3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Castlevani's At Its Best, March 2, 2006
This review is from: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Original Soundtrack (Japanese Import) (Audio CD)
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is probably the greatest Castlevania OST yet created, and one of the better game scores, overall. Probably the most outstanding trait of this OST is that it is the most varied Castlevania soundtrack yet. Older Castlevania scores were too limited by their sound systems.
So what musical styles are present? An easier question might be, "Which ones aren't?" If it can work in a Castlevania game, you'll probably find it here. Those who have played the game are well aware of "Prayer". Featuring solely the chanting of two female vocalists, with its mournful, haunting feel it is the perfect track to lead off a Dracula adventure. "Tower of Evil Fog" is purely symphonic in nature, and although somewhat mild in intensity, conveys the dark mood of the series and the vast dungeon setting of the game itself. "Requiem of the Gods" features somber high-pitched chanting eventually accompanied by epitaphial pipe organ and well-placed gongs from a funeral bell. No question about this being a Castlevania soundtrack. Several tracks are supplemented by ambient sounds such as whispering wind, dripping water, and creepy forest critters to further the mood.
Finally, what Castlevania soundtrack would be complete without some old-school rock? It's present here in four or so boss themes, a couple tracks from the final stages of the original Dracula X, and the very catchy original stage BGM "Dracula Castle". However, these all pale in comparison to the hard-rocking excellence of "Young Nobleman of Sadness", which is Castlevania rock at its best. Although orchestral instrumentation sets the evil backdrop and provides some well-done transitions, it's the electric guitar that gives the track all its head-banging glory. With its memorable melody, professional arrangement, and high-quality performance, the track is an instant classic.
Final Verdict: Despite the typical presence of forgettable tracks and the nuances of the OST format, the disc is overall a great production with some true gems. Truly, a must buy for video game soundtrack enthusiasts.
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7 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Georgous music for a perfect game., November 16, 2005
This review is from: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Original Soundtrack (Japanese Import) (Audio CD)
I cannot say enough good things about the soundtrack to the best Castlevania game to date. It remains one of my favorite CD's and I constantly find myself reminiscing my journey through the forboding castle when I listening to it. Every note added atmosphere to the game and fit perfectly with the different areas in the castle. It is one of the best soundtracks around and I recommend you pick this up as soon as you can, if you can find it.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Magical and Breathtaking! A true masterpiece!, August 18, 2006
This review is from: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Original Soundtrack (Japanese Import) (Audio CD)
I have always loved the Castlevania genre, but this one tops it off. The game is simply brilliant, and the soundtrack is a must have for those who enjoyed Castlevania Symphony of the night. The music is filled with the amazing sense of adventure, passion, and beauty.
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