Aphrodite’s Child’s 666 – The Apocalypse of John Reissued: Remastered and Expanded in Lavish Box Set
Fans of early progressive rock are in for a treat as Aphrodite’s Child’s groundbreaking 1972 album, 666 – The Apocalypse of John, is set to be reissued in a remastered and expanded format. This definitive version, overseen by the legendary Vangelis himself before his passing in 2022, will be released on November 8, 2024. Available as a 4-CD/1-Blu-ray box set and two double vinyl editions, this reissue promises to be the ultimate celebration of one of rock’s most ambitious and controversial albums.
A Landmark Progressive Rock Album
Originally released in 1972, 666 is the magnum opus of Greek band Aphrodite’s Child, a group that featured the future solo superstar Demis Roussos alongside Vangelis, Silver Koulouris, and Lucas Sideras. The album, a conceptual double LP based on the Book of Revelation, pushed the boundaries of rock music with its bold experimentation and avant-garde elements. Tracks like “The Four Horsemen,” “Aegean Sea,” and “Babylon” blended progressive rock, psychedelic sounds, and classical influences, creating a sonic landscape that was both exotic and deeply complex.
666 became infamous for its track “∞,” featuring Greek actress Irene Papas in a raw, controversial vocal performance that simulated orgasmic ecstasy. This provocative inclusion delayed the album’s release, and by the time it hit shelves in 1972, Aphrodite’s Child had already disbanded. Despite this, the album’s impact was immediate, and its cult status has only grown over the years, influencing generations of musicians and earning its place as one of the finest rock albums of the early 1970s.
The Ultimate Reissue: What’s Inside?
The upcoming remastered edition of 666 brings together a wealth of content for fans and collectors alike. The 4-CD/1-Blu-ray box set is the highlight of this release, featuring remastered audio of both the original 1972 album and the rare 1974 Greek release mix, which offers a distinctly different listening experience. In addition to the stereo mixes, the Blu-ray disc includes 96 kHz/24-bit Atmos and 5.1 surround sound upmixes, delivering a deeply immersive experience that takes full advantage of modern audio technology. These new mixes were personally overseen by Vangelis, ensuring the highest quality and fidelity.
The Blu-ray also includes exclusive video content: a 28-minute episode of the French TV show Discorama from June 1972. In this rare footage, Vangelis discusses the album and performs in-studio, offering a unique glimpse into the mind of the musical genius behind 666. English subtitles have been added, making this a valuable addition to the set for non-French-speaking fans.
For vinyl enthusiasts, there are two double vinyl editions to choose from—a standard black vinyl and a striking red vinyl set. Both editions feature the original 1972 album remaster, pressed onto high-quality vinyl, making them essential for collectors and audiophiles.
The box set also includes a beautifully illustrated book, featuring a newly written essay and in-depth interviews with members of Aphrodite’s Child. This lavish publication is further enhanced by previously unseen photographs that Vangelis personally sourced from his archives across Europe before his passing. These rare images offer a fascinating look at the band during the creation of 666, adding even more depth to the album’s storied history.
More than 50 years after its original release, 666 – The Apocalypse of John remains a vital part of rock history. Its genre-defying sound, conceptual ambition, and fearless experimentation continue to resonate with modern listeners. The album’s influence can be felt across a wide spectrum of music, from progressive rock and metal to experimental and electronic genres.
Widely regarded as one of the crown jewels of Vertigo Records’ iconic “swirl” era (1969-1973), 666 is a record that every serious music fan should experience. This reissue not only honors its legacy but also enhances it for a new generation, providing listeners with the most comprehensive version of this classic album ever released.
Pre-Order Now and Experience 666 Like Never Before
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
Phil, I just watched your new CD video, and I like the Japanese format. But storage is tough. But I wouldn’t say I like looking at unreadable liner notes on CDs. Oh well?
Note that this old favorite box set caught my eye, and I will bet it is overkill. I have a copy of this LP, and I loved it growing up in Kansas City. It was considered “Devil music” and blasphemy and was considered an underground release. I still loved it, but come on. I will bet this is a very average recording and is very corny. At age 65, to dedicate my time to this big a listen is not in the cards. I love your site/channel. BOB