Tonight's Concert Pick
Belfast Cowboy law: Van Morrison snubs greater Texas, focuses on Houston
The rest of Texas' delay has turned out to be Houston's gain when it comes to tonight's performance by The Belfast Cowboy, Van Morrison.
In January, Morrison nixed shows in Austin, Dallas and Fort Worth in the 11th hour citing severe exhaustion. When his Lone Star trek was rescheduled, the timing was perfect for Morrison to take advantage of the early May cool weather up the road at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. (The fact that he could also sell around 15,000 tickets for a show at an amphitheater probably factored into the decision as well.)
Ta da. The appearance of an Irish-born, blues-leaning, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer in Houston emerges.
It appears that Morrison is over his exhaustion as well. Early reports have seen Morrison playing the guitar, ukulele, keyboards, saxophone and harmonica at shows. Fan favorites including "Brown Eyed Girl," "Moondance," and "Gloria" have been featured frequently. With any luck he'll still be playing the iconic "Astral Weeks" album in its entirety as he has been since 2008 to celebrate of the 40th anniversary of his second studio album's release.
No matter what Morrison decides to sing, it should prove to be a historic night with a modern music legend. As long as you follow his rules.
Van Morrison, 8 p.m. at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Tickets $35-$350