Mick Clifford: It’s like back to the ’80s in a loop of history

Van Morrison’s performance at Cork Opera House brought back memories of the ’80s for columnist Mick Clifford as we enter a time of GAA violence, medical politics, and spiralling inflation.

He walked out on stage like a man arriving home, carrying his advanced years behind shades and a snazzy blue suit. Then he took off, straight into the music, back in his groove. The stage is where he belongs.

Van Morrison was in Cork Opera House during the week, the voice intact, his touch on clarinet and harmonica as firm and loose as ever. He’s 76 but he could pass for a crazy young kid of 60.