Return to Ommadawn
Mike Oldfield · 2017
42 min · 2 tracks · classical music
A serene blend of intricate acoustic melodies and ambient soundscapes that evokes a deep sense of nostalgia and tranquility.
Top tracks — play these first
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Return to Ommadawn, Pt. I — This opening piece establishes the album's reflective mood with its layered instrumentation and gradual build-up, evoking memories of Oldfield's earlier works while introducing fresh elements.
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Return to Ommadawn, Pt. II — As a continuation of the first part, this composition further develops thematic material and showcases Oldfield’s signature guitar work alongside lush orchestration.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases intricate compositions and a cohesive structure, reflecting Oldfield's signature style.
What we noticed
- The album consists of two long tracks, each over 15 minutes, allowing for extensive development of themes and motifs.
- Part I features a gradual build-up of layers, starting with solo guitar and adding strings and percussion as it progresses.
- Part II shifts to a more rhythmic focus, incorporating varied instrumentation that creates dynamic contrasts throughout its length.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Shows Oldfield's return to earlier styles and continued influence in progressive music.
- Themes
- Celtic nostalgia· ambient soundscapes· musical roots exploration
- Career context
- Released on January 20, 2017, 'Return to Ommadawn' is Mike Oldfield's first album in nearly two decades since 'Music of the Spheres' (2008). This album marks a return to his earlier style, echoing his classic work 'Ommadawn' from 1975, as he revisits themes and musical motifs that have defined his career. At this point, Oldfield was already an established figure in progressive rock, seeking to reconnect with the sonic landscapes that initially garnered him acclaim.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Vangelis· Jean-Michel Jarre· Enya
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Return to Ommadawn, Pt. I 21:10
- 2 Return to Ommadawn, Pt. II 20:57
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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