Clash of the Cover Songs: Van Morrison vs. Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova

The Rules for Battle: Each week, we pit versions of the same song by two different artists in a head-to-head death match for musical supremacy. (Sometimes it will be the original recording vs. a cover version; other times it will be two different covers.) Then it's up to you to decide: Listen to and vote on which version you think should emerge victorious and which should be sent packing. May the best band win!



The Song: 'Into the Mystic'

The Contestants: Van Morrison vs. Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova

In This Corner -- Van Morrison: The legendary Grammy-winning singer-songwriter from Belfast, Northern Ireland, has entranced audiences since the mid-1960s with his inspirational lyrics. First issueed on his 1970 album 'Moondance' and again on a 1974 live record, this song has gained in popularity since its release, inspiring numerous cover versions.

Van Morrison, 'Into the Mystic'

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In This Corner -- Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova: Following their Irish elder's lead, the two stars of 'Once' cover the famously evocative tune at several performances. The two insist that the show isn't over until the whole audience enters into a spiritual journey with them by asking everyone to belt out, "I want to rock your gypsy soul/ Just like way back in the days of old/And together we will float into the mystic."

Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova, 'Into the Mystic'