Go Go!! Troublemakers Original Soundtrack

Enix's follow-up to their magnificent Wonder Project J 2 soundtrack, Go! Go! Troublemakers ("Mischief Makers" in America) is a somewhat questionable creation. The game, although enjoyable, was a bit of a hodgepodge of wackiness. Well, so is this game score. It basically consists of rock and roll, pop, and many other categories of music, with a certain wacky flair. The result is an interesting listening experience. The music is bouncy when you're in a jolly good mood, but if you're not, then it could very well give you a blasting headache (and for good reason, too, because there are plenty of tracks that are loud, noisy, and ultimately uncomfortable). Many game critics bashed this music for the above aspects, and it's not hard to see why.

In spite of all this, however, there are some brief interludes on this album that save it from becoming altogether annoying. The album starts out with two arranged tracks that consist of upgraded instruments; believe it or not, they are downright beautiful. "Adieux" is especially good because it fills you up with a complex feeling of sadness and happiness. Sadness because there are some parts of the game which end sadly, but there are other happy parts about the ending. Oh, by the way, the original version of that track is nicely done, too.

Another surprising highlight comes from the two songs that are at the end of the album. They are upgraded renditions of both the opening and ending themes with lyrics added in. While the lyrics may seem silly, the melody is very be-bopping and almost reminds me a bit of Fame. Another great redemption for this album.

To many game music fans, this album will be uncomfortable and irritating even though there are some redeeming qualities about it. Only true diehard Mischief Makers fans will find a bit to enjoy out of this rambunctious album. I am of this category, and find this CD to be a good purchase altogether. I only wish I could say the same thing for others.