ReMix: Killer Instinct 'The Wolf of the Opera'

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When I think Killer Instinct, I don't particularly think piano solo, but we're all about defying conventions and adapting/retrofitting old tunes in new contexts, and newcomer Uboichi does exactly that with this arrangement. Technically it's a piano duet, though both weren't played at the same time, as there's not one but two fairly dark Grands at work. No Opera singing, so if that's not your gig, don't worry (though you should reconsider and check out Puccini and Wagner, etc.) - straight piano(s) and no libretto for this wolf's Opera. The common comments from the judges were that the mix is an interpretive and creative arrangement, recorded well enough, but that the performance could have been a bit more human, had more dynamic contrast, and held back on the heapin' helpin' of staccato, all of which I'd agree with. The pianos are a bit dark, but this is more a personal preference thing, as Steinways, Bosendorfers, Kawaiis, Young Changs, etc. all have their own timbre. The moody judge who used to be a system MANIAC writes:

"Original, well-sequenced and moody. Would have liked to hear more dynamic contrast, and there are a few little sound quality issues, mostly staccatos that are just a bit too short. Nice work."

Which is an equitable and measured appraisal, methinks. The strong element here is the overall concept and adaptation, and the sequencing is dramatic and note-heavy in a good way. I could have seen this, as Jesse suggested, developing into a full orchestration with deep cellos and some accentuating percussion, but as is it's an interesting, unexpected take on Killer Instinct that gives the button masher some classical chops.

― djpretzel