ReMix:Final Fantasy X "Macalania Shaman" 3:54

Our second meditative FFX mix from Rebecca E. Tripp is a hybrid cinematic/new age/orchestral gem that selectively peppers some electronic textures among the organic landscape:

"This is my cover of "Macalania Woods" from Final Fantasy 10, originally composed by Masashi Hamauzu. The original theme was one of my favourite tracks in FFX. In this remix, I tried to make the song sound "magical" in a somewhat different way. I hope you enjoy!"

Synth pads! Synth FX! I love that Rebecca's expanding her palette/arsenal, and this arrangement does a good job blending these elements into a mesmerizing piece with a felt/bell pulse, "falling star"synth drops, tremolo strings creating some underscore/tension, rich & intimate flutes, expansive choral components, and even a rain stick. For some reason, I get a strong outer space/"Cosmos" vibe, exploring the infinite wonders of the universe, etc. - Carl or Neil could start narrating, and it would make sense, and to me that's strong praise. Sir_NutS writes:

"This is less symphonic or folksy than Rebeca's usual entries and I love it, lush evolving pads and droning ambient sounds complement the track well. I honestly enjoyed this hybrid track a lot more due to the unique sound you're going for here. I think the mix is sufficiently clean and I can hear the elements of the song well enough.

The arrangement is nothing too transformative but there are some cool ideas with some of the melodies changing instruments and purpose. I think you did a good job with a source that doesn't have that much to offer, and I really enjoyed this hybrid take."

So did I; this actually pairs well with the preceding "Song of Prayer" mix - both arrangements are more about steady exploration & reflection than anything more narrative or contrasting, and in the former we got to hear Rebecca's (lovely) voice, while for this piece there's a skillful application of hybrid/cinematic bits. 2020 is (understatement) the type of year where we could probably *all* use some decompression/meditation, and these two interpretations of FFX are each breathtaking journeys.