EDIT: Updated with higher quality links!
Every now and then I keep going back to this game, not only because it was well made, but because of the masterclass soundtrack by David Wise (and Kenji Yamamoto).
I mean, it's really I think one of the pinnacle "videogame" soundtracks in terms of being something that so complements the gameplay and all the themes within. Contrast that to other music compositions in gaming that, honestly feel detached from what is happening on screen (for example all the bombastic "epic" orchestras you hear in some high profile games).
And there are so many different styles within this one as well, from high-paced frantic action to somber melancholy themes, with multiple instrument styles and combinations used to great effect. What still boggles my mind is that, to my recollection, the DKC:TF Soundtrack/Sound did not receive any major awards from the game outlets the year it had released. I just couldn't figure out how such a thing could happen, and it may not have even been nominated in some areas either.
Here's but a taste of it:
Grassland Groove - Lion King eat your heart out
Twilight Terror - Stickerbrush Symphony remix
Irate Eight - Lockjaw's Saga remix
Homecoming Hijinx - Really amps up the swell
Forest Folly - So calm and serene
Harvest Hazards - The diversity in the instrumentation is amazing
Panicky Paddels - amazing deamy underwater futuristic version of Harvest Hazards
Big Top Bop - Heavy Metal to the Max! :O
Frozen Frenzy - A nice subtle Frozen nod to Fear Factory
Staff Credits - David Wise rocking out with a Sax Solo
All Hail the King Baby!
Every now and then I keep going back to this game, not only because it was well made, but because of the masterclass soundtrack by David Wise (and Kenji Yamamoto).
I mean, it's really I think one of the pinnacle "videogame" soundtracks in terms of being something that so complements the gameplay and all the themes within. Contrast that to other music compositions in gaming that, honestly feel detached from what is happening on screen (for example all the bombastic "epic" orchestras you hear in some high profile games).
And there are so many different styles within this one as well, from high-paced frantic action to somber melancholy themes, with multiple instrument styles and combinations used to great effect. What still boggles my mind is that, to my recollection, the DKC:TF Soundtrack/Sound did not receive any major awards from the game outlets the year it had released. I just couldn't figure out how such a thing could happen, and it may not have even been nominated in some areas either.
Here's but a taste of it:
Grassland Groove - Lion King eat your heart out
Scorch N Torch - Them Phil Collins drumsWhat's special about this track is its three distinct sections. The level itself also has three sections, so let's break them down: The level design goes like this - Platforming->Clinging->Platforming/Clinging. The music goes like this - Female vocals->Male vocals->Female and male vocals. Notice a pattern? In addition to how the gameplay informs the music and vise-versa, I have to throw one more nod to just how bursting with energy this track is.
Seashore War - Wise's personal favorite song he's ever composedThe opening bass and subtle percussion weave an intoxicating web of atmosphere that's sure to ensnare unsuspecting players. The player firmly in its grasp, the track layers in synth and thundering drums before climaxing with DAT FLUTE. In painting a picture of a gorilla traversing a wildfire, Scorch 'N' Torch probably isn't what comes to mind. Players expecting a more chaotic and perilous track may be disappointed, as the tune evokes feelings closer to tragedy. After all, this savannah was somebody's home. BibleThump.
Current Capers - Proper Aquatic Ambiance remixconveys the simple desolation of a frozen beach - once vibrant and teeming with life - under the control of adorable viking intruders. The lead guitar and vocals invoke reflection, isolation, and a bit of sadness, with the end of the loop being a bit more uplifting. A slower tempo invites the player to take their time and observe the wasteland firsthand. Dripping with atmosphere, this is easily one of the game's best tracks. Is someone chopping onions?
Twilight Terror - Stickerbrush Symphony remix
Irate Eight - Lockjaw's Saga remix
Homecoming Hijinx - Really amps up the swell
Forest Folly - So calm and serene
Harvest Hazards - The diversity in the instrumentation is amazing
Panicky Paddels - amazing deamy underwater futuristic version of Harvest Hazards
Big Top Bop - Heavy Metal to the Max! :O
Frozen Frenzy - A nice subtle Frozen nod to Fear Factory
Staff Credits - David Wise rocking out with a Sax Solo
All Hail the King Baby!