Van Morrison's twentieth studio album, Enlightenment, is a captivating collection of songs that showcases the Northern Irish singer-songwriter's unique talent. Released in October 1990, this album reached No. 5 in the UK charts and features the hit single "Real Real Gone", which charted at No. 18 in Mainstream Rock Tracks.
Enlightenment is a masterful blend of poetic lyrics and soaring melodies, with tracks like "Avalon of the Heart", "See Me Through", and "Youth of 1,000 Summers" demonstrating Van Morrison's ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. The album also includes the thought-provoking title track, "Enlightenment", which explores the idea that we all create our own realities, and the nostalgic "In the Days Before Rock 'N' Roll", which pays homage to the music of the past.
With its rich, atmospheric soundscapes and Van Morrison's expressive vocals, Enlightenment is an album that rewards repeated listens. The 2008 re-issue of the album includes alternate takes of "Enlightenment" and "So Quiet in Here", offering fans a fresh perspective on these beloved songs. Overall, Enlightenment is a testament to Van Morrison's skill as a songwriter and his ability to create music that is both timeless and deeply rooted in the present moment.