OCEANIC

Oceana is a delightful, relaxing gem. It seems much of Vangelis' music is all too often overlooked. Once again he presented us with such beautiful music. The sounds of the ocean open it up with "Bon Voyage". It is a short, majestic introduction with lovely violin, strings and harp. The listener is then presented with the pulsating "Siren's Whispering" with its atmospheric women's vocals and men's choir. There is grandeur in the sound of this music, and yet it is always restrained and calming. In these compositions Vangleis combines electronic and classical elements so effortlessly. There are plenty of other subtle exotic complexities thrown in as well. I don't believe anyone else can produce sounds quite like these. Many of the pieces are so rich, soothing and peaceful, above all the attractive "Islands Of The Orient" and "Fields Of Coral". On some other Vangelis albums there are occasional moments of bombast and self-indulgence, but not here. This is more noble and spiritually uplifting. Possibly one of my favourite of his works. It certainly deserves four solid stars.