■ “It sounds good when I sing it, but it sounds great when he sings it.” (Noel Gallagher)
On August 27th, Oasis put an end to years of passionate speculation and announced their long-awaited reunion. While the enthusiasm and excitement has not yet died down, the 30th anniversary deluxe edition of their debut album “Definitely Maybe”, which will forever be remembered in rock history, was released on August 30th.
The 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition includes tracks from the original recording sessions at Monnow Valley Studios, which were never recorded, as well as a number of rare outtakes from the final album recording sessions at Sawmills Studios in Cornwall, which were recorded at the same studios as the original Definitely Maybe. Both tracks have been newly mixed by Noel, and the story of how the miraculous debut album was completed is finally revealed with archive material that has been sealed for 30 years.
The artwork has also been completely renewed. The original art designer, Microdot’s Brian Cannon, and sleeve photographer Michael Spencer Jones have worked on the new artwork, and Creation Records boss Alan McGee and journalist Hamish McBain have contributed new liner notes. Alan McGee comments on the studio version at Monnow Valley, “Listening back to the Monnow Valley sessions now, I’m glad we scrapped them. But you could also say, there’s a different appeal to it. What a band. Enjoy.” (Excerpt from the liner notes)
In addition, to coincide with the release of the 30th anniversary deluxe edition of “Definitely Maybe,” a new 30-minute interview with Noel Gallagher looking back on the recording period has been released with Japanese subtitles.
In this interview, Noel gives a fascinating look into the difficult process that led to the creation of “Definitely Maybe.” The interview was filmed at Sifters Records, where Noel and Liam Gallagher used to frequent before forming Oasis, and where their names are immortalized in the lyrics of “Shakermaker.” Noel reveals that he improvised the lyrics outside the store before heading off to record, saying, “It was a moment I wanted to bottle.”
Noel also candidly shares behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes about the band’s path to success, their appeal today, the power of the songs during their first live tour from Europe to Japan with “Definitely Maybe,” and the current response to their concerts. He also praises Liam’s vocal talent, saying, “When I sing it, it’s good, but when he sings it, it’s great,” and explains that Liam’s singing voice is what made Oasis so unique. “It’s not because of me or Liam that Oasis is still loved 30 years later (since their debut), it’s because of the fans.”
Oasis will perform in Cardiff, Manchester, London, Edinburgh and Dublin in the summer of 2025. This will be the first time the Gallagher brothers have performed together on stage in 16 years since the V Festival in Stafford on August 22, 2009.
The year 2024 is a big anniversary year, not only because it marks the 30th anniversary of the release of their debut album “Definitely Maybe” but also because it marks the 30th anniversary of their first performance in Japan. To commemorate this, a grand exhibition “Live Forever: Oasis 30th Anniversary Special Exhibition” will be held at the Roppongi Museum from November 1st, which will unravel the appeal of their “eternally timeless” songs and their unique existence from multiple perspectives.
This exhibition, which will be held for the first time in 10 years since Oasis’ first exhibition in Japan, “CHASING THE SUN: OASIS 1993 -1997 What does Oasis mean to you?”, attracted 10,000 people in 2014 despite being held for only four days. This exhibition will feature many valuable items that could not be introduced last time, such as their favorite instruments, handwritten scribbles of lyrics, and iconic original posters from the band’s early days. It will trace the cultural background of their hometown, Manchester, and explore how a rock and roll superstar that transcends generations was born. With photo spots that recreate the album artwork and a space where you can experience their live performances, the exhibition will allow you to delve deeper into the charm of the rare band Oasis along with their famous songs.
In preparation for this historic reunion concert, be sure to prepare yourself for the band’s history with the 30th anniversary edition of their debut album and the Oasis exhibition.
(C) Simon Emmett *Main photo
Release Information
2024.08.30 ON SALE
ALBUM“Oasis (Definitely Maybe) 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition”
“Live Forever: Oasis 30th Anniversary Special Exhibition” Official Website
https://oasis-liveforever.jp/
OASIS OFFICIAL SITE
https://www.sonymusic.co.jp/artist/Oasis/