Castlevania Netflix Soundtrack Review
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CASTLEVANIA—NETFLIX ORIGINAL SERIES SOUNDTRACK digitally on July 7th. Featuring an original score composed by Trevor Morris
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Ghost in the Shell Movie Soundtrack (Review)
/From the pages of the original 1989 Japanese manga by iconic Masamune Shirow to the 2017 Paramount Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures and Reliance Entertainment’ big screen adaptation of Ghost in the Shell starring Scarlett Johansson as its heroine, this immortal tale seamlessly lends itself to the ebb and flow of electronic music. 2017’s official soundtrack album, Music Inspired By The Motion Picture Ghost In The Shell [Paramount Pictures via Kobalt Music Recordings]—due out on March 31--threads together 12 tracks elegantly befitting of Major’s unpredictable cybernetic war and personal journey to uncover the secrets behind her dark past.
Ghost in The Shell movie soundtrack captures the tone and spirit of the anime. The twelve track soundtrack features compositions from Kenji Kawai, Johnny Jewel, Boys Noize, DJ Shadow, Above & Beyond, IO Echo, Tricky, Ki-Theory and Gary Newman. The album opens up with a great remix of Kenji Kawai Ghost in The Shell main theme “Uta IV” from Steve Aoki. The song brings a more epic feel with the addition of drums and synths sound. The opening track is not only the best track but it is the stand out track on the album. From there we go to the track “The Hacker” by Johnny Jewel which builds the tone of tension and I feel that this is the main theme for the antagonist. Other tracks such as Aokigahra Forest, Escape and Enjoy the Silence and Free Fall are all good tracks. Each song really gives a mystery and cyberpunk feel that captures the spirit of Ghost in the Shell. The music has a consistent tone throughout the album which works very well. A soundtrack needs to capture the tone and feel of the scenes plus the atmosphere. All these artist did a stellar job of connecting the feel and tone of Ghost in the Shell. This is an album that fans of Ghost in the Shell will enjoy.
Top Five Tracks
Uta IV Reawakening (Steve Aoki Remix)
Scars
Escape
Enjoy the Silence
Surge
Tracklist
01) Kenji Kawai- "Utai IV Reawakening" (Steve Aoki remix)
02) Johnny Jewel - "The Hacker"
03) Boys Noize - "Cathryn's Peak"
04) DJ Shadow ft. Nils Frahm - "Scars"
05) Above & Beyond - "Surge"
06) IO Echo - "Aokigahara Forest" (Album Only)
07) Tricky - "Escape"
08) Ki: Theory - "Enjoy The Silence" (Album Only)
09) Johnny Jewel - "Free Fall"
10) Gary Numan - "Bed Of Thorns"
11) Johnny Jewel - "The Key"
12) Kenji Kawai- "Utai IV Reawakening"
Final Fantasy XV Soundtrack Review
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Final Fantasy is one of the most beloved franchises ever in gaming. With the release of Final Fantasy XV last November, fans were not only treated to a stellar game but also an amazing soundtrack composed by Yoko Shimomura
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Anime That Jazz Vol 1 and 2 Review
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What happens when you combine some the best and favorable anime themes and mix it with Jazz music? You get two solid albums that is love letter to otakus who are fans of the genre of Jazz music. Volume which is richly entitled "Evening" kicks things off with Neon Genesis main theme Cruel Angel Thesis.
Read MoreSkyBlew x Backdraft: Journeys In 1st Person Review
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A couple of months ago I featured a Hip Hop artist by the name of SkyBlew on this site. He was featured on our "Geeks Who Do Music" spotlight (/www.otakusandgeeks.com/akusandgeeks.com/2014/02/geeks-who-do-music-5-skyblew.html). Well this time SkyBlew is back with all new music entitled "Journeys In 1st Person." Just like his previous release "Digi Destined", SkyBlew brings an amazing production and a storytelling theme as we get a glimpse of the artist in first person.
If you're tired of the hoe praising, drug selling, money flashing that continue to plague the genre I love. I suggest you give SkyBlew a listen. While he's not the only underground Hip Hop artist that brings positivity or the only geek rapper doing that. I will say listening to his music makes him standout. His music has an identity, he knows his audiences and his listeners. One of the most important things for any artist is to be themselves. SkyBlew knows this and you can hear it in his rhymes and you hear it in his production.
"Journeys In 1st Person" exceeds pass SkyBlew's previous entries. What make this entry standout is that we really get to see the world as SkyBlew views it. Unlike his previous entry "Digi Destined" which the focal point was otaku and geek culture, this entry is more grounded in the world of SkyBlew. Songs like "Ordinary Tuesday", "Island Of Serenity", "Blew Style That I Write" and "The Green Ballons" are the standout tracks to listen too. In this entry SkyBlew doesn't drop as much geeky references as he does in "Digi Destined." Instead of the geeky references and bars aimed at the culture, SkyBlew delivers lines and music for the everyday person. The subject matters target the music business, dream killers and staying true to your goals. Overall the message of this album is be yourself. While the subject matter might not be the most popular in the mainstream media, it's an important message to the audience that SkyBlew is targeting. One of my favorite lines from this album is from my favorite track "Ordinary Tuesday."
"No matter how they mask their existence with name brand clothes, they can't take it with them when they go. All you got is soul though some trade it away no amount equal to a better day." - "Ordinary Tuesday" By SkyBlew
SkyBlew continues to deliver lyrically on this EP, however his production is what really brings everything together. The sample tracks from classic Motown artist such as Marvin Gaye not only bring the value of the EP high, it also honors and pays homage to the artist he is sampling. I would say the only flaw I didn't really like was some of the features. While SkyBlew sets the flow and tone of the song, some of the features knock it out and some don't. The features don't ruin the songs by any means it's just some felt out of place. Overall this is another solid EP from SkyBlew and you can check it out at (http://skyblew1.bandcamp.com/album/skyblew-x-backdraft-journeys-in-1st-person)
Final Grade 4.5/5
Like SkyBlew On Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SkyBlewMusic
Follow SkyBlew On Twitter
https://twitter.com/heyskyblew
SkyBlew's Bandcamp
http://skyblew1.bandcamp.com/
If you're tired of the hoe praising, drug selling, money flashing that continue to plague the genre I love. I suggest you give SkyBlew a listen. While he's not the only underground Hip Hop artist that brings positivity or the only geek rapper doing that. I will say listening to his music makes him standout. His music has an identity, he knows his audiences and his listeners. One of the most important things for any artist is to be themselves. SkyBlew knows this and you can hear it in his rhymes and you hear it in his production.
"Journeys In 1st Person" exceeds pass SkyBlew's previous entries. What make this entry standout is that we really get to see the world as SkyBlew views it. Unlike his previous entry "Digi Destined" which the focal point was otaku and geek culture, this entry is more grounded in the world of SkyBlew. Songs like "Ordinary Tuesday", "Island Of Serenity", "Blew Style That I Write" and "The Green Ballons" are the standout tracks to listen too. In this entry SkyBlew doesn't drop as much geeky references as he does in "Digi Destined." Instead of the geeky references and bars aimed at the culture, SkyBlew delivers lines and music for the everyday person. The subject matters target the music business, dream killers and staying true to your goals. Overall the message of this album is be yourself. While the subject matter might not be the most popular in the mainstream media, it's an important message to the audience that SkyBlew is targeting. One of my favorite lines from this album is from my favorite track "Ordinary Tuesday."
"No matter how they mask their existence with name brand clothes, they can't take it with them when they go. All you got is soul though some trade it away no amount equal to a better day." - "Ordinary Tuesday" By SkyBlew
SkyBlew continues to deliver lyrically on this EP, however his production is what really brings everything together. The sample tracks from classic Motown artist such as Marvin Gaye not only bring the value of the EP high, it also honors and pays homage to the artist he is sampling. I would say the only flaw I didn't really like was some of the features. While SkyBlew sets the flow and tone of the song, some of the features knock it out and some don't. The features don't ruin the songs by any means it's just some felt out of place. Overall this is another solid EP from SkyBlew and you can check it out at (http://skyblew1.bandcamp.com/album/skyblew-x-backdraft-journeys-in-1st-person)
Final Grade 4.5/5
Like SkyBlew On Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/SkyBlewMusic
Follow SkyBlew On Twitter
https://twitter.com/heyskyblew
SkyBlew's Bandcamp
http://skyblew1.bandcamp.com/
Kill La Kill OST Review
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There is a reason that "Kill La Kill" is one of the hottest anime's right now. Not only does the anime have great characters, an interesting story but along with all those ingredients Hiroyuki Sawano has composed one hell of a soundtrack. "Kill La Kill" OST is pack with different styles of music for fans. It has a mixture of rock, pop, classical and even some dance/house tracks. You would think with all these different sounds, that the soundtrack would sound all over the place. However this is not the case with "Kill La Kill." Hiroyuki Sawano has carefully integrated these sounds that not only set the tone for the anime, but also gives the soundtrack tons of replay value.
The album consist of eighteen songs, six songs are vocal tracks and the rest is orchestrated or instrumental tracks. The opening song "Before My Body Is Dry" by Miku Kobayashi is a great start off song. The song is a combination of rock and rap and it's one of my favorite tracks of the whole album. I personally would love a version without the rap in it. It's nothing against the artist I just feel like the rap felt out of place. Other than that little complaint the soundtrack is easy to listen from beginning to end. There wasn't a single track that I skip or felt that it didn't belong with the anime. Some of the stand out tracks are "Before My Body Is Dry", "I want to know", "KILL7la切ル" and "Light your heart up." Overall if your a fan of the anime I suggest you pick up the ost. It has amazing vocal tracks and amazing instrumental tracks as well. This album you can relax too, or even workout too. It's a killer soundtrack for a killer anime.
Final Rating - 4.5/5
The album consist of eighteen songs, six songs are vocal tracks and the rest is orchestrated or instrumental tracks. The opening song "Before My Body Is Dry" by Miku Kobayashi is a great start off song. The song is a combination of rock and rap and it's one of my favorite tracks of the whole album. I personally would love a version without the rap in it. It's nothing against the artist I just feel like the rap felt out of place. Other than that little complaint the soundtrack is easy to listen from beginning to end. There wasn't a single track that I skip or felt that it didn't belong with the anime. Some of the stand out tracks are "Before My Body Is Dry", "I want to know", "KILL7la切ル" and "Light your heart up." Overall if your a fan of the anime I suggest you pick up the ost. It has amazing vocal tracks and amazing instrumental tracks as well. This album you can relax too, or even workout too. It's a killer soundtrack for a killer anime.
Final Rating - 4.5/5
Beyond: Two Souls OST Review
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On October 8th 2013 the latest game from Quantic Dream the studio behind games such as "Heavy Rain" and "Fahrenheit" will release "Beyond: Two Souls" starring Ellen Page and William Dafoe. We had a chance to listen to the upcoming OST for the game. The OST is composed by Norman Cordbeil who unfortunately died early in January. The unfinished work was finished by Hans Zimmer and Lorne Balfe. Does this soundtrack go beyond or is this nothing special?
If I would describe the soundtrack's tone it will be a mix of intensity and emotional drama. Based on the music alone you can tell that the game is going to have some intense and emotional moments. If Cordbeli laid the bases then Zimmer and Balfe finished the soundtrack with a grand slam. "Beyond: Two Souls" soundtrack is a beautiful, haunting and cinematic to say the least. Listening to certain tracks can puts you right into the personality of certain characters. For example the track Jodie's theme has a choir with the use of strings, the choir sings softly throughout the track. It makes you think that the character Jodie has a touch of innocence to her. The soundtrack can be heard similar to a movie score, it starts off slow and mellow but with each track the intensity picks up. Some standout tracks are "Beyond", "The Experiment", "The Infraworld" and "Jodie's Story." These tracks define the soundtrack and set the tone for the album and game. Overall I would give the soundtrack a listen it's even better if your readying a mystery or thriller book. The soundtrack is intense, emotional and has a cinematic feel you wouldn't expect from a videogame.
Final Rating: 8.5/B+
If I would describe the soundtrack's tone it will be a mix of intensity and emotional drama. Based on the music alone you can tell that the game is going to have some intense and emotional moments. If Cordbeli laid the bases then Zimmer and Balfe finished the soundtrack with a grand slam. "Beyond: Two Souls" soundtrack is a beautiful, haunting and cinematic to say the least. Listening to certain tracks can puts you right into the personality of certain characters. For example the track Jodie's theme has a choir with the use of strings, the choir sings softly throughout the track. It makes you think that the character Jodie has a touch of innocence to her. The soundtrack can be heard similar to a movie score, it starts off slow and mellow but with each track the intensity picks up. Some standout tracks are "Beyond", "The Experiment", "The Infraworld" and "Jodie's Story." These tracks define the soundtrack and set the tone for the album and game. Overall I would give the soundtrack a listen it's even better if your readying a mystery or thriller book. The soundtrack is intense, emotional and has a cinematic feel you wouldn't expect from a videogame.
Final Rating: 8.5/B+
Geeks Who Do Music: EP Review - Jowin Actually Has Friends by Jowin
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One thing I love is listening to my fellow geeks music. A while back we feature hip hop artist Jowin in our Geek Who Do Music section (/www.otakusandgeeks.com/akusandgeeks.com/2011/10/cosplay-girl-videos.html). Many geeks will know Jowin from his hit song "Cosplay Girl." Jowin is back with an all new EP "Jowin Actually Has Friends." The 5 song EP is smooth, creative, fun and it's something hip hop fans should check out.
The EP opens up with a smooth, relaxing track "Can't Stay Away" it's a great opener with cool vocals and lyrics. It does a great job of setting the tone of the EP. The next track is when Jowin starts showing his lyrical skills with the song "Commute." The song paints imagery of Jowin traveling and trying to tune out his surroundings. The song chorus is catchy and the lyrics are spot on for the concept Jowin is going for. The next track is absolutely my favorite track of them all. The third track "All Alone" is the show stealer of the EP. The song's catchy amazing jazzy beat grabs you from the first ten seconds, and the chorus song by artist FYUTCH is fitting for the track. Jowin uses some geeky references in this song which he clever manages to weave into the concept of the song. Jowin and FYUTCH chemistry is what makes this song work, they play off each other styles very well and with clever lyrics and great production this is the must listen track on the EP. The final two tracks "Please Save Mii" and "Stranger" are two great songs to close the EP.
Final Thoughts: "Jowin Actually Has Friends" is a wonderful EP. It makes you want more tracks from Jowin and see what else he will come up with in the future. Each song concept fits, the features are just as talented and the production will make true hip hop fans smile. It is a valid effort and showcase on someone I believe is just warming up.
Track listing & Ratings
1.Can't Stay Away (4.5/5)
2. Commute (4.5/5)
3. All Alone feat FYUTCH (5/5)
4. Please Save Me (4.5/5)
5. Stranger (4.5/5)
Final Grade: 4.5/5 AWESOME!
Download and Buy The EP Here
http://jowin.bandcamp.com/album/jowin-actually-has-friends
All Alone By Jowin
Follow Jowin On Twitter
https://twitter.com/iamjowin
Like Jowin on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/iamjowin
The EP opens up with a smooth, relaxing track "Can't Stay Away" it's a great opener with cool vocals and lyrics. It does a great job of setting the tone of the EP. The next track is when Jowin starts showing his lyrical skills with the song "Commute." The song paints imagery of Jowin traveling and trying to tune out his surroundings. The song chorus is catchy and the lyrics are spot on for the concept Jowin is going for. The next track is absolutely my favorite track of them all. The third track "All Alone" is the show stealer of the EP. The song's catchy amazing jazzy beat grabs you from the first ten seconds, and the chorus song by artist FYUTCH is fitting for the track. Jowin uses some geeky references in this song which he clever manages to weave into the concept of the song. Jowin and FYUTCH chemistry is what makes this song work, they play off each other styles very well and with clever lyrics and great production this is the must listen track on the EP. The final two tracks "Please Save Mii" and "Stranger" are two great songs to close the EP.
Final Thoughts: "Jowin Actually Has Friends" is a wonderful EP. It makes you want more tracks from Jowin and see what else he will come up with in the future. Each song concept fits, the features are just as talented and the production will make true hip hop fans smile. It is a valid effort and showcase on someone I believe is just warming up.
Track listing & Ratings
1.Can't Stay Away (4.5/5)
2. Commute (4.5/5)
3. All Alone feat FYUTCH (5/5)
4. Please Save Me (4.5/5)
5. Stranger (4.5/5)
Final Grade: 4.5/5 AWESOME!
Download and Buy The EP Here
http://jowin.bandcamp.com/album/jowin-actually-has-friends
All Alone By Jowin
Follow Jowin On Twitter
https://twitter.com/iamjowin
Like Jowin on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/iamjowin
TRON Uprising Soundtrack Review
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If you don't know by now I love the TRON universe. I' am a TRON geek. I love both movies, the soundtrack, the games and the comic that tied the movie together. When the opportunity came to review the soundtrack for the television series "TRON: Uprising" it was a no brainier. Is the soundtrack as good as TRON Legacy?
If you're one of the Daft Punk purist that can't listen to anyone else doing TRON music you can relax. Composer Joseph Trapanese has done the soundtrack justice. The soundtrack stays true to the groundwork that was laid down by Daft Punk and Trapanese. Trapanese takes the ball and makes it his own. The soundtrack not only expands on key themes from TRON Legacy like Clu, The Grid, Fall and many more, but Trapanese puts his own little touch on the soundtrack. Trapanese has put out a soundtrack worthy of the TRON name. With more of his orchestral skills setting in the music this time around, we get a soundtrack that can be describe as dark, rebellious and definitely epic.
The opening theme "Beck's Theme" is a combination of themes from TRON Legacy with a twist from The Grid, Clu and others and it really sets the tone for this dark, intense, but powerful world that is TRON Uprising. Almost every track you will hear a little bit of TRON Legacy music. This isn't a bad thing at all. I like to think of it as an expansion on the already established themes. However Trapanese does gives us enough original tracks to give TRON Uprising it's own identity. Songs like Lux's Sacrifice, Price Of Power, TRON's Promise are powerful, intense and emotionally invested songs and it's worthy of mentioning. Trapanese orchestral approach was a welcome addition. TRON Legacy did have orchestra tracks, but this whole album is orchestra and makes it feel more like a movie than an actual television show. The use of drums, strings and even a choir will immerse you into the world even more. Trust me you will be playing some of these tracks during your videogame time.
Tracks that you must listen too:
Beck's Theme - A different take on themes from TRON Legacy such as The Grid, Clu and many more. It reminds you a lot of TRON Legacy but still keeps gives a sense of who Beck character is.
Lux's Sacrifice - One of my favorite songs on the album. This one the strings take over the track, add a choir at the end makes this one of the most emotional tracks on the album.
Compressed Space - A very Daft Punk like track with an orchestrated touch. The ending minute of the track is epic and gives you a sense of victory or alluding to a battle ahead.
Final Thoughts - TRON Uprising is a must get for TRON fans and people who love OST from movies/television. The soundtrack plays it safe but gives you enough to give it's own identity. The tracks can feel dark, intense and emotional which all relates to the darker tone world of TRON Uprising. If Daft Punk don't return for TRON 3 I think we know who we can go too for the soundtrack.
Tracklist & Rating
Beck's Theme - Lightbike Battle (5/5)
Tesler Throwdown (4.5/5)
Paige's Past (4.5/5)
Lux's Sacrifice (5/5)
Price Of Power (5/5)
Rescuing The Rebellion (4.5)
Dyson Drops In (4.5/5)
TRON's Promise (5/5)
TRON's Turn (4.5/5)
Beck Betrayed (4.5/5)
Torture (4.5/5)
Revenge (5/5)
Redemption (5/5)
Goodbye Renegade (5/5)
Compressed Space (5/5)
Renegade's Pledge (5/5)
Lightbike Battle (3OH!3 Remix) (4.5/5)
Inferno (Opiuo Remix) (3.5/5)
Dyson (David Hiller Remix (4.0/5)
Cole Plante (3.5/5)
Final Rating - 4.5/5 - AWESOME!!!
Album Review: "Lemuria" By Gary Samurai
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One thing we love to do at Otakus and Geeks is to showcase geeks who do music. This time I have another album review from a geek who does music. You seen him as a feature for geeks who do music and this time he has his first album "Lemuria." Is it worth checking it out?
The first thing you will notice about "Lemuria" is the wonderful album concept. The song titles such as Underwater, Mermaid, Ocean Floor and many more tell a story, emotion or theme for the concept the album. The concept is a man going deeper into this world called "Lemuria." With each song the artist goes deeper into a world, telling a story or examining social commentary. It also can be also be a metaphor from Gary Samurai as well, to give the audience a deeper look into his world, life and views.
"Lemuria" is not just another Hip-Hop album but it's an experience. The production is to thank for that. It does a great job because it actually fits the concept of the album. Almost every beat on "Lemuria" sounds like a soundtrack from the ocean which allows you to visualize the world Gary Samurai is creating with his lyrics. A clear example of this is the third track "Mermaid." The production sounds like a sample from "Final Fantasy VII" song "Lifestream." The beat is laid back, calm like the ocean waves very peaceful and with Gary Samurai's lyrics complementing the beat and his smooth flow made this one of my favorite tracks on the album. The lyrics are great too and carry positive messages or a reflection into Gary's life. That is all you can ask for from a music artist, to be creative and give you the audience an experience. Some of the highlights track are Mermaid, Freedom, The Chosen, Last Day.
Mermaid - Is one of my favorite tracks on the album. As stated above it gave me an experience of being underwater trying to woo this mermaid girl who is the object of my affection. The beat is one of my favorites on the album as well since it reminded of "Final Fantasy VII."
The Chosen - The Chosen is when Gary gets really lyrical and spits many themes such as hope, being a leader and overcoming the odds. It's a great song and shines as one of the best lyrics on the album. The production sounds like a something you would hear in an epic prologue to a final boss. It will have your head bobbing.
Last Day - Last Day is the first song on the album and really sets the tone for the album. Once again you see Gary's talent with words his punchlines, metaphors and flow is spot on in this track. It has a nice hook and have some social commentary bars that will have you thinking a little like, "Some of you may might not get this, if someone is good and someone is bad and do the same thing what's the difference?" One of my favorite lines on the album.
Freedom - This is the best song on the album and one hell of a way to end the album. Gary goes all out lyrically and makes sure to end the album with a bang. This song has references to Star Wars, real life issues and it's one of the most personal songs on the album. Gary is able to give lyrical references to geeks, social issues and still keep the concept of the world Lemuria intact. The production is also the best on the album with a smooth jazz speed up track it still sounds like your underwater. This track is the one you must listen too.
Final Thoughts - Lemuria is a breath of fresh air. The album is creative, the lyrics are spot on and the production does the concept of the album justice. This album is just not for geeks who will understand the things Gary references, but anyone who is a fan of Hip Hop that wants something different, something creative and something positive. Gary lyrics will bring you into the world of Lemuria and as you get into each track you will go deeper into his mind and the world. The album is only 9 tracks and I wish there was a little bit more songs, but overall this something you sound check out.
Tracklist & Rating
Last Day (4.5/5)
Underwater (4.0/5)
Mermaid (4.5/5)
Ocean Floor (3.5/5)
Welcome To Acropolis (4.0/5)
The Chosen (4.5/5)
Error! Ft Levi Watson (4.5/5)
Waiting Room (4.0/5)
Freedom (5/5)
Final Rating - 4.5/5 - AWESOME!!!!
Listen to Lemuria here
http://garysamurai.bandcamp.com/
Follow Gary on Twitter
Twitter.com/GarySamurai
The first thing you will notice about "Lemuria" is the wonderful album concept. The song titles such as Underwater, Mermaid, Ocean Floor and many more tell a story, emotion or theme for the concept the album. The concept is a man going deeper into this world called "Lemuria." With each song the artist goes deeper into a world, telling a story or examining social commentary. It also can be also be a metaphor from Gary Samurai as well, to give the audience a deeper look into his world, life and views.
"Lemuria" is not just another Hip-Hop album but it's an experience. The production is to thank for that. It does a great job because it actually fits the concept of the album. Almost every beat on "Lemuria" sounds like a soundtrack from the ocean which allows you to visualize the world Gary Samurai is creating with his lyrics. A clear example of this is the third track "Mermaid." The production sounds like a sample from "Final Fantasy VII" song "Lifestream." The beat is laid back, calm like the ocean waves very peaceful and with Gary Samurai's lyrics complementing the beat and his smooth flow made this one of my favorite tracks on the album. The lyrics are great too and carry positive messages or a reflection into Gary's life. That is all you can ask for from a music artist, to be creative and give you the audience an experience. Some of the highlights track are Mermaid, Freedom, The Chosen, Last Day.
Mermaid - Is one of my favorite tracks on the album. As stated above it gave me an experience of being underwater trying to woo this mermaid girl who is the object of my affection. The beat is one of my favorites on the album as well since it reminded of "Final Fantasy VII."
The Chosen - The Chosen is when Gary gets really lyrical and spits many themes such as hope, being a leader and overcoming the odds. It's a great song and shines as one of the best lyrics on the album. The production sounds like a something you would hear in an epic prologue to a final boss. It will have your head bobbing.
Last Day - Last Day is the first song on the album and really sets the tone for the album. Once again you see Gary's talent with words his punchlines, metaphors and flow is spot on in this track. It has a nice hook and have some social commentary bars that will have you thinking a little like, "Some of you may might not get this, if someone is good and someone is bad and do the same thing what's the difference?" One of my favorite lines on the album.
Freedom - This is the best song on the album and one hell of a way to end the album. Gary goes all out lyrically and makes sure to end the album with a bang. This song has references to Star Wars, real life issues and it's one of the most personal songs on the album. Gary is able to give lyrical references to geeks, social issues and still keep the concept of the world Lemuria intact. The production is also the best on the album with a smooth jazz speed up track it still sounds like your underwater. This track is the one you must listen too.
Final Thoughts - Lemuria is a breath of fresh air. The album is creative, the lyrics are spot on and the production does the concept of the album justice. This album is just not for geeks who will understand the things Gary references, but anyone who is a fan of Hip Hop that wants something different, something creative and something positive. Gary lyrics will bring you into the world of Lemuria and as you get into each track you will go deeper into his mind and the world. The album is only 9 tracks and I wish there was a little bit more songs, but overall this something you sound check out.
Tracklist & Rating
Last Day (4.5/5)
Underwater (4.0/5)
Mermaid (4.5/5)
Ocean Floor (3.5/5)
Welcome To Acropolis (4.0/5)
The Chosen (4.5/5)
Error! Ft Levi Watson (4.5/5)
Waiting Room (4.0/5)
Freedom (5/5)
Final Rating - 4.5/5 - AWESOME!!!!
Listen to Lemuria here
http://garysamurai.bandcamp.com/
Follow Gary on Twitter
Twitter.com/GarySamurai
LeetStreet Boys "L3g3nds" Album Review
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LeetStreet Boys are back with they 3rd album "L3g3nds." For those who don't know about this otaku band. Let me just give you guys a mini brief history on them from the official website. LeetStreet Boys is an anime otaku band that gained international attention in 2008 with their breakout single and music video Yuri The Only One. Widely recognized as one of the first western anime bands to gain international recognition based on being genuine, innovative otaku artists, the band continues to produce music, multimedia, and live concert performances. The band consist of Matt (Lead Singer), Justin (Lead Guitar, no not me) Rose (Bass) and D-dos (Drums).
The band's 3rd album "L3g3nds" can be describe in a few words geeky awesomeness. If your looking for music that talks about topics such as E3 booth babes, anime, rpg's with lyrics that gives references to popular geek culture look no further. The album consist of 11 songs and I didn't skip one single track. The opening instrumental song "L3g3nds" is a great start to the album. The guitar and drums will remind of you a Legend Of Zelda theme or an RPG game. It did a great job to get me pumped for the album.
The second song "Sakura" is my favorite song off the album. This is the one that I played till it annoyed my neighbors. This is a track fans will expect from the band, a upbeat song with lighthearted lyrics. I love the lyrics in this song "When this story ends you will fall from the sky in my arms, till the legend lives on in the stars. Sakura...Sakura." The lead singer Matt voice towards the end of the song will have you hook and will make you press the repeat button.
The third song "Booth Babe" is my least favorite song on the album. The song is not bad at all. It's about a guy trying to pick up an E3 booth babe. It has some clever lyrics and nice references. The chorus might stick in your head after a couple of listens. It has a nice wordplay on the e in the E3. The song is a nice addition to the album, it just wasn't for me. The lyrics might ruffle some feathers of our lady friends. Trust me you have heard worst!
The fourth song "Imaginary Boys" I believe will be the favorite track for otaku girls. A song about guy trying to get the girl but she is just into her dream boy like the one she sees in manga and videogames. This song is packed with tons of references from Full Metal Alchemist, Yaoi and many more. I love the lyrics and the production on this song with the guitar, bass drums and a little bit of 8 bit makes this song a must listen.
Other honorable mentions are My Life Is An RPG, Final Boss, Otaku Rave are all stand out tracks. These three songs all have different tones. Final Boss is pure epic and probably the most tough track on the album. This is a song any RPG gamer can appreciate with lyrics referencing the struggles of beating a final boss, what it's like to face the challenge and how important the win is. The guitar and drums come in at the right time and Matt's voice will paint a picture of an epic battle that is taking place. The guitar solo in this song is awesome. Trust me play this song when you reach your final boss in your game. Otaku Rave is more of a party song with electro/dance style and it's brilliant. Imagine a dance song for otakus with plenty references from anime and videogames. This is excellent dance track that I can see otakus dancing too at a cosplay party. Finally another track worth mentioning is The Song Of Time. Zelda fans this one is for you and it's my second favorite song on the album. It's a great way to end the album. Beautiful lyrics, romantic and great production.
Final Thoughts - LeetStreet Boys are definitely one of a kind. There aren't many bands that can sing songs about anime, manga, cosplay, E3, rpg's and make it fun for everyone. Even if you're not familiar with some of the references on the album, you will enjoy it's lighthearted lyrics, catchy choruses and production that you can dance, rock out and be moved by. If you call yourself an otaku, gamer, geek, cosplayer or whatever you need to give this album a listen. It's an experience that everyone should enjoy. Now I'm going to listen to Sakura for the 100th time.
Tracklist & Rating
1. L3g3nds (5/5)
2. Sakura (4.5/5)
3. Booth Babe (3.5/5)
4. Imaginary Boys (4.5/5)
5. My Life Is An Rpg (4/5)
6. Final Boss (5/5)
7. Otaku Rave (4.5/5)
8. Harajuku Girl (4/5)
9. Hikikomori (4.5/5)
10. Worlds Apart (4.5/5)
11. The Song Of Time (5/5)
Final Rating - 4.5/5 a must listen!!!!
Buy “L3g3nds” CD through the LeetStreet Boys website store!
Buy “L3g3nds” digital copy on iTunes.
The band's 3rd album "L3g3nds" can be describe in a few words geeky awesomeness. If your looking for music that talks about topics such as E3 booth babes, anime, rpg's with lyrics that gives references to popular geek culture look no further. The album consist of 11 songs and I didn't skip one single track. The opening instrumental song "L3g3nds" is a great start to the album. The guitar and drums will remind of you a Legend Of Zelda theme or an RPG game. It did a great job to get me pumped for the album.
The second song "Sakura" is my favorite song off the album. This is the one that I played till it annoyed my neighbors. This is a track fans will expect from the band, a upbeat song with lighthearted lyrics. I love the lyrics in this song "When this story ends you will fall from the sky in my arms, till the legend lives on in the stars. Sakura...Sakura." The lead singer Matt voice towards the end of the song will have you hook and will make you press the repeat button.
The third song "Booth Babe" is my least favorite song on the album. The song is not bad at all. It's about a guy trying to pick up an E3 booth babe. It has some clever lyrics and nice references. The chorus might stick in your head after a couple of listens. It has a nice wordplay on the e in the E3. The song is a nice addition to the album, it just wasn't for me. The lyrics might ruffle some feathers of our lady friends. Trust me you have heard worst!
The fourth song "Imaginary Boys" I believe will be the favorite track for otaku girls. A song about guy trying to get the girl but she is just into her dream boy like the one she sees in manga and videogames. This song is packed with tons of references from Full Metal Alchemist, Yaoi and many more. I love the lyrics and the production on this song with the guitar, bass drums and a little bit of 8 bit makes this song a must listen.
Other honorable mentions are My Life Is An RPG, Final Boss, Otaku Rave are all stand out tracks. These three songs all have different tones. Final Boss is pure epic and probably the most tough track on the album. This is a song any RPG gamer can appreciate with lyrics referencing the struggles of beating a final boss, what it's like to face the challenge and how important the win is. The guitar and drums come in at the right time and Matt's voice will paint a picture of an epic battle that is taking place. The guitar solo in this song is awesome. Trust me play this song when you reach your final boss in your game. Otaku Rave is more of a party song with electro/dance style and it's brilliant. Imagine a dance song for otakus with plenty references from anime and videogames. This is excellent dance track that I can see otakus dancing too at a cosplay party. Finally another track worth mentioning is The Song Of Time. Zelda fans this one is for you and it's my second favorite song on the album. It's a great way to end the album. Beautiful lyrics, romantic and great production.
Final Thoughts - LeetStreet Boys are definitely one of a kind. There aren't many bands that can sing songs about anime, manga, cosplay, E3, rpg's and make it fun for everyone. Even if you're not familiar with some of the references on the album, you will enjoy it's lighthearted lyrics, catchy choruses and production that you can dance, rock out and be moved by. If you call yourself an otaku, gamer, geek, cosplayer or whatever you need to give this album a listen. It's an experience that everyone should enjoy. Now I'm going to listen to Sakura for the 100th time.
Tracklist & Rating
1. L3g3nds (5/5)
2. Sakura (4.5/5)
3. Booth Babe (3.5/5)
4. Imaginary Boys (4.5/5)
5. My Life Is An Rpg (4/5)
6. Final Boss (5/5)
7. Otaku Rave (4.5/5)
8. Harajuku Girl (4/5)
9. Hikikomori (4.5/5)
10. Worlds Apart (4.5/5)
11. The Song Of Time (5/5)
Final Rating - 4.5/5 a must listen!!!!
Buy “L3g3nds” CD through the LeetStreet Boys website store!
Buy “L3g3nds” digital copy on iTunes.
Final Fantasy XIII-2 OST Review
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If there is one thing Final Fantasy is known for besides it's unique story, memorable characters and cheesy moments is the music. With the new release Final Fantasy XIII-2 occupying the hearts of RPG fans around the world, we sat back and listen to the four disc OST for the game. Is the OST worthy of joining the ranks of Final Fantasy classics, or is this OST a flop.
One thing to say about Final Fantasy XIII-2 original soundtrack that it's very different from any Final Fantasy OST. Unlike other Final Fantasy original soundtracks, this one has three separate composers that contribute their own styles of music into the project. We have the return of Masashi Hamauzu who composed Final Fantasy XIII. New composers to the series is Naoshi Mizuta and Mitsuto Suzuki. With three different composers we get three different styles and apporaches to the soundtrack. Masashi Hamauzu mainly focuses on themes from the original series and characters from the original game, while Naoshi Mizuta focused mainly on the new characters. Finally Mitsuto Suzuki provided the techno, vocal songs and pop tracks.
For the most part the soundtrack is good. The soundtracks is four discs in total and it strays away from the Final Fantasy sound that we're use too. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but not a good one for Final Fantasy purist. We get our classical tracks which I think stands out the most. Tracks like "Noel Theme" and "Recollection Of The Future" are nice piano tracks that will bring you into the world. The problem with some of the classical tracks is that it sounds uninspired, generic and didn't leave me with an epic feel. Some tracks sound so basic or boring that you really don't feel the music, it's not memorable and its easily forgotten. However where the soundtrack shines is the addition of vocal and techno tracks. The vocal tracks provided by Mitsuto Suzuki guidance really add a more lighter, sometimes darker tone to the soundtrack. The vocals songs are relaxing and shine best when the string solos come in. The techno tracks however not always a perfect fit in the Final Fantasy universe, makes sense in the futuristic world of Final Fantasy XIII-2. It captures the world, the people and the scenes fairly well.
Final Grade C+/7.5 - Final Fantasy XIII-2 OST has some outstanding tracks, but for the most part it's forgettable and sometimes boring. This is a decent departure from the style of music we're use too in Final Fantasy games, however sometimes going to left field can hurt. It's not bad, but it's not epic either. It's just okay.
One thing to say about Final Fantasy XIII-2 original soundtrack that it's very different from any Final Fantasy OST. Unlike other Final Fantasy original soundtracks, this one has three separate composers that contribute their own styles of music into the project. We have the return of Masashi Hamauzu who composed Final Fantasy XIII. New composers to the series is Naoshi Mizuta and Mitsuto Suzuki. With three different composers we get three different styles and apporaches to the soundtrack. Masashi Hamauzu mainly focuses on themes from the original series and characters from the original game, while Naoshi Mizuta focused mainly on the new characters. Finally Mitsuto Suzuki provided the techno, vocal songs and pop tracks.
For the most part the soundtrack is good. The soundtracks is four discs in total and it strays away from the Final Fantasy sound that we're use too. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but not a good one for Final Fantasy purist. We get our classical tracks which I think stands out the most. Tracks like "Noel Theme" and "Recollection Of The Future" are nice piano tracks that will bring you into the world. The problem with some of the classical tracks is that it sounds uninspired, generic and didn't leave me with an epic feel. Some tracks sound so basic or boring that you really don't feel the music, it's not memorable and its easily forgotten. However where the soundtrack shines is the addition of vocal and techno tracks. The vocal tracks provided by Mitsuto Suzuki guidance really add a more lighter, sometimes darker tone to the soundtrack. The vocals songs are relaxing and shine best when the string solos come in. The techno tracks however not always a perfect fit in the Final Fantasy universe, makes sense in the futuristic world of Final Fantasy XIII-2. It captures the world, the people and the scenes fairly well.
Final Grade C+/7.5 - Final Fantasy XIII-2 OST has some outstanding tracks, but for the most part it's forgettable and sometimes boring. This is a decent departure from the style of music we're use too in Final Fantasy games, however sometimes going to left field can hurt. It's not bad, but it's not epic either. It's just okay.
Batman: The Animated Series OST Review
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One thing many of us remember from Batman: The Animates Series besides it's great story, great acting, was the great music. It took a long time but the OST finally released a while back. The OST is still hard to find and Amazon price tag is a heavy one. Is this rare OST worth the price? Find out below.
Review: There is no doubt that the work of Shirley Walker is amazing. However this soundtrack is disappointing. It's not the music that's the problem. It's the way they choose the music, that will leave fans hoping for more. Instead of focusing on some of the best themes in the entire series, fans will get themes from whole episodes, mainly the ones focusing on the first season. For example instead of a Mr. Freeze theme, which was fantastic in the series by the way. Fans will get a theme like "Batman Chases Croc." While the themes chosen aren't bad, Shirley Walker library is too amazing to have mediocre themes on this soundtrack. However the music chosen is a great representation of how great Walker was. Each theme is pack with either a mellow easy listening tone, or an action pack compositions that will really make you feel like your part of the action. With over 2 hours and 30 mins of music, you will surely get enough for your buck. However some melodies are heard over and over again in some compositions. For instance "The Joker" theme is heard all over the soundtrack. It can get a little repetitive and will make you wish they had a better selection.
Regardless of the disappointment of the selection tracks. This is a solid OST that any fan of the Animated Series will love. The OST has tons of action themes, but it misses it's mark on more of the emotional themes, that really made this series special. The OST also includes a track of Sherry Walker giving you her insight on how the Batman theme works, this is a real standout track that shows you Sherry's musical thought process. Final Grade is a B-/8.0. The OST does well by bringing us themes for the show, however it's not the best of the best.
01 - Gotham City Overture - 14:01
02 - BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES - Main Title (Danny Elfman) - 1:02
03 - Sub-Main Title / Batwing / Bat Attack - 1:51
04 - Batman Drives To Gotham - 1:00
05 - Batman Investigates / Batman Uses Infrared / Police Rush Building - 1:48
06 - Batman Escapes / Batman Flies - 1:48
07 - Bats / Evidence Goes Up In Smoke/ The Formula / Dr Jekyll And Mr. Bat - 3:01
08 - Gotham From the Air / Ride’Em Batman / Epilogue - 2:16
09 - Sub-Main Title - 1:35
10 - The Submarine / Joker Loots Gotham - 2:35
11 - Alfred Loses It - 0:58
12 - Bat Boat / Batman Catches The Big Fish / Batman Fights The Bad Guys - 2:18
13 - Cliff-Hanger Under Water / Batman A.K.A Houdini - 1:56
14 - Batman The Terminator - 2:01
15 - Batman Vs. Joker / Batman Vs Joker Part 2 - 3:47
16 - Sub-Main Title / Stromwell’s Flashback - 2:01
17 - Batman on Top of Church / Stromwell Arrives At Pete’s / Thugs Exit - 1:20
18 - Stromwell Confronts Thorn - 1:15
19 - It’s Party Time / Batman Carries Stromwell - 0:48
20 - Stromwell Sees Joey - 1:41
21 - Stromwell Tricks Batman / Thorn’s Men Move In / Thorn Chases Stromwell - 3:22
22 - Stromwell’s Flashback #2 - 1:45
23 - Batman Cracks Heads / Thorn Removed - 1:20
24 - Ground Breaking Ceremony / Penitentiary Time Lapses - 1:11
25 - Batman Catches A Chopper / The Chopper Crashes/ Rooftop Chase - 1:58
26 - Batman Sneaks Around - 1:09
27 - A Little Plant Muzak / The Carnivorous Plant - 0:59
28 - Batman Vs. Poison Ivy / Poison Ivy In Prison - 3:52
29 - 14 Seconds Opening / Jingle Bells / The Joker Blasts Off - 1:03
30 - Down the Mountain / Sidewalk Red Herring - 0:51
31 - Pukey Christmas Music / Christmas With The Joker / Game Show Music - 2:18
32 - The Train Crashes - 1:19
33 - Observatory Cannon / Cannon Out Of Control / Robin Blows Up Cannon - 1:11
34 - More Game Show Music / Drive To The Toy Company - 1:39
35 - Nutcracker Suite Medley - 1:24
36 - Pie In Batman’s Face / Dangling Hostages Saved / Deck The Halls - 1:40
Disc 2
01 - BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES - Alternate Main Title (S. Walker) - 1:08
02 - Harvey’s Nightmare / Dent’s Soap Box - 2:24
03 - Batman Tracks Dent - 2:07
04 - Split Personality / Harvey / Harv - 4:21
05 - Part One Recap - 0:33
06 - Sub-Main Title / The Heist - 1:49
07 - Bruce Wayne’s Nightmare / Two-Face Remembers - 2:47
08 - Batcycle / What About Grace - 1:58
09 - My Name Is Two-Face - 1:52
10 - The Great Equalizer / Where There’s Love - 4:03
11 - Sub-Main Title / Cussing Out The Joker / I Had A Bad Day - 3:18
12 - Joker’s Hide-Out - 1:19
13 - Charlie’s Neighborhood / Joker Finds Charlie - 1:18
14 - Charlie Arrives In Gotham / Joker Collects His Favor - 0:42
15 - Harley’s Party Source - 0:44
16 - Crashing The Party - 1:33
17 - Batman Saves The Commissioner / Batman’s After The Joker/ Charlie Gets the Joker - 3:38
18 - Sub-Main Title / Conway Is Abducted - 0:43
19 - A Clue / The Crocodile’s Lair - 1:27
20 - Another Clue - 1:19
21 - Croc’s Cave / Killer Croc - 2:52
22 - Batman Chases Croc / Sewer Fight - 2:54
23 - Bullock Gets The Croc - 1:09
24 - Sub-Main Title / The Dream Begins - 0:52
25 - It’s Impossible / Bruce Sees Batman / Bruce Watches Batman At Work - 2:14
26 - My Life Is A Dream - 2:48
27 - Climbing The Church Tower / Belltower Fight - 2:45
28 - Your Own Private Wonderland / Back to Reality - 2:48
29 - Birds Of A Feather - 1:54
30 - That Fine Roman Nose / Penguin vs. Muggers - 2:32
31 - Penguin Takes Veronica - 0:40
32 - The Drop / Rubber Duckie Ride - 1:50
33 - The Penguin’s Opera / High Society - 2:19
34 - BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES - End Credit (Danny Elfman) - 0:34
35 - Music Of The Bat 101 - 6:45
Review: There is no doubt that the work of Shirley Walker is amazing. However this soundtrack is disappointing. It's not the music that's the problem. It's the way they choose the music, that will leave fans hoping for more. Instead of focusing on some of the best themes in the entire series, fans will get themes from whole episodes, mainly the ones focusing on the first season. For example instead of a Mr. Freeze theme, which was fantastic in the series by the way. Fans will get a theme like "Batman Chases Croc." While the themes chosen aren't bad, Shirley Walker library is too amazing to have mediocre themes on this soundtrack. However the music chosen is a great representation of how great Walker was. Each theme is pack with either a mellow easy listening tone, or an action pack compositions that will really make you feel like your part of the action. With over 2 hours and 30 mins of music, you will surely get enough for your buck. However some melodies are heard over and over again in some compositions. For instance "The Joker" theme is heard all over the soundtrack. It can get a little repetitive and will make you wish they had a better selection.
Regardless of the disappointment of the selection tracks. This is a solid OST that any fan of the Animated Series will love. The OST has tons of action themes, but it misses it's mark on more of the emotional themes, that really made this series special. The OST also includes a track of Sherry Walker giving you her insight on how the Batman theme works, this is a real standout track that shows you Sherry's musical thought process. Final Grade is a B-/8.0. The OST does well by bringing us themes for the show, however it's not the best of the best.
01 - Gotham City Overture - 14:01
02 - BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES - Main Title (Danny Elfman) - 1:02
03 - Sub-Main Title / Batwing / Bat Attack - 1:51
04 - Batman Drives To Gotham - 1:00
05 - Batman Investigates / Batman Uses Infrared / Police Rush Building - 1:48
06 - Batman Escapes / Batman Flies - 1:48
07 - Bats / Evidence Goes Up In Smoke/ The Formula / Dr Jekyll And Mr. Bat - 3:01
08 - Gotham From the Air / Ride’Em Batman / Epilogue - 2:16
09 - Sub-Main Title - 1:35
10 - The Submarine / Joker Loots Gotham - 2:35
11 - Alfred Loses It - 0:58
12 - Bat Boat / Batman Catches The Big Fish / Batman Fights The Bad Guys - 2:18
13 - Cliff-Hanger Under Water / Batman A.K.A Houdini - 1:56
14 - Batman The Terminator - 2:01
15 - Batman Vs. Joker / Batman Vs Joker Part 2 - 3:47
16 - Sub-Main Title / Stromwell’s Flashback - 2:01
17 - Batman on Top of Church / Stromwell Arrives At Pete’s / Thugs Exit - 1:20
18 - Stromwell Confronts Thorn - 1:15
19 - It’s Party Time / Batman Carries Stromwell - 0:48
20 - Stromwell Sees Joey - 1:41
21 - Stromwell Tricks Batman / Thorn’s Men Move In / Thorn Chases Stromwell - 3:22
22 - Stromwell’s Flashback #2 - 1:45
23 - Batman Cracks Heads / Thorn Removed - 1:20
24 - Ground Breaking Ceremony / Penitentiary Time Lapses - 1:11
25 - Batman Catches A Chopper / The Chopper Crashes/ Rooftop Chase - 1:58
26 - Batman Sneaks Around - 1:09
27 - A Little Plant Muzak / The Carnivorous Plant - 0:59
28 - Batman Vs. Poison Ivy / Poison Ivy In Prison - 3:52
29 - 14 Seconds Opening / Jingle Bells / The Joker Blasts Off - 1:03
30 - Down the Mountain / Sidewalk Red Herring - 0:51
31 - Pukey Christmas Music / Christmas With The Joker / Game Show Music - 2:18
32 - The Train Crashes - 1:19
33 - Observatory Cannon / Cannon Out Of Control / Robin Blows Up Cannon - 1:11
34 - More Game Show Music / Drive To The Toy Company - 1:39
35 - Nutcracker Suite Medley - 1:24
36 - Pie In Batman’s Face / Dangling Hostages Saved / Deck The Halls - 1:40
Disc 2
01 - BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES - Alternate Main Title (S. Walker) - 1:08
02 - Harvey’s Nightmare / Dent’s Soap Box - 2:24
03 - Batman Tracks Dent - 2:07
04 - Split Personality / Harvey / Harv - 4:21
05 - Part One Recap - 0:33
06 - Sub-Main Title / The Heist - 1:49
07 - Bruce Wayne’s Nightmare / Two-Face Remembers - 2:47
08 - Batcycle / What About Grace - 1:58
09 - My Name Is Two-Face - 1:52
10 - The Great Equalizer / Where There’s Love - 4:03
11 - Sub-Main Title / Cussing Out The Joker / I Had A Bad Day - 3:18
12 - Joker’s Hide-Out - 1:19
13 - Charlie’s Neighborhood / Joker Finds Charlie - 1:18
14 - Charlie Arrives In Gotham / Joker Collects His Favor - 0:42
15 - Harley’s Party Source - 0:44
16 - Crashing The Party - 1:33
17 - Batman Saves The Commissioner / Batman’s After The Joker/ Charlie Gets the Joker - 3:38
18 - Sub-Main Title / Conway Is Abducted - 0:43
19 - A Clue / The Crocodile’s Lair - 1:27
20 - Another Clue - 1:19
21 - Croc’s Cave / Killer Croc - 2:52
22 - Batman Chases Croc / Sewer Fight - 2:54
23 - Bullock Gets The Croc - 1:09
24 - Sub-Main Title / The Dream Begins - 0:52
25 - It’s Impossible / Bruce Sees Batman / Bruce Watches Batman At Work - 2:14
26 - My Life Is A Dream - 2:48
27 - Climbing The Church Tower / Belltower Fight - 2:45
28 - Your Own Private Wonderland / Back to Reality - 2:48
29 - Birds Of A Feather - 1:54
30 - That Fine Roman Nose / Penguin vs. Muggers - 2:32
31 - Penguin Takes Veronica - 0:40
32 - The Drop / Rubber Duckie Ride - 1:50
33 - The Penguin’s Opera / High Society - 2:19
34 - BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES - End Credit (Danny Elfman) - 0:34
35 - Music Of The Bat 101 - 6:45
Marc Angelo's "My Final Fantasy" Review
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Album Title - My Final Fantasy
Artist - Marc Angelo
Release Date - 12/05/2010
Review - What would happen if Nobuo Uematsu music of Final Fantasy met the sounds of Hip Hop? Chances are it would sound something like Marc Angelo's "My Final Fantasy" instrumental Beat Tape. How does the clash of two different genres of music hold up? Will the victory theme be played at the end? Or is this game over?
Artist - Marc Angelo
Release Date - 12/05/2010
Review - What would happen if Nobuo Uematsu music of Final Fantasy met the sounds of Hip Hop? Chances are it would sound something like Marc Angelo's "My Final Fantasy" instrumental Beat Tape. How does the clash of two different genres of music hold up? Will the victory theme be played at the end? Or is this game over?
Let me tell you that Angelo captures both the spirit of Hip Hop and Final Fantasy. There is 22 tracks in all with three bonus tracks. The Beat Tape features samples from most of your favorite Final Fantasy games. Final Fantasy 7,8,9,10 are sampled the most. The first track is entitled "The Introduction" and rightly so. This track contains a very nice string sample and a bass beat to make you feel relax. After "The Introduction" the music goes to another level. The second track entitled "To Another Dimension" this song contains samples from the Hymm Of Faith from Final Fantasy X. The Hymm, mix with piano and bass will set fans ears to heaven. This is probably one of my favorite tracks on the Beat Tape. Marc Angelo made sure that the parts he sampled, not only make the theme feel refreshing to hear but still capture the spirit of the games. Some standout tracks to mention are "Summoning Spirits" where the vocals of the song "Melodies Of Life" is used in a loop form, over a beat. This technique works and it's one of the tracks you will have on repeat. Another standout track is "Are You Afraid?" which is a slow down version but more tempo theme of Seymour from Final Fantasy X. There are a few tracks that didn't catch my ears. Most of these tracks were the bonus tracks. I felt the rappers rapping over the instrumental didn't do the production justice. Overall if you are a Final Fantasy fan and love Hip Hop, then this a combination that you can't miss. Final grade is A-/9.0.
You can download Marc Angelo's Free Beat Tape "My Final Fantasy" here. You have to sign up and register. Listen to it here.
You can download Marc Angelo's Free Beat Tape "My Final Fantasy" here. You have to sign up and register. Listen to it here.
Final Fantasy Distant Worlds I & II Album (Audio Review)
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Final Fantasy Distant Worlds is one of the best Orchestrated Albums for the Final Fantasy series. How good is it? Listen to our audio review.
Robotech Perfect Collection (Audio Review)
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Here is our audio review on the Robotech Perfect Collection. This album is a must own for all die hard Robotech fans! It is a two disc set with both vocal and instrumentals, from your favorite Saga's. Final Grade is an A+.
Dragonball Kai OST Vol 1 Review
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I finally had the time to check out Dragonball Kai on Nicktoons this weekend. I must say that I' am very impressed with the show. I' am even more impressed with the OST. Dragonball Kai OST Volume 1 consist of 36 tracks from the show. I really love the soundtrack because it stayed true to it's DBZ OST roots. In fact I find the Kai soundtrack better orchestrated then the DBZ in certain areas. For instance the battle themes I enjoy much better. However this isn't a compare and contrast review of the soundtrack. You want to know is this soundtrack worth buying correct? Well the answer is yes and no. Yes it's worth buying because the music is absolute pleasure to hear. It's not worth buying because the length of most the songs, only last about 1 to 2 minutes tops.
Kenji Yamamoto is most known for his composition on various videogames such as, "Metroid Prime 3: Corruption," "Advance Wars: Dual Strike" and the upcoming "Donkey Kong Country Returns," brings us his TV scored effort. He doesn't disappoint with stand out tracks like, "Over The Star ~Piano Ver.~", "Win Tough Fight (Guitar Verison)" and "The Formidable Warrior, The Saiyan,"are some of my favorite tracks. Yamamoto makes an effort by staying true to the Japanese Dragonball sound. However he leaves enough room to compose something original for us to enjoy. To put it simply he put his stamp on it. Each song captures an emotion, or describes a characters mood. Kenji really delivers on that factor of describing the scene. My disappoint is like most Anime OST, the the opening theme song and ending song is in TV size. Sorry fans you will have the buy the single to "Dragon Soul."
Final Grade B+ Dragonball Kai OST Vol 1 gets a B+. It's a fun soundtrack to listen too, that stays true to the Dragonball sound. However the short length in songs makes it a hard buy. Dragonball fans should at least check it out. Check out the stand out tracks below.
Over The Star Piano Verison
Win Tough Fight! ~Guitar Version~
The Formidable Warrior, The Saiyan
Kenji Yamamoto is most known for his composition on various videogames such as, "Metroid Prime 3: Corruption," "Advance Wars: Dual Strike" and the upcoming "Donkey Kong Country Returns," brings us his TV scored effort. He doesn't disappoint with stand out tracks like, "Over The Star ~Piano Ver.~", "Win Tough Fight (Guitar Verison)" and "The Formidable Warrior, The Saiyan,"are some of my favorite tracks. Yamamoto makes an effort by staying true to the Japanese Dragonball sound. However he leaves enough room to compose something original for us to enjoy. To put it simply he put his stamp on it. Each song captures an emotion, or describes a characters mood. Kenji really delivers on that factor of describing the scene. My disappoint is like most Anime OST, the the opening theme song and ending song is in TV size. Sorry fans you will have the buy the single to "Dragon Soul."
Final Grade B+ Dragonball Kai OST Vol 1 gets a B+. It's a fun soundtrack to listen too, that stays true to the Dragonball sound. However the short length in songs makes it a hard buy. Dragonball fans should at least check it out. Check out the stand out tracks below.
Over The Star Piano Verison
Win Tough Fight! ~Guitar Version~
The Formidable Warrior, The Saiyan
Final Fantasy XIII Soundtrack (Disc 1) Review
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On March 9th, Square Enix will released Final Fantasy XIII for the PS3 and XBOX 360. I manage to get my hands on the Final Fantasy XIII soundtrack. Does Masashi Hamauzu make his mark and bring the magic we are used too? Or does the Final Fantasy need it's father Nobuo Uematsu back at the helm?
Rest assure Final Fantasy XIII Soundtrack is amazing. This album can rival Final Fantasy VII Soundtrack. Masahai Hamauzu really put his all in this soundtrack. With four discs to listen you, believe it that you are getting your money's worth. What really makes Final Fantasy XIII so special is it's variety of music. The soundtracks doesn't have just Classical music. There is Jazz, Rock and Acoustic as well. I believe that this Final Fantasy soundtrack brings something other predecessors was lacking. I felt that Final Fantasy XII was lacking emotions. Final Fantasy XII soundtrack was so generic and I really couldn't get into it. But let's get to the review of Disc 1.
Disc 1 contains 19 songs
Song list
1. Prelude To Final Fantasy - The prelude is a very important track. It sets the mood and tone for the whole album. This isn't the standard soft prelude that we're used to hearing. This prelude can be describe as soldiers marching to battle. The drums slowly creep in as you keep hearing a chime like sound. Then the trumpets finally play in which brings us to a mood that we are overlooking a city. It's a great build up. I enjoy it.
2. The Promise - This is a very emotional romantic theme. Which begins with Piano keys, then in pure orchestra fashion the strings enter. This song is one of my many favorites. I put this top five on the soundtrack. The ending with the strings is amazing and very emotional. I believe this will be used in the loved story for Snow.
3. The Thirteenth Day - The Thirteenth day is a really short song only 53 seconds. It contains haunting sounds and a solo string. Nothing really special on this song.
4. Defiers of Fate - Defiers Of Fate starts off with a techno like sound and guitar solo. Then it gives us an orchestra less epic take on Lighting's theme. This is a good track but I could deal without it.
5. Saber's Edge - Percussion's, Horns, Pianos what more can you ask for in Saber's Edge. This has a really good fantasy feel to it. As I was listening to this, it brought me to another place. I imagined a world in outer space. A very nice sci-fi feel.
6. The Hanging Edge - Bring in the Violins and Strings because this is one suspenseful song. I like this one because it keeps on you on edge. When listening to it I felt like time was running out somewhere. The little Violin solo was the best part.
7. Those For The Purge - This theme starts off very dark, but later on lightens up. I felt the emotion was that you had to make a decision. This is a great song for when you just need to think.
8. The Warpath Home - The horns return in this song. Once again we get a marching, war room type of feel. Average at best.
9. The Pulse Fal'Cie - A very quick orchestrated song that I wish was a little longer. However this song slows down the tone from the previous song and brings us into a mellow mood.
10. Face It Later - The piano, flute and strings are used in this song. The piano has a short solo with the flute in the background, accompany by the strings. Very romantic theme but once again another theme I wish was longer. It's only fifty five seconds. But I love it anyway.
11. Snow's Theme - The mood of the album is changed once again. With the electric guitars getting their shine in a wonderful song. Snow's theme can be described in three words pure bad ass. Snow's theme I feel the emotion of Man who is a hero and on a mission. This is one of my favorites from disc one.
12. The Vestige - The album is slow down to bring in strings with a vocals in the background that blends in.
13. Ragnarok - The choir is in full effect for this song. Its very spiritual and haunting. I felt like I was at church and the choir was singing for a funeral. This is a very good song. Epic feel to it.
14. In The Sky That Night - I really like this theme. It's very cute lol. It's a very happy piano theme. I can imagine kids playing when listening to this. I think this will be use for a mini game.
15. Promised Eternity - My favorite song on Disc one. The piano and string returns in a very emotional romantic song. Just like "The Promised" the emotion of a love can be felt. This is one stands out the most to me because of the build up. It's starts with the piano solo, then the strings give us this I love you forever moment. It's just beautiful.
16. Eternal Love (Short Version) - This is a nice R&B/Pop song. It is sung by Sayuri Sugawara. I don't understand Japanese but this song is very hot.
17. Lake Bresha - Very mellow and comfortable theme. This is a great theme that you can fly with. The violins make a return again.
18. The Pulse L'Cie - Another Pulse theme this one is very good. It's very simple with horns and strings. But once again very short.
19. Eidolons - Disc 1 ends in an epic way and rightfully so, it leads to the wonderful opening of disc 2. This song contains drums, electric guitar and strings. It's a nice battle theme which I believe is going to be used for the summons.
Final Grade - Disc 1 is a very nice appetizer before the main course. Disc 1 is my least favorite out of the 4. But it is worthy of a listen. Disc 1 Grade is B-. Good but it's like a little teaser before the show.
Stand Out Tracks From Disc 1
1. The Promise
2. The Hanging Edge
3. Snow's Theme
4. Promised Eternity
5. Eternal Love.
Rest assure Final Fantasy XIII Soundtrack is amazing. This album can rival Final Fantasy VII Soundtrack. Masahai Hamauzu really put his all in this soundtrack. With four discs to listen you, believe it that you are getting your money's worth. What really makes Final Fantasy XIII so special is it's variety of music. The soundtracks doesn't have just Classical music. There is Jazz, Rock and Acoustic as well. I believe that this Final Fantasy soundtrack brings something other predecessors was lacking. I felt that Final Fantasy XII was lacking emotions. Final Fantasy XII soundtrack was so generic and I really couldn't get into it. But let's get to the review of Disc 1.
Disc 1 contains 19 songs
Song list
1. Prelude To Final Fantasy - The prelude is a very important track. It sets the mood and tone for the whole album. This isn't the standard soft prelude that we're used to hearing. This prelude can be describe as soldiers marching to battle. The drums slowly creep in as you keep hearing a chime like sound. Then the trumpets finally play in which brings us to a mood that we are overlooking a city. It's a great build up. I enjoy it.
2. The Promise - This is a very emotional romantic theme. Which begins with Piano keys, then in pure orchestra fashion the strings enter. This song is one of my many favorites. I put this top five on the soundtrack. The ending with the strings is amazing and very emotional. I believe this will be used in the loved story for Snow.
3. The Thirteenth Day - The Thirteenth day is a really short song only 53 seconds. It contains haunting sounds and a solo string. Nothing really special on this song.
4. Defiers of Fate - Defiers Of Fate starts off with a techno like sound and guitar solo. Then it gives us an orchestra less epic take on Lighting's theme. This is a good track but I could deal without it.
5. Saber's Edge - Percussion's, Horns, Pianos what more can you ask for in Saber's Edge. This has a really good fantasy feel to it. As I was listening to this, it brought me to another place. I imagined a world in outer space. A very nice sci-fi feel.
6. The Hanging Edge - Bring in the Violins and Strings because this is one suspenseful song. I like this one because it keeps on you on edge. When listening to it I felt like time was running out somewhere. The little Violin solo was the best part.
7. Those For The Purge - This theme starts off very dark, but later on lightens up. I felt the emotion was that you had to make a decision. This is a great song for when you just need to think.
8. The Warpath Home - The horns return in this song. Once again we get a marching, war room type of feel. Average at best.
9. The Pulse Fal'Cie - A very quick orchestrated song that I wish was a little longer. However this song slows down the tone from the previous song and brings us into a mellow mood.
10. Face It Later - The piano, flute and strings are used in this song. The piano has a short solo with the flute in the background, accompany by the strings. Very romantic theme but once again another theme I wish was longer. It's only fifty five seconds. But I love it anyway.
11. Snow's Theme - The mood of the album is changed once again. With the electric guitars getting their shine in a wonderful song. Snow's theme can be described in three words pure bad ass. Snow's theme I feel the emotion of Man who is a hero and on a mission. This is one of my favorites from disc one.
12. The Vestige - The album is slow down to bring in strings with a vocals in the background that blends in.
13. Ragnarok - The choir is in full effect for this song. Its very spiritual and haunting. I felt like I was at church and the choir was singing for a funeral. This is a very good song. Epic feel to it.
14. In The Sky That Night - I really like this theme. It's very cute lol. It's a very happy piano theme. I can imagine kids playing when listening to this. I think this will be use for a mini game.
15. Promised Eternity - My favorite song on Disc one. The piano and string returns in a very emotional romantic song. Just like "The Promised" the emotion of a love can be felt. This is one stands out the most to me because of the build up. It's starts with the piano solo, then the strings give us this I love you forever moment. It's just beautiful.
16. Eternal Love (Short Version) - This is a nice R&B/Pop song. It is sung by Sayuri Sugawara. I don't understand Japanese but this song is very hot.
17. Lake Bresha - Very mellow and comfortable theme. This is a great theme that you can fly with. The violins make a return again.
18. The Pulse L'Cie - Another Pulse theme this one is very good. It's very simple with horns and strings. But once again very short.
19. Eidolons - Disc 1 ends in an epic way and rightfully so, it leads to the wonderful opening of disc 2. This song contains drums, electric guitar and strings. It's a nice battle theme which I believe is going to be used for the summons.
Final Grade - Disc 1 is a very nice appetizer before the main course. Disc 1 is my least favorite out of the 4. But it is worthy of a listen. Disc 1 Grade is B-. Good but it's like a little teaser before the show.
Stand Out Tracks From Disc 1
1. The Promise
2. The Hanging Edge
3. Snow's Theme
4. Promised Eternity
5. Eternal Love.
