Seiken Densetsu -Put Your Thoughts to Music-
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Album Title: Seiken Densetsu -Put Your Thoughts to Music- |
| Record Label: NTT Publishing |
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| Catalog No.: N30D-005 |
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| Release Date: September 30, 1991 |
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| Purchase: Buy Used Copy |
Overview
Inspired by the considerable success of the Final Fantasy Symphonic Suite, NTT Publishing decided to produce an orchestral arranged album dedicated to another popular Square game during 1991, Seiken Densetsu: Final Fantasy Gaiden. Seiken Densetsu – Put Your Thoughts to Music is a cinematic retelling of the game’s story, featuring most of the important themes from the game. It was initially released separately before being bundled with the original version in the Seiken Densetsu Sound Collections and eventually compiled into the series’ box set. This review focuses on the separate release.
Body
Arranger Takayuki Hattori immediately draws listeners into the experience with the cinematic opening suite “Determination”. Under his baton, the orchestra interpret orchestrations of the classic title and overworld themes with great clarity. In contrast to the excellent Final Fantasy Symphonic Suite, the orchestrations tend to be quite straightforward here — with the section dedicated to the battle arena particularly sparse — but the power of a full ensemble transcends that of a sound chip. The track is also presented more as a medley than a coherent movement — with “Rising Sun” being interrupted before reappearing at the finale. This approach is unfortunate for those looking for a cohesive musical experience, but does add to the drama of the experience.
The “Mission” movement is the most inspired addition to the suite. It segues from a guitar contemplation of the “Village” theme into a lavish orchestration of the “Royal Palace” theme, complete with nationalistic influences. Perhaps the most beautiful section of all is the operatic solo based on “Mana’s Mission”, which brings an extremely tragic quality to the experience. It’s certain to inspire listeners to reminisce about their experiences in the game. In contrast, perhaps the lowpoint of the entire suite is “Friends”, a long-winded rendition of the Chocobo theme. Taken on its own, the arrangement will be regarded as a humorous interlude by some and a jarring interpretation by others. Yet while a fun gimmick in the original game, it has no place on an arranged album for the Mana series.
In “Menace”, Takayuki Hattori blends the phrases of three of lacklustre themes from the original version — “Glance Dukedom”, “Dungeon 1”, and “Fight 1” — into a surprisingly dramatic and varied experience. A particular highlight is the double-stopping violin work at the 1:46 mark, to capture the malevolence of the otherwise stereotyped villain. Furthermore, the Spanish guitar accompaniment at the conclusion gives the battle theme some much-needed Latin flair, setting precedent for some of Ito’s own experiments in this area. On “Parting”, the mystical chord sequences of a dungeon theme build up into a flamenco rendition of the title’s best combat theme. It’s a glorious way to release 100 seconds of tension and the soloists excellently interweave with the orchestra.
“Parting” concludes with an extended interlude that reflects the more spiritual aspects of the Mana universe. However, it seems unrelated to the material that preceded it and draws out the suite unnecessarily. After this, “Decisive Battle” isn’t quite as satisfying as one might expect. The orchestra lack the punch needed for the finale and the flamenco guitar sounds like a desperate addition this time round. Perhaps Takayuki Hattori should have taken more artistic liberties when adapting this slightly underwhelming original. The final chapter resolves the experience with a rendition of the game’s reflective ending theme. Though melodramatic, this movement will inspire contemplation with its blooming melodies and the vocals even make a welcome return.
Summary
Seiken Densetsu – Put Your Thoughts to Music combines Ito’s memorable and emotional melodies with Hattori’s rich and dramatic orchestrations. It’s a satisfying way to revisit the game’s story, while experiencing various themes presented with rich performances and clear sound quality. However, the presentation of the suite is sometimes clumsy and a few more creative decisions would have been desirable. Fans of the original music will nevertheless enjoy this work and would be advised to experience it as part of the Seiken Densetsu Sound Collections or series’ box set, rather than a separate release.
Do you agree with the review and score? Let us know in the comments below!
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Posted on August 1, 2012 by Chris Greening. Last modified on August 1, 2012.
About the Author
Chris Greening I've contributed to websites related to game audio since 2002. In this time, I've reviewed over a thousand albums and interviewed hundreds of musicians across the world. As the founder and webmaster of VGMO -Video Game Music Online-, I hope to create a cutting-edge, journalistic resource for all those soundtrack enthusiasts out there. In the process, I would love to further cultivate my passion for music, writing, and generally building things. Please enjoy the site and don't hesitate to say hello!
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