(Lost Highway) www.losthighway.com

More than four decades into his career, Van Morrison has settled into a groove. His late period work isn’t as magical or innovative as, say Bob Dylan’s, but that’s not what Van’s going for. Instead, like many of his recent albums, Keep It Simple is a testament to the power of a great voice, solid songs and simple arrangements. The songs are so consistent that nothing jumps out at first, but after a few listens, it’s impossible not to walk away impressed with Van’s ability to cover so much musical ground, from the soul of “Lover Come Back” to the country of “Song of Home” and from the jazzy blues of “How Can a Poor Boy” to the gospel-rock of “Soul.” In that song, Van sings, “Soul is where everything begins.” Who could argue with a master of it.

Standout Tracks: “Soul,” “Lover Come Back” HAL BIENSTOCK