AMAROK

This is one of the most unique and accomplished albums you could ever hear. It is quite possibly Oldfield's best effort, though that's hard to discern and really is irrelevant. Whether it is his best album or not, it still is one of the most amazing musical experiences I have ever had and should be heard by anyone who claims to be a true fan of music.

Only warning I give: If you're completely new to Oldfield's material and you are not willing to take a huge plunge, then you may not want to go with this album. Try Ommadawn, Hergest Ridge, or Tubular Bells first.

That being said, now onto the only track of the album...

1. Amarok- Constantly changing and absolute music genius. Easily one of the best tracks I've ever heard in my entire life. The proficiency of Oldfield with his instruments here is stunning: just look at those credits and listen to the song for yourself! The song never gets boring or repetitive, though it may take a few listens to grow on you simply because of its length (it took 4 or 5 for me). The beginning is amazing, the middle section is amazing, and the ending is even better: absolute perfection and everything you could ask from Oldfield in the span of one song. This also is easily his most challenging work, with so much to be discovered and analyzed. This experience never gets old for me and I find myself lifted to heights I've hardly ever been taken by any other album, and when certain sections come all you can do is smile. The boat piano section, the ending African drum section with the voices and then with Thatcher's appearance, the majestic guitar break after the first few minutes of the composition... This song is perfect and really expresses grounds that Oldfield had never covered with any other album. Flawless. 10+/10

If you have an open mind to music, get this album. However, as I said earlier, because of the depth, track length, and relative inaccessibility of this work in comparison to Oldfield's more well-known and representative works/masterpieces, this may scare off some newcomers. If you are acquainted already with Oldfield, then what are you waiting for? Even if you're not, it's so hard for me NOT to recommend this album.