Ever notice how some music, removed from context, doesn't quite work as well? Not to say the new videogame soundtrack for
Sonic Adventure 2 doesn't work, but I somehow suspect the best use for this music is...well, playing
Sonic Adventure 2! For instance, it's hard to imagine that you'll find this soundtrack useful for any kind of mellow hanging out or socializing. What does make sense is that you'll buy the record and make a few select mix tapes for different occasions. There are over 70 minutes of 'sonic' goodness here, and fans of the game might even recognize how each of the 26 tracks connects to a location or event in the game. The vast majority of the tracks fall into a kind of Metal or Industrial genre that doesn't work for easy listening. Think of Saturday morning cartoons and you're on the right track. Other styles that show up include Hip-Hop (
Dive into the Mellow), Brazil or Latin-Pop (
Fly in the Freedom), Ska (
Let's Make It!), Metal (
Escape from the City), and Electronica (
Rhythm and Balance).
In short, lots of music that will drive your parents crazy. The production of the album is excellent, with great sound quality and fantastic packaging. TokyoPop doesn't miss a beat, as usual. A cool Sonic Adventure 2 sticker is included with the album, and all the lyrics for songs can be found inside the CD booklet. You know you never had time to really listen to what they were saying while you playing, right? So now you can sing along as you take Sonic through his paces. For fans of the game, and especially those who want all the available paraphernalia, TokyPop's Sonic Adventure 2 soundtrack is just what the doctor ordered. I would say the overall quality of these songs from a musical standpoint is just above average, not strong enough to stand alone without the game, but perfect for the tie-in product we have here. Sonic fans, and you know who you are, proceed to your nearest videogame retailer and pony up for this one. If you're not near your copy of Sonic Adventure 2, you can at least get revved up for the next time listening to this hot soundtrack. And if you loop the only relaxing track on the whole CD (The Last Scene) you might even fall asleep with sweet visions of Sonic playing through your dreams.
