Tubular Bells - MIKE OLDFIELD*****

Tubular Bells Part One/Tubular Bells Part Two

Tubular Bells was the debut album from Mike Oldfield and is unquestionably his greatest. Sometimes compared to new age music, although in reality it is far better than this generally bland and forgettable genre. As a measure of its wide appeal this unique album stayed in the UK charts for many years. (US:3 UK:1)

“This album has the same feel as a classical work. Beautifully done, upbeat but not trite, moody but not dark and amusing but not corny. And it's not a virtuoso show either. The strength of this music is in the composition. The melodies are beautiful.”

“Tubular Bells is a very impressive album, if nothing else. Listening to Mike Oldfield play over thirteen instruments together shows his talent as a musician as well as his dedication. Some would argue that splicing together the numerous different songs together is unnecessary but I find that to be the selling point to the album, as some of the transitions are truly impressive. The segments range from moody guitar and piano pieces to the more comical ones.”

“Brilliantly played and assembled by Oldfield Tubular Bells goes through a whole variety of different musical phases and ideas in an almost symphonic style. The opening theme is one of the most stunningly recognisable pieces in musical history and the album as a whole is undeniably a high water mark for prog-rock.”

“The first half is classic from the opening Exorcist jingle to the closing Viv Stanshall/choral section. The first phase holds together as a piece with the movements flowing together well and holding the attention. The second half is far more pastoral and ambient in mood and, whilst enjoyable, is a little more disjointed and less attention grabbing, but an interesting listen none the less.”

“You could break it down and dissect the parts and music but it is best just to listen to it as a whole and enjoy the seamless movement and brilliant musicianship of a truly great album. The music is quite simply fantastic. Although the theme is repeated again and again it never becomes boring. On the contrary the music becomes ever more beautiful as you hear it again and again.”

“This album should be regarded as a masterpiece of all times, not just the rock era. It could even stand alongside music from the classical masters. Its changing and evolving moods prove that you don't need lyrics to create a story.”