OCR01363 - Final Fantasy VII 'Beyond Midgar'

[djpretzel]

What did you think? Post your opinion of this ReMix.

[Dahlia]

Certainly a nice interpretation of the theme. I particularly enjoyed the elaboration in the third minute.

It's too bad it was delayed by five months though. Maybe BogusRed was waiting for an answer from Native Instruments support. :lol:

[Hyperion5182]

I have to fully disagree with the review given on this piece. This fits perfectly into the theme on which it was meant to be used. While it doesnt go all out it captures the feeling and emotion related to this mix.

[Txai]

Final Fantasy is a very used word on these days. This is probably the year of Final Fantasy Mixes. Pleasant piano. Some ReMixers can do good songs with only one piano because they put some variation on the volume and time. This is the case. Only one instrument and this is great. The piano was played nicely..."plonk, plonk, plonk..."

[Dj Orange]

I have to admit I have no innate keen-ness for tempirical piano menstruation, but I intuitively sense that this is a good piano arrangement. There are lots of well articulated spaces between the notes that justify the transitions in mood moreso than in other arrangements of this piece. I will come back to it more for the inspired dynamics than anything else. It's very accessible, and at the same time will appeal to all the pretentious bastards who need to jack off to quiet hermiones and shit. Good work!

[Laughy]

This is definitely well arranged and thought out. As described before, mastering and sound quality is a slight problem. Also, as a fan of piano arrangements, it's hard for me not to claim that I would have liked to have heard this done on a real piano. This would give the song its own personality and make it feel less edgy.

Again though, good work and can't wait to hear more stuff from you, particularly with multiple instruments.

[Wicked]

I'm digging this. I've always been a sucker for solo piano mixes and this one is no different from the others as it's grabbing me by the throat and pulling me into it. It's a little simplistic, however, for my taste and there wasn't enough going on at certain parts to keep my full attention but just when I started to slip away, you'd get things going again. So as a whole, it worked out. :)

[Infinity's End]

Though the justification of the piece was already written so eloquently in the review by DJP himself, I feel I just wanted to summarize in a few words.

Excellent dynamics, movement, and overall feeling.
-but-
It's a mediocre piece, lacking variation on both the melody and counter-melody.

"Conservative arrangement" eh? Y'know, you really don't have to post every single Final Fantasy piano arrangement you ever receive. I enjoyed the piece, don't get me wrong, but it didn't warrant a download (just my opinion). BogusRed's best work so far is her Zelda piece. That one made me cry.:cry:

[-RK-]

Wow BogusRed. I never usually post anything about songs AFTER their posted, but, I had to at least say a few things about this song.

This is my favorite song out of Final Fantasy 7 and not since Klutz's redition of the song have I loved the theme more. In fact, I think your arrangement (to me) is slightly superior to his. But anyways, Excellent playing, excellent recording, excellent arrangement.

Wow.

[brickhouse]

First off, positively outstanding.

I always get emotional when I hear this song, and I've longed for a good arrangement, as none of the orchestral versions have suited me (mainly because they weren't true to the feel of the music and its meaning in the game). For those who don't know or don't remember, this music first appeared in FF7 after nearly 10 hours of gameplay in a sunless, slum city after multiple devastating accidents. For me, the music represented the crawling out of a festering pit and the opening of a new world. This arrangement captures those feelings.

I finally have what has already been called a very emotive arrangement - thank you!

[Rexy]

It's about time this mix came up. :P I've had her initial recording saved to my hard drive for the past few months, and to see the finished version up on the site at long last I'm pretty much showing relief at what she's done. One can wonder if the wait was well worth it; although I'd tell you now that I appreciated the skill that came around her previous arrangement "Into The Golden Sunset" (which I like most people have found it to make me cry), so that can be firmly taken into account.

As an OCR "pianina" myself (;)) I'll be sure to drop my thoughts on all this:-

---

Remix

In terms of familiarization towards the original it feels very conservative in its linking towards it, so that can help associate firmly with FFVII gamers. The execution of the performance is generally good for the most part, although if there were some aspects that could shake some people they would relate to some sudden jumps up and down in dynamics and slowdowns to match; I think they seem to somehow make the piece feel a bit struggled in some segments, although the natural presentation is still there at heart. Variance on the theme is still available in spite of its conservative tendencies, mainly shown by a total change of key in comparison to the core theme (and the initial recording I came across to begin with, may I add), and enough variance upon the general rhythms and structuring for the source material when noted. The structure, while good, seems to stick a bit too closely to the specified theme but it's still good enough to help keep much of the track's emotive aspects strong, most especially with the more creative ending sequence that managed to come through. So in terms of this aspect of the arrangement, I don't really see this as the most adventurous interpretation of the theme but there's still some good unique aspects in the arrangement that have aided in making its (rather belated) entrance to OCR possible.

Creativity

In terms of breathing in some extra life towards the song there's been a good amount of changes in mood to help add to the more reflective atmosphere that Susie was looking for. Generally the sections link well even though the conservative arrangement have partially not made that her responsibility; however those who appreciate the game shouldn’t see that as too much of a problem. For me I found some of the dynamics linking into some of the areas could have been a bit more careful in their execution, although I still found that fairly reasonable. I found a lot of fresh expressions with a lot of tense portions shown at the start as well as some more upbeat aspects near the middle and darker moods near the end - those can help provide a fresh pace throughout the course of the arrangement here. I didn't sense too much repetition; she's had a good go at eradicating that aspect altogether by making sure that various variations on the track's melodic structure are given unique rhythmic incarnations to make sure that no segment sounds the same. For much of the time I found the overall performance of the theme to really shine well; while not the most expansive of pieces it's very enjoyable work if you want to take on board piano arrangements and/or Final Fantasy mixes, so that can be of some positive well being here. Well done.

Production

In comparison to her initial recording of this, I found this to be a lot cleaner and better executed in terms of instrument clarity; one qualm that I've had with the sample was that it made some of the softer sounds feel a little bit on the unclear side, although there's been some good reasoning for the choice behind it. Even through here the processing sounds mainly alright for what it was, although it can be argued that some of the muddy tendencies with the softer segments could be cleared with some bolder EQs; rolling off a very light amount in the low-mids might do the trick there. The recording itself is very clean and well shown in terms of dynamics; was hoping for a little less sustain but it is still well thought out. That has even been shown in the basic sound levels, where much of the recording tendencies are taken at a well balanced quality and have easily allowed the dynamics to be able to come to their own. The panning has been shown well through the overall instrument space, as well as much of the room ambience that was taken around it. In terms of this aspect I noticed a fair amount of excellent aspects taken to the rendering as well as some areas that could do with a closer re-approach, although as it stands I really felt this aspect has been able to make it shine on its own. Good stuff.

---

While I personally feel that the recording is a great improvement over the version I found on her website 3 months ago, I still honestly believe that she showed her emotive side much stronger with Into the Golden Sunset. That's not to say this mix pales in comparison; although it plays rather conservatively, it has still been able to take a grasp at the theme in its most reflective and meaningful form throughout, something that I feel that piano arrangements should be recognised more for.

So yeah, I can definitely say that the mix's release was worth the wait and it's another well thought out addition to BogusRed's musical library. I hope she comes forth with some good stuff in the future; you know that pixietricks and I can't operate the female mixing scene by ourselves :D

[Numiso13]

>stunning work. it's hard for almost everyone to create such a memorable slow piano piece, but you've done it. the changes in tempo, intensity and softness of the notes, and just teh overall amazing compisition really set you apart form other remixers.

damn good job

[silentplummet]

Beautiful arrangement of what must have been rather difficult to bring to the piano. Well played, too. I don't know why everyone is describing this as a "slow" arrangement, there are quite a few technical moments in there.

If that's an acoustic piano, though, I'll eat myself.

[DJ Magotrox Brazil]

No much to say...when we´re talking about art. I´m sure that this remix have a "feelling" of art. So, it´s a good job. A very good one. Just make some more of it...

Bad News - No. Not this time...

Good News - Yes... Just hear it... surely a good piano remix of the FF7 main world theme...

[supremespleen]

This is a very pretty remix. I've never heard the source material, but now I think I may have to get a copy of it.

[Samuru]

Wow. I dont' have the words to describe the beauty in this piece. Wow, you can't tell it's a remix, in the sense that it's just so awesome that it's a piece that you can just play when you are reading or something like that, and you couldn't tell the difference between a famous classical artist and this in particular. Yes, I know, Mozart and Midgard, what a comparison, but wow, I don't know, it's just my opinion.

Keep up the awesome work.

[RimFrost the Tourianist]

She certainly has talent for the soft piano, and it shows well in this piece.
Far better than the original version in my opinion. And it should have been in the game..

Excellent work BogusRed. Make more songs like this :D

[The Orichalcon]

Very nice piano work. I'll listen to this a lot. No gripes here. Perfect sound, great playing, great mood, it all fits.

[Brushfire]

I have always been a fan of Final Fantasy 7(Greatest. Game. Ever.) and this peice just brought a tear to my eye. I dare say it was better than what Nobuo Uematsu produced..... maybe......Anyway great job and goo luck on our future endevors Red.

[JC83]

cool another one!

[Vercalos]

I'm not an expert in music, so I won't pretend to be one, but this is definately an excellent and well done piece. I didn't feel it was very conservative, except in style, which feels a little neo-classical. Definately another good one to add to the collection.

[Icct Hedrix]

As much as I liked kLuTz's piano remix I will finally admit that someone has finally made a better mix. I really do hope that BogusRed will have many more submissions in the future

[Genesis Blue]

Boy, I haven't downloaded any mixes since Dragonlord's Cool Mind but I'm glad I decided to take a chance today. I've always loved FFVII's Main Theme and this mix is very skillful and beautiful. Nice work :nicework:

[Subz1987]

wow... just wow...

What a BEAUTIFUL piano piece. It's the type of piece that makes you feel at peace, especially at 2:41. It's just an amazing piece, a great piano solo, beautiful quality. An amazing piece. Kudos to the remixer for making suck a beautiful piece.

[Sprite]

well done- can't wait to hear more from BogusRed 8^D

[Adam_Slight]

Sweet song, but is it just me who would like to hear -other- Zelda 64 songs?

[BogusRed]

What do you mean Adam_Slight by other Z64 songs? This is an FF7 song. Or am I misunderstanding you?

[Liontamer]

What do you mean Adam_Slight by other Z64 songs? This is an FF7 song. Or am I misunderstanding you?
Guy apparently wants more Zelda mixes from you instead.

[BogusRed]

Yo LionTamer! How's it hangin'!

It kind of confuses me what he said because the "other" implies that I did a Z64 song before but I did a Z3 song. Oh well, doesn't matter.... my brain hurts...

[Meji]

This is a beautiful remix. I know I might be biased because I have a spot in my heart for piano solos. I really enjoyed this remix as it brought back memories of the game and its characters. Very emotive

I especially love the quiet part at 1:59, it felt so heart warming to listen to it, and the powerful part at 2:41. Definitely recommended.

[Snooper_1989]

This is an awesome remix, though i'm trying to find the source of the original song... I can't find it.

[Twitch3]

BogusRed has done a beautiful job of taking the FF VII main theme and putting it wholly on the piano, going beyond the restraints of the orriginal melody, and adding more notes that bring out the grace of the piece.

Kudos to BogusRed, my hat is off to you.

~Twitch3

[Qcvar]

Awesome arranging/playing job. Sheet music would always be nice!

*does cute doggie-eyes* :pretzel:

edit: n/m - the midis on your site prove more than sufficient :)

[Sentiental]

...i'm trying to find the source of the original song... I can't find it.

The original song is 'Cloud's Theme'. I think it's pretty easy to find versions of it online...and I mean I can kiiinddaa see what the judges meant by 'too little interpretation,' cause it is orchestral to start with and has pretty much the same strucutre. However, I lerve this song so much. The piano interpretation was definitely excellent. kudos

[BogusRed]

Actually the source is the Overworld Main theme although often times that's considered the characters main theme. There is a link right to it on the page for the remix.
I think it's track 1 of the 2nd disc of the 4 disc soundtrack.

[Jabberbox]

it is much more colourful and emotive than KlUtZ'es take on the theme... his was just kinda lacking human emotion in it's composition.
I've noticed that your music brings back to mind fond and precious memories long forgotten in the heavy mists of my life.
it's so brilliant!
your music isnt perfect note for note... and thats a plus for you, it allows emotion and live to reside within the melody as it echos through time, like gold endebting its brilliant color due to imperfections.

... sorry... I get like that sometimes... sorry if I stretched the screen... :oops:

[Kuma_Joe]

I absolutley love your take on the FFVII theme! To me, it's an inspiratiion. I'm inspired by how you played this piece. Perhaps it's the fact that I myself am an aspiring pianist. Or just the fact that it's from FFVII, one of my favorite games of the series. But whatever the case this is top notch, 10/ 10! Something only a real pianist can do!

[Bummerdude]

This has a kind of careful piano, not rushing through everything, instead taking it easy and lets every note talk for itself. When it finally gets some more speed at 2:40, it gets real beautiful and professional when the notes just fly past you and absorbs into your ears. Then it gets calm again, and then a touching finish to make it all a remix definitly worth a download.
Then we all listened happily ever after.
The End

[lady zelda]

^ I completely second those last two comments. I don't know how you do it, I just don't know how you do it!!!! You just take an idea and run with it...BEAUTIFULLY! It's as if you sit down at the piano and you're playing this tune as it comes to you. I don't know how to explain it.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I guess when you make a remix like this, you do it by exploring different sides of the main theme in a way that you see other ways to communicate the atmosphere, style, etc. and that's what gives rise to the different motifs/sounds (can't find the right word for it) that you weave together, like the one at the beginning and the one that builds from 4:48 or so.
Well, that's the way I see it, it could be completely different, but all I can say at this point is that it's a true masterpiece not to be forgotten, whether you have played FFVII or not, you gotta love it.

[Felix the Cat]

I thought this was a really good arrangment. I haven't heard the original and that usually makes the songs not fun for me to listen to, but I really enjoyed this one. Good job.

[Ranael]

Actually the source is the Overworld Main theme although often times that's considered the characters main theme. There is a link right to it on the page for the remix.
I think it's track 1 of the 2nd disc of the 4 disc soundtrack.

The piece is amazing and is one of my favorite OC remixes of all time. My one question is when will we see new stuff from you?

[Avatar of Justice]

Three cheers for this remix! A number of piano versions of songs on this site are just that...piano versions. But this mix goes beyond the source material in a very moving way. Especially love the stuff between 3:05 and 3:30.

[avaris]

One of my all time favs at OCR. Can't get enough of the minimalist insanely emotional pieces. The tone of the piano compliments the composition. The human performance aspect is def the bread winner for the mix.

[Inv1ctus]

you know some people might think that everyone is heavily biased towards listening and making music for the final fantasy series, but listen to this track and i think its easy to see that it is done for good reason. A story like that is more than a game, its an experience. I know it sounds dumb but its true. If i die and there is a heaven, i will inevitably be thrown into that world which is so beautiful. I look back on that game with so many fond memories, its hard to shake.

This track reflects everything about this game that is marvelous. Moreover, its like revisiting the entire game in 5 minutes because of how well balanced in diversity it is. It has the positive and negative in powerful contrast, with all the spirituality of a Hayao Miyazaki film.
All i can say is thank you for the trip into memory.

From a technical perspective, the dissonance between notes is outstanding, as is the tender attention to percussive dynamics.
I agree with the writeup, indeed it was like watching someone draw a perfect circle.


I want this played at my wedding. To be honest, i really might :)

*listens to it again*

[42]

This track reflects everything about this game that is marvelous. Moreover, its like revisiting the entire game in 5 minutes because of how well balanced in diversity it is. It has the positive and negative in powerful contrast, with all the spirituality of a Hayao Miyazaki film.


A number of piano versions of songs on this site are just that...piano versions. But this mix goes beyond the source material in a very moving way.

What these people said ^

:shock:
Wow...
This
is
so
beautiful.
Wow...

I normally like solo piano arrangements because they make for interesting listens, but this... goes way beyond everything I've come to expect from these kinds of mixes.
It just positively drips with not just emotion and effort but personality. This is one of those mixes that belong in everyone's collection. I honestly could listen to this all day.

[OA]

This is like concentrated FF7 nostalgia for me. Absolutely stunning use of dynamics and pacing. I'm actually at a bit of loss for words on describing this song- it's incredibly emotional and really has to be heard.

Highly recommended.