Boxed cover

Boxed

Mike Oldfield · 1976

165 min · 14 tracks · classical · pop rock · progressive rock

A mesmerizing blend of progressive rock and ambient soundscapes that transports listeners through vivid musical landscapes.

Why this album works

Best for
extended thematic explorations unfold steady pacing for deep focus immersive soundscapes transport listeners
Context
Released on October 29, 1976, 'Boxed' is a compilation album featuring selections from Oldfield's first three studio albums. By this time, Oldfield had achieved critical acclaim with 'Tubular Bells' in 1973 and was solidifying his reputation as a pioneering figure in progressive rock and new age music. 'Boxed' showcased his evolving artistry while capitalizing on the commercial success of his earlier works.
If you like
classical, pop rock, progressive rock

Boxed is an album by Mike Oldfield, released in 1976. A mesmerizing blend of progressive rock and ambient soundscapes that transports listeners through vivid musical landscapes. 'Boxed' reached number one on the UK Albums Chart, reflecting its broad appeal and cementing Mike Oldfield’s place in the music scene. The album's innovative approach to blending different styles influenced many artists and contributed to the rise of instrumental rock in the late 1970s. This release also helped to establish Oldfield as a significant figure in the development of ambient music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Boxed sound like?

A mesmerizing blend of progressive rock and ambient soundscapes that transports listeners through vivid musical landscapes. Rooted in classical and pop rock.

What makes Boxed by Mike Oldfield notable?

'Boxed' reached number one on the UK Albums Chart, reflecting its broad appeal and cementing Mike Oldfield’s place in the music scene. The album's innovative approach to blending different styles influenced many artists and contributed to the rise of instrumental rock in the late 1970s. This release also helped to establish Oldfield as a significant figure in the development of ambient music. Released on October 29, 1976, 'Boxed' is a compilation album featuring selections from Oldfield's first three studio albums. By this time, Oldfield had achieved critical acclaim with 'Tubular Bells' in 1973 and was solidifying his reputation as a pioneering figure in progressive rock and new age music. 'Boxed' showcased his evolving artistry while capitalizing on the commercial success of his earlier works.

Who is Boxed for?

Boxed works well if you're into extended thematic explorations unfold, steady pacing for deep focus and immersive soundscapes transport listeners.

How many songs are on Boxed?

Boxed has 14 tracks, running approximately 165 minutes.

Tracklist

14 tracks·165:14

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Tubular Bells, Part One Standout 25:49
  • 2 Tubular Bells, Part Two 25:45
  • 3 The Rio Grande 6:34
  • 4 Portsmouth 2:04
  • 5 In Dulci Jubilo 2:51

Disc 2

  • 1 Hergest Ridge, Part One Standout 21:24
  • 2 Hergest Ridge, Part Two 18:46
  • 3 An Extract From Star’s End 7:33
  • 4 Argiers 3:59
  • 5 Speak (Tho’ You Only Say Farewell) 2:55

Disc 3

  • 1 Ommadawn, Part One Standout 20:07
  • 2 Ommadawn, Part Two 17:23
  • 3 The Phaeacian Games 3:59
  • 4 First Excursion 5:58

Release Date

October 29, 1976

Genre

pop rock, progressive rock

More albums in pop rock

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

165 min 14 sec