ReMix: Shivers 'Cerebral Rose Jam'

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Let's be upfront - it's pretty unlikely that you've played Shivers. I'd imagine this ReMix will get more listeners from fans of Israfel than of the source material, but I'm fine with that - it doesn't reflect negatively on the game or its music, it's just that some titles aren't as well-known as others. Sierra did its very best to keep the Adventure genre alive, and delivered many a classic PC title back in the day. Bottom line is, whether you're an Israfel advocate, Sierra nut, actually played Shivers, or are simply into well-crafted, ethnic-infused compositions of the ilk the ReMixer is so adept at creating, you should take the time to check this ReMix out. Michael writes:

"The main theme was used as the basis for several arrangements within the game. So sometimes it was played slowly, sometimes quickly, with backing material, or sometimes solo. My own take of the melody takes it at a more leisurely pace. As far as the samples go - the ethnic samples are from Quantum Leap's Rare Instruments collection, the piano is the one that comes bundled with GigaStudio, the percussion is from Sonic Implants and everything else was freely downloaded."

When Shnabubula first started submitting his stuff, some comparisons to Michael's work were drawn, and to anyone who's been following both artists I think this mix again illustrates certain similarities in style, specifically juxtaposition of very emotive, authentic acoustic instruments with extremely synthetic timbres, in this case solo string, wind, and vocal leads being contrasted against insectile, creeping/falling electronic arpeggios. Articulation work abounds, on all the leads, w/bends and ornamentation, and also on the organic, hypnotizing percussion, which melts into the bassline in an opium-like daze of sound. Very Eastern, not only in instrumentation but also structure. The progression at 3'08" and the like, with synth pads, is striking, delicate, and beautiful. The panel's own mojo-worker and all-around ladies' man, Larry Oji (aka Dr. Feelgood) interjects:

"I also had to say that this track makes great makeout music. Cue it up in the background for your lady."

... where applicable. Smooth, exotic stuff from Israfel.

― djpretzel