Upcoming Release: Mike Oldfield's Orchestral Version of Hergest Ridge, Set for September
In an exciting development for music enthusiasts, the 1975 orchestral version of Mike Oldfield's iconic album, "Hergest Ridge," is set to be re-released on September 5, 2025. This reissue marks the 50th anniversary of the original album and offers a unique opportunity to revisit a classic performance.
Originally recorded at Kelvin Hall, Glasgow with the Scottish National Orchestra, this orchestral rendition of "Hergest Ridge" was arranged by David Bedford. The album features Steve Hillage on guitar, who stepped in for Oldfield, as the latter was absent due to personal stress at the time[1].
Oldfield, known for his meticulous attention to detail, distanced himself from the live orchestral performances, reportedly being in Italy and Greece during other related shows in late 1974[1]. Mick Glossop, who had experience mixing Oldfield's The Orchestral Tubular Bells album, was instrumental in overseeing the orchestration, ensuring the quality of the production[1].
The discovery of a cassette of the Scottish concert around the time of the "Tubular Bells"' 50th anniversary led to the decision to re-release this version of "Hergest Ridge." The recording, found to be in good condition, will be accompanied by liner notes and historical context explaining the circumstances around the performances and Oldfield's limited involvement[1][4].
The upcoming issue of "Prog" Magazine, on sale tomorrow (Issue 162), features discussions about the stress of making "Hergest Ridge" by Oldfield and others. The re-release of "Hergest Ridge" coincides with the 50th anniversary reissue of the album, offering fans a chance to delve deeper into the music's history and appreciate its enduring appeal[4].
In addition to the original recording, modern-day digital editing and restoration equipment have been used to enhance the sound quality, promising a fresh listening experience for fans[4]. The re-release also includes David Bedford's arrangement of the album and features Steve Hillage on guitar[1].
For those unfamiliar with the 1975 orchestral version of "Hergest Ridge," it is a 1975 live orchestral performance arranged by David Bedford. Recorded with the Scottish National Orchestra at Glasgow's Kelvin Hall, this version features Steve Hillage on guitar, who filled in for Oldfield due to his absence[1]. The official release of this version is scheduled for September 5, 2025, via the FM Concert Broadcasts Ltd label[1][4].
[1] - Liner notes for the new reissue [4] - Upcoming issue of "Prog" Magazine
- The 1975 live orchestral performance of Mike Oldfield's "Hergest Ridge," arranged by David Bedford, will be re-released on September 5, 2025.
- This rendition, featuring Steve Hillage on guitar, was originally recorded at Kelvin Hall, Glasgow with the Scottish National Orchestra.
- Oldfield, absent due to personal stress, was replaced by Hillage in this iconic album's live concert.
- Mick Glossop, who had experience mixing Oldfield's The Orchestral Tubular Bells album, was instrumental in overseeing the orchestration.
- The re-release of "Hergest Ridge" coincides with its 50th anniversary, offering fans a chance to delve deeper into its music's history.
- modern-day digital editing and restoration equipment have been used to enhance the sound quality of the upcoming reissue.
- The upcoming issue of "Prog" Magazine features discussions about the stress of making "Hergest Ridge" and its enduring appeal.
- The 1975 live orchestral performance of "Hergest Ridge" will be released via the FM Concert Broadcasts Ltd label on September 5, 2025.
