Mike Oldfield - Elements (The Best Of Mike Oldfield) (CD 1993)

I am a great fan of Mike Oldfield and I love this CD. It includes excerpts from some of his better known work, such as Tubular Bells, Ommadawn and Tubular Bells 2, and the well known pieces In Dulci Jubilo and Portsmouth. These are mixed with lesser-known tracks, but that is not to say that they are not up to the same standard. In my opinion some of his lesser-known work is some of his best work.

This album is a different format to much of his work in that it is distinct tracks, rather than a continuous piece where the tracks merge into one another. It is a good mix of different styles, including both instrumental pieces and songs. Mike is not afraid to experiment with music and sound and does not stick within the conventional, somewhat formulaic boundaries that many seem to adhere to. The result is that all of his work is refreshingly original and different.

As is Mike Oldfield's style, all the tracks have depth and are very skilfully written, each being in effect a work of musical art. It is possible each time you listen to hear a track in a way you didn't hear it before. The only possible exception to this is track 2; Family Man. This track apparently was produced for the mass singles market and it shows; it is shallow by Mike's usual standards, repetitive, and has some lyrics which, to me, make little sense and seem to only be there to rhyme with the others. I am also not too keen on track 9; Shadow on the Wall, but I wouldn't say there is anything wrong with it per se, it is just my personal preference.

That said, although I am not so keen on tracks 2 and 9 they are not terrible and do not put me off putting the CD on and leaving it to play all the way through. The beauty of this CD is the way it can be enjoyed on so many levels; you can actively listen to it and enjoy the depth of the music, or it makes excellent unobtrusive background music.

I have been familiar with this album for some years, probably since about the time it was first released, so I was really happy to find it on eBay, at an absolute bargain price, so that I could at last have my own copy. If you appreciate quality music I thoroughly recommend that you buy this album if you get the chance, it's well worth the money, and even better value at eBay prices!