Yup, Days Like This. If ever there was an album that felt like a quiet conversation over coffee on a rainy afternoon, it’s this one. Released in 1995, this is Van Morrison at his most reflective, personal, and soulful- a record that doesn’t shout for attention, but rather invites you in with a knowing nod and a gentle smile.
By this point in his career, Morrison had long since achieved legend status. The Northern Irish singer-songwriter had already given the world classics like Astral Weeks, Moondance, and Into the Music. But Days Like This felt different – it was an album about maturity, acceptance, and the ebbs and flows of life.
A Portrait of Life’s Moods
The title track, ‘Days Like This’, became an instant fan favorite and one of Morrison’s most enduring songs. It’s a simple, almost mantra-like meditation on those rare, perfect days when everything feels just right. Unsurprisingly, it resonated deeply with listeners around the world – and has even been used at peace rallies in Northern Ireland as a symbol of hope.
But the album isn’t all sunshine and ease. Throughout Days Like This, Morrison balances light and shadow, gratitude and longing. Songs like ‘Perfect Fit’ and ‘No Religion’ ponder deeper questions of love, belief, and connection, while tracks like ‘Underlying Depression’ and ‘Melancholia’ touch on the darker corners of the soul.
Full Track Listing
- Days Like This
- Ancient Highway
- You Don’t Know Me
- Songwriter
- Everyone
- Whenever God Shines His Light (duet with Brian Kennedy)
- Perfect Fit
- Russian Roulette
- Raincheck
- No Religion
- Underlying Depression
- Melancholia
The Sound of Experience
Musically, Days Like This is smooth and understated. There’s no grand orchestration or flashy production here – just tasteful arrangements and that unmistakable Morrison voice: rich, lived-in, capable of both gravelly power and tender nuance. Acoustic guitars, piano, subtle horns, and backing vocals all weave together into a warm, organic soundscape.
It’s an album you return to not for bombastic singles, but for feel. For those moments when you need a soundtrack that understands the complexity of life’s quieter moments.
Legacy and Impact
While it may not have the same mythic reputation as some of Morrison’s earlier works, Days Like This remains one of his most beloved albums – especially among fans who appreciate the more introspective side of his artistry.
The title track, in particular, has taken on a life of its own. In addition to its role in peace movements, it’s been featured in films, television shows, and countless personal playlists for those very ‘days like this’ that Morrison so perfectly captured.
Final Thoughts
Days Like This is an album that grows with you. The older you get, the more its gentle wisdom speaks to you. It’s about savoring the good times, navigating the hard ones, and embracing the beautiful mess of life along the way.
So brew a cup of tea, press play, and let Van Morrison take you on a quiet journey through the highs and lows, the sunshine and the shadows. Because truly – on days like this, music like this is exactly what the soul needs.
Fun Facts About Days Like This and Van Morrison
The Title Track Became a Peace Anthem
‘Days Like This’ was embraced during the peace process in Northern Ireland in the mid-1990s. It was used in official promotional materials for the peace talks – pretty amazing for a song that wasn’t written as political but resonates with its hopeful, unifying message.
Family Ties
Van’s daughter, Shana Morrison, sings backing vocals on several tracks on Days Like This, including the title track. Music clearly runs deep in the Morrison family!
Recognition in His Homeland
After the success of Days Like This, Van was honored with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1996 for his services to music.
Pop Culture Appearances
‘Days Like This’ has been used in numerous films and TV shows, including As Good As It Gets and Because I Said So. It’s that song you didn’t realize you already knew so well.
A Nod to Jazz
The track ‘You Don’t Know Me’ is actually a jazz standard written by Eddy Arnold and Cindy Walker. Van gives it his own soulful spin here – one of several nods to his deep love of jazz throughout his career.
Prolific Period
Days Like This was Van’s 23rd studio album! By this point, he was recording and releasing music at a pace that most younger artists could barely keep up with. And he’s still going strong today.
Studio and Sound
The album was largely recorded at Wool Hall Studios in Somerset, England – known for its cozy, atmospheric vibe, perfect for the warm, organic sound of this record.
