Hello.
I'm deep in the middle of final projects, papers and exams - as I was a year ago. Music May (2013) was such an exhilarating escape from life's hardships. It was one of the best collaborations with my brother, writing and designing the entire project. Today while I'm supposed to be finishing a research project, I am immersed in some of the music from last year. I wonder how some of the tracks I'm listening to today didn't make our cuts a year ago! I will share one (maybe more!) that I found today.
This is a live version of "Baba Yetu" by Christopher Tin. It was featured as the main anthem for Civilization IV. His original version won a Grammy award in 2011 and was the first piece of video game music to ever win a Grammy. I have always loved the original, but I found this today and was blown away on this original take on the piece.
Here is the original for any who have never heard it.
Many years ago, I had the pleasure to speak briefly with Chris Tin. I appreciate all he's done to bring video game music like "Baba Yetu" to a wider audience. I've been interested in his music (video game and otherwise) ever since then.
- TOP
@TOPGamingBlog
I know it's been a long time since I've spoken to you, world. I miss you. I miss blogging and I miss my faithful readers here and on Twitter. I look forward to a return and I'm sorry I've been away so long. At this time, however, I don't want to make any promises I can't keep. I just want you all to know, I think about you every time I play a game - which I promise is still quite regularly. It breaks my heart that this is my first post in 2014! You guys deserve better.
Showing posts with label Music May. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Music May. Show all posts
Friday, May 16, 2014
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Music May - Closing Ceremony!
I did not plan this, but this is my 100th post on TOP Gaming!
Music May has been the most ambitious project both my brother and I have worked on for TOP Gaming. We started talking about this at the beginning of the year. We started working on it in February by compiling as much music as we could. Then we would periodically rate the music listed on a scale of 1 to 5. Eventually many of the scores were too close because my brother and I have similar taste in games and game music. I brought in my wife to start giving contrast - and as she hasn't played a majority of these games, I felt her opinions were more neutral and unbiased. Finally we managed to select 31 songs to represent during Music May, but over fifteen songs got perfect scores from our judges. This kicked off two tournaments to categorize the TOP 15 songs, a single-elimination and a round-robin. That's how we came to bring you the following list of songs.
Click on any of the following banners to see the actual, individual pages with music and commentary!
- TOP
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Doing TOP Tracks last month was a blast. I had a lot of fun finding songs, ranking them, and writing blurbs. Examining songs that you know by heart with an analytic eye makes you truly appreciate the effort and soul that the composers put into each piece. I'm grateful that TOP asked me to contribute text as well as images to this project. That being said, it was also a pain.
- Deez
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I think the two tournaments were the most fun part of this project because all fifteen songs are amazing and it truly was a surprise on where songs were going to fall when going head to head like that. Initially, I started with the single-elimination, but the results felt awkward.
Deez suggested we do a round robin to get more accurate results about which songs were better than others. I agreed, even though we were almost half-way into May. The results turned out similar, but it did help organize songs in a more accurate light. "Battle with Magus" won the single-elimination, but tied the win with "Hikari (Instrumental)" in the round robin.
- TOP---
Determining the final ranks of the songs and the order in which they would appear on the blog was an arduous process. Having to pick and choose between songs that are a part of who I am felt like I was betraying my childhood.
How can I choose between "Storm Eagle Stage" and "Corneria" or between "Battle with Magus" and "Frog's Theme!?" At some points, pitting my favorites against each other was more than my little heart could handle. In the end, however, it was all worth it.
I'm glad we could compile this full list of 31 tracks on one page. I'm sure there are some songs that we've missed, but to be honest, I don't think that any new additions would be able to crack the TOP 31 we've compiled here.- Deez
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I thought the eternal rivalry between Frog and Magus continuing into our TOP Track Tournaments was quite awesome. I remember when the two songs went head to head and thinking just how difficult it is to choose between the two. I felt like I was making a bigger statement than I really was - making a statement about my character, or theirs, rather than simply judging the music on its own merit.
I'm not surprised that Magus won the day (character or music) but I enjoyed the two characters bringing their fight to a new venue for me.
- TOP---
This experience proved to me that I could do a full project just ranking the tracks from Chrono Trigger and be just as happy to do it. I could probably stretch it out just as long as Music May, as well.
- Deez---
I love both of these guys, but I really expected more songs from Uematsu Nobuo to make the final cut, but instead Mitsuda Yasunori is on this list quite a bit more. I can't stress enough that I love what both composers bring to the table, but it might be safe to say (based on these results) that I value Mitsuda's style just a bit more.
As of right now Mitsuda may be my favorite composer!
- TOP
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It was difficult to find the time to create all these images. It was difficult to find the time to write all these blurbs. Perhaps the most difficult challenge of all, however, was trying to describe this music without over-excessive use of the phrases "raging music boner" and "feel like I'm going Super Saiyan" within each of the blurbs. It's been a rough month because of that challenge.
- Deez
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I noticed there are quite a few things that are unique to video game music over the course of this project. I may do a larger, follow-up article about it in the future, but for now I'll give a brief gist.
A game player has the unique ability to grow extremely attached to a character in a game because they are by extension that character. Of course it depends on the game and what the developers hope to bring to the player, but the potential for a really deep, meaningful connection exists in a much stronger capacity than book or film.
When this is complimented by an incredibly powerful soundtrack that fits the themes and environment set by the game and its characters, it has a very strong potential to really influence the player and really connect them to the experience in a unique way.Another thing unique to gaming, due to incredibly long history of certain franchises is the continuation of musical motifs and themes. Video game music typically has to play on an indefinite loop while you work your way through the game at your own pace, so the music should cater to that and as a result the music is often catchy, or at the very least, un-intrusive. So being reminded of older songs you heard so much, or meant a lot to you, is common in gaming. It's a very unique medium.
- TOP
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I was surprised throughout the ranking process. Tracks like "Liberi Fatali" and "Clash on the Big Bridge" stood out to me beacause I never played the games that featured them. Despite this, they stood out as really amazing songs that were so good I didn't need the nostalgia to bolster my appreciation of them.
- Deez
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I know that like most opinions this list will probably offend most of the internet, but I'm always open to constructive discussions about games and game music. Please feel free to leave any of your ideas or comments or opinions in the comments. You can also find us on Twitter or Tumblr if you prefer.
When I look at this list half a dozen songs pop into my head that I know many might argue should be here, but overall I am quite pleased with how this turned out. Whenever I think of a new song that I'd forgotten about, I think which of these 31 would I bump to put it on and really can't justify it.
Music May was a really large project, but I'm extremely happy with the results and had a lot of fun talking about games and music with my wife and brother over the last eight weeks or more.- TOP
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Yasunori Mitsuda, David Wise, Nobuo Uematsu, Koji Kondo, and all the others who have appeared on this list are all like gods to me. Music is a special thing. It connects people, and certain songs can drive straight to the core of your soul.In my youth, video games were th new kid on the block in terms of media formats. I can't state how happy I am tha tmusic played a large part in their evolution. These tracks are a way for me to relive the moments that shaped my childhood.
- Deez
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Thank you for reading!
- TOP
These are some of the songs that we love that didn't make the final cut. These honorable mentions appear in no particular order, but are all songs we each hold dear that aren't already on the list. I hope everyone enjoyed our presentation of TOP Tracks during Music May as much as we enjoyed presenting them!
Deez Honorable Mention: "02" from Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards
Who knew the Kirby franchise had such good music? Ever since Kirby's Dreamland 2, I've been a fan of the series.
TOP Honorable Mention: "Brinstar Overgrown with Vegetation" from Super Metroid
This is an all-time favorite, from an all-time favorite game. I think my favorite thing is how this song loops into itself which this version captures perfectly.
Deez Honorable Mention: "To the Distant Sky" from Sky Gunner
TOP Honorable Mention: "Memories of You" from Persona 3
This song was actually ranked #32 but unfortunately May only has 31 days. I'll probably write up a full article on this song soon, but be warned it will be a tear-jerker.
Deez Honorable Mention: "Sewer Surfin'" from TMNT: Turtles in Time
Was there a kid growing up who didn't love this game? This is the best song in the whole game, which is directly proportional to how frustrating the stage is in the whole game.
TOP Honorable Mention: "Into the Wilderness" from Wild Arms
I forgot to put this up for judgment originally. I think it might have made the TOP 31 if I hadn't. At any rate, it's one of the greatest songs. My kids have a toy that plays it for some reason.
Deez Honorable Mention: "Credits" from Super Mario 64
My first foray into the realm of 3D gaming was Mario 64. I can't tell you how relieved and accomplished I felt upon beating this game. The song is so uplifting! I get goosebumps.
TOP Honorable Mention: "One-Winged Angel" from Final Fantasy VII
It was odd to me this didn't make it into our finals because both Deez and I treasure this song and many of its derivatives. It received solid 4s across the board and really needed a 5.
Deez Honorable Mention: "This Shore" from Way of the Samurai
TOP Honorable Mention: "Baba Yetu" from Civilization IV
This song is amazing on all levels. I was really disappointed with the opening of Civilization V because this song set such a high bar that could probably never be met again. Thanks, Chris Tin.
That's it! If you made it this far, CONGRATULATIONS!
Have a great summer everyone!
- TOP & Deez
@TOPGamingBlog & @Deezer509
Friday, May 31, 2013
TOP Track #1 - "Battle with Magus"
- Track: "Battle with Magus"
- Composer: Mitsuda Yasunori
- Game: Chrono Trigger
- System: Super Nintendo
- Release: August, 1995
That article goes into great detail into what an amazing game Chrono Trigger is and what a great character Magus is within the game. As I've said, we really tried to step back away from nostalgia and assess each song on its own merits, but that's no easy feat. Particularly challenging when you're talking about something as amazing as the battle with Magus. If you've read that article I linked, you know it's one of the most impressive moments in gaming that I've ever personally experienced, so to wipe it from my mind when listening to this song is close to impossible.
The beginning of the song is dark and brooding, but quickly launches you into a frenzied fight for your life. The pacing is phenomenal. You're really pulled into the majesty of the situation. You know just from listening to this song that there's a lot on the line. Magus is not a push over. He means business, and you just got in his way. I think the way the music syncs up with the fight is one of the driving reasons that it made such a lasting impression on me, and goes to show what Mitsuda is truly capable of as a composer.
-TOP
@TOPGamingBlog
This track begins slowly and eerily to remind you that you are in the presence of an all-powerful wizard who might be responsible for the end of the world. A chill runs down my spine every time I hear the black wind howl. Suddenly (timed perfectly in-game as Magus accepts the player's challenge), the beat picks up and we are treated to a battle score that I can only describe as epic. In the background, a Mystic laughs (or perhaps, moans?) as you try to keep up with Magus's changing guards and endless attacks. This was one of those exhilarating fights that got your adrenaline pumping hard, and to me, it proved that Mitsuda could stand toe-to-toe with Uematsu Nobuo when it comes to battle tracks.
Lastly, I'd be remiss not to mention the final confrontation atop the Black Omen. If Magus is in your party, you are treated to a goosebump-inducing dialogue between him and his deranged mother. Instead of "Boss Battle 2" that normally plays during this altercation, you get to hear Magus's theme once again ... causing another adrenaline-fueled engagement. It truly makes the moment seem much more personal to the player. I love it!
- Deez
@Deezer509
Derivative Tracks
Thursday, May 30, 2013
TOP Track #2 - "Hikari" & "Hikari (Instrumental)"
- Track: "Hikari" & "Hikari (Instrumental)"
- Composer: Utada Hikaru
- Composer: Shimomura Yoko
- Game: Kingdom Hearts
- System: Playstation 2
- Release: September, 2002
One of my earliest articles was about how the music of Kingdom Hearts affects me. (Read it!) It's great music and its important to me, so obviously I'm slightly biased on rating up "Hikari" but I do think it's an amazing song. What I like about the instrumental version in particular is how much it blends this Japanese pop song into a real "Disney" wrapper. It sounds like some grand Disney fantasy story and yet still conveys all the power and passion Utada put into "Hikari" itself. I'd tell you all the things that pass through me when I listen to either of these songs, but it would take a lot more space and time. I implore you to read that ancient article if you want to know what the music and the series means to me.
Read: A Music Chain of Memories
- TOP
@TOPGamingBlog
"Hikari" is one of those great songs that, like many on this list, perfectly portrays the characters that it represents. Sora, for no apparent reason, is never afraid and approaches each situation thrown at him with unbridled enthusiasm. Throughout the song, I imagine him teaming up with various allies against strange and unknwon monsters. He uses his negative emotions for a positive gain, and he'll do it with the help of his friends. My favorite part of the track comes from around the 2:40 mark, and it gives me goosebumps every time. This is one of those songs that just makes you feel good, despite its sadder, quieter moments. I don't know what life has in store for me, but this will always be a good pick-me-up. It's also the leading candidate for the song I want played at my funeral.
-Deez
@Deezer509
Derivative Tracks
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
TOP Track #3 - "Storm Eagle's Stage"
- Track: "Storm Eagle's Stage"
- Composer: Yamamoto Setsuo
- Composer: Tomozawa Makoto
- Composer: Iwai Yuki
- Composer Takehara Yuko
- Composer: Horiyama Toshihiko
- Game: Mega Man X
- System: Super Nintendo
- Release: January, 1994
Here we go! Last three days of Music May!
The Bronze Medal TOP Track goes to "Storm Eagle's Stage!"
This song is an instant hit. Storm Eagle's Stage was the first I attempted when I fired up Mega Man X - which I was super excited to play, by the way. I remember the stage loading up and this music - o! this music. Seriously, what a great way to start a game. It's too bad the rest of the X series couldn't follow the momentum set by this game, by this song! I actually wouldn't have predicted back in the early days that "Storm Eagle" would make it into the TOP Three but once it was finalized, I wasn't particularly surprised. I felt a real sense of "I should have known."
Because of what this game means to me and my brother, and because of what this song means to this game, the PowerGlove version of this song (listed below) is my current ringtone for Deez. He doesn't call often, but when he does I don't answer the first time cause I don't want to interrupt the song. True story.
- TOP
@TOPGamingBlog
The Bronze Medal TOP Track goes to "Storm Eagle's Stage!"
Because of what this game means to me and my brother, and because of what this song means to this game, the PowerGlove version of this song (listed below) is my current ringtone for Deez. He doesn't call often, but when he does I don't answer the first time cause I don't want to interrupt the song. True story.
- TOP
@TOPGamingBlog
Mega Man X was a rarity in terms of music for the X series. There are a couple other tracks I enjoy, like Boomer Kuwanger's stage and Spark Mandrill's stage. Other than that, it's pretty drab for the rest of the series. There's one song in Mega Man X 3 that's ok ("Blast Hornet's Stage") but it's few and far between. I'm sure there are a lot of fans out there that may disagree with me, but I really don't recall anything memorable in the later X titles. Shout out to readers to let me know if there are any memorable tracks that I'm unaware of! "Storm Eagle's Stage" stands out in the first game, and subsequently the entire series. It's a timeless classic.
- Deez
@Deezer509
PS: Someone tell me what a Kuwanger is, please. I've been dying to know since 1994.
Derivative Tracks
Derivative Tracks
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
TOP Track #4 - "Time of the Dreamwatch"
- Track: "Time of the Dreamwatch"
- Composer: Mitsuda Yasunori
- Game: Chrono Cross
- System: Playstation
- Release: August, 2000
It's a bit of a shame that both "Time of the Dreamwatch" and "Time's Scar" are utilized before you even get a chance to play the game. Both are used in opening scenes and are not tied to any moment in the game itself, and they are both the most outstanding pieces of music on an already amazing soundtrack. I wish Mitsuda could have worked this into the game itself, or pushed a bit more to include more nods to Chrono Trigger music within this completely new, folk-y theme. If there's anything Chrono Cross needed across the board it was stronger ties to its predecessor, Chrono Trigger. When they happen, they are the best parts of the game, and they are far and few between - in fact, you could probably take them all out, call this game Serge Cross and call it a day. I'd love to see a remake/reboot of Chrono Cross that really tries to tie it all together quite a bit more - and utilizes this type of music blending, because it is by far some of Mitsuda's finest work.
-TOP
@TOPGamingBlog
During the course of ranking these songs, we ran into some issues. We had to provide tie-breaking votes when tracks (of which there were many) got perfect scores from our panel of judges. It's difficult to come up with the metrics for declaring a true winner, due to the inability to cut nostalgia out of our calculations. Judging "Time of the Dreamwatch" was a conundrum. On the one hand, I feel it's a great song. On the other hand, my subconscious can't ignore the refrain, or the way it makes me feel as soon as I hear it. Mitsuda, you beautiful devil, you have me eating out of your hand yet again...
- Deez
@Deezer509
Derivative Tracks
K-Waves Lab - http://youtu.be/d7mDenJRTJI
Piano Arrangement - http://youtu.be/0xVtMEhPbdE
Monday, May 27, 2013
TOP Track #5 - "Chaosium Sword"
- Track: "Chaosium Sword"
- Composer: Nitta Ryuichi
- Composer: Okamura Mayuko
- Game: Ninja Gaiden II: Dark Sword of Chaos
- System: Nintendo
- Release: May, 1990
Ninja Gaiden II picks up right where Ninja Gaiden ends. As Ryu Hayabusa, the player defeats the final villain, Jaquio, an evil warlord in the Realm of Darkness, Ashtar, is made aware of Ryu's actions and sets his plan into motion. The opening scenes of the game detail this moment with "Chaosium Sword" playing in the background. The song definitely captures a sense of "the plot thickens" in its build up. Though somewhere in the world, Ryu must be celebrating his victory, dark forces are working behind the scenes to awaken and unleash their power on Earth. This song really captures that build up of a shadow army biding its time and preparing to strike.
It's an amazing song, and shows that even back on the NES, some of these composers were really taking it seriously. The Ninja Gaiden series, much like the Mega Man series, is really full of wonderful 8-bit tracks waiting to jam out in contemporary rock or metal.
-TOP
@TOPGamingBlog
Despite having jaw-dropping graphics and professional voice actors, they can't seem to capture the heart, emotion and imagination that old game cinematics used to have. Compare Chrono Trigger or Final Fantasy VI to current titles and you see a stark difference. Both their cutscenes and endings (as TOP mentioned) go above and beyond, like a reward for making it as far as you did. This goes along with the shift from plot-driven gaming to a bigger focus on gameplay; instead of savoring a cinematic moment, I'm constantly looking for the skip button.
Like other songs on this list, "Chaosium Sword" has great pacing. It starts off slow and ominous. There are cracks of thunder (a clear sign that something evil is taking place!) followed by a great theme. I think this is clearly the best track of the Ninja Gaiden games (and the NES trilogy had some great songs), and I'm sad it wasn't revisited in the new generation of Ninja Gaiden games. "Chaosium Sword" will always be one of my favorites, and I can't wait to do a cover version when TOP and I finally get our band together.
- Deez
@Deezer509
Derivative Tracks
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