Guitars cover

Guitars

Mike Oldfield · 1999

42 min · 10 tracks · classical · pop rock · progressive rock

A vibrant tapestry of guitar-driven instrumentation blending ambient motifs with eclectic world influences.

Why this album works

Best for
steady mid-tempo progression guitar-driven instrumental exploration vibrant soundscapes for reflection
Context
Released on May 24, 1999, 'Guitars' marked Mike Oldfield's return to instrumental music after a series of vocal albums. This was his first release since the commercially successful 'The Songs of Distant Earth' in 1994, showcasing a deliberate shift back to his roots in guitar composition and layering.
If you like
classical, pop rock, progressive rock

Guitars is an album by Mike Oldfield, released in 1999. A vibrant tapestry of guitar-driven instrumentation blending ambient motifs with eclectic world influences. The album received positive critical acclaim for its intricate arrangements and refreshing take on instrumental music, with standout tracks like 'Cochise' becoming popular among fans. Chart-wise, it performed well, reaching notable positions in European charts and reaffirming Oldfield's status as a pioneer in fusion genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Guitars sound like?

A vibrant tapestry of guitar-driven instrumentation blending ambient motifs with eclectic world influences. Rooted in classical and pop rock.

What makes Guitars by Mike Oldfield notable?

The album received positive critical acclaim for its intricate arrangements and refreshing take on instrumental music, with standout tracks like 'Cochise' becoming popular among fans. Chart-wise, it performed well, reaching notable positions in European charts and reaffirming Oldfield's status as a pioneer in fusion genres. Released on May 24, 1999, 'Guitars' marked Mike Oldfield's return to instrumental music after a series of vocal albums. This was his first release since the commercially successful 'The Songs of Distant Earth' in 1994, showcasing a deliberate shift back to his roots in guitar composition and layering.

Who is Guitars for?

Guitars works well if you're into steady mid-tempo progression, guitar-driven instrumental exploration and vibrant soundscapes for reflection.

How many songs are on Guitars?

Guitars has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Tracklist

10 tracks·42:46

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Muse 2:12
  • 2 Cochise Standout 5:15
  • 3 Embers Standout 3:51
  • 4 Summit Day 3:46
  • 5 Out of Sight 3:48
  • 6 B. Blues 4:30
  • 7 Four Winds Standout 9:32
  • 8 Enigmatism 3:32
  • 9 Out of Mind 3:46
  • 10 From the Ashes 2:28

Release Date

May 24, 1999

Genre

pop rock, progressive rock

More albums in pop rock

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

42 min 46 sec