A Virgin Compilation cover

A Virgin Compilation

Mike Oldfield · 1987

40 min · 11 tracks · classical music

A mesmerizing blend of progressive rock and pop sensibilities, woven with intricate melodies and atmospheric layers.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Magic Touch Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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    Tubular Bells (Edit) — This iconic piece is a pillar of Oldfield's legacy, presenting the memorable motifs that defined his early career in a concise format. Its inclusion underscores the lasting influence of this track on both progressive and contemporary music.
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    Moonlight Shadow — Combining haunting melodies with poignant lyrics, this track showcases Oldfield's ability to craft pop hits while maintaining his progressive roots. Its enduring popularity highlights its significance in his discography.
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    Shadow On The Wall (12" Version) — This extended version amplifies the atmospheric qualities and intricate arrangements that characterize Oldfield’s sound. It exemplifies his knack for blending pop elements with more experimental textures.
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    Family Man — With its catchy chorus and engaging narrative, this song illustrates Oldfield's skill in merging storytelling with melodic hooks, marking a successful crossover into mainstream pop territory.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short bursts of catchy energy
  • fragmented listening for quick breaks
  • nostalgic melodies for easy reminiscing
  • varied edits keep it fresh

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking long, cohesive experiences
  • prefer deep, immersive tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — This compilation showcases Oldfield's range but is not a primary entry point for new listeners.
Themes
Celtic landscapes· progressive rock legacy· storytelling in pop
Career context
By 1987, Mike Oldfield was an established artist known for his groundbreaking work with 'Tubular Bells' and had released several albums. 'A Virgin Compilation' acts as a retrospective, showcasing highlights from his career up to that point, including popular tracks alongside lesser-known gems.
Stylistic neighbors
Vangelis· Jean-Michel Jarre· Enya

Tracklist

  • 1 Magic Touch Start here 4:13
  • 2 Magic Touch (Edit) 3:35
  • 3 Tubular Bells (Edit) 3:18
  • 4 Family Man 3:46
  • 5 Flying Start 3:36
  • 6 Moonlight Shadow 3:37
  • 7 Shadow On The Wall (12" Version) 5:08
  • 8 Five Miles Out 4:17
  • 9 Etude 3:05
  • 10 Jungle Gardenia 2:43
  • 11 North Point 3:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata