MAN ON THE ROCKS

I love this album. I really do. This new album from the legendary Mike Oldfield was an unexpected surprise for me, as I'm a big fan of his guitar work and the people he's influenced. His new album "Man on the Rocks" manages to be a wonderful, enjoyable experience. This is especially so if you don't approach this album expecting "Tubular Bells" or the like. This is an old guy doing what he loves, and I really enjoy that.

Speaking of old men, this album features many tunes that center on nostalgia and pondering the mystery of life. I love to sit back and listen to older people tell stories and pass on wisdom; I really appreciate that. This album comes across that way for me.

The music, as I said, is pure enjoyment. Mike plays his signature guitar and some keys, and he has a wonderful band and a young singer behind him. This album, however, is no prog masterpiece. It has a strong classic rock sound to much of it, and that's okay. There are also some more eclectic elements, such as island music. It's a far cry from his masterworks, but you can't expect that level of work forever. So, for the most part, the music is more simplistic, rockin', and just fun. I was slightly disappointed by the lack of soloing on the album, as there are only a few. Mike's guitars are always a high point for me, and feel that his signature sound could have been used more. But, I really can't review an album for what's NOT on it.

There are many, many good songs on here, a few amazing tracks, and one track that could have been omitted. The good songs include "Sailing", "Minutes", "Dreaming in the Wind", and a few others. The bad song, for me, includes "Irene". You see, "Irene" completely blocks my vision of the rest of the album, as I really can't stand it. It's an old-fashioned, love- struck rock tune about, you guessed it, Irene. It's very shallow compared to the rest of the album, and it's just not my thing. However, I've heard much worse.

Despite that track, Mike puts out some rather incredible tracks, too. These include the folksy "Moonshine", the climactic "Man on the Rocks", the ballad "I Give Myself Away", and the strangely addictive "Castaway" that features some drums that are pure gold and one of the best solos on the album. So, with these fantastic tunes and with some wonderful tracks surrounding them, I feel that Mike Oldfield has actually satisfied my Oldfield craving.

Is this a masterpiece? Far from it. Is it worthy of your time and money? Absolutely. It's just a fun album to hear; full of progressive tweaks, elderly wisdom and introspection, and some tracks that blew away my expectations. I hope to hear more from Mike in the future, but, if this happens to be his last, I feel that he has gone out on a high note that will provide me enjoyment for years to come.

3.5 stars