It draws from Morrison’s soul and R’N’B influences, as hinted at in title with the reference soul legend, Jackie Wilson. “Jackie Wilson Said (I’m In Heaven When You Smile)” is the first song off of the album and also a popular single. It is not as deep as ‘Weeks or charming as Moondance but for any Morrison fan I would definitely recommend it. Saint Dominic’s Preview (being his 5th notable studio album) gives off the etherealness of Astral Weeks and the pop/soul of Moondance. Astral Weeks is a gorgeous and deeply emotional album, unlike anything heard to that date (or heard since) Moondance being slightly more popular, in its music appeal and the high sales it achieved.
Anyone who has heard Van’s first two solo albums will know what a delight they were. Saint Dominic’s Preview is an often overlooked album in a rich Van Morrison back-catalogue. Review Summary: Not Astral Weeks or Moondance, but somewhere in between.