Following a long-established production pattern,
Mike Oldfield assembled some relatively simple pop- and rock-flavored numbers following one long introductory piece on his 1983 Disky release,
Crisis. The 20-minute opening title-track is a quintessential
Oldfield texture study that consists of sparkling synth washes with edgier material weaving in and out. A fine setup, this track cleanses the aural pallet, preparing the listener nicely for the tunes that follow.
Yes fans who can adjust to the sugary highlight "In High Places" will enjoy
Jon Anderson's springy vocal work on the track. The energetic guitar romp "Taurus 3" will also appeal to most prog and art rock fans. Those in search of more ethereal
Oldfield material should be aware of this record's pop leanings, but open-minded listeners will have a good time exploring
Crisis, one of
Oldfield's better releases of this type. [A Deluxe Version added a bonus CD.] ~ Vincent Jeffries