Tubular Bells – The Original: A Mesmerising, Sometimes Exhilarating, Music Experience – Adelaide Fringe Review

Nexus Arts, Sat 25 Feb. Septuplet are a seven-piece ensemble with an outstanding amount of talent, and have taken on the amazing project of recreating the music of Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells. Dave (bass and vocals) mused upon the idea; is joined by Kate as musical director, vocalist and piccolo flute; Lisa on keyboards and vocals, Dianne playing piano; Dennis handling percussion and bells; Justin on guitar and mandolin; and Danny performing on guitars, bass and vocals. Together these talented musos have it down pat, flooding our minds with many fond memories of 1973, as we're taken on a journey of the senses. The music was sometimes mesmerising, sometimes exhilarating, with a myriad of moods and genres in what seemed like 20 songs rolled into one. Mike Oldfield’s style was original, manipulating timing and using a progressive overdubbing technique which earnt him the notoriety of being the first album released by Virgin Records. Those who have heard Tubular Bells before will recognise the opening piano solo which was used in The Exorcist, and will enjoy the classic segment where Kate steps up from directing the show to recite the lines, “Grand piano... reed organ... glockenspiel... bass guitar... double speed guitar... two slightly distorted guitars (!)... mandolin.... acoustic guitar... (and then what we were all waiting for) Plus... TUBULAR BELLS!” The show finishes on a high note with a toe-tapping ‘can’t get the tune out of your head’ rendition of Portsmouth. Septuplet played impressively, proving their passion for the music by having the half-sized bells made especially for their show. If you love Mike Oldfield’s music this is definitely one to see. 4 stars Karen Bailey and Terry Izatt Tubular Bells – The Original continues at Nexus Arts from 4pm until Sun 19 Mar. Book at FringeTIX on 1300 621 255 or adelaidefringe.com.au. Click HERE to purchase your tickets. #ADLfringe