Album Info
| Artist: | Mike Oldfield |
| Album: | Platinum |
| Released: | Australia, 1979 |
Tracklist:
| A | Platinum | |
| A1 | Part 1: Airborne | 5:06 |
| A2 | Part 2: Platinum | 6:03 |
| A3 | Part 3: Charleston | 3:17 |
| A4 | Part 4: North Star / Platinum Finale | 4:43 |
| Arranged By [North Star] - Mike Oldfield | ||
| Written-By [North Star] - Philip Glass | ||
| Written-By [Platinum Finale] - Mike Oldfield | ||
| B1 | Woodhenge | 4:06 |
| B2 | Into Wonderland | 5:00 |
| Written-By - Mike Oldfield, Nico Ramsden | ||
| B3 | Punkadiddle | 4:56 |
| B4 | I Got Rhythm | 4:40 |
| Vocals - Wendy Roberts | ||
| Written-By - George Gershwin |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Platinum," released by Mike Oldfield in 1979, marks a fascinating pivot in the artist's career, known predominantly for his epic, sprawling compositions like "Tubular Bells." This album showcases Oldfield's exploration into more accessible, bite-sized pieces, blending progressive rock with elements of jazz, funk, and even disco. It's a departure from his earlier, more meditative works, offering listeners a different but equally engaging side of his musical genius.
The album is divided into two distinct parts. The first side of the original LP features the four-part, 20-minute title suite "Platinum," which is a vibrant and eclectic mix of sounds and styles. The suite begins with "Airborne," a lively and energetic track that sets a dynamic tone. It then transitions into "Platinum," which includes variations labeled as "Platinum Part I-IV," each part shifting in mood and intensity. This piece, in particular, is a testament to Oldfield's versatility as a composer and his ability to integrate different musical styles into a cohesive whole. The funk influences are palpable and give the album a fresh, upbeat feel that was somewhat unexpected at the time from Oldfield.
The second side of "Platinum" features shorter tracks, including "Woodhenge" and a surprising cover of George Gershwin’s "I Got Rhythm." "Woodhenge" is an intriguing instrumental piece, imbued with a mystical quality that harks back to Oldfield's earlier works. The cover of "I Got Rhythm," on the other hand, is a playful and jazzy rendition that contrasts sharply with the rest of Oldfield’s typically more serious repertoire. This track in particular highlights Oldfield's willingness to experiment and step outside his comfort zone, showcasing his skills not just as a multi-instrumentalist, but also as an arranger.
Critically, "Platinum" received a mixed reception at the time of its release. Some praised Oldfield's innovative approach and welcomed the change in direction, while others missed the grand, sweeping soundscapes that characterized his earlier albums. Despite the divided opinions, "Platinum" helped to broaden Oldfield’s audience, appealing to those who might not have connected with his more complex compositions.
From a production standpoint, "Platinum" is polished, with Oldfield’s meticulous attention to detail shining through in every track. He continues to play a vast array of instruments himself, which is a hallmark of his work. This album also features contributions from other notable musicians, including drummer Pierre Moerlen and keyboardist Tim Cross, which add depth and variety to the sound.
"Platinum" may not have garnered the same level of commercial success or critical acclaim as "Tubular Bells," but it remains an important part of Oldfield's discography. It reflects a transitional period in his career, showcasing his ability to adapt and experiment with different musical styles. For fans of Oldfield, "Platinum" offers a unique glimpse into the artist’s evolving musical journey and provides a refreshing contrast to his more famous works.
In conclusion, while "Platinum" might not be the first album that comes to mind when one thinks of Mike Oldfield, it is a vibrant, eclectic, and underappreciated gem that captures a pivotal moment in the artist's career. Its blend of styles and the boldness with which Oldfield steps into different musical territories make it a fascinating listen and a testament to his enduring creativity and versatility.