Shining Hearts: A Song Reaching the Heart – Lia
 |
Album Title: Shining Hearts: A Song Reaching the Heart – Lia |
| Record Label: Pony Canyon |
|
| Catalog No.: PCCG-90058 |
|
| Release Date: December 15, 2010 |
|
| Purchase: Buy at CDJapan |
Overview
Shining Hearts was headlined by two songs sung by Lia, the opening theme “A Song Reaching the Heart” and the ending theme “White and Shadow ~Dance in the Dreams~”. This single features the full-length vocal and instrumental renditions of these songs for those who prefer singles to soundtracks.
Body
Composed by Noriyasu Agematsu, “A Song Reaching the Heart” features Elements Gardens normal vocal theme approach and manages to combine elements of worldly features with more pop and electronic influences. Lia’s voice is quite powerful and really fits well with the music. In addition, the song is significantly longer than the soundtrack version, ensuring a rich and fulfilling overall listen.
The album closes with “White and Shadow ~Dance in the Dreams~” by Hiroki Kikuta. Unlike the opening theme, this theme is a ballad that features some Asian influences. However, for the most part, it’s light pop with some mystical elements and fits the overall soundscape of the soundtrack. The various elaborations in this full version are welcome and the final result is one of Kikuta’s best.
The last two tracks on the single are instrumental versions of the vocal themes for karaoke purposes. While something of an obligatory addition to a vocal single, they shouldn’t be of interest to most consumers.
Summary
Overall, both vocal themes for Shining Hearts are well done. While relatively typical in their approaches, both themes feature unique characteristics and fit the game well. The extended parts and instrumental renditions don’t bring much to the table, but ensure the single is a well-presented one. However, I’d still cautiously recommend the full soundtrack above the vocal single for most collectors.
Do you agree with the review and score? Let us know in the comments below!
3
Posted on August 1, 2012 by Don Kotowski. Last modified on August 1, 2012.
About the Author
Don Kotowski Currently residing in Philadelphia. I spend my days working in vaccine characterization and dedicate some of my spare time in the evening to the vast world of video game music, both reviewing soundtracks as well as maintaining relationships with composers overseas in Europe and in Japan.
Related Posts
Final Fantasy VII Remake Acoustic Arrangements →
Fleeting Symphony →
Final Symphony II – music from Final Fantasy V, VIII, IX and XIII →
