A Landmark Anniversary for a Progressive Rock Classic

Mike Oldfield's iconic 1974 album, Hergest Ridge, is receiving a special 50th-anniversary reissue, bringing fans a fresh and immersive listening experience of this groundbreaking work. Set for release on 27 June 2025, the deluxe reissue includes a 2LP vinyl edition and a Blu-ray audio disc, both featuring remastered and remixed versions of the original recordings.

A Return to the Ridge

Following the worldwide success of Tubular Bells, Oldfield sought solace in the serene landscapes of Herefordshire. It was here, amidst the rolling hills of Hergest Ridge, that he drew inspiration for his second album. Hergest Ridge is widely regarded as one of Oldfield's most beautiful and intricate works, blending progressive rock with pastoral themes and showcasing his multi-instrumental prowess.

The album's soundscapes are rich and textured, built around long instrumental pieces that tell stories without words, creating a deeply atmospheric experience. It was a bold step in Oldfield's musical journey, offering something completely different from Tubular Bells yet equally captivating in its complexity and originality.

Deluxe Vinyl Edition

The 50th-anniversary edition features a meticulously remastered version of the 1974 album, pressed onto high-quality vinyl. The 2LP set offers the original mix alongside Oldfield’s 2010 stereo remix, allowing fans to explore the album’s evolving sound with clarity and depth. The remaster, created with precision at Abbey Road Studios, promises to bring out the subtle intricacies of the original recording while staying true to its spirit.

For collectors and audiophiles, the vinyl package is a must-have, providing a rare opportunity to experience the album in a high-fidelity format that enhances its immersive quality.

Immersive Blu-ray Audio

The Blu-ray audio disc is the standout feature of this reissue, offering an unparalleled listening experience. The disc includes several new mixes, including a Dolby Atmos version, designed to bring the album into a modern, spatial sound environment. Fans will also enjoy the 5.1 surround sound and stereo mixes from 2010, as well as the 1976 quadraphonic mix, making it an essential item for those who want to experience the album in its fullest, most immersive form.

This Blu-ray edition highlights the expansive sonic textures that have made Hergest Ridge a beloved piece of progressive rock history, allowing listeners to explore its intricate layers and emotional depth through various formats.

Visual Enhancements and Artist Insights

The reissue package is also visually striking, featuring newly designed artwork inspired by the picturesque Hergest Ridge. The images, taken in 2023, are a modern reflection of the album's natural inspirations. Accompanying these visuals is a special liner note from Mike Oldfield himself, offering fans a personal insight into the creation of the album and its enduring impact on his career.

Experience 'Hergest Ridge' on 'Exclusively Mike Oldfield'

For those eager to dive into this anniversary celebration, Hergest Ridge can be heard in full on our dedicated radio station, “Exclusively Mike Oldfield.” This platform is the perfect destination for fans to experience the album in its entirety, along with other timeless works from the artist’s storied career.

A Timeless Classic

The 50th anniversary of Hergest Ridge serves as a powerful reminder of Mike Oldfield’s influence on the progressive rock genre. This reissue not only honours the album’s legacy but also brings it into the modern era with remastered audio and stunning visual presentations. Hergest Ridge remains a captivating and evocative journey through sound, and this deluxe edition is the perfect way to experience it all over again.