The Mike Oldfield Collection 1974–1983 cover

Released 17 years ago this June

The Mike Oldfield Collection 1974–1983

Mike Oldfield · 2009

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

A sprawling journey blending progressive rock with Celtic melodies and serene ambient textures.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like dynamics with peaks
  • serene textures throughout
  • sprawling journey of sound
  • celtic melodies and rhythms
  • captivating excerpts from longer pieces

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer concise, standalone tracks
  • seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Themes
Celtic landscapes· immersive soundscapes· progressive rock evolution
Career context
By 2009, Mike Oldfield had established himself as a pioneer in the progressive rock genre since his debut with 'Tubular Bells' in 1973. 'The Mike Oldfield Collection 1974–1983' serves as a retrospective, showcasing his evolution through various musical styles and highlights from his prolific years. This compilation comes after a period of exploration into new age music and mainstream success with tracks like 'Moonlight Shadow'.
Stylistic neighbors
Vangelis· Jean-Michel Jarre· Enya
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Watermark by Enya — Shares serene ambient textures and Celtic influences with lush soundscapes and ethereal vocals.
Macalla by Clannad — Features a blend of Celtic melodies and atmospheric arrangements, echoing Oldfield's immersive landscape.
Blade Runner by Vangelis — Combines progressive electronic elements with expansive soundscapes, similar to Oldfield’s ambient explorations.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 In dulci jubilo 2:51
  • 2 Ommadawn (excerpt) 3:39
  • 3 Portsmouth 2:01
  • 4 William Tell Overture 3:55
  • 5 Incantations, Part Four (excerpt) 4:40
  • 6 Guilty (long version) 6:44
  • 7 Blue Peter 2:08
  • 8 Five Miles Out 4:19
  • 9 Wonderful Land 3:40
  • 10 Taurus II (excerpt) 11:18
  • 11 Family Man 3:47
  • 12 Shadow on the Wall 3:09
  • 13 Moonlight Shadow 3:39
  • 14 Foreign Affair 3:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata