ReMix: Phantasy Star II 'Dezoris Winter'

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Those of you who read these write-ups but don't follow our forums might not be aware that a previous version of this mix, when not approved by our judges panel, caused quite a fuss. I don't see any harm in bringing this up now because some time has passed and I think (hope?) there's more distance and perspective for all involved, but certain criticisms were made of the judges panel and it was questioned as to whether our standards were too high. Quite regardless of anything else, the best possible result from the discussion in my opinion has occurred, being that GrayLightning has submitted a revised version of his ReMix that I feel - and, more importantly, he feels - is a stronger overall arrangement. I'm quite a Phantasy Star buff, two in particular, so I especially appreciated the submission of this refined work. To me, this sounds truer to the spirit of the original. It still deviates and elaborates and is quite creative, but something perhaps intangible that I felt was lost with the original submission relative to the source material has been regained here. Strong, rich, dynamic choral work highlights strings, bell pads, an electric bass, some ethnic plucked instruments, an assortment of slapped percussion along with kit drums, and lovely synth ambience, DSP, and flow. PS2 had a lot of these meandering little pieces of BGM with melodies that don't end in traditional patterns with the same degree of closure as other RPG soundtracks. It's what makes the games' soundtracks unique and, to me, uniquely charming, but also a challenge to ReMix. GL has done an admirable job with a track that I'd not have appreciated in the same light if it weren't for his ReMix, and has improved upon his original submission as well. Love the very dramatic intro and ending as well, and the relationship with this new version to the overall "feel" of the Phantasy Star universe is something I particularly think is a big plus. Great to see things turn out this way - "messy" circumstances don't always end up with similarly positive results, but when they do, and someone's work and creativity is not only "salvaged" but improved, I think it's worth pointing out. Good stuff.

― djpretzel