Rumors

While this album is your standard horror affair with all the trappings that come with it, it’s far from generic. With syncopated percussion mixed with accented strings, it draws the listener into its endless corridor of grooves. The depth and range that the piano creates here mixed with looming sound effects manifests an almost visual experience that really adds to the depth of Naoaki’s score. The mixture of classical instruments, namely the Harpsichord, blends beautifully with various electronic pulses and murmurs that adds a unique and ghastly layer to these compositions. Much like the divergent pathways and choices of the game it comes from, this album is wrought with tension in each and every groove that makes for a short yet harrowing experience.

Whispers

As Aksys Games’ first ever vinyl release, I have to say the presentation and quality is well done here. The way in which they have captured the feeling of the game in vinyl form is really great and simple through the artwork provided by the Experience Inc. art team. The stylistic depiction of the main characters creates an awesome visual accompaniment to the music held within its single sleeve packaging. The mastering has a rich tone to it that is very clean and allows for all the little nuances of Naoaki’s work to shine. Compared to the CD version from the Limited Edition, I definitely prefer the tone and feel that the vinyl has in comparison. All in all, I think that while short, this release has its moments and fills a perfect spot in anyone’s collection who is looking for a short yet memorable horror experience.