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Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks :: Forum Group Review
OverviewWritten by ChrisThe Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks can be interpreted in two different ways. One way is as an orchestrated album that fits snugly between Final Fantasy VI Grand Finale and Final Fantasy VIII FITHOS LUSEC WECOS VINOSEC. Another way to interpret it is as a 'best collection' consisting of a selection of the best themes from the Final Fantasy VII Original Soundtrack as well as three orchestrations as a bonus. Neither interpretation is particularly sustainable. How can it be considered an orchestrated album when 16 of its 19 tracks are identical to their originals? On the other hand, how can it be considered a 'best selection' when the majority of the best themes from the Original Soundtrack, which were the dark ones, were in fact left out in favour of less popular light-hearted tracks like "Honeybee Manor" Either way, this album is very much a 'something about nothing' and one of the weaker additional albums to the seen. MEH!!! Track-by-Track Reviews1) Opening ~ Bombing Mission (Written by Chris)The "Opening ~ Bombing Mission" theme from the Final Fantasy VII Original Soundtrack was always a strong favourite of mine and this made its addition to the Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks more than a very welcome one. It is much more subtle than most of the series' opening themes starting off with the sensitive engravings of the what is know as the "Life Stream" theme. Soon enough it moves away from this and blooms into something much more dramatic while the game zooms into Midgar. The way Nobuo Uematsu builds up the percussion use here is astonishing and this helps to assure a gradual and awe-inspiring progression that remains restrained enough to avoid it becoming overpowering. The theme proceeds from there into what is a heavily synthesised upbeat passage and one that I certainly like. While such passages are not usually Nobuo Uematsu's strong point, in this instance its extremely well manipulated textures and use of chord progressions really help to ensure you are engrossed in the track and the game it supports. Overall, while hardly as good as "Liberi Fatali" and the "Final Fantasy XI Opening Theme," it is still simply excellent. (10/10) 2) Valley of the Fallen Star (Written by Djinova)You could call this track the full articulation of "Red XIII's Theme," as it reveals the main melody purposefully left away in the latter to not yet uncover the mysteries about Red XIII. With the music a tribal and ancient civilization is disclosed, whose knowledge of the earth ironically seems to go far beyond the supposedly more advanced society. Nobuo Uematsu again successfully uses instruments of the natural kind to complete the picture of this town, that has already been painted well by its surrounding. The distinct use of the wooden drums will always be a unique indicator for this track. Of course the track would only bear half of its character if the main melody is not expressed in the appropriate way. Fortunately the choice of the flute for this task was the right one, as on the one hand it manages to contrast the impulsive and low beat of the drums with its flowing and shrill nature, on the other hand however it could stress with the beats whenever it needed, thus creating a track featuring a wonderful binding melody, but with impacting determination behind. I was glad to see this track was given a place in the Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks, as "Valley of the Fallen Star" represented an important place in the game. The only complaint: it should have been given a place not until later in the album. (10/10) 3) Fighting Again (Written by Djinova)The boss theme of Final Fantasy VII has to be one of the most experimental battle tracks of its time. While a clear character of rock music is present, this track doesn't belong to the typical rock tracks you hear in the radio, since it features the use of many unusual synth sound effects to express the many different, interesting but not catchy passages scattered throughout the track. This makes it an extremely diversive one, that never gets boring on account of repetitiveness, not to mention the marvellous suitability in connection with the game. Arguably, the mediocre synth quality for its time could account for the odd sounds, but in my opinion Nobuo Uematsu intentionally chooses to deviate from an original sounding for an experiment's sake, so I don't blame the sound quality in this case at all. Because if you pay attention, the articulation of string instruments from 1:14-1:40 is wonderful, real and in my eyes greatly responsible for the success of this track. Although not consciously evident to most people, this passage merges rock and classical elements, which are actually thought of being rather irreconcilable. As with "Valley of the Fallen Star," I would have wish it to find a place later in the album. (9/10) 4) Farm Boy (Written by Chris)Despite my original indifference towards it, "Farm Boy" was a track that grew on me in the Original Soundtrack what with its subtle harmonies and pleasant yet simple melodies. In the Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks, however, this track offers less satisfaction, considering it seemed inappropriate to add this in place of even better tracks from the Original Soundtrack. Furthermore it is sacrificed to poor sound quality giving it a rather plodding and dreary nature. With orchestration this would have been greatly improved, even if it is still reasonably enjoyable as it stands. (6/10) 5) Rufus' Welcoming Ceremony (Written by El Jenzo)This is the theme that is played when first entering the town of Junon. The new president is coming to the town and there'll be a magnificant parade. This is a standard march, just as good as any other march you may have heard. Wind instruments and some percussion, steady and simple with a clear melody. I'm not that fond of marches but this track definitely shows that Uematsu is capable of writing good tracks of almost any kind. I can't really see why they chose to bring this along in the collection, though it's a good track, I know many more tracks from the game that are a lot better and that would deserve it. But now it is there, and it is nevertheless a good track. (8/10) 6) Electric de Chocobo (Written by Chris)The famous Chocobo theme has been endlessly recycled appearing at least once in practically every album in the series' history. This continues to be one of my favourites with the heavily synthesised styles meaning the theme is cooler and catchier than ever especially with the addition of all those synthesised "Kwehs!" and "Warks." It also has the advantage of having an excellent second section, something many of the series' other arrangements lacked. For a bit of light listening, this is always good and it therefore makes a very fond addition to the Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks. (10/10) 7) Honeybee Manor (Written by Djinova)While I appreciate the idea to add a silly track to this album to cover at least a fragment of the variety offered in the Final Fantasy VII Original Soundtrack, this track is surely not the most representative of its kind. However, I don't understand either why this track has been ripped on by so many people, as personally spoken I have never thought it annoying in any way, although admittedly I notice that some of the synths really sound like they came from the "behind." The steady beat used throughout the whole track as well as the more mysterious part from 1:10 to 1:33 can actually make this track an enjoyable one. Final Fantasy VII has been a memorable game for me, not least for the reason it contained comical moments, that offer a pleasant change to its dark character, so at least one track of this kind must find its place here, but arguably it should have been "It's Difficult to Stand on Both Feet, Isn't It" or the personally recommended "Debut." (8/10) 8) Cid's Theme (Written by Gilgamesh)It seems that character themes in the latter Final Fantasy games have lost their emphasis, not being used very much in the games except for the initial meeting. "Cid's Theme," however, is certainly one of the strongest themes in the entire game. It definitely gets the emphasis that "Valley of the Fallen Star" or "Aerith's Theme" gets during the game, but it is also a great track to listen to on its own. The melodies are strong, bold and adventurous while having some nostalgic sad quality to them. My interpretation is that it represents Cid's character quite nicely, a bold and adventurous guy who still has that one elusive dream to fulfill. Percussion and instrumentation are perfectly chosen — this track is definitely a great addition to the Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks album. (10/10) 9) Forested Temple (Written by Djinova)I have never been particularly fond of this track, despite its musical richness in comparison to some other tracks, as I feel every instrument is playing for itself rather than contributing to the wholeness of the track. The chord progression of the guitar is repetitive and seems out of place and the scarce and dissonant use of some of the wind instruments does not justify their potential. Even so, the track is able to build up an ominous atmosphere at the beginning with the tubular bells, the sound of which is a typical indicator for many sinister tracks in Final Fantasy VII. After that the track loses much of its initial power, and seems to drag on in a bland way. I really wished whoever was responsible for the content of this soundtrack should have taken "You Can Hear the Cry of The Planet" as the obligatory choice of a "lost city" track. (6.5/10) 10) Fighting (Written by Gilgamesh)Hmm, how to describe this track? Overall, I find it an above average battle theme. All "regular" fight themes in an RPG need to stand the test of growing repetitive and this one stacks up pretty well against that test; I never really got sick or tired of this music. The intro to this piece is great, fierce and sudden like random battles should be. Afterwards, the theme carries through the strings and gets tossed around a bit, not terribly interesting material. However, the build up continues to grow and the woodwinds erupt into a heroic little phrase around the 50 sec to 1 min mark. I absolutely love this motivating tune as the instrumentation and chord accompaniment are excellent — very motivating and serves well as that "glimmer of hope" or "climax" during battle. Certain limit breaks work GREAT with this middle section. Heh, I remember after my limit guage filled, I would wait until this middle section before using the attack. It looks great. Anyway, Final Fantasy VII's battle theme is a great track although I wish the middle theme was used and varied a bit more. (8/10) 11) Ahead on Our Way (Written by Djinova)The track, that shares the name with Final Fantasy V, is heard in the town of Kalm. After the turbulent events in Midgar, this town offers the welcomed change of a tranquil and peaceful surrounding. Although it is predictable how this track is going to be composed, which may make it sound clichéd, I can't say that my partly confirmed prejudices have ever interfered with the enjoyment of this track. It is melodious and soothing, but unlike some other tracks of the same style, you don't feel bored, which means that I could listen to it for hours. For the ones interested, on the whole Nobuo Uematsu utilizes the ocarina, the oboe and the flute to create a wonderful, binding melody responsible for the appeasing effect, while strings and the guitar comprise subconsiously the building ground, which means that if you don't have sensitive ears or doing a review, you will hardly notice their role in this track. Everything works well with each another. Bravo, this has to be obligatory choice of a "calm town" track. I have gotten really sleepy from it. ZZZZZzzzzz. (9/10) 12) Golden Saucer (Written by Chris)This has always been a fun track that has invoked a lot of pleasure into the visitors of the Gold Saucer. It will always be one of the more memorable themes from the game to me, even if more for its style rather than its actual melodies. Still, it is certainly far from being a masterpiece. Despite the melodies being quite perky in nature, they somewhat lack coherency, internal rationale and direction. Furthermore the inattractive synth that muffled this theme in the Original Soundtrack is carried over meaning that there is a substantial loss of clarity throughout the track. Also, I ask, just how light-hearted can one album be? Can't we have an evil track for once...? (7.5/10) 13) Crazy Motorcycle (Written by Djinova)The motorcycle chase can be regarded as one of the fastest and most exciting events and minigames in Final Fantasy VII, and this track has always served this as the "background" music. Well. not truly in its meaning, since the adrenaline-pumping music stands out as being one that features heavy, continuous percussion and odd synth implying a certain melody. It's a typical "run or die" track, where one feels unnecessarily agitated, if the game context is missing. Especially, since this track is much louder and insisting in comparison to the subtlety and silent danger of "Hurry!," beware that's this kind of music is not recommended for repetition. However, it is appropriately used in the game and I can understand the choice of it for the Reunion Tracks, as Role Playing Games in general have to always alternate between action-filled passages and calm ones in order the keep the welcomed contrast. The synth quality is below mediocre here. (7.5/10) 14) Cait Sith's Theme (Written by Chris)This character theme is only second to Cid's and Aerith's from the Original Soundtrack and is a fine addition to this light-hearted album. Its original and rather jazzy styles certainly helps to make this track stand out above the norm. In addition, the fact the track represents Cait Sith's sly and devious character so well helps it to climb towards the top of the ladder. Once again, the synth quality is quite bad, but, in this instance, it really doesn't stop Uematsu's high quality of composition from standing out. (10/10) 15) Descendent of Shinobi (Written by FinalFantasyMan)I'd say that other than Sephiroth and Aerith, this track is my favorite character theme. For starters, it's probably the most upbeat and "peppy" track of the character themes, and for Yuffie, that's a good thing. It just has a sweet, soft melody that you can hum or whistle to and it definitely protrays Yuffie as a sweet, not-so-innocent, girl who has had a somewhat rough life. The simple melodies seem to emphasize her true desires and her underhanded motives. Besides, Yuffie is the comic relief in Final Fantasy VII, so anything too serious or too romantic just wouldn't have fit. Well done Uematsu-san. well done. (10/10) 16) J-E-N-O-V-A (Written by Djinova)Seldomly have I seen a track with such an odd name, all letters capitalized linked by some dashes. Believe it or not, this alone already has a great impact on the listener, indicating this is a special track. Nobuo Uematsu succeeded all the way with the spacy approach of this battle theme. Not only is it overwhelmingly powerful, but it suits the context of the game formidably, as the rather rare chord progression downwards perfectly produces the "beaming down" effect, which makes sure you know against who you are fighting. Furthermore the fast-paced percussion and the wind instruments give this one the heroic, legendary edge. Although this piece is pure action, surprisingly it has never become irritating in any way. Particularly has this track been so engrossing in the game, as it unleashes a stark and frightening contrast to the precedent "Resident Evil"-like music. The mediocre synth at some points and the overall shortness are therefore nothing that would diminish the overall mightiness of this track either. (10/10) 17) F.F.VII Main Theme (Orchestra Version) (Written by FinalFantasyMan)Really now. what can I say about this version of this track? It's undoubtedly, unquestionably, and unequivocally great in all aspects. The fact that the orchestra was added makes this particular version all the more epic. You just know from the opening note of this track that you're in for something special and the arrangement does not disappoint. Every "up and down" and "side-to-side" turn the track makes in portraying the feelings of its characters, I think, are showcased on this track. There's the gentle parts, the really loud-boisterous parts, the quiet-mysterious parts, the foreboding-dark parts, and the steady-melodic parts that seem to hold everything together. This is Final Fantasy music at its best. (10/10) 18) One Winged Angel (Orchestra Version) (Written by Djinova)What's else to say to the orchestrated version of the final battle theme of Final Fantasy VII, besides that it's LARGE and it's RICH. As typical for almost any orchestra pieces, this one is captivating, impacting and "exp(a/e)nsive" in nature. A particularly epic part has always been the one featuring the latin chant, as it draws out a holy and grand feeling, as if you were fighting in a colosseum, so it's not missed in this version as well. Although the original has already attempted an orchestral approach, it is hampered at some points by the mediocre synth quality, but only in retrospect and in front of this truly orchestrated, awesomely real-sounding version. Despite the fact that the orchestrated version didn't pull off the sinister "bong" sound, which is the peculiarity of many oppressive tracks in Final Fantasy VII, the whole overwhelming power more than makes up for this minor and rather forgettable detail. Even so, previously it was hard to connect that power to anything, making it fairly empty nevertheless. Recently, with the release of several Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children trailers, the force has found a carrier. It suits the combat scenes without question, and could prove itself to be(-come) the enthralling piece of action music. What sheer grandeur. (10/10) 19) Aerith's Theme (Orchestra Version) (Written by Talaysen)What can I say? This track is great. It fits Aerith's character very well. The beginning starts with a gentle, simple melody harmonized by beautiful strings. As the track progresses, it gradually gets louder and more majestic before falling back to the gentle melody again. But each time it repeats, it is louder and slightly more complex than before until finally the track reaches it's majestic climax. This track does a great job of showing Aerith's simple and gentle exterior while also portraying her majestic role in the game. Also, the gradual transition from simple to majestic seen throughout the storyline is characterized in her theme as the crescendos and the gradual transition from the simple gentle melody to a more majestic and complex climax. (10/10) SummariesWritten by ChrisHow successful were the Final Fantasy VII Reunion tracks? This question is quite an ambiguous one, considering it is strictly dependent on how you interpret the album's purpose. If you are buying the album in hope of an orchestral album then you will be disappointed: there are of course only three orchestral tracks (plus a hidden karaoke instrumental version of "One Winged Angel (Orchestra Version)") so it cannot possibly be on par with Final Fantasy VI: Grand Finale in these aspects. The orchestrations, although marvellous in quality, are not extraordinary either, considering their styles are so standard unlike Final Fantasy VI Grand Finale, i.e. they are refined versions of the originals, not spectacular transformations of them. However, if you are looking for an album consisting of a 'best selection' from the Original Soundtrack then you will probably be much more satisfied. It acts as a good cheaper alternative to the Original Soundtrack and the three orchestral tracks mastered by Shiro Hamaguchi are a unique bonus that cannot be attained in any other album. There is no doubt that the tracklist could do with some tweaking, however: it is overly light-hearted; there are some dubious choices, e.g. "Farm Boy" and "Honeybee Manor;" plus several strong favourites have been not been represented, e.g. "Shinra Corporation" and the "Turk's Theme." Furthermore, it is disappointing that several tracks were never orchestrated like they should have been — an orchestrated "Cid's Theme" became a faded dream long ago for me. All in all, this album is a fine addition to the series but also host of a lot of missed opportunities. If you intend to buy this album as a cheap 'best selection' or for its three orchestrated tracks then please do so; however, otherwise, I would say buy the Original Soundtrack any day. (74%) Written by DjinovaAs you can see from the reviews, this album contains no throw-away tracks. Every track is more or less chosen with care in order to represent the different moods and themes Final Fantasy VII offers. Every track in this album has the solidity to stand alone by itself, but being brought together in one album is a welcomed change of different atmosphere, although I would change the order of playing of some tracks. Despite being an awesome soundtrack, vivid fans certainly will have owned the Original Soundtrack already, rendering most of the tracks obsolete or even superfluous. The Final Fantasy VII Original Soundtrack is just complete and represents so much more, ensuring that people who disagree with the choices in the Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks can pick out their own favourites from the original. However, what breathes new life into this album is the orchestra version of the three most famous themes from Final Fantasy VII. Considering the original versions are as excellent as the orchestated ones, you don't lose much. Still, the power and beauty of orchestration give those tracks another interesting edge, that is definitely worth a try. But in that context, I'd rather wish a whole orchestra album of Final Fantasy VII should be released. The Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks album contains superb tracks, but seems out of place. (87%) Written by GilgameshGoing along with what everyone else has said already in their summaries, I too felt that the Final Fantasy VII Reunion Tracks was a very unique album that could have achieved much more quality. Unlike the older Final Fantasy remix/arranged albums, a large majority of the tracks were simply taken from the Original Soundtrack itself. While it does provide a decent flavor of Final Fantasy VII tunes, there are some classic themes missing — I do not feel the Final Fantasy VII Original Soundtrack can be abbreviated into one disc. Also, this obviously will translate into disappointment for those who already own the Final Fantasy VII Original Soundtrack. The only new tracks are three orchestrated tracks at the end plus a "hidden" track that can be found by rewinding from track 1. These orchestrations are beautiful (really, I mean it!) but they lack the cultural theme that has been used in previous arranged albums dating back to Final Fantasy IV Celtic Moon. Are these three new tracks worth it? For the hardcore VGM collector, a slight yes, they really are great to listen to. Otherwise, I would only recommend the Final Fantasy Reunion Tracks album to casual fans who want the "popular" Final Fantasy tracks (battle themes, "Cid's Theme," etc.) without buying the entire Original Soundtrack. (50%) Written by Nintenboy5This album had a massive amount of potential, with several tracks begging for orchestration. Where is the orchestrated "Cid's Theme" and "Cosmo Canyon"? Both of these tracks practically beg for orchestration, but they weren't given it. One track that feels immensely out of place is "Honeybee Manor." Its not a very good track, and certainly doesn't deserve a spot on the album in my opinion. The orchestrated tracks at the end are wonderful, especially the "Final Fantasy VII Main Theme (Orchestral Version)." However, more tracks arranged in this fashion would have been amazing. (72%) Average of Summary Scores: 71% |
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