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Mike Oldfield's Orchestral Version of Hergest Ridge Album Set for Release in September

Releasing on CD: A previously unheard 1975 live performance of Mike Oldfield's album Hergest Ridge, played at Kelvin Hall in Glasgow

Mike Oldfield's symphony album, Hergest Ridge, is set for release in September.
Mike Oldfield's symphony album, Hergest Ridge, is set for release in September.

Mike Oldfield's Orchestral Version of Hergest Ridge Album Set for Release in September

Mike Oldfield's 1975 live orchestral rendition of his album "Hergest Ridge," recorded with the Scottish National Orchestra at Kelvin Hall in Glasgow, is set to be re-released on September 5. This version of the album, arranged by David Bedford, was famously used in the soundtrack of the 1979 documentary "The Space Movie," celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing.

The recording, which dates back to September 5, 1974, was discovered around the time of the "Tubular Bells"' 50th anniversary. It was found to be in good condition and has been restored using modern-day digital editing and restoration equipment.

Mick Glossop worked on the recordings, acting as a technical advisor, along with Chris Hollebone and John Jacob. Notably, Oldfield was not present for the performances due to stress, and Steve Hillage played guitar in this orchestral version.

The upcoming issue of "Prog" Magazine, on sale tomorrow, features discussions about the stress of making "Hergest Ridge" by Mike Oldfield and others. The magazine also delves into the history of the album, providing insights into its creation and impact.

Interestingly, snippets of this particular Glasgow performance of the orchestral "Hergest Ridge" found their way into "The Space Movie." This connection between Oldfield's work and space exploration adds an intriguing layer to the album's legacy.

The reissue of "The Orchestral Hergest Ridge" is being released through the FM Concert Broadcasts Ltd label. Fans of Mike Oldfield and classical music enthusiasts alike will have the opportunity to rediscover this unique fusion of genres.

  1. The anniversary of "Tubular Bells" led to the discovery of Mike Oldfield's 1974 recording of "Hergest Ridge" with the Scottish National Orchestra.
  2. The LP, originally arranged by David Bedford, was used in the famous 1979 documentary "The Space Movie," celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing.
  3. Despite Oldfield not being present during the performances, Steve Hillage played guitar in this orchestral version, making it a unique rendition.
  4. The upcoming issue of "Prog" Magazine discusses the stress behind the creation of "Hergest Ridge" and provides insights into its history and impact.
  5. This live orchestral recording, featuring snippets that made it into "The Space Movie," adds an intriguing connection to Oldfield's work and space exploration.
  6. The reissued album, named "The Orchestral Hergest Ridge," will be available through FM Concert Broadcasts Ltd for fans of Mike Oldfield and classical music enthusiasts.
  7. The "Prog" Magazine will be on sale tomorrow, offering discussiosn on the album's anniversary, restoration process, and its influence on pop-culture and music history.

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