I still find the BBC Tubular Bells '73 version is the most enjoyable one (partly at least because of who is playing it) but even I was shocked when I finally weakened and picked up a copy of II on CD for a quid the other year.  It's brilliant.

I think the old fashioned clunkiiness  of both TB and Hergest Ridge  may appeal to the modern hipster.
TB  II and III   have  respectively   an ambient   or dance  gloss which sat well in the  90s.

I love Moonlight Shadow as much as anyone, but the pop albums don't hold a candle to the 70s instrumental epics.

Jules

It had loads of fans these days. I think it's become the hipsters' choice.

Jules

A great album. I love how long it is.

Jules

Just my personal 2 cents, but I'm surprised how little Herges tRidge gets a shout. No. 2 afterTB II for me...

I love Crises and Discovery.   This was where i ( re) discovered him too.

A friend recently  introduced me to Incantations. It's rather good  and features Maddy Prior.  A bit long, but good.

I really rate TB II and III .

Decent in parts for sure, and I like Crises especially, but Jules is still right (I think).

As one who discovered him via Crises and Discovery in the early 80s I beg to differ.

The trouble with investigating Oldfield's catalogue is that it's mostly all dowhill after the first four studio albums. There are hidden gems, but they're few and far between. It's a lot of effort for scant reward, in my opinion.

Jules