Theatre
4th October – Coventry, Warwick Arts Centre
12th October – Chelmsford Theatre
17th October – Fareham, Fareham Live
18th October – Basingstoke, The Anvil
22nd October – Lytham St Annes, Lowther Pavilion
23rd October – Shrewsbury, Theatre Severn
24th October – Milton Keynes, The Stables
13th November – Sunderland, The Fire Station
14th November – Scarborough, Spa Theatre
15th November – Manchester, RNCM Theatre
27th November – Bury St Edmunds, The Apex
28th November – Swindon, Wyvern Theatre
The album itself will be available at shows and from a new website shop from 30th September.
www.thevanmorrisonalumniband.
- Management/Agency/Artist Services |JO HARMAN (Management) joharman.com
- BiGiAM Agency | bigiamagency.com
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