This two c/d set is from the great Van's concerts from the summer of 1973 recorded live in L.A. and London with his 11 emeber Caledonia Soul Orchestra (the string section is featured in the middle of Caravan). Maybe a little more blues in the song selections - two songs by Sonny Boy Williamson and one by Willie Dixon - than you might expect and how this album could completely shun 1972's Tupelo Honey album (at least he could have rocked the crowd with "Wild Night", correct?) is beyond me. The tempo for Sam Cooke's "Bring It on Home To Me" does seem to drag a little, but this was probably Van's unique interpretation on that night. These are, however, the only relatively mild criticisms I would offer for a wonderful album. "Domino" really rocks, "Saint Dominic's Preview" is wonderful as is "Listen to the Lion". This is a much better album than the Live at the Belfast Opera House in my opinion. The ending on Cyprus Avenue is a great climax. The band is flawless, Van's vocals were never better. If I had to take just one of Van's albums away on an extended vacation this would be it, second is not even close. Buy this album.
