Mike Oldfield – Five Miles Out

Mike Oldfield – Five Miles Out

Five Miles Out is a captivating and ambitious album from Mike Oldfield, showcasing the multi-instrumentalist's unique ability to blend progressive rock, folk influences, world music, and atmospheric soundscapes into a richly textured musical journey. Released in 1982, the album arrived during a period of creative evolution for Oldfield, balancing his expansive instrumental compositions with more accessible song-based material.

The centrepiece of the album is the epic Taurus II, an ambitious side-long suite that recalls the spirit of Oldfield's earlier masterpieces while incorporating contemporary production techniques and diverse musical influences. Featuring intricate arrangements, shifting moods, and virtuosic performances, it remains one of the standout compositions in his catalogue.

The second side presents a varied collection of songs and instrumentals, including the hit single Family Man, later covered successfully by Hall & Oates, alongside the atmospheric Orabidoo, the evocative instrumental Mount Teide, and the dramatic title track Five Miles Out. Inspired in part by a real-life near-fatal flying experience, the title song combines powerful vocals, dynamic instrumentation, and adventurous storytelling.

A favourite among fans of progressive rock and Oldfield's extensive body of work, Five Miles Out bridges the gap between the sprawling instrumental explorations of his early career and the more accessible songwriting that would follow. It remains an essential addition to any collection of progressive and art rock classics.

Tracklist:

Side A

1. Taurus II – 24:49

Side B

1. Family Man – 3:45
2. Orabidoo – 13:03
3. Mount Teide – 4:10
4. Five Miles Out – 4:17