The year was 1968. The world was a contentious place, but from the noise and tension emerged a work of genius: Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks. The Irish poet’s blending of folk, jazz, blues, rock and pop was magical, his lyrical genius unmatched, his soulful voice a port in the storm.

Astral Weeks remains one of the most original and pivotal landmarks in music history, like lightning in a bottle. Morrison went on to become a huge star, with hits like “Moondance,” “Into the Mystic” and “Domino,” but to this day he is an impenetrable force who has forever followed the beat of his own drummer.

Morrison’s newest album, Keep It Simple, seems to be his mantra of late. Even when his music is stripped bare, Morrison still outshines even the brightest stars.

Van Morrison plays the Joint September 25 at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $71, $91, $131 and $171.

By Caitlin McGarry