← Back

Amarok (Mike Oldfield album)

by Mike Oldfield

Released: May 18, 1990

Instrumental rock, progressive rock, experimental rock, world

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Experimental Album.

The Album

"Amarok" is the thirteenth studio album by English multi-instrumentalist and composer Mike Oldfield, released in 1990. It is known for its ambitious and experimental nature, featuring a single continuous track that spans over 60 minutes. "Amarok" is characterized by its complex and ever-changing musical themes, intricate arrangements, and shifting rhythms.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

It remains a favorite among fans of progressive…

It remains a favorite among fans of progressive and experimental music.

The album showcases Oldfield's virtuosity as a musician…

The album showcases Oldfield's virtuosity as a musician, with him playing a wide range of instruments including guitars, keyboards, percussion, and vocals.

The music traverses various genres, incorporating elements of…

The music traverses various genres, incorporating elements of progressive rock, world music, folk, and classical.

It takes the listener on a journey through…

It takes the listener on a journey through a diverse sonic landscape, with moments of tranquility juxtaposed with bursts of intensity.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Mike Oldfield - Amarok (Mike Oldfield album)

Open in Albums Gallery

Then

Reception

The album received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its ambition and creativity, while others found it overly indulgent and unfocused.

Now

Legacy

Despite its initial reception, "Amarok" has gained a cult following over the years and is considered a unique and adventurous entry in Oldfield's discography.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

The album showcases Oldfield's virtuosity as a musician, with him playing a wide range of instruments including guitars, keyboards, percussion, and vocals. The music traverses various genres, incorporating elements of progressive rock, world music, folk, and classical.

"Amarok" is characterized by its complex and ever-changing musical themes, intricate arrangements, and shifting rhythms. It takes the listener on a journey through a diverse sonic landscape, with moments of tranquility juxtaposed with bursts of intensity.

The album received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its ambition and creativity, while others found it overly indulgent and unfocused. Despite its initial reception, "Amarok" has gained a cult following over the years and is considered a unique and adventurous entry in Oldfield's discography. It remains a favorite among fans of progressive and experimental music.