TUBULAR BELLS 2003

Unlike the previous sequels to "Tubular Bells", such as "Tubular Bells 2" and "The Millennium Bell", this is a straight re-recording of the original album.

Mike Oldfield has apparently always been conscious of what he considered to be the shortcomings performance and production wise of the original album. He therefore returned to the studio in 2003 and recreated the album in its entirety. The result is what sounds like a tribute to "Tubular Bells".

The original album may well have had its flaws, but they were entirely transparent to the average listener. In many ways, those nuances which Oldfield considered to be in need of repair were part of the appeal of the album.

Listening to "TB 2003", it is difficult to avoid constantly comparing this new recording with the one you are already familiar with. Yes, the performance is now impeccable, the sound is crystal clear, and the music of course is excellent. That perversely may be the reason why it loses some of the appeal of the original, it is just a bit too clinical.

I think I will be sticking with the recording I already know and love, warts and all. (John Cleese is an excellent master of ceremonies for the introductions of the various instruments.)

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