OCEANIC

Oceana is really delightful and it must be one of the most relaxing albums I have ever heard as well. Sadly, too much of Vangelis' music is often overlooked. I'm not really sure why that is, this is beautiful music. It begins with sounds of the ocean with "Bon Voyage". What makes this all the more majestic is the varied instrumentation, lovely violin, strings and harp. Following up is the pulsating "Siren's Whispering". It's one of the most atmospheric tunes, slightly eerie as well with the women's vocals and men's choir. Only Vangelis can produce sounds like these, combining electronic music with classical and exotic styles so effortlessly. Most of the pieces are very soothing and peaceful, above all the attractive "Islands Of The Orient" and "Fields Of Coral". This is one of my favourite works of the great composer's. There is no self-indulgence on this album which I found occasionally on some of his earlier works. This remains more noble and it is spiritually uplifting. It certainly deserves four solid stars.