Overview

In 1998, Sakuraba arranged his acclaimed score for Star Ocean: The Secodn Story into a fully fledged album. From stunning symphonic epics to electrifying progressive rock battle themes, from piano-based romance arrangements to cool jazzy saloon tracks, from imposing operatic choruses all the way to adrenaline-pumping rock organs, he offered plenty of contrast throughout. However, his approach generally succeeded in retaining the image of the original soundtrack, while offering something accessible for wider stand-alone listening.

Body

The album is headlined with a symphonic rendition of the opening theme "Silent the Universe". The arrangement is filled with the clichés of science-fiction scoring — the single ominous bass note of the opening, the sinister choral interludes, and the triumphant brass-led climaxes — but this is fitting given the nature of the Star Ocean series. More impressive is the profound imagery and rich emotions Sakuraba inspires with the contrasts throughout the arrangement. The orchestra is synthetic throughout, though the samples used are a vast improvement from the soundtrack and greatly enhance the piece. There are plenty of pompous moments to depict the vastness of deep space, but also some more subtle ones to capture the more personal element of the story.

One of the most surprising renditions on the album is "Sacred Song". Here Sakuraba transforms a mysterious choral theme into an experimental fusion arrangement blending jazz, progressive rock, and operatic influences. Though quite a contrast to most people's vision of a full-blown epic, it proves emotionally engaging and artistically appealing nevertheless. The grooves of this theme are rarely to its detriment and simply add a new dimension to an already deep arrangement. Sakuraba also sacrificed some of the raw power of the synth rock battle theme "Stab the Sword of Justice" with his arrangement here. However, the slower pace, richer instrumentation, and dramatic arch featured on this arrangement bring plenty of drama to the piece. Particularly enjoyable is the section at the 1:45 mark, blending electric guitar improvisations with atmospheric chants.

"Lavender" and "This Fragile Life" are the black sheeps here — brand new compositions specifically created for this album, rather than arrangements of familiar pieces. The former is another electro-rock battle theme reminiscent of the treatment of "Stab the Sword of Justice". It's certainly enjoyable, but lacks the melodic distinction and extravagant treatment of its counterpart. More impressive is "This Fragile Life", a soothing new age piece featuring highlight piano solos and string parts, though it slightly disturbs the flow of the album. Those looking for more of Sakuraba's piano improvisations will be impressed by "Resolution ~ Pure a Stream", an extended rendition of a solo piano track on the soundtrack. It's hardly as elaborate as his arrangements o "So Alone, Be Sorrow" — utilising conventional textures and primary chords throughout — but it compensates for the way it inspires deep emotions with its provoking melody and thoughtful shifts.

A couple of other action-packed themes are featured here. The classic "Mission to the Deep Space" returns here in a faster, heavier, and more powerful rendition than the original. The melodies are preserved with the progressive rock instrumentation here, while Sakuraba's rock organ improvisation also takes centre stage at key points. It is one of the less extravagant versions of the theme — exceeded by the rendition of Star Ocean: Till the End of Time — but is nevertheless a fun addition towards the end of the album. A more radical transformation is "Integral Body and Imperfect Soul", once an unremarkable gothic final battle theme, now a full-blown symphonic rock fusion. This rendition captures the raw power that was missing in the original and also brings some mainstream appeal with its compelling techno beats and rich melody. It's another clear favourite on the album.

Many purchased the arranged album for the rendition of "Theme of RENA". The entrance of the famous operatic vocal melody of the original at the 0:21 with leave many breathless. As the track progresses, the orchestration grows more elaborate and there are fascinating harmonic progressions, including two heartfelt interludes. Throughout the seven minute playtime, Sakuraba nevertheless ensures the fragile radiant core of the original continues to be expressed. The album closes with a rendition of Star Ocean: The Second Story's ending theme "We Form In Crystals". More of a remastered version of the original than an expansive arrangement, the arrangement might disappoint some listeners. However, it still proves fascinating and emotional for the ways it violin solo — always shifting between colourful pontamenti and sustained notes — radiates above the ever-repeated crescendoing harp motif. Even with subtle changes, it still remains the definitive version of the original and a suitable closer.

Summary

Overall, Sakuraba successfully adapted his score for Star Ocean: The Second Story into an arranged album here. For the most part, he preserved the images and melodies of the originals, but enhanced them with thicker textures, intricate developments, and beautiful implementation. In many ways, this album is reminiscent of a symphonic rock studio album than a game album and this reflects Sakuraba's ambitious scope for the production. Overall, this is an ideal introduction to Motoi Sakuraba's works for newcomers and a must-have for the veteran.