ReMix: Suikoden 'Cliff the Great Crusader'

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When I hear the name 'Cliff' I personally think of the volatile but well-meaning postal worker from the sitcom Cheers, but apparently he's also a crusader, and a pretty great one at that. Trenthain got mastering assistance from Compyfox on this latest Suikoden mix, which spotlights some really rather bitchin' live recorder playing by Trenthian. I have some mixed memories of this instrument as it was the weapon of choice in our elementary school music program, so visions of 'Hot Cross Buns' being played back in an atonal, detuned cluster of wheezing pitches that only John Cage could appreciate came to mind when I read the submission email - thankfully, this is not the case. The ReMixer writes:

"I wanted to do a lot of stuff with this mix when I started. I wanted to keep it Celtic, I wanted to put the funk in it... I wanted improvisation. I wanted my bass playing to not suck. I wanted massive orchestral (I have discovered some new instruments since FF7 and Breath of fire.) Well at least I am satisfied with the mix. Because they are AWESOME, I would like the boys at natural studio to get some credit for their work: they supply Ns-kit6, and NS-kit 7, two of the BEST drumkits in sf2 (soundfont) format I have seen that are free. They have some great other sounds, but the studio kits are GREAT."This mix is powered by NS-kit 6." “This mix is also powered by Compyfox.” I had great fun making this one, and I am using my recorder talents in a lot of music I am working on right now. FEAR THE UPCOMING! "

Whether it be fear or anticipation, it should be interesting to see how the instrument is incorporated into future mixes of his. In this instance, it's the melodic lead in an ethnic/soundtrack piece that starts off with a nice percussion motif, with bass then jumping in. The flare at 0'31" is a fair indicator that this isn't a high quality gigasample we're talking about but the real deal. Chromatic xylo-type percussion establishes a framework, along with a backing string part that gains in importance, and even does a very admirable, cool solo breakout at 2'26" - major kudos for soloing on an element that wouldn't get solo time in 99/100 mixes, and doing it well. The entire piece maintains the Celtic feel that Trenthian mentions, feeling ceremonial but also festive. Now's a good time to mention, for those not following the forums religiously, that we've added two new judges to the panel: he of impressive guitar solos and controversial Asterix mixes, zyko , and zircon , also quite active in the community and a ReMixer here, too. A big day for the z-pseudonymed, to be sure. Israfel has also rejoined the panel, as his schedule's opened up a bit more. And then there were twelve... A good, strong group with myriad strengths and perspectives! But I digress - Trenthian, and Compyfox as well, should be proud of this mix - it's solid all around, features some beyond-competent recorder playing, a dynamic, syncopated, layered rhythm section, and a good ear for solo/ensemble alternation. In addition, there's a certain atmosphere the mix creates, somewhat enigmatic, nomadic, roots. Starts strong, stays strong, and leaves a strong impression. As Shariq quite capitally enthuses:

"OH MAN I LOVES ME SOME LIVE RECORDER"

... pretty much sums things up :)

― djpretzel