What makes Islands by Mike Oldfield notable?

'Islands' reached significant commercial success, peaking at number 5 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing Oldfield's ability to meld complex musical styles with mainstream appeal. The title track became a notable single, further solidifying Oldfield's presence in the late '80s music scene. By the time 'Islands' was released in September 1987, Mike Oldfield had already established himself as a pioneering figure in progressive rock with his groundbreaking debut album 'Tubular Bells' in 1973. This album marked a shift in his career towards more accessible pop-oriented music, following his previous project 'Discovery' in 1984, and aimed to capture a broader audience.