Soil Festivities (Vangelis, 1984)

Ευάγγελος Οδυσσέας Παπαθανασίου is so well known and appreciated worldwide that he doesn't need a proper presentation here. His original soundtracks are likely to be the highlights of his career, but this Greek multi-instrumentalist and composer has a highly diversified career, including more unpredictable and experimental albums. This is the case with "Soil Festivities", featuring a sole track, divided into five movements.

 

"Soil Festivities" was the 19th studio solo work by Vangelis.

We're mid-way between ambient and electronic prog, with symphonic parts (especially the last movement), relaxing themes and even krautrock echoes. The pulsating synths, the real life effects and the rapid, beating sounds describe the invisible and frantic life of the tiny inhabitants of the soil during a rainy day. It's something completely different from the airy melodies of Vangelis' most famous tracks, but it's also an intriguing, inner exploration into the fresh earth and the darkest corners of human souls.

Conquest of Paradise (Vangelis, 1992)

It was difficult for me to choose just one song among the huge discography of Ευάγγελος Οδυσσέας Παπαθανασίου, or Vangelis, as we all know him. A great composer, far from any musical label, but certainly not too far from prog rock (and you'll find some of his joint ventures in this blog). I finally decided to present here the title track of his 1992 original soundtrack for "Conquest of Paradise", celebrating Columbus and his explorations.

Vangelis is the author of a dozen beautiful original soundtracks.

A majestic theme, some airy keyboards, a bombastic orchestration, a magniloquent choir performance, but also a sensitive piano and well found rythmic solutions. Strangely enough, this track didn't get so popular at the film release time, but it surely did later, when it proved to be perfect for advertising spots, event openings and award ceremonies. This is also true for many other tracks by Vangelis and I do think he's the best one when it comes to rouse and excite people. That's why I listen to his music when I need some extra energy.