Overview

As part of the Electronic Arts' soundtracks program, Frank Klepacki's collection of music for the Command & Conquer series has finally been released for fans, having previously only been available through exclusive limited edition physical albums. Those who listen to Frank Klepacki's music progress over the years will find that Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 is a bit more driven and harder-edged than his first soundtrack in the series on listening to the iTunes release.

Body

Tracks like "Blow It Up" seemingly borrow a bit of "Rage Against the Machine" for inspiration. Still well-paced and in control, Klepacki obliges the bass and heavy guitar to come out and play a bit more aggressively than in previous soundtracks, mixing them with straight up rock beats from a natural drum kit. The natural drumming is what really brings some of the tracks over the top — the composer isn't simply setting beats and layering synthesizer parts. Each element interacts intricately in rhythmic ways, synching up during the most intense moments to provide impact and emotion.

Not every track is necessarily awe-inspiring or devoid of some amount of repetition, but the level of detail and dedication to the craft is noteworthy. I think what is really most enjoyable are the subtle details he puts into some of his synth patches, like the simple lead instrument in "Probing" that briefly adds a bit of melody and then leaves. Other highlights on the collection include "Jank", a good blend of the hardcore electronic music and traditional Klepacki sound, that constantly evolves and changes riffs, breakdowns, and driving beats.

In another tribute to his electronic predecessors, the final track of Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2, "C&C in the House", has a blend of house music and heavy rock inspired mix that is pretty over the top but still spectacular. I particularly like the organ solo groove that enters at the midway point of the piece. There's also "200 Meters" is a nice break from the heavier tracks — it has a smooth Metal Gear Solid espionage-laden sort of groove to it.

Summary

If you're a fan of Frank Klepacki's work on the Command & Conquer series, be sure to check the iTunes release of Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 out. While it's not as simple or inspirational as a typical "war game" soundtrack, there is a lot to like buried in these layers of electronica.