07-15-2026
(HRPR) Orbital are set to reopen a defining chapter in electronic music history with the first-ever official release of their now-legendary Glastonbury 1994 performance.
Scheduled for release on September 25 via London Records, this extensive documentation provides fans with a multidimensional view of a landmark show that signified a pivotal moment for electronic music in mainstream culture. This performance solidified a new reality where electronic music could mix with rock’s heavyweights, capturing the spirit of a generation that was beginning to embrace the genre.
The Glastonbury 1994 set, initially broadcast by the BBC, became a transformational moment for both Orbital and UK dance culture. It was just six years after the Second Summer of Love—a period characterized by underground raves and dance music—when many still viewed rave culture as a niche interest. Orbital’s entrance onto one of the world’s most respected festival stages marked a significant shift. Armed only with synthesisers, sequencers, and samplers, Phil and Paul Hartnoll demonstrated that electronic music could evoke the same emotional responses as traditional bands, captivating an audience of tens of thousands.
Reflecting on that unforgettable day, Phil Hartnoll describes the overwhelming energy from the audience: “It was just an amazing feeling… the love was oozing out, like it was vibrating from them.” His brother Paul emphasizes the bridge they built between different musical worlds, noting how both indie kids and ravers came together during their set. “When they came and saw our performance, the penny dropped. It made that connection between indie music and dance music,” he explains.
The duo’s signature style, coupled with their iconic head torches, challenged previous notions of what a live electronic show could be. Their performance not only showcased raw energy but also highlighted artistic complexity with its cinematic arrangements. The influence this set produced has echoed through the years, contributing to a more inclusive framework for electronic performances at Glastonbury and other major festivals to come. More than three decades later, it remains one of the most celebrated live shows in the realm of British electronic music.
While many fans have enjoyed bootleg versions of the performance, this official release promises refined audio, meticulously restored and remastered from the original desk tapes by the talented Mark Ayres. This upgraded sound quality offers listeners a chance to be transported back to that pivotal summer evening in 1994, ensuring that the essence of the event is preserved for future generations. More than just a nostalgic throwback, the release acts as a definitive restoration of a moment that helped redefine the landscape of UK electronic music.
The upcoming release will be made available in multiple formats, including yellow and blue double-color vinyl, double black vinyl, CD, and digitally across all leading platforms. Fans eager to relive this iconic performance can pre-order or save it here.
The complete tracklist for the performance is as follows:
1. Forever
2. Sad But True
3. Impact
4. Remind
5. Walk Now 8.00
6. Are We Here? (Part 1)
7. Are We Here? (Part 2)
8. Attached
9. Chime
Related Stories:
Orbital To Release Legendary 1994 Glastonbury Performance
Kneecap Share Sherelle & Wallace Remixes Of ‘Sayonara’
Kneecap Recruit Derry Girls’ Jamie-Lee O’Donnell For ‘Sayonara’ Video
