Back on Top, like most of Van’s post-1983 albums, is the sound of a first-rate vocal stylist. Except here, Morrison is fired up by several of the best songs of his long career. The punchy title track exemplifies his R&B mastery. “When the Leaves Come Falling Down” follows in the vein of a meditative masterpiece like “Hymns to the Silence.” “High Summer” rivals the midtempo genius of his best-known hits. Back on Top is classic Van—only fresh and new.