"Islands" is Mike Oldfield's 11th studio album, released on September 7, 1987. It features a diverse lineup of guest vocalists, including Bonnie Tyler, Kevin Ayers, Anita Hegerland, Max Bacon, and Jim Price, which adds to the album's eclectic feel. The U.S. edition has a different tracklist and cover art, showcasing the varying approaches to international releases during that era. The album blends Oldfield's signature instrumental style with pop elements, making it distinct from his earlier works. If you’d like to know more about specific tracks or themes, just let me know!
Islands was indeed accompanied by a full-length VHS video album, featuring a unique visual interpretation for each track. The videos creatively combined cutting-edge computer-generated imagery with live-action footage, enhancing the album's artistic presentation.
The album's production involved an impressive array of co-producers, including Michael Cretu, Geoffrey Downes, Tom Newman, Simon Phillips, Alan Shacklock, and Oldfield himself, which contributed to its diverse sound. The collaboration with notable singers like Bonnie Tyler and Kevin Ayers added further depth to the project. If you want to delve deeper into any specific aspects, like the themes of the songs or the production process, feel free to ask!
