Song of the Week - WEEK 60 Voting/WEEK 61 Nominating
 

Week 60 Voting is closed.
Week 61 Nominating is restricted.

Week 60 Voting
The rules for voting can be found here.

Final Result:
1st: Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry
2nd: The Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - Machine Gun (Gran Turismo 4 Pop Rox Remix)
3rd: Mr. Driller Sound Tracks - Balance

Notes:
If you are a member at more than one of the forums which this event is being held at, please nominate and vote in only ONE of the forums. You may, however, comment in the threads at any of the other forums.
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Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset used to be known as "Street Fighter EX - Strange sunset"; it has been retagged to reflect the album it's actually on and given a quality upgrade. The older version has been deleted from the voting directory since bad tags are the work of the Devil.
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Wonder Project J2 (Game Rip) - Josette of the Colro Forest is encoded pretty poorly (128 Kb/s, 22 kHz, but at least it's in stereo). If you have a higher quality rip or the OST, please contact me immediately for a large cash reward.

Week 61 Nominating
The Nominations Queue can be found here.
The rules for nominating can be found here.

Here are the links to the corresponding threads at the other forums:
- Chudah's Corner
- Soundtrack Central

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I'm leaving on a trip to Solvang, CA, tomorrow, and I'll be gone for most of the day, so I figured I'd start the threads now. Voting will end at the normal time.

Also, the Song of the Year final is upon us. Make sure to help decide which track, The Legendary Theme (Album version) from Gitaroo Man or Southern Twilight ~ Dance on a Cape of Good Hope from Uncharted Waters II Special Edition, takes the prize!

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And while I'm here, I might as well throw my next nomination out. It's probably the least obscure track I've nominated thus far, but I asked Kaleb about it a while back and he said it'd be fine, so we trace on:

• Artist: Funczion SOUNDS
• Album/Game Title: CRISS†CROSS ~ CROSS†CHANNEL Soundtrack Arrange Version
• Track Title: Airwaves
• Disc Number: 1 (of 1)
• Track Number: 1
• Catalog Number: none
• Year: 2003
• Additional Information: Funczion SOUNDS also wrote at least the ED theme of CROSS†CHANNEL (an H-game), and likely the rest of the soundtrack, so this is eligible.
• Source(s): http://funczion.com/index.php?ID=336&cID=5&cID=5

sup Crash

My nomination for next week:

Artist: Yasunori Shiono
Album/Game Title: CHAOS SEED ~Fuusui Kairouki~ GM-PROGRESS 6
Track Title: Alex's Theme
Disc Number: 1 (of 1)
Track Number: 29
Catalog Number: MGCD-1017
Year: 1996
Additional Information:
Source(s): http://www.slightlydark.com/gamemusi..._ChaosSeed.php

I will get around to voting eventually.

Now this is a kickass week. I half expected that we were due for a lot of really good material, but this exceeds my every expectation. Thoroughly impressed, I am. Voting is gonna be all over the place, I can see this now.

Haha. I like how this has multiple connotations in conjunction with the nomination.

Bionic Commando - I love that some NES tunes are getting put up lately. Always nice. Area 5 is only what I'd consider average as far as chiptunes go, mostly because it suffers from what seems a lot of monotone droning. The melody is solid; I'm just not totally down with the choice of synths used. Capcom was capable of better.

Delicious Selection/Gamadelic - This track presents a quandary for me. I think the musical elements are wonderfully unique and I like how it's arranged. It's got a certain "Mark Mothersbaugh" feel. But the female voice is anything but spectacular. I think her lack of enunciation detracts from the overall quality. But the section where they do the role call - "I'm the wizard! I'm the knight!", that made me laugh heartily. I wish the lead singer weren't so mud-mouthed though. I love everything about this track except her.

Kagero ~ Deception 2 OST - While I'm normally not a fan of moody, sad tracks, there are occasional exceptions. I'm pleased to say that 'The World Is Falling Into Ruin' is one of these exceptions. I think the piano keeps it from being wholly morose and allows for a glimpse of tragic beauty to emerge. It's an exceptionally emotional piece and after several listen-throughs, I'm certain this track will make its way into my iPod rotation. Great, great stuff.

Mr. Driller - I remember this one from when Kaleb asked for opinions on the entire Mr. Driller album. Indeed, this was one I enjoyed also. That opinion hasn't changed, it's still an interesting listen. Another awesome track for this week. iPod bound!

Street Fighter EX - Ah, the ubiquitous "jazzy" nomination, with some rockin' synth tossed in for that "IN YOUR FACE" Street Fighter feel. It's a solid track that makes mostly the right moves and doesn't stagnate. The overdriven guitar wailing at the end was a bit gratuitous, I will say that. But this is a tough week for something like this; it's good, yes, but is it good enough to consistently gain points?

Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - My guilty pleasure. I've wanted to nominate this for so long. I love the blend of old-school funk with the injection of more modern dance rhythms. It's one of the funnest tracks I've found and after six months of constant play, I've yet to grow tired of it. Bright, energetic, groovy, infectious beats - how can you not dig that combination? I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I do.

Treasure Hunter G - Yet another well-composed track! But who would expect any less from mister Sakimoto? I enjoyed the powerful crescendo throughout the first two thirds, which gave way to a light, peaceful piano and harp segue. Sakimoto certainly knows how to evoke the most from the most minimal of elements. This one's going to the iPod too.

Wonder Project J2 - It's not bad. I'd like to hear it in better quality, as I suspect the low bitrate has greatly affected the impact of this track. The melody is serviceable and would probably be much better if the sound quality allowed the true depth of the instruments to come through. I can't help but feel bad for this nomination because it's good but it still feels overshadowed by stronger tracks this week. I wish I had more than six points to allocate.


Giving out points like after-dinner mints this week!!

3 Points - The Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - Machine Gun (Gran Turismo 4 Pop Rox Remix)
1 Point - Kagero ~ Deception 2 Original Soundtrack - The World is falling into Ruin
1 Point - Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry
1 Point - Mr. Driller Sound Tracks - Balance

Close call - Wonder Project J2 (Game Rip) - Josette of the Colro Forest

This was a FANTASTIC week. Well done, to everyone who nominated.

Bionic Commando - I like this song. I wrote more comments but lost them, so I'll just say I hated the vibrato but the rest of it was fun.

Delicious Selection/Gamadelic - In terms of melody and composition, this song is astounding. The vocals are astoundingly BAD, however. Jesus, replace that woman with a violin and you have musical genius. YUCK. This song is a total contradiction.

Kagero - This does a good job at being moody, but... that melody doesn't really go anywhere. I did some cleaning in my room as this song was playing, and when it looped, I thought "...that's it?" Not a good reaction. It succeeds at being dark and depressing, though. >_>

Mr. Driller - Instant entry into my cool songs playlist. The audio quality isn't the greatest, but HOT DAMN is that some sweet melody action, and I've always been a sucker for violin. If anything, I wish the violin didn't sound so crappy, it detracts from the rest of the song and makes the drums overpower the violin in spots.

Street Fighter EX - Hm... I'm extremely biased when it comes to Street Fighter tracks. There's a certain feel to a track that I always expect when I read "Street Fighter". And this track... does a passable job of achieving that feel, but it's too laidback in spots, and it also feels too much like a Mega Man X track. While I understand it's still Capcom, it just doesn't feel right. Also, this is probably the only case that I'll ever complain about piano being in a song, since again, that's not what Street Fighter is about. Removing myself from my STREET FIGHTER BIAS, this song is pretty good, with nice progression and really smooth transitions between sections. I just don't know if I can get over my bias. >=(

Gran Turismo 4 - HOT DAMN! PLAY THAT FUNKY MUUUUUUUUSIC JAPANESE MAN! PLAY THAT FUNKY MUUUSIC RIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT! Honestly, this would be AWESOME in my car, blasting at full volume. I should bring my iPod into the house. This is... so... damn... awesome! Any music that gets me typing and dancing at the same time deserves points from me. This is EXCELLENT, and this is exactly what Song of the Week is about. YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES.

Treasure Hunter G - Honestly, I'm not a fan of Sakimoto's faux-synth compositions. I've never understood what others see in what to me comes off as boring, flat, and uninspired, and this track is no different.

Wonder Project J2 - This is an interestingly composed track. It has a very epic, DUN DUN DUN DUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUN YOU BEAT THE GAME feel to it, and even with the low bitrate, it's still fun to listen to. In fact, I think it enhances the track somewhat, since it really manages to make the N64's crappy synth seem more like the more tolerable SNES synth.

And now for points!

3 points for Gran Turismo 4
2 points for Mr. Driller
1 point for Delicious Selection, because even though I hated the voices, the rest of the song was quite good.

Umm... I think the Street Fighter track is labeled wrong, since the song is from the arranged soundtrack. Or did you guys upload the wrong song?

EDIT: Also, this Pop Rox guy... what game(s) has he composed for?

As far as I know, it's solely this GT4 track. However, it's from an official GT4 album, which makes it fair game.

He's evidently done a lot of mainstream work, both in the drum & bass circuit and in numerous contributions to movie soundtracks. Disney seems to hire him semi-frequently.

Liontamer uploaded the track and said it was from Street Fighter EX, although looking at the track times, it appears that you're right and it's actually from Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax-.

I'll fix this later when I have more time on 28.8 hotel dial-up (hopefully tomorrow).

Thanks to Darkcomet72, I found that the Street Fighter track had been mistagged; instead of being from the OST, it was really from the AST. I have uploaded an updated copy with a bitrate upgrade to boot, but if you'd like to simply retag and rename the copy you already have, here's the relevant information:

• File Name: Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset.mp3
• Artist: Akira West, Capcom
• Composer: Ayako Saso
• Album/Game Title: Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax-
• Track Title: Strange sunset
• Disc Number: 1 (of 1)
• Track Number: 3
• Catalog Number: PCCB-00251
• Year: 1997

Very tough week for me to allocate points. I too can’t predict a real winner.

Bionic Commando (NES Game Rip) - Area 5 I found this track to be a serviceable chiptune with some variety to not make it too mundane. For it to be especially addictive though, there is still something missing in my opinion. The “something” that cannot be described.

Delicious Selection - Gamadelic - The Sword of Delight (taken from CD - Dark Seal)
A solid and fun kind of track. Ironically I liked the beginning best (0:19…), the singing was allright, but taking a somewhat prominent role in this track, it didn’t add up much to something meaningful that would justify its existence. To me it sounds like just some kind of singing I don’t really understands what’s about, alas.

Kagero ~ Deception 2 Original Soundtrack - The World is falling into Ruin What follows the most impacting beginning fell a bit short of its potential in that it could have developed more. But maybe it was just meant to convey a certain sensation, without diving into a more intricate composition. As such it’s actually well done and a fine listen.

Mr. Driller Sound Tracks – Balance
A kind of scattershot track, which incorporates a lot of individual segments. The violin is what merely binds it together. There is a nice culmination point at 1:16 which kicks grandmas. Today it has been lingering in my mind for a while, which can’t be a bad sign for it. Otherwise, I still fail to see what the whole picture of this track is.

Street Fighter EX - Strange sunset
Semi-melodic track with some improvisation along the road. There is actually a fully melodic part starting at somewhere 1:50, but it’s not the highlight or something. I can feel the sunset in this track, but the improvisation, which should be the highlight in my eyes, leaves me really blank of any affection for it.

The Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - Machine Gun (Gran Turismo 4 Pop Rox Remix) Interesting track in that when I shut off any channel of participation the track felt like just a neutral bypasser. But it can be quite fun once I let the funkyness infect myself to a little body-hopping. Some parts are creative, others not so, but all in all it’s on the positive light with catchy rhythms.

Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry
A good blend of dramatic and calm music. 1:38 is to die for. It appears to be the most straightforward track this week (along with the chiptune), but it convinces me the most for being so simple yet so highly expressive in its intention. My choice this week, albeit a bit reluctant, because it dives down at some part too.

Wonder Project J2 (Game Rip) - Josette of the Colro Forest
Very similar to the former track, in that it changes the mood a few times. It’s a bit tense in the beginning, then changes to a melancholic solo (0:39) followed by a sort of anthem (1:02) to finally resolve in a “happy ending” (1:54). Haha, it’s pretty structured and therefore a bit plain, and I am not overwhelmed by it, but it’s a good track nonetheless with a coherent melody binding all these parts together. A better rip would be nice here actually.

Point Spread:
3 Points – The Emperor
1 Point – The Ballance
1 Point – The Machine Gun
1 Point – The Forest

Can someone explain to me what caused Chudah’s Corner to reparticipate in this weekly event? With all the activities going on there, you’d believe they just discovered it recently.

Bionic Commando (NES Game Rip) - Area 5 Area 5? Must be another Darkcomet nomination. Nice old-school sound on this one, but it's a little dull. Reminds me of Mega Man (of course)--the Wily Stage 2 tracks, that is, the ones that are always more subdued and less melodic than the hyper-popular Stage 1's.

Delicious Selection / Gamadelic - The Sword of Delight (taken from CD: Dark Seal) Chalk this one up as "most disappointing." A nice sinister intro, good bouncy synth, all ruined by horrible singing and talking. If the caterwauling could only be removed, this track would definitely be in contention.

Kagero ~ Deception 2 Original Soundtrack - The World is falling into Ruin Moody piano and synth strings. It does what it sets out to do--create a dour mood--but little else. I can't help but feel that a little more on the composer's part might have produced a melancholy masterpiece.

Mr. Driller Sound Tracks - Balance I might have heard this one earlier; it sure sounds familiar. The violin is excellent, the guitar less so. Some nice melodic action, but also some rather nasty interludes. I guess you could call that a balance of sorts...

Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset I guess I must have an anti-Street Fighter bias, since the songs never seem to do much for me. There's a decent psuedo-melodic part in the middle, but the rest is essentially lounge jazz with heavy improvisation--elevator music. Street fights must be a lot more laid back than I remember...

The Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - Machine Gun (Gran Turismo 4 Pop Rox Remix) There's a catchy rhythm here, but a lot of distracting stuff as well--the sampled vocals, SFX, and wakka-wakka all detract from the package. I can see what the artist was going for, but if you don't like the ingredients, chances are you won't like the sandwich.

Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry Ah, Treasure Hunter G, the Game of 1000 Composers. I'm not sure which of them did this one (I seem to remember that John Pee did the most), but it is one of the more traditional and straightforward tracks this week, not to mention being lovely and understated. I only wish it were longer and/or looped.

Wonder Project J2 (Game Rip) - Josette of the Colro Forest Sounds like SNES synth to me, somehting that's been surprisingly rare in SoTW. Another traditional-type track, this one has some pleasant variation to go along with a nice melody even if it does sound a little familiar at times.

A lot of the tracks this week were "gimmick-based"--they incorporated a certain musical idea as their defining characteristic. If you like that idea, the track is destined for your iPod. If not, the trash.

The Point Spread
3 pts. - Emperor of Barbzerdry
2 pts. - Josie of the Colon Forceps
1 pt. - The World Is Falling Into Ruin And All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt
Just missed - Mr. Drillbit

* Album Title: Tyrian (Game Rip)
* Title: Tyrian, The Song
* Composer: Alexander Brandon
* Year: 1995
* Source: http://gamemusic.emugaming.com/game....HGAME=TYRIAN11

TCK originally pulled it when no one participated, now they're giving it another chance (seems like all the staff members got together and agreed to lead by example) and promoting it on the front page. Probably figured it was a good way to try and jumpstart their forums, which are practically dead. Oh well, more participants is a good thing.

Speaking of participants...(will edit later tonight with comments/votes/possibly next nomination)

WTF? What is the cryptic message you are trying to convey?

'Tis a frowning face with a cone nose and displaced eyes. I think.

*gives 3 points for coming up with one I haven't seen yet. O_O

%^( is %^(. It is what it is.

http://forums.thasauce.net/images/sm...aratparen2.png

Fixed.

Solid week. Someday I will grow a pair and dole out a normal 3-2-1 point distribution instead of hemming and hawing and giving out tie points.

(3 points) The Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - Machine Gun (Gran Turismo 4 Pop Rox Remix): It's good, really good, but it also sounds suspiciously familiar, like I've heard it somewhere before. It has elements of Beastie Boys' Brass Monkey (the guitat at 2:19 is an exact likeness), but its the infectious main melody I can't figure out. Another game? Something mainstream? Whatever, this track's a solid choice.

(1 point) Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry: The beginning's haunting, the rest is delicious SNES-era synth.

(1 point) Bionic Commando (NES Game Rip) - Area 5: It lacks a little life, but it brings back memories -- and I've never even played the game.

(1 point) Wonder Project J2 (Game Rip) - Josette of the Colro Forest: Has its similarities to Sakimoto's piece. Equally good.

There is a mainstream influence in this track. What you're hearing is a lot of samples from the 1970's funk song "Machine Gun" by The Commodores. The remix artist, Pop Rox, added a lot of dance and pop elements to modernize it. But this remix was made exclusively for the GT4 "Music from and Inspired by" album, and exists nowhere else, which allows it to be eligible for SotW. (I had to do some rules and background checks to make certain before I nominated it.)

It's possible that the Beasties may have also sampled portions of the original "Machine Gun" song. But I don't know anything about that firsthand.

Edited for accuracy.

Amazing week this week.

2 points - The Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - Machine Gun (Gran Turismo 4 Pop Rox Remix)

2 points - Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset

1 point - Delicious Selection / Gamadelic - The Sword of Delight (taken from CD: Dark Seal)

1 point - Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry

close - Mr. Driller Sound Tracks - Balance


%^(

Doujin Arrangements to be accepted
 

The reason for this is that I have been seriously considering nominating some doujin works lately. In consideration of this event's goals and ideals, I see no objection to why they shouldn't be allowed.

In the beginning of SOTW, which has been nearly 2 years now, the rule was to prevent mass-influx of individual amateur arranging attempts, because their identities were rather random and it's what VGMix and Ocremix etc. are there for. SOTW was going its own unique way, and so shall it stay.

The doujin circles I am talking about are actually established and acknowledged japanese composers or teams that are quite experienced in their arranging skills. The tracks are stylistically interesting and of perfect sound quality. It's just that they are widely unknown in the western hemisphere and their production scale is rather modest, giving them a big fat “doujin” label. They have cataloque numbers and all these features as well.

Given the fact that SOTW has branched out to Non-VGM works by VGM-Composers, it would be an “undaring” step to allow lesser known arrangement works, that's still largely concerned with what's elementary, VGM. I am all in for doujin circle's individual works to not be accepted, as it's clearly nothing to do with VGM, but arranging VGM, meaning maintaining at least 50% of the original VGM work, should be considered in my opinion.

It's been two years almost and I don't think this change will hurt any of SOTW premises, or driving it away from its unique route. Care to risk a thought?

Okay, but you asked for it! A few concerns:

1. If a doujin arrangement exists, why not simply nominate the original song?

2. Aren't many doujin rearrangements of tracks that would be considered too popular for SoTW (Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, etc.)?

3. Isn't the difference between OCRemix/VGMix and "doujin" simply semantics? After all, the OneUps could be considered "doujin." A catalog number doesn't seem like it's a magic solution--heck, bootleg CD's have their own catalog numbers even if there's no catalog! If anything, Djinova's definition gives preference to Japanese remixers when they and their western counterparts are engaged in the same business.

4. By broadening the definition of "VGM" still further, aren't we getting away from what the SoTW concept is all about? After all, if doujin were allowed, works would show up that weren't produced by VGM composers or anyone involved in the industry. If a song were sufficiently different from the original to merit consideration, it would essentially be an original work by a non-VGM composer that was only "inspired" by VGM.

Just downloaded the Commodores track. You're right. The melody was lodged deep in the back of my collective consciousness, but I never knew what song it came from.

And since we're shooting for accuracy, I meant 'Hey Ladies' instead of 'Brass Monkey' when it came to the Beasties' track. That guitar is also in the Commodores track, so it looked like the Beasties did some sampling. Not surprising.

Ok, dude here’s what…

1. If a doujin arrangement exists, why not simply nominate the original song?
It’s for the same reason a lot of people nominate arranged songs. They prefer the arrangement over the original.

2. Aren't many doujin rearrangements of tracks that would be considered too popular for SoTW (Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, etc.)?
No, that’s what I am trying to explain to you. There are really obscure works featuring music from obscure games, not only Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest and the Moon and what not…

3. Isn't the difference between OCRemix/VGMix and "doujin" simply semantics? After all, the OneUps could be considered "doujin." A catalog number doesn't seem like it's a magic solution--heck, bootleg CD's have their own catalog numbers even if there's no catalog! If anything, Djinova's definition gives preference to Japanese remixers when they and their western counterparts are engaged in the same business.
Not it’s not simply semantics. “doujin” is not a site and doujin is not free. Actually, “doujin” is used very loosely, but it often only means that the production quality and quantity are not high, but I am talking about the exceptions here. Actually I am not trying to give preference to Japanese remixers, but most western remixers only arrange familiar stuff. I mean, if the rules change, I welcome any western “doujin” work as well as long as the original work is as obscure as it’s eligible for SOTW.

4. By broadening the definition of "VGM" still further, aren't we getting away from what the SoTW concept is all about? After all, if doujin were allowed, works would show up that weren't produced by VGM composers or anyone involved in the industry. If a song were sufficiently different from the original to merit consideration, it would essentially be an original work by a non-VGM composer that was only "inspired" by VGM.
What kind of industry are you talking about? Nominations are allowed already, when a composer touches his hands on one track in a game, all his past and future nominations. Gracefully, people are not exaggerating there. But there have been quite a few tracks, I personally would not regard as VGM, but then we’d come to the question of what VGM is and should be… and I dare not dictate this. Non-VGM-Composer’s work with inspiration from VGM is admittedly half the truth of VGM, but so is Non-VGM-work by VGM-composer. Why even lie, more than half of the best tracks from SOTW have come from arrangements of some sort. The chiptunes haven’t been victorious since Treasure Master something. I am all doing this only because I believe I have good obscure tracks to nominate if this rule was relieved.

Fair enough, though by nominating an original obscure track, rather than a doujin remix, you could get a track similar to the one you want to nominate into SoTW without changing the rules.

Such as? I think some examples are in order.

Well, the stuff from the OneUps isn't free either--they sell CD's (even if they're on hyper-sale right now). Most importantly: who decides what's "quality" doujin and what's not? Simply limiting the selection to works offered for sale doesn't address quality issues.

I mean the VGM industry, of course. The "non-VGM by VGM composers" rule has been bent quite a bit, you're right. But why open the door for further abuse by loosening the rules even more? I'd actually like to see them tightened.

I'm opposed to the idea of doujin in SoTW mainly because it would further muddle the rules and create a lot of headaches out of proportion to the benefit. I don't doubt that you'd be scrupulous in screening your doujin, but others may not be. There are tons of tracks I'd like to bring in SoTW that aren't allowed by the rules, so I sympathize, but I can't see the inclusion of fanmade works as a good idea.

Wish I could spare more time for comments but I'll have to keep this quite short. In summary, very good week, which means point distribution will be an uphill task.

(2 points) Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry
I really like tracks in the vein of "Emperor of Balladry". For one, the synth is a big draw for me. And it helps that the track develops very nicely. Then there's the sudden decrescendo that always gets me.

(2 points) Kagero ~ Deception 2 Original Soundtrack - The World is falling into Ruin
For some reason, this track catches my fancy. It's not really as apocalyptic as the title suggests. It's more wistful and reflective, the type of music you'd expect to hear when game heroes stare off into the horizon thinking of the good old days. And maybe that's why I like it so much.

(1 point) Street Fighter EX - Strange sunset
There are a lot of very interesting elements in this piece that I enjoyed a great deal. But overall, the track's somewhat lessened by a few bits that didn't sit too well with me. Pity.

(1 point) Bionic Commando (NES Game Rip) - Area 5
Catchy's the word here. Would have been more satisfying if the track was developed a bit more before the loop.

Will be highly anticipating the Tyrian nomination. :)

I'm not too familiar with the doujin scene but I'd think that if the doujin arrangers in question have composed for actual games before then perhaps their VGM-related work could be allowed.

I agree with orion.

Votes:

2 pts. - Strange Sunset - Man, this Street Fighter EX stuff is good. The cool synth sound and drums at 1:27 is a great combo.
2 pts. - Balance - I like the drums, and I love the echoing piano thing (riff? line? what's the appropriate terminology?). The violin is nice too.
1 pt. - Sword of Delight - Yeah, the singing is bad, but I don't mind it. This is supposed to be a fun, silly track, not a really serious one. It's got some neat ideas.
1 pt. - Emperor of Balladry - Ah, this is a nice song. Much different from the rest of this week's tracks.

Close - The World is Falling Into the Ruin
Decent, but I'm just not in the mood right now - Machine Gun
Yay for NES, but no points - Area 5

Very strong week this week. Good noms, people. :)

Fair enough, though by nominating an original obscure track, rather than a doujin remix, you could get a track similar to the one you want to nominate into SoTW without changing the rules.
Heh heh, I guess as an orchestral fan you’d be the best to know that every little in a track can count, from synth to slight rhythm changes to pitch.

Such as? I think some examples are in order.
I was mostly thinking of arrangements from Touhou or better known as ZUN tracks. All the complains about weird synth and typical frantic ZUN and stuff… They are all justified. The arrangements would only take out the melody and adds “better” decoration to it, I am sure. Also NOW, it’s limited to his stuff, but there are endless other shooter track that would fall under this category.

Well, the stuff from the OneUps isn't free either--they sell CD's (even if they're on hyper-sale right now). Most importantly: who decides what's "quality" doujin and what's not? Simply limiting the selection to works offered for sale doesn't address quality issues.
Well, do I sense a kind pessimistic attitude through experience here? Who decides what a good track is and what not? I was just mentioning sales and production simply to draw the similarity to normal professional soundtracks, it’s not about quality.

I mean the VGM industry, of course. The "non-VGM by VGM composers" rule has been bent quite a bit, you're right. But why open the door for further abuse by loosening the rules even more? I'd actually like to see them tightened.

I'm opposed to the idea of doujin in SoTW mainly because it would further muddle the rules and create a lot of headaches out of proportion to the benefit. I don't doubt that you'd be scrupulous in screening your doujin, but others may not be. There are tons of tracks I'd like to bring in SoTW that aren't allowed by the rules, so I sympathize, but I can't see the inclusion of fanmade works as a good idea.
Heh heh, I know you are talking about the industry. But who decides who belongs to the industry, both in theoretical and practical meaning. There are obscure doujin games out there. Simple games, complex games… they all contain music. I am just trying to get some good music nominated by lifting an obstacle, how can this cause headaches. You are probably thinking about film music, I have done so as well, but this is really way off. I don’t understand why the event is being so composer-oriented, when we are listening to single songs instead. Arranged or not, by professional or amateurs, as long as it’s kind of VGM it should fit in my opinion.

EDIT: One more thing about the headaches... The job of you is to vote. Most don't even care to make comments nowadays, let alone inspecting the details of the track. So if no one told you the difference you wouldn't know or even care anyway.

I think that's silly. Of course where the music's from matters. To me, the "job" of SotW participators is to be exposed and expose others to underappreciated music from video games. Not to introduce "kind of VGM" or music that sounds like VGM, but music from games.

Good pick. I had been considering nominating something from Tyrian awhile back but decided against it, so it's nice to see this be nominated.

Your definition would definitely rule out arrangements then.

I'd have no problem with that. :p

Hey you see, I would agree to shut the door completely as well. But I honestly don't think this is a suitable option after all this event has been through. Also, sorry about the last EDIT paragraph. People surely noticed I was more being "rantish" than "reasoning". But don't let this distract you from the points I have mentioned before. As far as arrangements are concerned they are valid in my opinion.

I got my next nom, only 2 things:

1) I'm not sure whether to nominate the Genesis or Sega CD Version, I'[ll probably go with the CD version though.

2) What's the rule on nominating things that are in the VG Music Quiz? This song is an 8 pointer (I even purposely got the question wrong so I could find out what game its from,) so would that be frowned upon?

(Note, I'm not replacing the LSL nom, I mean the one after that.)

It's paining only having six points to award. Phenomenal week.

2 points - Mr. Driller Sound Tracks - Balance
2 points - Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset
1 point - Wonder Project J2 (Game Rip) - Josette of the Colro Forest
1 point - Bionic Commando (NES Game Rip) - Area 5

Nomination time:

Game: Jazz Jackrabbit 2 (PC)
Song: Pull Back the Bass (Credits music)
Artist: Alexander Brandon
Year: 1998
Source: http://www.loricentral.com/jj2music.html

Sorry I don't have more info.

3 points. Kagero ~ Deception 2 Original Soundtrack - The World is falling into Ruin

2 points. Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry

1 point. Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset

Ooh, a good policy debate. Been a while since the last. :biggrin:

Regarding arranges by non-composers: if we let it some, we have to let in them all. Having a CD and a price means nothing; hell, I could take ten MIDIs from vgmusic.com, whip them through a program and add PHAT B33TZ, put them on a CD, make up a catalog number, and sell it to really stupid people who don't know any better. If Heaven's Race Guitar Style is eligible, then so should be this free TF5&6 arrange I'm listening to right now, as well as anything from OCR/VGMix/RKO/etc.

Regarding allowing only ORIGINAL game music: Again? :juggler: Dunno if we'll ever satisfactorily resolve this one, since about half were for and half were against the last time it came up. I'd rather not change this unless we have a poll and a supermajority of some sort votes in favor, since I'm sure the side favoring arrangements and original works would probably start clamoring. (In fact, I might be leading them. >_>) This rule is a vital part of SotW, and if it gets changed once by a slim margin, I can see votes being called on it again and again. It might be a little unfair to think that, but I'd prefer if we had consistency in our rules.

And orion_mk3, if you're interested in learning more about the scope of doujin arrangements, I suggest you talk to Dhsu, who floats around here and pitches in the occasional nomination (like the Narcissu track from a little while back). There might be a lot of Square arrangements and the like out there, but there are many arrangements of more obscure tracks out there as well. There is a LOT more out there than you think.

However, as an interesting aside, does it really matter what the source is? In the past we've allowed obscure arrangements of decidedly non-obscure themes; Chocobo's Happy Christmas immediately comes to mind. Then again, there was a bit of a firestorm over Theme of Dragon Roost Island from the Mario & Zelda Big Band Live CD. Do we want to apply eligibility rules to the track itself or the source of the track?

Double Post:
Were you asking for advice here? Because we can't really help if you don't tell us what the track is. :X

At least one track from VGMQ has appeared previously on SotW, so it's not a huge issue. Just as long as you're not purposefully nominating it just to spread points to everybody.

OK, the song is earnest Evans - Level 1, the Genesis versions seems to be longer, but its a chiptune, which some people on SotW don't like too much. The SCD version seems to be shorter, but better instrumentation.

http://www.celestialbridge.net/advanced/ee-gen.vgz
http://www.celestialbridge.net/advanced/ee-scd.mp3

I think you're still in the green. After all, you're arguing for something you seem quite passionate about! Being a tad "rantish" is the very heart and soul of SoTW.

Oh, I don't doubt that there are legions of 'em. Might give it a shot, though my own taste in remixes tends to be of the "I-want-the-same-notes-just-with-better-synth" variety.

EDIT: While I'm posting, I might as well nominate something:

Game: Beyond Good And Evil
Song: Fight Part 1
Artist: Christophe Heral
Year: 2004
Source: Gamerip

This song is known by many names; I'll upload my personal copy to make sure everything's on the level.

This was an all-around great week, nice selections guys. I may nitpick about some of these tracks, but they could all easily walk away with SoTW under normal circumstances.

3 Points - Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset
The smooth, sexy Jazz intro really is a great hook that sets up the rest of the track. This is superior to everything else this week, which says a lot give how good the competition was.

2 Points - The Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - Machine Gun (Gran Turismo 4 Pop Rox Remix)
This is A really funky track that features a melody as well as slick synth/instrumentation. It is also very fun to listen to, with the track development staying fresh after multiple listens.

1 Point - Mr. Driller Sound Tracks - Balance
A fast-paced piece of action music that features some great synth leads and killer solos. Just a tad bit repetitive when compared with the rest. Which is why it earned one, instead of two points.

3pts: Mr. Driller Sound Tracks - Balance
2pts: Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset
1pt: Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry

The point is anything from OCR/VGMix/RKO/etc is already covered up by exactly these sites. Who is going to promote all these doujin arrangement CDs? The publisher themselves do it you could say, but pretty much like the aims of SOTW, some deserve more attention than just what the publisher does, that's why I am trying to bring attention to some tracks, that wouldn't otherwise be known elsewhere. I don't know what this TF5&6 arrange is, but I'd say if you find anything remarkable from this, and it has not appeared yet on any other contest-like events or is as "unknown" as SOTW would regard it as eligible, then it may be nominated. Isn't it what we do all the time, judging by feeling which tracks are ineligible and which are not, it's not like there ever was a list. And I think it wouldn't be difficult to decide whether a relatively known track from OCRemix or an obscure arrangement from Yin Wu's Manic Quest would eligible. (Heh heh, I wouldn't actually nominate Heaven's Race Guitar Style then... if you thought that sparked my becoming vocal).

Again here, there is no list. A lot of people like me, didn't know or didn't even care, because an arrangement always has the element of surprise. It's again by subjectiveness that was decided. Hence, I wouldn't rule out arrangements of popular tracks by principle, but they would have a greater disadvantage nevertheless.

For the sake of reaching a better understanding of this argument, could someone tell me what a doujin is?

I always thought it was an amateur comic book, typically drawn in the anime style. Is a doujin something more?

You’re on the right track. It’s just that doujin is not only limited to anime and pictures. It’s an all around for anything amateur, small-scale, self-published, self-produced, thus less unknown, but not necessarily of less quality. My knowlegde is only limited to doujin music and anime, but like I said it could be anything.

So you could call the works promoted by amateur remixing sites such as OCRemix “doujin”, and it would be ok, because it would fit parts of the description of what “doujin” is. Personally, I don’t for the sake of clearly separating “amateur” and “doujin”. Nowadays, if you do something and give it away for free, it’s considered “doujin”. But if a big company produce something without charging the customers, it’s hardly “doujin”. On the other hand, nobody talks about free software as “doujin”, even if some nobody makes it. As you can see it neither directly relates to the size and professionalism of the producing person/group, nor is it always bound to money-making. “doujin” consists of written definition and accustomed usage. By written definition a lot of things can be considered “doujin”, by accustomed usage I would only count in some small-scale eastern companys/groups/persons actually acknowlegded by the “doujin” scene. Also, this might give more insight: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doujin

Heh heh, the word is so diffuse. Everyone has a little different knowlegde and his own concept of what it means. My aim has been to try legalizing some music that “inadvertently” would fall under “doujin”, but has not been widely known or exposed to on any other music site. That’s all.

Haha...actually to be honest, I mostly stick around just for the Square arrangements. ^_^; The rest usually consists of Ys, Touhou, or KANON/AIR/CLANNAD, which I usually pass on. ;)

I agree with keeping doujin out of SotW, though. If you want to expose people to great arrangements you've found, you can always start your own "Doujin of the Week" event or something. :) That, or post them in my lonely doujin thread. :D

Voting is closed.

1). [31] Treasure Hunter G Original Soundtrack - Emperor of Balladry
2). [26] The Music From and Inspired by Gran Turismo 4 - Machine Gun (Gran Turismo 4 Pop Rox Remix)
3). [24] Mr. Driller Sound Tracks - Balance
4). [22] Street Fighter EX -Arrange Sound Trax- - Strange sunset
5). [9] Wonder Project J2 (Game Rip) - Josette of the Colro Forest
6). [8/6] Bionic Commando (NES Game Rip) - Area 5
7). [8/5.5] Kagero ~ Deception 2 Original Soundtrack - The World is falling into Ruin
8). [4] Delicious Selection / Gamadelic - The Sword of Delight (taken from CD: Dark Seal)

At least I came in second to a track I enjoyed. It's hard to compete against a Sakimoto composition.

And it's not like a silver is anything to be ashamed of. Thanks everyone!

Man, I thought Street Fighter was in the running for 1st. My favs were Sunset and Balance, and I didn't really care for Machine Gun, so I'm disappointed by the results again. :p

Figures the first week I vote in 6 weeks, a track I didn't like wins. :(

Aye, I agree. Heck, I check out doujin material much less often than I should, and I know better. :(

The only point I was trying to make is that, even if the purpose is to increase the recognition of these doujin arrangement CDs, once we open the door to some arrangements by non-VGM composers, we have to allow them all (subject to obscurity rules, of course).

I think perhaps allowing this sort of thing would be overstepping the bounds of what Song of the Week is supposed to be; some have argued in this thread that allowing arrangements and original works are already overstepping it. Increasing exposure to doujin works might be better suited to other places, like Dhsu's thread, which I'll link again for him, or perhaps even a DotW, assuming there's enough interest out there.

Nah, I probably wouldn't ever nominate it if it were eligible (BROKEN THUNDER+THUNDER FORCE5 "JADGEMENT ~ The Justice ray part 2 ~ The Justice ray part 3"). I just thought it was a convenient example. :biggrin:

I didn't mean to pick on you, but the thought did cross my mind. It was just another convenient example.

Just a thought: why not have a strictly doujin/remix week on SotW once in a while if there are enough nominations (so a separate doujin nomination queue could be set up)? Of course, the doujin tracks would be excluded from the normal SotW. Since such doujin weeks would be few and far between, it could help, to an extent, promote doujin without detracting too much from the main SotW event. Or keep it simple and set up a separate Doujin of the Week event as suggested.

Djinova, based on your definition of doujin, if I were to rearrange a piece of music from an official game soundtrack, would my track be considered... doujin?

Those are nice ideas, but I think people are having problems enough keeping up with popular albums, not to mention checking out obscure professional soundtracks, let alone some doujins. There are people, but their numbers are far too little to justify something like “Doujin of the Week” in my opinion. Even in SOTW the number of regular participants have been reduced to half of the initial. Another difficult barrier to cross might be the initial pessimism towards anything amateur. And I don’t even think there are this good material to ensure longevity to an own weekly doujin event. SOTW undergoes enough periods of mediocrity and lethargy, even with the large potential it has. I simply don’t have the energy, knowlegde and the certain prestige to lead on such a project. All I can do is try to sneak some of them into this event, for game music’s sake (lol), because a “Doujin of the Week” will simply have to cover all sorts of doujin music, not only doujin VGM, this being only a small field in the vast doujin land. About posting in your thread, it is by my experience that some links with a personal recommendation label on them are seldomly clicked. I too would rather hesitate, if someone jumped in and said “Hey, this is awesome, check it out”.

I actually think allowing this sort of thing is to make a step within the initial idea and the overstepped one, since they are arrangements per se, but this is really only my opinion, or would you say there is a substantial difference that would make any doujin arrangements distinguishable from a professional work? Allowing them and actually somebody nominating them are two things really (I will of course). I guess you are afraid that once the ban is lifted, massive influx of OCRemix (as convenient example) tracks will overflood this board and dominate every week from the moment of onset. I won’t like it as well, but that’s fearing for the worst scenario, which I can’t be sure of that it won’t happen, but my good faith telling me it’s not going to happen. Yeah, good faith it is. It might actually be interesting to find out if something like this happens if this sort of thing is temporarily allowed.

Well, that’s the thing. Even a doujin/remix week on SOTW is hard to organize. As far as I know from looking, the only ones who frequent in the VGM doujin scene is Dhsu, CHz, _DH_ and to a limited extent me. The other regular participants have remained silent so far, therefore I assume that they only know it by name. Heh heh, a half doujin/half professional week would be possible, but I am not being serious.

Like I said, the word is diffuse. It would not be wrong to call your work a doujin, but it would be more of a “doujin” if you were japanese and trying to make some money with it.

Strange Sunset was actually in 8th for the first few days, it was sick.

Anyway, Like most everyone, I liked this week as well: more specifically the consistency. Not a single track disappointed. Seeing Strange Sunset come in a place other than 1st however is unacceptable.