Best Soundtracks of 2005

Somewhat biased opinions here because I wasn't exactly up-to-date with most new releases for 2005.

For me, it was Musashiden II: Blademaster Original Sound Track hands down. I find myself listening to "Jungle Journey" or "Holy War" every now and then. I guess what really appealed to me was the cohesiveness of the soundtrack, as well as the maturity of Nakano's and Hamauzu's work in Musashiden II. Hamauzu certainly surprised me with "A New Hope." I had initially believed it to be a Nakano composition, though in hindsight it's a little bit too melodic. :P

The other standout soundtrack for me in 2005 was the grand orchestral epic, Wander and the Colossus ~Roar of the Earth~ Original Soundtrack. It's a great in-game and as a stand alone soundtrack, though I must admit the soundtrack is best appreciated with game context because of how well the game's scenes go with the music to evoke a strong sense of attachment to the game's characters. And nothing beats a rousing tune when you successfully clamber atop a gargantuan colossus and attempt to deal a few finishing blows.

Special mentions for near death experience, Shadow Hearts Arrangetracks and Shadow Hearts: From the New World Original Soundtrack. Truly a breath of fresh air in 2005 with Hirota's signature edgy and creative stylings. Got to love those battle themes, too. Kudos to the We Love Katamari soundtrack, too. It's not quite as good as the original but manages to be one of the more outstanding soundtracks last year.

I haven't had a chance to listen to much of Drag-on-Dragoon 2 and Phantasy Star Online Episode 4 but what tracks I did listen to were very good and unique.

Jam it back in, in the dark.