|
|
Final Fantasy X-2 Original Soundtrack :: Forum Group Review
OverviewWritten by ConquesoIt's the dawning of a brand new age. In Spira, the Eternal Calm is threatened by political tension between New Yevon and the Youth League. Squaresoft, teetering on the edge of bankruptcy, must latch onto one of its competitors to remain in business. And Nobuo Uematsu has had absolutly nothing to do with the most recent soundtrack in the Final Fantasy series. The Final Fantasy X-2 soundtrack will come as a shock to most longtime fans of the series, as its composers are far, far removed from Uematsu or even from Hamauzu. Gone are the sappy, hummable melodies and lush arrangements of series' past, replaced with drum loops and synthesizers. We've got MAJOR ambience here, even more ambient than Nakano's work for the Final Fantasy X soundtrack. Half of the tracks, particularly battle tracks and "hurry" tracks, can barely be distinguished from one another. Another element of this soundtrack many longtime fans of the series will find distressing is the lack of any familiar themes - not only the modernist jazz of Hamauzu's "Besaid Island" or the lush romanticism of Uematsu's Yuna, but the longtime staples of the series as well. The "Prelude," the "Prologue" and the "Victory Fanfare" are all but eliminated from the soundtrack in favor of vamps more suiting to the style of the soundtrack. That isn't to say the soundtrack is without merit. The town themes, in particular, are very enjoyable, possibly even moreso than the originals from Final Fantasy X, and the theme piece, "1000 Words," is probably the best pop theme of the Final Fantasy series, not to mention the most well-integrated in the story. If you listen with an open mind, you're guaranteed to find a few diamonds in the rough, no matter what your tastes. Track-by-Track ReviewsDisc One1) Eternity ~Memory of the Lightwaves~ (Written by Chris)This lovely piano solo introduces Final Fantasy X-2 in a way that is very similar to that of "To Zanarkand" for Final Fantasy X. It assures a heartfelt introduction to the game with its calming nature and is host to a number of memorable and sensitively developed melodies. The way various percussive effects appositely glide over the piano passages is subtle yet sensational. I really could listen to this for hours and not lose interest! (9.5/10) 2) real Emotion (Final Fantasy X-2 Mix) (Written by Conqueso)This pop piece, performed and, if I'm not mistaken, written by Koda Kumi, is one of the two pop pieces featured on the soundtrack. It takes a rather surprising departure from past Final Fantasy theme pieces in that it's an up-tempo, rather than a ballad. And while it lacks the subtlety of "Suteki da Ne" or the elegance of "Melodies of Life," it makes for great listening. Koda Kumi has a fine voice, the melody is strong, and it's so dang fun you'd have to be some kind of pop Nazi to not enjoy it even a little. Highly recommended. (10/10) 3) YuRiPa Fight No. 1 (Written by dcpsoguy)One of my favorite tunes of the soundtrack, this track sports a wonderfully catchy, albeit a little repetitive, melody, that fits the point in which it plays in-game perfectly. The brass synthesis is masterful: never have I heard a greater emulation of brass, using the Playstation 2 hardware no less. You can't help but want to get up and dance while "YuRiPa Fight No. 1" plays. (7.5/10) 4) Yuna's Theme (Written by Chris)By literally throwing away the mindless drivel of Nobuo Uematsu's overly emotive "Yuna's Theme" from the Final Fantasy X Original Soundtrack and replacing it with an energetic dance theme, Matsueda and Eguchi are making a very bold, perhaps even outrageous statement. Firstly, it is a musical representation of the fact that the old troubled summoner Yuna is gone for good and that the new spunky Sphere Hunter Yuna has arrived! Secondly, it is one of the first examples whereby it is very clear that Matsueda and Eguchi didn't want this Original Soundtrack to be a mere carry-on of the Final Fantasy X Original Soundtrack, but instead something original and completely different. Its combination of catchy, almost jazzy (yet not overly camp) melodies and some fine synth instrumentation make this theme very uplifting and enjoyable. It almost makes you want to dance to it just like Yuna would! (9/10) 5) YuRiPa Fight No. 2 (Written by dcpsoguy)Eguchi and Matsueda try something new here. This is the game's boss theme, and it works wonderfully well in-game. A heavily distorted guitar-sounding patch carries the main melody, quite evil sounding, throw a one minute loop. A few key changes in the melody spur up the evil-sounding motif quite a bit, but you can't help but feel that this piece lacks energy compared to its Final Fantasy X counterpart, whether it be a lack of any interesting happening in the drum track, or really any emphatic placed on enhancing the melody, perhaps by a countermelody of sorts. One fine note on this track is that the instrumentation is quite unique, and works rather well. A diverse amount of patches, such as the above mentioned distorted guitar patch and several unique varations on synth bass, are used; not really conforming to the general MIDI standards that many composers in the videogame realm are attached to, and Eguchi should be applauded for trying different instrumentation — and succeeding to an extent. (6.5/10) 6) Mission Complete (Written by Conqueso)For the first time in the series, not only is the victory melody gone, but the famous fanfare that precedes it as well. However — and I'll be accused of heresy for this — I actually think this victory tune is BETTER than the classic! Not only is it less corny and more subtle in composition, it's also more exciting and appropriate. (8/10) 7) Sphere Hunter Gullwings Group (Written by Chris)A lot of the tracks that use heavy synth instrumentation in this Original Soundtrack turned out to be annoying and eccentric. Luckily, this is not one of them. While very outwardly enjoyable thanks to its strong melodies, one must appreciate the huge innovation behind this theme too. Matsueda and Eguchi have manipulated instrumentation perfectly combining a rather obscure blend of electric guitar, bass and brass synth into one. This creates unexpectedly desirable effects and helps to get just the right essence of life for it to accompany your journeys in the Celsius for the first half of the game. This theme will certainly stick in your head for a long time to come. (9/10) 8) Mission Start (Written by dcpsoguy)An extremely unique track, consisting of essentially a few flavors of guitar taking over the track. As usual, this is typical Eguchi: always experimenting with the sounds in which he uses, and always pushing the boundaries of the Playstation 2 sound system. While I certainly applaud Eguchi for his constant use of unique instrumentation, this piece really doesn't have any development of any kind. It seemed Eguchi seemed to improvise with this piece, and while it turned out quite different and unique, it really doesn't incite a feeling of any kind. Bland, as one would say. (5/10) 9) Gagazet Mountain (Written by Soapy)A traditional and reverent sounding theme for the sacred mountain of Gagazet. I don't remember how this one compares with the one in Final Fantasy X, but I found that this track suited the occasion and was one of the few that weren't glossed over with funky synthesized beats. The variety of instruments used created a smooth blend to complement the theme. (8/10) 10) YuRiPa Fight No. 3 (Written by Chris)This closely follows the trend of the other battle themes in the soundtrack. It is heavily synthesised and uses lots of distorted electric guitar and other such electronic instrumentation. I appreciate to an extent the boundaries in instrumentation use Eguchi has tried to stretch here; however, unfortunately, however, this is at the sacrifice of melodic progression giving the theme a rather repetitive, indistinctive and unenjoyable nature at times. Still, it manages to represent the normal battlefield reasonably well (although you could easily be fooled that it should play in a disco) and is entirely bearable. Not too shabby! (6/10) 11) Game Over (Written by Soapy)Well, what is there to say about your usual game over music except that you hate to hear it while you're playing the game? Nothing too special about this one, it lasts what, 5 seconds? (7/10) 12) Anything Is Impossible With LeBlanc! (Written by Andrew)It is hard to try to summarize the ambitious nature of this piece. It is an attempt at a far-eastern style with a tinge of middle-eastern style. However, had they used real instruments, it would have turned out much better. The theme is precisely thirty-three seconds long, to which it repeats and plays a while in an attempt at variation until it shamelessly repeats itself. The buzzings, I believe, took a great deal from the piece. At least it qualifies as music, as it does have a chord progression...I think. This track is very impressive (For a piece written by five year olds with the help of a machine featuring many bright colours to stimulate their young minds). (2/10) 13) I'll Give You Something Hot (Written by Chris)This track is used during any boss battles against the LeBlanc Syndicate. It has always been a bit of a 'something about nothing' for me. Its well punctuated melodies and original guitar use are enjoyable as are some of the theme's chord progressions. However, it doesn't really manage to form a coherent whole and lacks melodic unity and musical order in places. It is also pretty obvious that the harmonies took just under two and a half minutes to create altogether. It is one of the better battle themes and it suits the context it is used in well; however, it did have potential to be much more. (7/10) 14) Shuyin's Theme (Written by Totz)This is easily one of the best pieces of this Original Soundtrack, if not the best. Its dark and eerie mood is perfect to suit a villain. It has one flaw though: it's not very long. Seriously, couldn't someone come up to Eguchi and Matsueda and say: "You know, it's fun when pieces go over one minute without looping 7 times." Even with this flaw, I consider it to be the best theme on this soundtrack by far, and one of the best villain themes ever written. I only wish the rest of the Original Soundtrack had this kind of brilliance, instead of what I call the "First-30-seconds-part-followed-by-a-10-seconds-part then repeat forever" syndrome. But I digress. To sum up: this track = sheer brilliance. (10/10) 15) Besaid (Written by Soapy)One of the few tracks on this soundtrack that wasn't completely computerized. Like some of the other tracks, this one was short too and ends up looping and repeating itself. The theme is a bit somber for Besaid, but it has its charm and peacefulness. The intro is a bit deceiving since you're not too sure where it's heading. Once the other instruments join in, it picks up a little but it has a very nostalgic feel to it. A really simple piece that I enjoyed, but it's not one of those melodies that stays in your mind for very long. (8/10) 16) Kilika (Written by Chris)Although by no means a masterpiece, this track is one of the better town themes of the soundtrack. Its memorable melodies are top notch and it develops well with the subtle and appropriate additions of some rather interesting synth effects. It compares well to its respective "Silence Before The Storm" in the Final Fantasy X Original Soundtrack and while not as melancholic, its much more adventurous and upbeat nature makes it much more appropriate for representing the new and re-built Kilika. The only criticism I would offer is that the sound programming can be a bit dodgy at times with the most effective balance between the melodies and harmonies not always being reached. You'll see what I mean if you listen to it! (9/10) 17) Luca (Written by Conqueso)Another town theme. Many of the tracks on this soundtrack can't really live up to their Final Fantasy X counterparts, but this is an exception. The easygoing track which was associated with this city in the original game was scrapped in favor of this upbeat, vaguely nautical-sounding ditty which really captures the feeling of bustling seaside town. Unfortunately, it's very short, even compared to some of the other tracks on the soundtrack, but its quality more than makes up for it. (9/10) 18) Mi'ihen Highroad (Written by Chris)Just like its Final Fantasy X counterpart, this track is filled with the light-hearted spirit of voyaging. Its fresh-faced and breezy styles are absolutely ideal for journeying up and down Mi'ihen Highroad! I particularly enjoy the low, rather dissonant passages that emerge later on in the theme in direct contrast to the rest of the conformity of theme. However, this track can be quite repetitive with the fact that it gets stuck inbetween the endless refrain of two rather simple motifs thus leaving it little chance to develop. Still, this is a likeable and tolerable setting theme and certainly not one that I tend to skip. (7.5/10) 19) Mushroom Rock Road (Written by Conqueso)This is one of the weirder location tracks. It starts out in some sort of electronica style (I'm not sure which — I'm not up on my electronica), but soon a snare drum enters, turning it into a trippy march. Toss in some random piano arppegios and you get this totally unclassifiable track. It has no melody to speak of, but its unusual instrumentation makes it deserving of at least one listen. (7/10) 20) Young Alliance (Written by Soapy)The theme for the rag tag bunch of miscreants that call themselves the "Youth League." Majestic sounding, with trumpets blaring and cymbals clashing, it's a fitting piece for the Youth League headquarters. This one is fun to listen to once, but after that it becomes a bit obnoxious. Especially when I keep picturing the brown nosers that I encounter in the game. (6/10) 21) Machina Faction (Written by Chris)I thought that any track intended to replace Nobuo Uematsu's off target "Djosé Temple" from the Final Fantasy X Original Soundtrack would beat its predecessor hands down. I was wrong. This track opens on a one bar electric guitar melody about as inspiring as a toddler playing a xylophone for the first time. I would be able to tolerate the annoying nature of this melody if it were used as just an introduction, however, it actually manages to repeat a total of 13 times throughout the duration of the track making it the primary (and only) melodic feature. The rest of this track is a mixture of musical redundancy, harmonic incoherency and needless repetition. Although there is a small development section in the middle of the track, it doesn't amount to much and fails to recede the predominant tedium otherwise going on. While it works marginally better in the game than in comparison to the soundtrack, it is awkward nonetheless. It can be summarised definitively therefore as 'dire' in my book. Avoid this track like the plague! (1.5/10) 22) Guadosalam (Written by Soapy)Theme to the home of the Guado. The string instrument used really gets on my nerves. I want to say it's some sort of Asian harp but I'm not sure. It has a good rhythm though, going at a moderate pace. There's a fiddle that jumps in for a bit to add a little flavour. The mysterious and secretive feel to this track definitely represents the area of the game well. The track is very short, but since it repeats, it doesn't really matter. (6/10) 23) Thunder Plains (Written by Chris)Having just read my review for "Machina Faction," I bet you thought there couldn't be a track worse than that one, didn't you? Well, you were wrong. "Machina Faction" and "Thunder Plains" can be labelled 'dire' and 'absolutely dire' respectively. Indeed, "Thunder Plains" manages to be even worse than "Machina Faction" due to three key reasons. Firstly, its 30 second loop is shorter than even "Machina Faction." Secondly, its heavy electronica style used is much less convincing in the game, considering that Thunder Plains didn't have quite the same exposure to mechanisation as Djosé did. Finally, I can somewhat understand why Matsueda and Eguchi may have seeked to replace Nobuo Uematsu's "Djosé Temple" with something completely different, but it seems a terrible and arrogant insult towards Hamauzu's marvellous "Thunder Plateau" in the Final Fantasy X Original Soundtrack for them to pulverise his original with something this bad. (1/10) 24) Macalania Forest (Written by Totzh)A very minimalistic track, it uses mainly ambient noises to convey the idea of a forest. It works quite well, I believe. After some time, the melody starts, and it's neither bad, nor good. Overall, a good track. (7.5/10) 25) Bikanel Desert (Written by Chris)Considering I listened to the Final Fantasy X-2 Original Soundtrack long before playing its accompanying game, I felt extremely dubious as to how well Bikanel Desert would be represented by a track dominated by such heavily distorted and rather oppressive electric guitar sounds. This was particularly so after Hamauzu's impressionist "The Scorching Desert" from the Final Fantasy X Original Soundtrack. Actually, having played the game, I can safely say that I was wrong. It manages to reflect both the natural hostility of the desert as well as the increased mechanisation going on there. However, musically it is less successful, suffering from being deadly repetitive and having a loop that is far too short to offer much appeal. It isn't bad, but it could have been much better. (6/10) 26) New Yevon Party (Written by Conqueso)This big, majestic track was one that really stood out to me the first time I heard it. God knows why, since it's just a bunch of choral chords, but it's still a very effective track. Except for that weird flute squeaking at the end. I won't complain about the length, because every track in the friggen' game is this short. (6/10) 27) The Calm Lands (Written by Chris)This track is a lovely little gem in my opinion that is worth much more credit than the limited response generally received for it. It is much more optimistic than the pensive "Yuna's Determination" back in the Final Fantasy X Original Soundtrack and adds something very quaint, fresh and uplifting to the new Calm Lands within the game. The use of the piano is very much like that of "Besaid" with a number of subtle synth sounds reinforcing the vast melodic lines the piano offers. Even though it does deserve more development in places, it doesn't loop as soon as certain other tracks. Well done Matsueda and/or Eguchi! (9.5/10) 28) Zanarkand Ruins (Written by FinalFantasyMan)"Zanarkand Ruins" doesn't blow anything away by any means, but it does set a nice mood of reminiscence and nostalgia and I thought it fit very well with the "new Zanarkand" of sorts. I'm not a music expert or anything so I couldn't even begin explain technical things, but when I listen to this track I get a sense of Yuna's sorrow and Yuna's determination at the same time. (8/10) 29) Sphere Hunter (Written by Chris)This theme is much more bearable than the majority of the heavily synthesised music on the first disc of the soundtrack. It is just as enjoyable as "Sphere Hunter Gullwings Group" heard earlier in the soundtrack and echoes many of the styles used back in this theme, which is appropriate, considering both are used for similar purposes within the game. The main reason for it being successful is the way its primary brass melody dominates the theme so powerfully with its strong, snappy and catchy melodies. The sound programming here is top notch in ensuring the clarity of this melody and its heavily inspired composition is also very creditable. As with any theme, I do have a few minor niggles with it. The main one of these is that despite the occurrence of a few decent interludes, the opportunity for the introduction of a good secondary melody is missed. This means that the theme does tend to verge towards the repetitive side. One could look at the absence of this as a way to emphasise the importance of the primary melody further. Other than that, very few themes possess the ability to make you smile and feel upbeat as this one does. Sweet! (9/10) 30) Temple (Written by Totz)The use of the choir makes the track very atmospheric, and it does convey a certain sense of holiness, if you know what I mean. Unfortunately, like a lot of pieces on this Original Soundtrack, it's not fully developed (well, it starts to develop, but it just stops, for some reason), and ends up being short and kind of boring to listen to. (5/10) 31) Tension (Written by Chris)Prior to the end of Disc One, Matsueda and Eguchi decide to introduce us to the primary 'dark' motifs that dominates a considerable number of tracks in Disc Two. These motifs may be nothing too noteworthy melodically, but still create the darkness, tension and evil for them to be effective within the game. While the Psycho-esque "Confusion" arrangement of this theme is my favourite, "Tension" itself is a very good one. I particularly love its heavy featuring of timpani rolls and low-pitched piano Original Soundtrackinatos. These add to the drama and darkness of the track even further. (8/10) Disc Two1) Gullwings Group March (Written by Sanitarium 83)This is the opening track for Disc 2. "Gullwings Group March" sounds just like the name of this track immediately bringing an army to mind. There is a marching rhythm on the drums, seagulls are making noises, and trumpets are widely used here. Actually the trumpets make this tune sound positive to my ear. It's a fairly good tarck, but it repeats itself too soon and lasts only 2:29. Nothing special, but I suppose its not a letdown either. It doesn't wake any kind of feel in me, good or bad. Average stuff. (5/10) 2) Great Existence (Written by Chris)This track begins well with a rather impressive piano solo that dominates the track with great prowess. However, sadly after its brief introduction it departs into what is quite a bland and repetitive refrain, which mainly repeats the motifs heard back in "Tension." While I appreciate some revivals of this theme, this theme is one of the less creative ones. Still, it certainly is not unsuccessful and its foreboding atmosphere makes it ideal for the in-game sequences where it is used. (7/10) 3) Good Night (Written by FinalFantasyMan)What can I say? I guess it's one of the longer rest themes I've heard from a Final Fantasy game. It's short and sweet and I suppose serves its purpose in the grandeur of the overall theme and feel of the game. (7/10) 4) Anxiety (Written by Chris)Finally a track that demonstrates Matsueda and Eguchi successfully experimenting! This track is the strangest track ever created for the Final Fantasy series, even stranger than "Silence and Motion" from the Final Fantasy VIII Original Soundtrack. However, it is completely effective in its aim to represent apprehension and anxiety. The way it is built up is highly enigmatic with the use of instruments being unimaginably obscure. Among some of the most unusual of these are the sporadic occurrences of flugelhorn fanfares, the clashes of dissonant suspended string notes and even the synthesised sounds of heavy breathing in the darkest passage of the theme! This is a real credit to the soundtrack and by far its most creative theme. Although not everyone will like it, if you keep an open mind then you'll be able to appreciate at least some of its goodness! (10/10) 5) Infiltration! LeBlanc's Hideout (Written by Soapy)A great piece of music while you're sneaking around in LeBlanc's chateau. A bit creepy, sneaky, mysterious and it also adds a few odd sounds here and there to keep it upbeat and fun. Not a musical masterpiece, but the various instruments and sounds were well put together to give that underground secretive mood. (8/10) 6) Rikku's Theme (Written by Totz)Finally, a decent, listenable main character theme! I think this one is a great, upbeat track, perfectly reflecting Rikku's character in the game. This one is so good that I won't even complain that it only lasts 0:53 seconds before looping again. IT'S THAT GOOD. YES, ALL IN CAPS. (9/10) 7) Chocobo (Written by Totz)Also known as "Godawful de Chocobo," "My Ears are Bleeding de Chocobo" and "Good God Make it Stop de Chocobo." This track is wrong. and bad! There should be a new, stronger word for "Chocobo" like "badwrong" or "badong." Yes, "Chocobo" is badong! And when you think it can't get worse, out of the blue a crazy woman shows up and yells rubbish at you! And that's one reason I won't give this track 0/10. Giving it a 0 would be like giving that woman a compliment on her terrific work. At least it has one good point: after listening to it, every other track will sound so much better! Heck, even the worst pieces from this Original Soundtrack will sound like good pieces, "Thunder Plains" and "Machina Faction" included! (-12/10) 8) Paine's Theme (Written by FinalFantasyMan)Is this REALLY supposed to be a theme that defines Paine..? Quite frankly, I don't think it does. Rikku's theme was nice, in that it displayed her personality through the track. However, I see Paine as a darker and more reserved personality and the track chosen here does not do justice to anyone. BUT, seeing as how this track is primarily used for the fun min-games provided in Final Fantasy X-2, it's isn't all too bad when used in that context. But to blatantly use this track as Paine's theme is a great miscarriage in Final Fantasy music lore and the actual music does NOT make me think Paine when I listen to it. (3/10) 9) Bevelle's Secret (Written by Soapy)Nothing amazing about this 1 minute track, but the voices made it very creepy. It gave me the chills as I walked around Bevelle's secret chambers. The rare piano notes that you do hear come and go before you even realize that they're there. It's all very ghOriginal Soundtrackly and secretive. Excellent background music to an interesting section of the game. This track definitely served its purpose. (7/10) 10) Under Bevelle (Written by Chris)I promised you that Disc Two would be good, didn't I? Well, I bet you were less convinced after seeing the reviews of "Gullwing Group March," "Chocobo" and "Paine's Theme." This is one of the main reasons why Disc Two is as good as I said, however. "Under Bevelle" is the perfect action theme — energetic, tense yet not too 'in-your-face' to be oppressive. The main motif used is highly enjoyable in nature and has a melodic and upbeat pulse. The use of synth effects and distorted guitar are highly admirable assets to the track, considering they are used with subtlety and not to the extent of being excessive. This track is highly recommended and it beats any of Uematsu's action themes any day. (10/10) 11) Yuna's Ballad (Written by Soapy)This touching and poignant piano piece comes on whenever Yuna reminisces or has something especially moving to say. This track on its own wasn't that effective until I heard it in the game. During one of Yuna's best dialogues they had this playing in the background. So whenever I hear it, I think of what she said, which brings back memories of the game itself and all the sappy, cheesy parts. This piano solo is fairly simple, sometimes wistful but more often than not it's very melancholy. Definitely one of the most memorable tracks in the game. (10/10) 12) Help Store Gullwings Group (Written by Chris)This track manages replace "Sphere Hunter Gullwings Group" as the theme aboard the Celsius for the latter part of the game. It shares its amazingly catchy qualities and utilises synth just as well. The brass synth is superb as ever and this allows the main melodies to pound out strongly and eccentically over the slightless less colourful harmonies. The addition of a jazz piano solo in the latter part of this theme was also a welcome addition, albeit a bit brief. Overall, this is a great track that goes well beyond being just 'bearable.' (8.5/10) 13) It's Our Turn Now (Written by Totz)First of all, kudos to the composer. The tarck doesn't loop until 1:21. However, I don't think it developed very well. I mean, the second part's got nothing to do with the first, then the third's got nothing to do with the second. It sounds like one of them started the track and went to the bathroom. The other saw the track unfinished and composed a bit more, but it was already their lunch hour, so they stopped. When the first one returned, he/she continued the track from where the other had stopped. That's why it makes no sense. Brilliant, huh? Besides, it doesn't sound like it's a "counterattack" track. It's just. "eh?" (4/10) 14) Labyrinth (Written by FinalFantasyMan)To be honest, I actually liked this track a bit. It isn't your typical Final Fantasy dungeon theme, but when it opens up with the cello, you instantly feel that urgent sense of danger. And though the track doesn't exactly have the SCARE factor to it, it does have kind of a Hitchcock-era feel to it. There are also moments in the track where only a single instrument plays, but it makes the mood feel so quiet and fearful. And seeing as how this game has taken a peppy-cheesy appeal to it, I find that some of those pep-cheese moments on the track are quite fitting. (9/10) 15) Confusion (Written by Chris)Talking of Alfred Hitchcock, here is Matsueda's and Eguchi's own homage to the soundtrack for Psycho! The discordant and 'dirty' brass passages portray a great sense of evil while the harrowing basso Original Soundtrackinato barely relents throughout the piece. The fear, agitation and confusion here is furthermore emphasised by the orchestral discords that are randomly and horrifyingly placed throughout the piece. Timpani rolls are also an interesting feature just like they were in "Tension." Although this theme loops at just 23 seconds I find this adds more to the track giving it the confusing feel of going round in circles! This is greatly atmospheric and profoundly composed, albeit a little underdeveloped. (9.5/10) 16) Summoned Beast (Written by FinalFantasyMan)This track is what I would consider a boss theme out of the many selections of boss themes from the soundtrack, but I would tend to lean more towards this being a more traditional boss theme in its style. other than the final boss themes for Final Fantasy X-2. That, however, doesn't necessarily ensure that this track is great. It does a pretty good job in setting a frantic mood for the aeon battles, but considering that "Yuna's Ballad" was used during the fight with Bahamut, I felt it would have been more appropriate to go with something more along that line. After all, as Yuna would put it, these aeons WERE her allies and, I suppose, friends. Something a bit more melancholy and bittersweet would have been nice. Plus, there is this kind of "bubbly" sound that is heard throughout and I just couldn't handle that. It also lacks any real development and is REALLY short. It is what it is I suppose. (6/10) 17) Abyss of the Farplane (Written by Chris)I find this theme to be among the most emotional and revealing in the soundtrack. The instrumentation use, although rather obscure is highly poignant, as is the way that fragments of "1000 Words" are dispersed throughout this theme to give a greater melodic nature. It fits the sad and eventful happenings at the farplane well during the game. Furthermore, it is quite an appropriate balance between radicalism and traditionalism: its traditional melodic touches conform well to previous Final Fantasy games while there is subtle experimentation with use of synth technology to keep it pushing forward in time. Good job. (9/10) 18) Eternity ~Band Member Performance~ (Written by FinalFantasyMan)I love this theme. absolutely love it, though not as much as the regular "Eternity ~ Memory of the Lightwaves." But, in any case, the band member performance of Eternity is just as nice and soothing as its piano counterpart. The "flute" sounds that comprise the melody of this track are beautiful and I love how there are a plethora of different instruments used to make up this track. Without going into technical details and such (frankly because I have no formal education on such) this track does the Eternity tracks justice, I believe, in portraying a nostalgic, soothing, and warm feel. (9/10) 19) 1000 Words (Final Fantasy X-2 Mix) (Written by nintenboy5)Well, what can I say about this track? It is absolutely wondeful and is my favorite on the soundtrack. The vocals are great, the music behind it is great, and the emotion is overwhelming. It's a great track, sung very well, and I recommend it to everyone. To me this is one of the better vocal themes of the Final Fantasy series, and hold up with classics such as "Eyes On Me," and "Melodies of Life." (10+/10) 20) Nightmare of the Cave (Written by Chris)This ominous piece of music is highly atmospheric throughout, despite being a little short. It begins with an impressive and foreboding piano solo, something that is even more powerful in the Final Fantasy X-2 Piano Collections album. Unfortunately its transition into the second part of the piece, which features some rather unusual synth effects, is less than impressive and feels rather disjointed. I feel it would have been better to elongate the piano solo rather than introduce a second section and feebly transition into it. It works better in the game, however. (7.5/10) 21) Akagi Party (Written by Totz)I think someone wrote an intro to a track and forgot to add the rest, because this track is just the same drum roll and the chorus singing the same sequence of notes (or chords, or whatever), with little to no variation. Sure, it sounds great when you first hear it, but by the 10th time you hear the same thing go on and on and on, you'll just skip this track. And considering what comes next, you'll be doing the right thing. (4/10) 22) Vegnagun Starting (Written by Totz)A piano. Snare drums and an organ. Choir and cymbal crashes. Timpani. Trumpet. What do these instruments all have in common? They are all part of this piece, one of the best pieces I've ever heard. It makes the other battles themes sounds like rubbish. Um. more rubbish, if possible. If you think that combination of instruments doesn't work, you're clearly wrong. I was surprised with the choice of an organ, because I would have never imagined an organ in this album. I expected some synth stuff to follow the piano, but they've ssem to come to their senses and choose a more traditional approach. But nothing is perfect. And the problem this track has plagues the entire soundtrack. Yep, you guessed it, it loops too soon. I mean, it is greatly developed, but there could have been more. That's why I won't give it a 10+, only a 10. (10/10) 23) Clash (Written by Soapy)This is nothing more than a minute and a half of noise which in the game kind of builds up the mood for things to come. It's not that this is a bad track, but there is nothing too special about this battle theme that repeats itself. The whine of trumpets in the background eventually start to get on my nerves, but thankfully this track isn't long enough to leave that much of a lasting impression. (3/10) 24) Struggle (Written by Chris)This track has its good points: the effective string use helps to build up tension and agitation as do the rather paranormal vocal chants that appear sporadically throughout the track. Despite this, the simple fact is that this piece is simply too dull and repetitive to withstand prolonged listening and thus fails in a similar way to the track before. After all, 32 seconds is not acceptable for a loop, is it? (6/10) 25) Destruction (Written by Chris)I would imagine this is one of the final boss themes (I haven't quite gotten that far in the game yet to see), and while hardly as epic as its predecessors in the Final Fantasy X Original Soundtrack, I feel its composition is definitely top notch. The atmosphere it creates is rather hard to quantify into words but somehow it manages to be foreboding, intense and powerful yet with a certain amount of subtlety. It manages to develop wonderfully with the orchestral use, particularly from the strings. Some people would criticise that its style is too similar to the previous tracks but I argue that it is an appropriate and effective culmination of these themes. (10/10) 26) Demise (Written by Chris)I expect this is the ultimate final boss theme. It once again demonstrates Matsueda's and Eguchi's often impeccable composition. The key feature of this track that has always intrigued me is the way the melodic shaping often creates a certain feeling of 'falling.' This creates a sense of anticipation, hopelessness and doom throughout the track, which is only resolved in the ascending chord progressions in the more melodic passages. Just like the previous track, the orchestration, particularly through heavy string use is finely mastered. It is a fitting climax and I expect it would work wonders within the game. Good job! (10/10) 27) 1000 Words Piano Version (Written by Totz)This track is played at a rather sad moment after you've defeated the last boss of the game. And may I say this fits that moment perfectly. Not only does it fit where it's supposed to be played, but it also sounds excellent. The original vocal piece, which was already very good, has made an excellent transition to the piano, with a subtle accompaniment that works wonders. This is one of those pieces you can listen to all day long and never get tired of it. (10/10) 28) Ending ~Until the Day We Meet Again~ (Written by Chris)It seems like it's one good theme after another at the end of this soundtrack. Yup, keeping in trademark with the traditions Nobuo Uematsu built for the Final Fantasy series, Matsueda's and Eguchi's ending theme for this soundtrack is wonderful. It is well orchestrated throughout and consists of some lovely developed melodies, both unique and integrated from other themes from the Original Soundtrack. I only wish that there is more orchestrated music like this in the soundtrack instead of tracks like "Chocobo" and "Thunder Plains." That being said, I do have one quarrel with this track: its length. Despite being high in quality overall, a track of just 2 minutes 8 seconds can hardly beat the deliciously long masterpieces for the Final Fantasy VI Original Soundtrack and the Final Fantasy VIII Original Soundtrack. I know quantity isn't everything, but it influences this case. At least we have the next two tracks to make up for this. (9/10) 29) 1000 Words Orchestra Version (Written by FinalFantasyMan)Much like Final Fantas X, the main "love" theme from this game has two distinct versions of the track. One is used in an earlier scene, and the other is used for the credits. And much like Final Fantasy X, the orchestrated version that is used for the credits is the better version. Not taking anything away from the in-game version, but it just seems that if anything from a Final Fantasy soundtrack is orchestrated, chances are that it will be a good track. This version of 1000 Words is further evidence of that. It starts out very soft and quiet, as if something you hear in the distance. Soon after, however, when the lyrics of the track begin to reveal true emotions and feelings, the track gradually builds until you realize that is a full epic masterpiece. The musical interlude is just spectacular and the use of the strings for the interlude is nothing short of great. The vocals are also very good and help convey each part of the track perfectly, each verse with its own distinct feeling and the chorus with breathtaking emotion. Disc Two seems to be closing out this once sub-par soundtrack on a very high note (no pun intended). (10/10) 30) Epilogue ~Reunion~ (Written by Totz)Ah, the last track of the album. That can mean both a good and a bad thing. It can be good because the weakest Final Fantasy album to date is over, but it can be bad because this last chain of great pieces will come to an end. The track is pretty much an orchestration of "Besaid," but that's saying a lot. The "Besaid" theme sounded great on the piano, and it sounds even better when played by an orchestra. Eguchi and Matsueda have got themselves a masterpiece here. What a fantastic way to end the soundtrack. (10+/10) SummariesWritten by ChrisThe Final Fantasy X-2 Original Soundtrack is quite frankly the worst Original Soundtrack in the series thus far. However, that does not mean it isn't without its creative merits. most of the traditional themes like "1000 Words," "Eternity ~ Memory of the Lightwaves" and "Abyss of the Farplane" prove to be absolute classics while some of the more experimental themes like "Anxiety," "Real Emotion," "Sphere Hunter Gullwings Group" and "Vegnagun Starting" also prove to be highly successful. However, this Original Soundtrack is ultimately plagued by a select few tracks that are simply awful. Tracks like "Machina Faction," "Thunder Plains," "Anything Is Impossible With LeBlanc!" and "Chocobo" have very few redeeming features and bring a good soundtrack down towards the depths of mediocrity. The resultant failure of these tracks is partly a combination of Matsueda's and Eguchi's desire to experiment outrageously (and unsuccessful) to make a sharp contrast with the Final Fantasy X soundtrack. However, as well as this, the composition of such themes in general seems more uninspired, incoherent and unrefined than their previous scores, which have always been known for their consistent excellence. I cannot really warrant an explanation for this and hope it is just a lapse. This Original Soundtrack does prove that an adequate Final Fantasy soundtrack can be made without Nobuo Uematsu's contributions, but also ultimately proves how essential it is that the series' roots aren't diverted from too much. Progression is good, but digression really isn't when a series' music has acquired so many dedicated fans because of its long established styles. (75%) Written by FinalFantasyManCertainly not the best Final Fantasy soundtrack to date, but that should not deter you from hating the entire thing. As evidently noticed by the reviews, most of the first disc was awful, but that doesn't mean there weren't a few bright moments on it. Likewise, much of Disc Two was great, but that doesn't mean that there weren't a few stinkers taking space on Disc Two as well. Generally, there are a few choice tracks on the soundtrack that have the Final Fantasy "feel" to it and you'd probably notice them right off without even knowing what the tracks are. In my case, those tracks would be "Eternity ~ Memory of Lightwaves," "Yuna's Ballad," "Zanarkand Ruins," "1000 Words" (all versions), and "Nightmare of a Cave." Those are the ones that I can think of off the top of my head, but this soundtrack certainly does offer a very different flavor than what we are "accustomed" to. (80%) Written by nintenboy5Though this album is very experimental, it is actually one of my favorites out of the series. My favorite tracks from this Original Soundtrack are "1000 Words (Orchestra Version)" and "Vegnagun Starting." They were both awesome tracks, implemented excellently. I do have to agree that this is one of the weakest albums in the series from a musical standpoint. I love it, because it was different from the same formula used in past Final Fatasy Original Soundtracks, and was a refreshing change. However, I still look forward to more classical Final Fantasy music in the upcoming games. (70%) Written by SoapyAs far as Final Fantasy soundtracks go, this wasn't exactly the most impressive one of the lot. I have to give it some credit though, considering some great pieces of work came out of this one. "Eternity," "1000 Words" and "Yuna's Ballad" come to mind, they were simple and refreshing. There are some not-so-great tracks, which seemed awful the first time you hear it, but they do grow on you. At least it did on me. They were at least catchy, if not obnoxious. It's a very different soundtrack, but with an open mind, anyone should be able to appreciate it...or not. (80%) Written by TotzThis album is by far the weakest of all Final Fantasy Original Soundtracks to date, but that doesn't mean it can't have great, nay, excellent tracks. Pieces like "Shuin's Theme" and "Vegnagun Starting" have really raised the bar when it comes to villain themes and pumping battle themes. But it's pieces like "Chocobo" and "Anything Is Impossible With LeBlanc!" that give this album a horrible name. Those tracks are usually boring, mundane and repetitive to the max, making it impossible for someone to like them. Overall, it's a more of a "love it or hate it" kind of thing. Either you'll be repulsed by the majority of "techno" tracks, or you'll find them to be a breath of fresh air to the series. Bottom line: give this one a try. If you can make it through the first disc, you'll find the second disc to be a great one. (60%) Average of Summary Scores: 73% |
|||||||||||||||
 |
