As arguably one of the best made games of all time, Super Mario Galaxy must have one of the best video game soundtracks I’ve ever had the pleasure to hear. This particular song is a remix of an old school Super Mario 64 track, Bowser Star Reactor just pumps you up for the battle ahead. Tune in, enjoy.

Nintendo – Super Mario Galaxy – Bowser Star Reactor

Nor her sister.
Or her dog…maybe.

Well, the last few days I’ve been listening to TFOT’s In the Unlikely Event. It is an album that might not have the atmosphere of Phantom on the Horizon, and it may not have the random changes of Manipulator, but it packs a punch in its own way. Almost half of the tracks on ITUE are Thomas Erak’s versions of pop songs. The Fall of Troy has included sing-along choruses and hooks, EGADS!? While many will probably see this as a weakness, I see it as more of an oportunity. This band has slowly learned to incorporate an element of popiness that their earlier albums were missing. You can’t always expect pure technical prowless to determine songwriting. Weezer is, or at least was, a good band.

Not at all to compare the two bands, as this album, despite it having some pop to it, still melts faces, frightens, and excites. Take “A Classic Case Of Transference” from 2:30 to the end. The music is constantly changing, furious, beautiful, and creative. The biggest improvement on songwriting is Frank on bass. He adds an interesting background to Thomas’s cirus-style playing. His jazz lines over solos bring an element that was missing with Ward.

Another plus side is knowing that TFOT knows they are writing poppier music. Track 5, titled “Single” is a radio-friendly single that still fits their style.

There are a few downsides to the album though. Erak’s voice sounds different than on earlier releases, with him obviously taking some voice lessons, but a few parts that are supposed to be showcasing his voice don’t really do him justice. At times, I could hear harmonies in my head that could have been included, but that’s production decision.

All in all, I say this is a solid album that might piss off some xxxhxcxxx fans, but most fans, music lovers, and hopefully some noobs will enjoy.

I just recently completed Shadow of the Colossus, and I have to say, one of the worst demos I’ve ever played, one of the most epic games I’ve ever played. To give you an idea of how bad this demo was… I completed it, 3 times, trying desperately to like it (Huge fan of Ico here), but couldn’t get into it… luckily, my buddy Kristi had the full game and had me try it out. Amazing. Far from the best game I’ve played, but definitely one of the most immerse and epic. Here’s the key: The soundtrack! Here’s tune from one of the fights with the colossi. Epic, loud, orchestrated, you can’t do much better than this for boss music.

Try the game if you haven’t already! Its pretty damn good!

Sony Computer Entertainment – Shadow of the Colossus – The Opened Way ~ Battle With the Colossus

If you haven’t played Street Fighter 4 yet, go out and get to it. By far my favorite game in the series. One of the things that makes this game so badass is the soundtrack. Enjoy this double take today, with 2 songs! I’m sure I’ll be pulling more jems from this OST as time goes on, so stay tuned!

PS3 – Street Fighter 4 – Theme of Ryu

PS3 – Street Fighter 4 – VCN Stage

Yea, I know, I’m two days late. Fuck off.

You may not have heard of Kraftwerk, as they come from a different time. A time when you didnt have to look good to be a famous musician. A time when you could release an 8 minute song as a single. The 70′s. I know kids, its hard to imagine life thirty years ago without cell phones, and without all this crazy electronic music that you all are listening to these days.

But that crazy electronica started with Kraftwerk, and little does everyone know that they are the original Queen- the band that rap rips off without asking. Take Common’s new commercial for example, where he talks about his new song being influenced by Afrika Bambamtas “Planet Rock.” What Common’s uneducated ass doesn’t know is that Afrika Bambamta illegally stole “Planet Rock” from Kraftwerk’s “Trans-Europe Express.” Now, I’m all for sampling, despite it taking much less talent than writing, but I want the writers to get credit, or at least recognition, and with an article on 72pc.com, Kraftwerk now has that recognition.

Ok, maybe not.

Anymore, those faces would all be photoshopped to make the band more appealing, and they’d all be wearing eyeliner and girls jeans. Fuck our current culture.

Trans-Europe Express begins with synth. You’ll be getting used to synth throughout this album, as it is pretty much the only instrument they use. The melodies are repetitive, but you’ll find yourself humming them throughout the day. Kraftwerk does an amazing job at layering parts slowly, but effectively. Lyrics are mostly non-existent on tracks, but The Hall of Mirrors and Showroom Dummies SHOW us a ROOM full of crazy lyrics that are not DUMMIES? Damn it. Sometimes even I hate horrible puns.

While these men are close to geniouses for inventing electronica and becoming what would be the roots of techno, don’t expect compositional genious. Their songs lack a regular structure and it quickly becomes obvious that they didn’t write any of this to make money. Kraftwerk also uses a heavy vocoder that can make lil’ wayne sometimes look under-computerized.

Honestly, I’d love to see him try to use this machine, let alone rewire and configure it to create effects not possible with it’s standard controls.

All in all, Trans-Europe Express is a pretty solid album. What it lacks in complexity it makes up for in catchiness and inventiveness. Without Kraftwerk’s early werk, rock music might be different than it is today.

Also, check them out on tour with Radiohead if you’re lucky enough to be in Europe. Who knows, you might be one of the only ones that will know who they are, so you can impress all your hip indie friends that went to see Radiohead.

Its that time of the week again, and this time, I bring you a song from the Streets of Rage Remake. In case you haven’t heard of us talk about it on the podcast, this is a completely redone version of Streets of Rage, and by far, my favorite version. Bomber Games did something completely ludicrous, and they aren’t even done with the project yet. Currently in the works are online play, standard bugfixes, cheats, and a ‘store’ where you can buy game cutscenes. I can’t stress enough how much I love this game. Enjoy the game, enjoy the soundtrack. This is a HUGE entry for Battletunes.

Bomber Games – Streets of Rage Remake – Bar Hopping (3Mb)

Microsoft Windows – Streets of Rage Remake v401b (70Mb)

Bomber Games – Streets of Rage Remake OST (174Mb)

Again… I can’t stress how much I love this team. First off, this is a TON of work, second off, giving this away for free. Do your childhood memories some justice, grab this awesome game.
http://www.bombergames.net/

I’m talking about the one and only, Dr. Phineas Waldolf Steel. A toy-making, robot constructing, mad scientist whose melodic transmissions caught my eye whilst crusin’ the intrenets… and the mespaces…

Dr. Steel has three albums [“Dr. Steel”, “Dr. Steel II: Eclectic Boogaloo” and “People of Earth”] as well as the “Dr. Steel Collection,” which includes remixes and a cover of “Inspector Gadget”! Surgically splicing Hip Hop, Progressive and Industrial in a most intriguing fashion. I’m not a big fan of tossing out genre titles, thus I dub it:

“Factotronocular Transmissions”

Chronological order is the way to go, logically. The first track of “Dr. Steel”… which is “Dr. Steel,” opens the saga of the Dr. Steel ride. You’ll be pulled into a land of mechanical soul: Toyland. It’s a solid representation of what you’re in for, a madman on the loose in your speakers. If you’re not into crazy music, you might want to turn back now. For those who appreciate the acquired taste of well put together tunes that make you teeter on that border are in for a fuckin’ TREAT.

Now you’re in Steel’s world, where you can enjoy the audible smog from robot workers which, coincidentally, also make up the members of the band… when they’re working properly. While repairs are being done he’s got a human band, so you’re still gonna get the Steel Experience with the aid of loyal nurses and PUPPETS! That’s right, no need to go back and read it ‘cause I’m about to repeat it! At Dr. Steel shows, you get the Mad Scientest himself, you get a sick band, HOT NURSES, and A PUPPET SHOW PERFORMING THE STORIES OF THE SONGS.

I’m trying to think of something about the idea that isn’t badass… I have nothing to report…

I could stress the importance of why chrono-lodge is the best way to listen to the albums, but that would be like explaining why movies, comics, anime, shows with an in-depth and thoughtful circumstancial order need to be seen from the beginning. A lot happens and you could miss plenty, which means you might not get quite the same impact as someone who know’s what’s going on. It’s like a Sci-Fi movie happening in your brain.

Going play-by-play on this one might spoil the potential fun for you. This is music that is better listened to actively, not passively. If you’ve got the mental capacity to take in a story, you’re set.

I was able to get the Doctor to answer a few questions, by which I mean 11…

[SkizZ]
How’s the weather in Toyland?

(Dr. Steel)
I’m uncertain. With my laboratory being underground I tend not to experience a great deal of weather directly. Though, the last time I checked security cam #5, I spied a few chemtrails smeared across the sky. I’ll be staying inside today.

[SkizZ]
Your toys look a little on the unsafe side… So just how much fun is promised with a World Domination Toy?

(Dr. Steel)
Oh, no. All World Domination Toys products are completely safe unless misused. Each product is designed specifically for maximum fun! I look forward to seeing many of these creations made available far and wide in the future.

[SkizZ]
What made you think of using puppets at your live shows?

(Dr. Steel)
Well, I’ve found that most rock shows are truly lacking in the puppet show department. To this end I’ve decided to remedy that particular problem. I look forward to expanding such performances to include an ever greater collection of unusual visual stimuli as my resources expand.

[SkizZ]
How many loyal followers do you have?

(Dr. Steel)
Oh goodness, that’s nearly an impossible question to answer. As if I were to provide you with a quote, such numbers would inevitably be inaccurate once this interview is printed as new Toy Soldiers enlist daily. Likewise, the only verified enthusiasts I can pinpoint are those who have taken the time to fill out the Toy Soldier application form. These enthusiastic visionaries are truly appreciated indeed, but they are the exception to the average fan of my work. Especially in a day and age where most people are reluctant to provide their personal details. Looking at my world domination map, I see pinpoints bursting from every corner of the United States and Britain, then expanding rapidly throughout Australia. Recently, the Spanish Division was established with Soldiers in that region translating my manifesto into their native language. It’s brilliant to see such ever increasing support, and with the exponential growth through the sincere passion of The Toy Soldiers I look forward to seeing other corners of the globe gravitate towards the movement as well.

[SkizZ]
What is Wikipedia’s problem with your work? And how do you feel about their refusal to include a page for you, despite your vast array of media?

(Dr. Steel)
I can only assume that Wikipedia is but a small arm of the Alien Illuminati, who continually aim to engineer reality. That I am exposing such truths and encouraging the creative powers of the masses is clearly something they have been fighting to oppress for a very long time. I see this not as a punishment but as an affirmation that I am indeed on the right track. Either that, or they just think I’m silly.

[SkizZ]
The nurses are a nice touch… I don’t really have a question for that one.

(Dr. Steel)
Understood.

[SkizZ]
Your thoughts on 2012?

(Dr. Steel)
An intriguing enigma indeed, and one with a great many theories. As for me, I look forward to the potential alteration of humanity’s paradigm as a whole. May whatever events that take place in the coming years present doorways of possibilities and potential.

[SkizZ]
At what point did you wave bye-bye to your sanity?

(Dr. Steel)
Like many of us I found myself working a nine to five job, living my life in a small office for a bi-weekly paycheck and the satisfaction of knowing that I was “safe”. Though such a position was certainly expected and often desired by the majority of the world, it left me feeling unsatisfied and frustrated with the lack of personal, creative satisfaction.

To this end I one day found myself at a crossroads. I was presented with a choice to continue this way of life or to forge a new one. With a healthy dose of insanity I chose the latter and decided to throw caution to the wind so that I might pave my own way. I have since reinvented myself and spend my every day marching towards the completion of my vision. To live in a state of creativity and self reliance while forever peering beyond the veil of assumed reality is my continued desire.

[SkizZ]
Besides music, making toys, experiments and planning global domination, what hobbies do you have?

(Dr. Steel)
My life is designed to create in any way that I can. To manifest ideas is the only thing I am interested in doing. All that I do is intended to achieve such goals. I look forward to circumventing eat, sleep and defecation as the technology is developed to do so.

[SkizZ]
What message do you want to give to those who may not know of your genius?

(Dr. Steel)
Identify your sincere, creative passions and do all that you can to realize them.

[SkizZ]
What can we look forward to in the future?

(Dr. Steel)
Infinite possibilities, my friend. Infinite possibilities.

.and giant robots.

There you have it!
From the man himself, words of inspiration and realization. Many an artist, and people in general, could learn a thing or three from Dr. Steel. Mainly how to own face!
He covers a variety of topics, ranging from the “Fibonacci Sequence” to Godzilla [“Atomic Superstar”] to Conspiracies [“Conspiracy”] to a “Bikinigram from Satan.”

http://www.toysoldiersunite.com/files/uploads/drsteelmusicsampler.mp3

There is something truly unique about the idea(s) of Dr. Steel, primarily the motif of the mad scientist. One of those ideas so great it produces a “why the FUCK didn’t I think of that?” moment. Guess I’m not that brilliant, I’ll stick with the Wizardry.

If you like what you hear from Dr. Steel and want to swear your undying allegiance, you can hop on over to http://www.toysoldiersunite.com where you can choose which department best suits you.
TSU.com has a lot to offer in the ways of Steelery, so check it out.
If there was ever a mastermind of music to side with, Dr. Phineas Waldolf Steel is that mastermind.

There is also a lot to see at

http://worlddominationtoys.com/drsteel/enter.html

When I say he has created his own world, you’ll see I am far from kidding.

He also has his own Youtube channel, http://www.youtube.com/user/DoctorSteel
where he releases PSAs and episodes of “The Dr. Steel Show”… which are filled to the brim of the beaker that is hilarity.

And, of course, http://www.doctorsteel.com works too!

Steel truly understands what it takes to get noticed in the time we live in. He’s got so many outlets, it’s really a wonder why more people haven’t heard of him. But that will change soon. As time progresses more and more people will recognize Steel’s abilities and charisma, then he will reign supreme. I’m quite confident of this.

One thing attempting to hold him back is the Misinformation Powerhouse known as Wikipedia. He’s all over the internet, he’s even been on JAY LENO (don’t believe me? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qlq68GTjd_Y  chiggity check it! I couldn’t find the whole thing, but he’s there!) and he doesn’t have a Wikipedia page. Not for a lack of trying, attempts have been made. But when those attempts took place they were REJECTED and REMOVED because he didn’t meet “notability standards”. Absurd!!! I can’t tell you how many shitty bands have a page on Wikipedia. I guess the line is drawn when the artist in question makes you THINK. Either that or they think it is one big, elaborate hoax. That’s a long way for someone to go for the sake of a goof! What the hell are you hiding, Wikipedia?

I’d like to thank Dr. Steel for taking time out of his busy day of global domination to answer my questions. I’d also like to thank him for having the integrity to make something truly amazing with music. Instead of selling his soul to make something half-assed and lacking of heart and mind.

So get out there and support this artist who truly deserves it.
Buy his music, show your allegiance by becoming a Toy Soldier and bow down to Dr. Steel, bitch!

If you’ve been listening to the podcast, you know that I’m a huge fan of World of Goo. A great independent game for PC (Windows, OSX, Linux, no one gets left out!) and WiiWare. The game starts as a standard physics simulator, but then quickly tries to teach you something. The meaning of life? Who knows… MOM would. But it sure is tasty.

-The Musical Sign Painter

2D-Boy – PC – World of Goo – Brave Adventurers

If you like this, I’m sure you’ll like the full soundtrack! Amazingly enough, Kyle Gabler is giving this away for free!! You should pay him a visit or send him an email at ‘Kyle (at) kylegabler.com’. We’ve put the zip file here for your convenience, but its all thanks to this man! Its a rare occurrence that we can release an entire soundtrack without legal repercussions, so head over to his site and pay him a visit!

Kyle Gabler – World of Goo OST – (ZIP-85Mb)

Buy World of Goo Today! All your friends are doing it!

- The Entrepreneurial Sign Painter

Ok, this is one of my favorite Zelda song’s of all time. Its catchy, melodic, and salsa. Yes. Salsa. Its a wonderful example of a stereotypical desert theme and a completely batshit crazy example of a Zelda song. Its so god-damned different from the rest of the music in the entire series that it absolutely deserved a plug.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time – Gerudo Valley

Konami – Silent Hill – Tears Of…