Van Morrison is to release a new studio album in October, his first since 2008’s Keep It Simple.

The album, called Born To Sing: No Plan B, is to be released on October 1. It marks his return to Blue Note Records, who previously released Morrison’s Grammy nominated What’s Wrong With This Picture? on Blue Note in 2003.

Van Morrison says: “With most record companies being so corporate I am happy to be working with Don Was and the team at Blue Note. To have such a creative music person as the head of my recording label assures me that all the effort taken to write and record this new album will be rewarded with a music based focus and marketing approach. I look forward to many recording projects with Don and Blue Note.”

Don Was adds: “Over a career that spans 4 decades, Van Morrison has developed a body of work that is unparalleled in its consistent excellence. He is one of the greatest singer/songwriter/musicians of all time. We are incredibly honored that he has chosen to record for the Blue Note label and look forward to many fruitful years together.”

The tracklist for Born To Sing: No Plan B is:

1. Open The Door (To Your Heart)

10. Educating Archie

Van Morrison has also announced a slew of new dates. He’ll play:

August 3, Newmarket Racecourse

November 28, Manchester Bridgewater Hall