| Mike Oldfield Hergest Ridge |
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 | Tracklist:
1. Part One
2. Part Two
Release Date: 1974 | |
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On 1 Lists
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5 of 5 thought this review was well written
On the border of Wales and England rests a hill. This hill is approximately 158m high. Although it was cultivated during the second World War, it is now mostly an overgrown grazing area. Tourists wishing to hike up the hill are advised to go to the nearby town of Kington, and pick up the Offa’s Dyke long distance path, which will take you close to the summit.
Until 28 August, 1974, this hill was the most famous thing by the name of Hergest Ridge. However, all that changed when Mike “20 minutes or bust" Oldfield settled nearby to escape the sudden limelight that was thrust upon him by the success of Tubular Bells.
Again, nothing I can say will both accurately describe the album and give due credit to its marvellous musical marvels. I can only hope to paint an overall image of both parts.
Just like the Welsh countryside which inspired this album, Hergest Ridge is simple, yet has an underlying complexity that is delightful to unravel. We hear simple folk tunes turned, twisted and melded into many layers of aural pleasure. The music reflects nature, as it moves from dark, woody textures to thunderous affirmations of sunlight. Gone is the chaotic, yet enjoyable style of Tubular Bells, however. Although we still have tantalising glimpses of Oldfield’s previous work, this new album is a fresh meadow breeze in the face of any music fan.
Again, many different remasters means many different tracklistings. I am going off the listing for my version of the remastered CD.
Once again Oldfield regales us with his extensive repertoire of musical instruments. And the list is varied; comprising no less than acoustic guitar, bass guitar, electric guitars, Farfisa, Gemini, and Lowery organs, glockenspiel, gong, mandolin, nutcracker, sleigh bells, Spanish guitar, timpani, and his trademark tubular bells.
It should be duly noted that this album’s total length of 40:14 is exactly the same as the Porcupine Tree EP Moonloop. Coincidence? Hehe, I think so.
It is rare for an artist to follow up a masterpiece with something that stands on an equal footing, but Tubular Bells is to Hergest Ridge as Wish You Were Here is to Animals. Once again, I implore you to investigate this musical artwork. Immerse yourself in one of the more enjoyable pastimes in this world; listening to and appreciating a Mike Oldfield album.
I could probably end this review with a joke involving Virgin Records and “aural pleasure", but I won’t. Make one up yourself.
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Album Rating: 4.5
Sounds good, I cant wait for the sampler Jason.This Message Edited On 02.05.06
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Very well written review, it was a smooth read.
I've never heard of this, but it sounds like something I would actually enjoy. The Porcupine Tree coincidence was awesome.
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You're off the wall, man.
Digging: Natasha Bedingfield - Pocketful of Sunshine
| | | Album Rating: 4.5
Are you gonna do a review for Ommadawn and Incantations as well? I really love Oldfield's first 4 albums, and I like your reviewing style. I could do them as well, but I'm afraid I can't fit the words to the music.
Anyway, this album is great. Although it's not as good as Tubular Bells imo, I can still listen to this without not liking anything on it. I love the flute intro to this. 4.5/5 is an accurate rating.
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good comment ok
Digging: Dirty Three - Horse Stories
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I've never heard him. But it sounds interesting. I might purchase this album. If I get money. Dammit.
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I really need this. I've been on an Oldfield binge lately.
Digging: Bill Callahan - Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle
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