In 1973, a young, largely unknown 20-year-old released his debut album, the first release on a brand-new label. The artist was Mike Oldfield, the albumTubular Bellsand the label, Virgin Records. The album became a phenomenon, topping the UK charts, winning a Grammy; giving a green light to his career. Its popularity and notoriety was secured by its main theme being featured inThe Exorcist, the film which became a global sensation.

This 50thAnniversary celebration edition ofTubular Bells, overseen by Mike Oldfield, contains a brand new half-speed Abbey Road master of the original album, plus a second album that unites several beguiling versions of Oldfields masterwork for the first time.

Receiving its first outing on vinyl isTubular X, that Mike recorded in 1998 for anX-Filesalbum*; Mikes remix collaboration with York, the originalMike Oldfields Single (Theme From Tubular Bells)* and, for the first time since a very limited run in 2012, Mikes stunningTubular Bells/In Dulci Jubilo (Music for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games).Of particular interest brand new eight-minute trackTubular Bells 4 Intro, which may well be the last thing ever recorded by Oldfield.

Mike Oldfield retired from releasing music in 2018, after giving up touring many years previously. In the months after his last album,Return To Ommadawnin 2017, Oldfield toyed with going the whole way and making a fourth and final instalment ofTubular Bellsin time for its 50th anniversary. Work began in earnest, and Mike felt he had finally cracked the secret of being able to successfully return to and rework the opening motif. A fascinating eight-minute taster was sent to his A&R team. And then, nothing. Mike decided against continuing. Five years later, this final paragraph of theTubular Bellsstory is being released as part of this 50th anniversary celebration.

Tracklist:

1. Tubular Bells – Part One
2. Tubular Bells – Part Two
3. Tubular Bells 4 Intro (previously unreleased demo)
4. Tubular Bells/In Dulci Jubilo
5. (Music for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games)
6. Tubular Bells (Mike Oldfield & YORK Remix)