Hakase and Toriyama teamed up to create a mini-symphony for Final Fantasy XII. Clocking in at a mere 9 minutes, this five-part piece is packed with some lively studio orchestra performances, as well as a few soft & touching moments. As it is a single, I don't have too much to say about it, but I'll do my best.

The Overture is more like a prelude: it's less than a minute, and it's not fantastic. The 2nd movement, March of a Wise man, is something quite enjoyable. It too is short, but it has a somber and ... well ... "wise" feel to it. Then we hit the main melody, Road of Hope. After that is the softer movement, "Romance." Then we hear Road of Hope again.

Road of Hope is decidedly the most memorable part of the whole deal. It's fun, uplifting, and it has a hot violin solo. If you watch our clip of the video from the DVD, the song you're hearing is from Road of Hope. Note that it is definitely an enjoyable piece.

Even after owning all the Angela Aki singles and the XII OST (released May 31, 2006), your collection may not be complete without this little gem. I for one could have gotten by without it, but if you're really hooked on all things XII-related, be sure to pick up this album as well.

Reviewed by: Patrick Gann