MusiCube | Banjo-Kazooie Symphony (Album Review) Page 1

MusiCube | Banjo-Kazooie Symphony (Album Review)

Blake Robinson, the mastermind behind The Blake Robinson Synthetic Orchestra, is famous for making videogame music, both original and in tribute to existing franchises. Banjo-Kazooie Symphony is an example of the latter; a digital orchestral tribute to fan favourite, Banjo-Kazooie from the Nintendo 64.

The Blake Robinson Synthetic Orchestra lovingly recreates the playful, taunting melodies of Banjo-Kazooie, the Rare title that gave Nintendo's own Super Mario 64 a run for its money. This collection of songs brings a lot of adjectives to mind: quirky, zany, bouncy, to name just a few. Crazy things happen in these tracks; smile-inducing instrument choices (like, for example, the common frog) and singsong movements serve as a reminder that music can be downright fun. The album features its share of softer, beautiful moments as well - a really impressive mix for any listener.

The enthusiasm put into these tracks is sure to impress even those who aren't fans of Banjo- Kazooie, although at over an hour and ten minutes long, the length may not. Many songs re-use melodies or instruments, which isn't a negative thing in itself, but it might be difficult for some who aren't Banjo-Kazooie enthusiasts to sit down and give the album multiple whole spins.

7/10

Very Good - Bronze Award

Hardcore Banjo-Kazooie fans are in for a huge treat with Banjo-Kazooie Symphony. Even those unfamiliar with the games should give it a listen. Many tracks have a clear theme, like the snowy imagery of "Freezeezy Peak" or the steel drum-laden "Beneath the Waves," while others are a furore of zany effects and kooky tunes that are almost as much fun to listen to as the game is to play.

Banjo-Kazooie Symphony by The Blake Robinson Synthetic Orchestra can be bought via Joypad Records for US$9.99 / 8.99€ / £7.99.

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Marzeee 11.03.2015#1

Bought this album when it first came out and it's fantastic! Blake always does a really great job with his digital orchestra and is pretty much the best at it.