ReMix:The Legend of Zelda "Destined" 7:25

LindsayAnne Pepper debuted on OCR with a Zelda (NES) ReMix way back in July of 2004; more than fourteen years later, we're thrilled to post this gorgeous, resonating, romantic 7 minute orchestral expansion & interpretation of two of Koji Kondo's classic themes from the Zelda universe, as she collaborates with Brooke Ferdinandsen on oboe:

"While I understand this is on the long end of many submissions, I hope that you will please consider it. Throughout the Legend of Zelda series history, the main story line is "princess Zelda gets captured, Link goes on a quest to defeat the evil and save her." Many times throughout the games, a romantic connection is hinted at but never determined. In Skyward Sword, this was especially noteworthy.

This symphonic composition was written as a romantic version of what could be if the story continued after the credits roll, a delicate and romantic blend of two melodies from the Legend of Zelda series: "Zelda's Lullaby" and Link's theme (main melody). Their two themes are explored in various ways, sometimes apart, sometimes together, as well as hidden throughout. Flute solo parts are performed by myself, and I was lucky to have Brooke Ferdinandsen perform for the oboe parts. I thought she added beautiful depth and emotion to the piece. I hope you enjoy!"

While samples (particularly slower attacks) are exposed at points, I love the sheer amount of emotion and movement the artist imbues into these themes, fully embellishing them and making them lush, intimate, & stirring. Sir_NutS writes:

"Arrangement is solid, and the sequencing/humanization works for me. There's adequate pacing to every section and attention to detail. Instruments get a bit too exposed but I don't think I doubted this being above the bar after it was over. I liked the arrangement the most, as this is such a popular song that doing something different with it becomes super difficult, but you managed to add your own touch to the arrangement, weaving in original phrasing between the classic lines and I'm totally into that. I want this on the front page."

So say we all; NutS getS what NutS wantS. Brooke's lovely phrasing and delicate performance elevate this and compensate for any lack of realism in other parts, and the tradeoffs between solo winds and ensemble strings really tug at the heartstrings; kudos to L.A. Pepper for effective dynamics, swells that'll have you holding youe breath, and a very beautiful reinterpretation of classic, well-explored themes into something new. Bravo!