Overview

Released just a year after its predecessor, The Legend of Xanadu II offers much the same in terms of gaming and musical experiences. The soundtrack once again is dominated by fitting but generic RPG music implemented with old-school synth. However, there were a number of cutscene tracks that managed to escape this rut and offer aplenty in terms of both compositional and sound quality. The soundtrack release also benefits from a five bonus arrangements featuring the one and only J.D.K. Band. Time for a closer look?

Body

The first disc of the soundtrack is dedicated to the PCM music created for most of the area and setting themes. This disc features 52 tracks altogether, so inevitably many tracks are short and most don't loop. Unfortunately, the majority of the compositions are unremarkable and formulaic. Like its predecessor, there are plenty of light poppy themes like "Pleasant Estimation", "Vast & Sever", and "Happy-Go-Lucky", that are slightly catchy but completely shallow. There are also synth rock tracks like "First Attack", "Brave of Blaze", and "Breakthrough", but they mostly lack the originality or charisma of most Ys compositions. Other additions range from the sentimental "Someday with My Love" to the sinister "Underground Water Course" to the SFX-sweft "Big Storm", all of which are quite functional but not really ideal for stand-alone listening.

There are some nevertheless highlights among the first disc. "Peaceful Enclosure" is a pleasant variation of the standard town theme format of 'rich flowing melody and light arpeggiated accompaniment'. "Sea Breeze Town" meanwhile takes a more mellow and reflective approach while still retaining an emphasis on a charming melody. One can't help but imagine what this theme would sound like using today's technology. Other favourites include adventurous and bouncy setting themes "Scattered Islands", "Crystal Valley", and "Over the Desert", which tend to sustain extended gameplay. The climax of the disc is also appealing. Tracks like "Hard Pressure", "Into the Dark", and "Down to the Abyss" offer those rocking melodies and darker undertones missing for earlier battle themes on the score. It's just a shame they don't receive the opportunity to fully loop.

Fortunately, the second disc makes up for some of the disappointments with PCM music for the events. These offer more elaborate compositions, much-improved synth, and longer track times. The opener "Invitation for the New World", for instance, is a sorrowful piano-based composition filled with expression. "The Triumphal Hymn", "Seventh Soul", and "Final Awakening" meanwhile exploit the available technology to offer striking orchestral marches. They sound exceptional for their time. There are also some more cinematically inclined tracks, such as "Three Years Later", "The Last of Dragon Slayer", and "On Blue Brilliant Place", that are beautifully developed and serve as a wonderful complement to the game. The selection is rounded off by a light-hearted blend of pop, jazz, and rock in "Following Wind", which is easily the catchiest addition to the whole score.

But that's not all! The last five tracks on the score are bonus arrangements performed by the J.D.K. Band. "Supremacy Title" channels back to The Legend of Xanadu Super Arrange Version with its funk influence, but is even catchier and better punctuated thanks to the instrument performances. The acoustic "Sea Breeze Town" realises the potential many saw in the original theme, while "Blind Man ~ Over the Desert" is a dynamic arrangement of two favourites from the score. Finally, "Hard Pressure" and "Brave of Blaze" transform seemingly mediocre original pieces into classic Falcom rock arrangements. The melodies sound better than before, when presented on extravagant guitars and distorted keyboards, while the punchy backing adds to the vibrancy. All in all, an excellent bonus in a score otherwise neglected in terms of arrangements.

Summary

Music from The Legend of Xanadu II is evidently a step up from its predecessor. The excellent original and arranged tracks on the second disc clearly give it the upper hand. However, it still doesn't fare that well with time and lacks the real character needed for it to be among Falcom's best releases. Still, those who can't get enough of Falcom will probably enjoy this release.