IN DULCI JUBILO

After the instant success of Tubular Bells Mike Oldfield moved to countryside, where he recorded the albums Hergest Ridge and Ommadawn. His fourth album Incantations would be released no sooner than in 1978. During this mid-70's period he recorded some (rather uncommercial) singles oriented to folk music. 'In Dulci Jubilo' originally appeared as a B-side of Don Alfonso, and Mike re-recorded this German traditional Christmas carol with the recorder player Leslie Penning.

It sounds joyous and fresh. It begins in a very modest way with recorders and simple percussion, but towards the end Mike lets his electric guitar take the lead role, making it instantly recognizable as his version. The B side features 'On Horseback' which ends the Ommadawn album. I have always liked it. A naiive and happy appraisal of riding a horse. The children of the local pub owner fit in very nicely.