MUSIC OF THE SPHERES

I know that most Mike Oldfield fans have been waiting for a follow up to the innovations he began in "Amarok" and that "Music of The Spheres" doesn't present new themes etc. Well, at least it wasn't Tubular Bells 4! Musically, it probably isn't what most would expect from the great composer at all. This is entirely orchestral with very little guitar. Although the little guitar featured is a splendid bit of classical guitar. I can't help but notice some borrowings from one or two of his earlier pieces, especially the opening "Harbinger" is reminicent of TB1. There may well be some adaptaions of other pieces here too. All that said, eighty plus percent of it is simply gorgeous. After about six or so listens, many of the melodies began to send shivers down my spine. The strings are lovely as are the choir parts. In conclusion, we do not have a great step forward for Mike, but this offering contains plenty of elegant, soothing music. it was his best album for years.