MAN ON THE ROCKS

Actually, the very last studio album with new material by Mike Oldfield, "Man On The Rocks" from 2014, is quite a remarkable late addition to his discography. Initially, it was intended that "Music Of The Spheres" from 2008 would be the final chapter of his career. However, Oldfield's participation in the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games in London inspired him so much that he decided to continue his musical journey, resulting in the album we are discussing here, "Man On The Rocks."

Recorded at The Village Studio in Los Angeles and in his home studio in the Bahamas, the album features eleven song- oriented tracks and composing such songs happens to be one of Oldfield's skills. While Oldfield is renowned for his long compositions, his shorter pieces have always been well received. On "Man On The Rocks", he garnishes his songs with sublime guitar work.

Clearly, Oldfield has opted for a group sound on this album and it is a group of excellent musicians who perform the songs. The renowned session bassist Leland Sklar spoils the ears with his tasteful playing, while being supported by the driven drumming of John Robinson. Oldfield shares the honors on guitar (not lead) with Stephen Lipson and Michael Thompson and on keyboards, he does so with Matt Rollings. For vocals, Luke Spiller was brought in, a relatively unknown singer from the indie genre. He has won my heart with his catchy enthusiasm, whether he sounds warm in the verses or intensely Freddie Mercury-esque in the choruses. Thanks to these gentlemen, there is always a pleasant atmosphere on "Man On The Rocks".

The album starts exuberantly with Sailing. We hear acoustic guitar, enthusiastic vocals, an infectious rhythm and an excellent guitar solo. These elements give us hope. In the music video, we see Spiller strolling along the beach with the enthusiasm of someone who just won the lottery, but what stands out most is that he not only sounds like the Queen vocalist but also resembles him. In the subsequent Moonshine, there is a Mike And The Mechanics-like flow interrupted by a Celtic folk section complete with violin and low whistle reminiscent of Runrig. For me, it is one of the album's highlights.

Then a number of songs with a similar signature follow, including the melodic title track and Dreaming In The Wind with Chris Rea-like guitar playing and a magnificent guitar solo.

From then on, the atmosphere changes quite a bit. Nuclear presents a shift towards even more intensity and even a certain darkness. This solemn game-changer joins my list of favorite Oldfield shorties. In the steamy Chariots and the ballad Following The Angels, a whole gospel choir is even employed. It sounds as sultry as wearing a turtleneck sweater in summer. Irene is about the severe storm that hit the Bahamas. It goes without saying that the atmosphere there was far from delicate. The song often brings to mind The Rolling Stones and even AC/DC. The album concludes with the subdued worship song I Give Myself Away, a creation by gospel singer William McDowell. It seamlessly fits into the whole and provides a worthy ending to this beautiful album. A good choice.

"Man On The Rocks" is available in three versions: the standard edition, the deluxe edition with an additional CD excluding vocals and the super deluxe edition, which includes an instrumental disc as well as a disc of demos and alternative mixes. Personally, I consider every edition to be super deluxe.

Orginally posted on www.progenrock.com