Yorkshire Post Stage and Screen star Samuel West is set to take part in a series of special shows, marking the 50th anniversary since Mike Oldfield first began creating his iconic album, Tubular Bells.
Tubular Bells, released in 1973, was an instant hit and has remained one of the most popular and recognisable albums of all time. A groundbreaking piece of work, it was the first album released on Richard Branson’s Virgin Records, and Oldfield was just 19 years old when he began working on it.
The album was recorded in Branson’s Manor Studios in Oxfordshire, and was actually a two-track recording on analogue tape. Its unique sound was achieved by Oldfield’s use of a variety of instruments including guitars, basses, organs, drums and glockenspiels, which he layered over each other.
One of the most distinctive elements of Tubular Bells is its use of the tubular bells instrument. This was the inspiration for the album’s name, and its haunting sound has become synonymous with the record.
Oldfield played most of the instruments himself, with assistance from his sister Sally on flute, and Vivian Stanshall (of Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band fame) on vocals for the opening track.
Despite being critically acclaimed and loved by fans, Tubular Bells almost didn’t get released. Branson initially struggled to find a distributor, with most major labels being reluctant to take a chance on such an unusual and experimental album.
Eventually, the album was released and became an instant success, reaching number one in the UK charts and staying there for over a year. It also reached the top ten in the US, and went on to sell over 16 million copies worldwide.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tubular Bells, a series of special shows have been planned. Samuel West, who has starred in many popular television shows and films such as Mr Selfridge and Notting Hill, will be taking part in some of these shows.
Speaking about the anniversary, West said: “Tubular Bells is such a unique and special album, which has truly stood the test of time. The chance to be involved in these anniversary shows is a real honour, and I can’t wait to be part of such a fantastic celebration of Mike Oldfield’s incredible work.”
The shows will take place in a range of venues across the UK, including Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, the Barbican in London, and the Royal Albert Hall.
Fans of Oldfield’s groundbreaking album will have the chance to hear it played live in its entirety, along with other classic hits from his back catalogue.
The anniversary shows promise to be a truly special celebration of Mike Oldfield’s work, and with Samuel West joining in the festivities, they are sure to be a hit with fans old and new.
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