Video game music fans, have I got a treat for you! Just released on November 7th, the original soundtrack for Scattered Notes is currently blowing my mind. California-based yuzuki masu has crafted a five-track journey that will remind you of all the best memories from your childhood. Final Fantasy, Chrono Trigger, Secret of Mana… the list of influences could go on and on, but quite frankly it stands strongly on its own two feet. Just in time for the change of seasons, grab a warm cup of tea and relax while you listen to this gem:

Seriously, I can’t recommend this album enough, especially if you love video game music. The composition is stellar, the instrumentation and sound design are completely on point, and most importantly: the emotions expressed in the music come through loud and clear. Notes of nostalgic love, pensive remembrance, and perhaps a dash of loneliness for good measure… everything really meshes perfectly, and the end result is something that will likely leave you deep in thought.

From a more objective standpoint the soundtrack is definitely orchestral, with piano, strings, and other mainstays in the genre taking center stage. The samples perfectly toe the line between realism and “video game music”, which make perfect sense considering the context. Scattered Notes is a kinetic novel that draws influence from JRPGs, and was created in a very short amount of time for the 2015 Yuri Game Jam. I’ve always been impressed with the ability to create a full game (and soundtrack) on such a short schedule, and Scattered Notes is certainly no exception.

The soundtrack takes a turn towards the more upbeat, Celtic-influenced acoustic style later on, evoking memories of “Gerudo Valley” from Zelda: Ocarina of Time and similar classics. Even with the shift in genre, yuzuki remains masterful in execution and doesn’t compromise quality for a moment. Truly great stuff. Even better news is that this is only the first part of the soundtrack, so you can expect even more amazing music when the full game releases! Don’t worry, I’ll keep you posted.

Bottom line: perfectly composed with all the right memories, and an original sound all its own, Scattered Notes is a fantastic example of what modern video game music can (and should) be. Highly recommended.

You can pick up Scattered Notes on Bandcamp name-your-price, and I certainly suggest spending some bucks for the excellent work. You can follow yuzuki masu on YouTube and Twitter, and don’t forget to check out the game itself!