Sega Power Cuts 1

Of Sega Music Group's soundtrack offerings, all three of which are very American in nature, Sega PowerCuts 1 seems to be most directed towards the popular music scene. It's impossible to sum up the whole soundtrack into one musical style as there is too much variety. But in general it's much more similar to what one might hear on the radio than what's in Japanese soundtracks. There are several tracks in the techno variety, some "alternative" songs, a few pop songs, and a couple more Japanese-sounding selections.

On the low side, about a third of the tracks I never listen to. The Ghen War selections just aren't musical enough, while the Wild Woody (*chuckle*) tracks are just plain stupid. Most of the techno-style tracks fall in the "so-so" range. The Vectorman ones have a bit of trance to them, and while they seem to make good background music they aren't too thrilling on their own. The selections based on Eternal Champions are more upbeat and are decent, but they're also too short.

Now for the good stuff. Most will agree that the Panzer Dragoon tracks are of high quality. They were great in the game and stand fairly well on their own. It's a pity one of the orchestrated tracks isn't present, but this is "PowerCuts" after all. I found the Ecco song to be a nice pop rendition of the original music. The Sonic song, although sounding very much like something from an American cartoon, is still fairly entertaining if you can get past the kiddieness of it. And I very much like the Cyber Speedway songs performed by Bygone Dogs. I find them to be an enjoyable mix of alternative rock with some bluesy, almost country style elements (and I'm no fan of country music). Maybe not very appropriate game music, but I like them nonetheless.

People looking for drama and class in a soundtrack won't find it here. But those who don't mind simple musical entertainment might consider PowerCuts as a nice bargain-bin or used CD purchase.