If simple progressive trance isn’t your thing then play Rez Infinite, the game where this soundtrack is from. As it offers a virtual conjunction of frequency that in symphony acts like a geometric opera. Without sounding [too] evangelical: in the context of virtual space, and even more so in VR, this music is transcendental. Achievement unlocked; pun intended; game over.
The soundtrack for Rez was always work of art. Originally released in 2001 the game blurred the lines between gaming and virtual expedition. It was presented as a 3D rail shooter similar to Star Fox on the SNES but offered more than just an anthropomorphic narrative. It aggregated rhythm into its shooting mechanic. Each shot offered a percussive hit making for a unique and surreal experiment in audience participation.
The original Rez featured prose about evolution where the addendum, known as Area X, is about rebirth. It may not be apparent through the soundtrack but the visuals propagate the idea. The score although reminiscent of Rez’es first journey is more connected and when combined into one sitting implies a theme similar to the riddle of the sphinx.
As the soundtrack for the game it fits and gives a more tangible representation of the dance it performs through its components. Soaring pads and structured beats inspire similar interpretations from player input during the course of the game. While each motif is thematically assigned to a level or stanza their development and eventual crescendo married to the visuals creates a further state of fugue between what is seen and what is heard.
Alone the soundtrack is simple; An effective house album verging on goa [or quite literally EBM – Ed]. However due to its lack of interactivity it only offers an insight into the deeper levels that Rez Infinite explores.
Hydelics‘ soundtrack for Rez Infinite is an energetic and emotionally condensed experience that works better with nostalgia on. As you recall events in game and associate them with your own experience with the game the soundtrack is almost as wonderful as playing it again. A hi-res soundtrack for a lo-res game together they offer a virtual interpretive dance between human and machine, and listening to it may give you butterflies.
9/10
