The Philosopher's Stone cover

The Philosopher's Stone

Van Morrison · 1998

153 min · 30 tracks · jazz fusion

A reflective blend of jazz-infused rock and soulful Celtic melodies that evoke a sense of timeless introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Really Don’t Know Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Wonderful Remark — This track showcases Morrison's signature blend of poetic lyricism and rich instrumentation, encapsulating the album's introspective tone and emotional weight.
  • →
    Bright Side of the Road — An uplifting anthem that combines joyous melodies with heartfelt lyrics, this track exemplifies Morrison's ability to convey optimism amidst life's challenges.
  • →
    Lover’s Prayer — This song highlights Morrison's soulful vocal delivery paired with poignant lyrics about longing and connection, making it a standout moment on the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing for deep reflection
  • dynamic journey through varied emotions
  • for contemplative afternoons
  • engaging storytelling in every track
  • suitable for relaxed listening sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek high-energy party music

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A collection of unreleased tracks showcasing artistic evolution, not a primary entry point.
Themes
literary homage· Celtic influences
Career context
Released in 1998, The Philosopher's Stone is a collection of previously unreleased tracks from Van Morrison's extensive catalog, showcasing his artistic evolution. This album arrived after the commercial success of his 1997 album, The Healing Game, marking a period where Morrison began to look back at his past works while exploring new sonic territories.
Stylistic neighbors
Leonard Cohen· Bob Dylan· John Hiatt
New to Van Morrison? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Really Don’t Know Start here 3:37
  • 2 Ordinary People 5:20
  • 3 Wonderful Remark 8:01
  • 4 Not Supposed to Break Down 5:24
  • 5 Laughing in the Wind 4:10
  • 6 Madame Joy 4:23
  • 7 Contemplation Rose 5:15
  • 8 Don’t Worry About Tomorrow 5:20
  • 9 Try for Sleep 6:05
  • 10 Lover’s Prayer 3:57
  • 11 Drumshanbo Hustle 4:48
  • 12 Twilight Zone 8:23
  • 13 Foggy Mountain Top 5:27
  • 14 Naked in the Jungle 4:36
  • 15 There There Child 3:01

Disc 2

  • 1 The Street Only Knew Your Name 6:25
  • 2 John Henry 5:48
  • 3 Western Plain 5:42
  • 4 Joyous Sound 2:30
  • 5 I Have Finally Come to Realise 5:09
  • 6 Flamingoes Fly 6:28
  • 7 Stepping Out Queen, Part 2 4:26
  • 8 Bright Side of the Road 4:02
  • 9 Street Theory 4:54
  • 10 Real Real Gone 3:45
  • 11 Showbusiness 9:21
  • 12 For Mr. Thomas 4:15
  • 13 Crazy Jane on God 4:05
  • 14 Song of Being a Child 4:09
  • 15 High Spirits 4:21

What to play next

Back on Top
Listen next

Back on Top

1999

Continues the reflective themes with a more upbeat and accessible sound.
The Healing Game
Go back to

The Healing Game

1997

Sets the stage for introspection found in The Philosopher's Stone.
Full Van Morrison discography Where to start with Van Morrison Artists like Van Morrison
Celtic music blue-eyed soul jazz fusion

If this landed

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Pink Moon

Pink Moon

Nick Drake

Shares reflective lyricism and a blend of folk with a haunting, introspective atmosphere.

Songs of Leonard Cohen

Songs of Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen

Both feature poetic storytelling and an intimate, jazz-inflected musical backdrop.

Fisherman's Blues

Fisherman's Blues

The Waterboys

Combines Celtic influences with soul and rock, creating a rich, emotive listening experience.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata