Mike Oldfield - Platinum

The little album "Platinum" was a striking change from the symphonic rock suites that Oldfield had previously done, and clearly an attempt to loosen up. The parts 1-4 that comprise the first half are instrumental disco, with tinny beats and pulsing basslines. The fourth piece has a particularly infectious hook, like his other successful disco piece "Guilty" from the Exposed live album. "Woodhenge", featuring percussionist Pierre Moerlen, recalls the minimalist atmospheres of "Incantations". "Sally" (apparently its real title is "Into Wonderland") is a drippy lo-fi disco ballad, and "Punkadiddle" is a rather camp, supposed punk parody. The striking track on the second side is the most downbeat, mellow rendition of "I Got Rhythm" I have ever heard. I don't know about rhythm, but Wendy Roberts has got a pleasing voice.

It's interesting but not quite convincing, and I'd only recommend it to completists. Seems like he's groping around aimlessly for a new direction, which he would find a couple of albums later.

July 29, 2004

5 out of 10

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