LIGHT + SHADE

So much dissent, obviously many hard core fans are very opinionated with this latest Oldfield release. When one has had such a stellar career (think about it: still kicking after more than a quarter century!!!Who can claim that?) , its only normal that nostalgia entwines with bitterness. What would the average fan wish for Amarok Mark 7 or another Tubular Balls ? Give the man a break, he still plays a mean guitar and has retained an ear for stupendous melodies (of which these discs abound) . How can one claim that this is commercial? Have you heard what commercial is lately? He went through his pop craze in the eighties with so-so results that are now history. I agree that synthetic drums should be replaced by the human variety, someone like Chris Maitland or Jerry Marotta would definitely alter the overall sonics and the perception of this being too sterile. This is probably why Oldfield added a U-MYX toy for us fans who like to fool around, so that the offensive synthetic drums can be erased. Presto, back to acceptability!!! Seriously now, there are some fabulous melodies here , Angelique, Kingscape, Quicksilver, Our Father, Slipstream etc... all have a haunting quality that deserves respect. Certainly not the best ever Oldfield product but far from the worst (Heaven's Open and Millenium Bell are pretty weak) , but placed in the same contest as the wonderful Songs from Distant Earth, this is a desirable addition to one's collection. Review on its own merits and not to be compared to past glories is the least respect one can bestow on such a dedicated artist. 4 shaded lights