A Period of Transition

A Period of Transition is the ninth album by Northern Irish singer/songwriter Van Morrison, released in 1977 (see 1977 in music). It was his first album in two and a half years, largely forgotten or looked over by most casual fans. At the time of its release it was received with some disappointment by critics and fans: "Most were hoping for a work of primeval vocal aggression that would challenge the emerging élite of Morrison pretenders, whose ranks included Bruce Springsteen, Bob Seger, Phil Lynott, Graham Parker and Elvis Costello."(Johnny Rogan) However, the album is still notable for several major compositions, including "Heavy Connection," "Flamingos Fly," "The Eternal Kansas City" and "Cold Wind in August". Morrison had appeared...