Falcom is known for creating high-quality, piano arranged albums. From the two Ys Piano Collections to The Legend of Heroes PC, you really can’t go wrong with these, as is the case with Sorcerian MIDI Piano. By taking some of the slower selections from the game, Falcom has arranged them with just the right amount of jazziness to make this another excellently-arranged album. Sorcerian’s music has an odd way of growing on you, taking you by surprise just when you least expect it, which was exactly what happened with me.
I admit, I’m not completely familiar with all of Sorcerian’s music, and unless you’re acquainted with the game or soundtracks, you may have a hard time recognizing these pieces. Fortunately, the compositions are solid enough that it doesn’t pose a problem. As a piano album, naturally most of the arrangements are of slower nature. Both Ending Themes are treated to really nice renditions and are among some of the better tracks on the album. A few jazzier themes are represented here as well. It seems the Tomohiko Kishimoto decided to go for jazziness more than drama when arranging some of the faster, rock-inspired pieces (which isn’t so surprising considering his affiliation with Falcom’s JDK Band). However, the best track altogether would have to be “Village.” With its mysterious melody melding into a complex and very moving composition, it simply takes my breath away.
As anyone who’s read my reviews knows, not only do I spot the highlights on each album, but also the problems. Here, there’s so much good music in the game that I was a bit disappointed with the selections that were chosen. I would have loved to hear one of the themes from the “God’s of Heaven,” or “Ice Cavern,” portions of the game arranged. Also, some of these compositions don’t translate very well into piano pieces; they seem to lack the emotional drama that’s present in most other piano arrangements. But, if you can get past those problems, you’re likely to enjoy this CD a lot.
Although it has a few flaws, Sorcerian MIDI Piano is a solid album. If you like piano arrangements, you’ll probably want to pick this one up. And, as always, any Falcom fan will want it. Fortunately, it’s still available at Game Music Online for about $27.
