XXV: The Essential
Mike Oldfield · 1997
59 min · 14 tracks · classical · pop rock · progressive rock
A rich tapestry of ambient melodies and progressive rhythms that evoke nostalgia and transcend time.
Why this album works
- Best for
- nostalgic reflections on past steady pacing for deep focus melodies for background warmth
- Context
- Released on November 11, 1997, 'XXV: The Essential' serves as a retrospective collection during Mike Oldfield's resurgence in popularity after a decade of varied projects. It showcases highlights from his extensive catalog, including iconic pieces that had defined his career since the groundbreaking 'Tubular Bells' in 1973, positioning him firmly within the realms of ambient and progressive rock.
- If you like
- classical, pop rock, progressive rock
XXV: The Essential is an album by Mike Oldfield, released in 1997. A rich tapestry of ambient melodies and progressive rhythms that evoke nostalgia and transcend time. 'XXV: The Essential' is significant not only for its compilation of classic tracks but also for revitalizing interest in Oldfield's work around the late '90s. This album achieved commercial success, charting in various regions and appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers, solidifying Oldfield's legacy in contemporary music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does XXV: The Essential sound like?
A rich tapestry of ambient melodies and progressive rhythms that evoke nostalgia and transcend time. Rooted in classical and pop rock.
What makes XXV: The Essential by Mike Oldfield notable?
'XXV: The Essential' is significant not only for its compilation of classic tracks but also for revitalizing interest in Oldfield's work around the late '90s. This album achieved commercial success, charting in various regions and appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers, solidifying Oldfield's legacy in contemporary music. Released on November 11, 1997, 'XXV: The Essential' serves as a retrospective collection during Mike Oldfield's resurgence in popularity after a decade of varied projects. It showcases highlights from his extensive catalog, including iconic pieces that had defined his career since the groundbreaking 'Tubular Bells' in 1973, positioning him firmly within the realms of ambient and progressive rock.
Who is XXV: The Essential for?
XXV: The Essential works well if you're into nostalgic reflections on past, steady pacing for deep focus and melodies for background warmth.
How many songs are on XXV: The Essential?
XXV: The Essential has 14 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Tubular Bells (excerpt) Standout 4:19
- 2 Hergest Ridge (excerpt) Standout 4:57
- 3 Ommadawn (excerpt) 7:00
- 4 Incantations (excerpt) 4:40
- 5 Moonlight Shadow Standout 3:38
- 6 Portsmouth 2:01
- 7 Good News 1:47
- 8 Sentinel (remix) 3:57
- 9 The Bell (remix) 3:09
- 10 Let There Be Light 4:21
- 11 Only Time Will Tell 4:36
- 12 The Voyager 4:26
- 13 Women of Ireland 6:30
- 14 Tubular Bells III (excerpt) 3:41
Release Date
November 11, 1997
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
59 min 8 sec
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