Just about all of those that I would recommend off-hand have been named, but one of my newly-discovered favorites has not:

"Dancing with Domz" from Beyond Good and Evil.

Oh, and a few others that haven't been mentioned: "Dark Messenger" and "Final Battle" from Final Fantasy IX. (FF9 is my least favorite FF OST, but the aforementioned songs are great.) And from FFX: "Seymour Battle", "Seymour's Ambition", and "Enemy Attack".

These FF suggestions are ancillary to "Dancing with Domz" though.

I know I always seem to nitpick about the track titles used in Final Fantasy IX, but please people, do try to use the more accurate translation found here at STC:

http://altpop.com/stc/reviews/ff9ost.htm

"Sword of Doubt" sounds more appropriate.  Beatrix isn't necessary "confused," you see - her feelings are more of doubt, that her allegiance to Alexandria has started to waver.

"Messenger of Destruction" or "Messenger of Ruin" is better titled.  Kuja's main point of content (and something I believe he quotes himself in the game) is to bring about the complete destruction of the world.

And if anyone even utters "Loss of Me," I will personally hunt them down myself. >_<

.

*sigh*

In a translated tracklist, what indicates that one translation of a particular track is better than another translation of that track?

"One Winged Angel" ("An Angel with Wings on One Side") is not an accurate translation, and neither is "Dancing Mad" ("Wild Dance of the Ominous Star"). I have certainly seen "Dark Messenger" or "Evil Messenger" far more than I have seen any other translation (as with One Winged Angel and Dancing Mad).

(And Beatrix's doubt of her allegiance arguably results in confusion.)

Context and accuracy for one.  That the original Japanese name in this particular case is actually closest in meaning to destruction or ruin, rather than "dark" or "evil" -- and that it was actually stated as such in-game. 

One could mince semantics here, certainly.  But honestly, the word "doubt" does more accurately portray Beatrix's dominant state of mind throughout the first half of the game.  She continues to serve with a grasp of self-awareness, which describes doubt more than confusion.

Yeah, you are nitpicking and it's a very unattractive trait. Very "know all." If you want to play the "more acurate game" I think CC's WA2 translation has many improvements over STC's but I don't go around picking people posts apart with that what is only an "opinion."

I'll admit I like "Doubt" better then "Confusion" myself, but this has been sense changed on CC's translation (the listing I used to label my mp3s) to "A Hesitant Blade" which works as well. I just don't stay up at night and worry about these things - all I worry about is if I like the track or not. What's in a name, anyway?

Exactly. Outside the realm of the translator it's more or less up to the listener what works and what doesn't work as a title if there is more than one translation - unless the damn tracklisting is in English to begin with.

I'm neither defending STC nor CC.  I don't doubt that there are better translations of certain titles other than what STC has to offer, but in FFIX's case, there are some blatant errors that have been floating around online that I simply cannot leave alone.  For instance, the aforementioned "Loss of Me" was a completely misconstrued and obviously botched translation.  I've also seen "The Four Medallions," which should really be "The Four Mirrors."   And "Unfathomed Reminiscence" was a fairly awkward way of describing Zidane's current state of being in the game.  "Where Love Doesn't Reach" is much more accurate.

But when someone who does not know Japanese, how are they to know which are the "better" translations of a given track? That was part of my point earlier.

Or, if someone does know Japanese, what if they don't have the Japanese tracklist available.

Or what if several tracks in a full tracklisting are "okay" translations, while others are not, is someone to even know this, let alone refer to multiple sources to make sure that they have what one person thinks is the best? Are they to do this when 1) they are simply attempting to recommend some music, or 2) the people that they are discussing such tracks with are likely to know what track is begin referred to, even if the translations vary?

I admit...This has completely thrown me off in the past. I mean, how is it possible to have "Rose of May" and "Loss of Me" mean the same thing?

Although, oddly enough, pronouncing "Loss of Me" with Japanese phonetics would sound like "Rose of May". For people that don't know, a proper "L" sound isn't used in Japanese and is normally replaced with an "R" that can sound like an "L" sound as well. Also, "May" would be "Mei"...So I'm guessing there was an original mix-up somewhere in there.

I also admit...I tend to use whatever translation sounds neater when I tag tracks. "Beat of Destruction" > "Drumbeat of Doom" (Ys III), even though most signs point to the latter being more "accurate".

Easy.  They just need to take my word and be done with it. 

No, I kid. ;)  Obviously, they can't.  There is, of course, no way to measure what is a "better" translation in a case like this.  But I would hope that whoever's doing the translating would at least take certain guidelines into consideration.  Again, context and accuracy; there really isn't much else you can go by, other than directly asking the composers themselves, and seeing what their original intended meaning was.

That said, I'm not at all adverse on putting a synonymistic or shorthanded spin on any given translation, if it makes for a more natural sounding result.  Goldfish's "Beat of Destruction" is a good example, as is your aforementioned "A One-Winged Angel." 

But see, in this case, it isn't opinion - it's fact.  It's a fact that there are errors and inconsistencies to be found in the FFIX translations being used, and I was only trying to point out what these were.  Granted, the examples we've been talking about were minor infractions that perhaps I overreacted on; I have passionate feelings for FFIX, you see, so if I came off sounding opinionated, then I apologize. It's the more erroneous mistakes that have tainted my view of the overall quality of these tracklistings.   

I can't do much in the way of convincing anyone to use one tracklisting over the other, but I posted in the hopes that they'll at least be aware of the inconsistencies, and that hopefully (I did say "please," didn't I? ;p) they'll go with the one that's most correct.

More time, more thinking, more boss tunes:

"Ladder to Heaven" from Shadow Hearts II (Director's Cut / Special Sound CD)
"Battle with the Devil" from an cinnuint / Tsugunai
"Chromatische Phantasie (Soleiyu Boss BGM)" from Demon Castle Dracula Best II (Legend of Dracula II)
"Fierce Pressure" from ESPGaluda -Perfect remix-
"[MADNESS] -Stage5 #2 VS. Gestell-" from Einhander
"Devil May sly" from GOD TRACKS (God Hand)
"Prayer" from Silent Hill 3
"Danger" from Tenchu

This isn't about you being "right" and typing up "facts." Why do you think this whole little exchange started? You think I woke up today wanting to peck each other's eyes out over something so trite? No, usually I'd let things like this slide but your condensing manner rubbed me the wrong way and continues to do so.

I really don't care what you deem or don't deem "correct" - the "real" point of this little shitstorm you seem oblivious to is that everyone on this board ESSENTALLY knew what track I was referring to and that IS ALL that mattered - there was NO NEED to throw out a "correction" like it was some kind of secret factoid or the word of god - it was hardly constructive and only served to fuel your obvious need to be seen as knowledgeable.

Dunno, seems you're the only one here creating this so-called storm.  I'm not the one flying off the handle with distorted allegations that I was personally attacking you - or throwing out assumptions like I'm "condensing" and a "know all."  I apologized for my presumed behavior, but I still stand by my assertion that what I've stated are facts.

If I really wanted to be a know all, I'd point out that it's actually spelled "condescending."  But I won't.

Har, har. You are one classy broad.

The point is, it's just one translation of one song. Seriously, who the f--- cares? What is the big difference between someone using "Confusion" or "Doubt"? It doesn't change the song, one that you obviously knew by the title Ashley used when he suggested the song in the first place. People know what he was getting at and just because you didn't agree with the translation he used, you started talking in a very condescending manner. The same goes toward GazelMinistry. Is the difference between "Dark Messenger" and "Messenger of Ruin" such a big deal that you have to point it out to them for being what you consider improper? No, it's not. Who the f--- cares! They're boss themes that were being suggested for Sabreman's radio show, not titles that should be put under the microscope because you don't agree with the words they used. If you want to get technical, you should be getting on everyone's case (including your own) for not using the original Japanese text since that is the only 100% accurate track title.

You can analyze the plot and characters all you want in support of your arguments, but the point is that the translation is hardly a big deal, and you didn't have to call them out on it.

Oh, and one last thing: Who the f--- cares?

Thanks for the additional bonus of "correcting" my spelling mistakes - how original. If you didn't want to point it out then why did you mention it? You’re really proving me wrong here.

Sure, I read your apology but it was still more or less sandwiched between a nice side of assumption.

Personal attack? You call deciphering the context behind your responses and stating what I see a personal attack?

Whatever, I'm done... this too pathetic even for me... why don't you whip out your phone and sick your asset on me.

Edit:

I was running out of steam and that was even more pathetic, I apologize.

Meeeeeeeee!

Oh wait, no I don't.

Stop fighting on the internet, guys.  Just give the dude his music recommendations and STFU about the rest.  I agree with pretty much every track recommended by Zane btw.  Silent Hill and Shadow Hearts, booya!

BUT ZANE!  How could you call the final boss theme from Shadow Hearts II "The 3 Karma" when if you step back for a moment and reflect on the context of the game and the fact that Yuri always spells out the number three and likes to use his Thera Roots on Tuesday nights when there's a purple moon and only equips swords when he's not busy making pies then it should clearly be "The Karma of Three".. note the wording and how I spelled out the number three.  Don't let it happen again, fucktard!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarcasm

-Mike

An ill-conceived attempt at sarcastic humor.  Not in the least classy nor original.

Well, it's probably obvious that I care. I'll say it again; "granted, the examples we've been talking about were minor infractions that perhaps I overreacted on; I have passionate feelings for FFIX, you see, so if I came off sounding opinionated, then I apologize. It's the more erroneous mistakes that have tainted my view of the overall quality of these tracklistings."     

The funny thing is, this is something I would likely never make an issue out of for any other soundtrack.  But again, FFIX is something I hold extremely dear to my heart, and it does pain me to see folks using questionable translations.  How can I NOT get upset when a translation of "mirrors" ends up as flagrantly wrong as "medallions"?

Once again, I apologize for any bad feelings that I may have left.  Seriously, I never meant insult to either Ashley or Gazel, but I do want to ask this: Was my initial post and tone really that condescending to escalate the argument to this level?  Perhaps I really am that oblivious to not notice, but I need to know; was there a more tactful way I could've gone about at expressing my point?  Or was it a point that should never have been brought up in the first place? 

.... And yes, I do have enough sense to not call them "fucktard."  Thanks, Mike. ;)

You've been paying attention!  Damn, that was good.... gotta give ya bonus points for that. ;)

No offense, but aren't you guys over-reacting a little bit to Angela, of all people, in terms of being condescending? I just kind of noted the translation difference as a side point and didn't think there was anything condescending or malicious in there (although normally STC is the one with the more inaccurate and dated translations, so that was interesting to note). But come...It's ANGELA, not some random Youtuber ("oh har har, my little brother can get FIVE stars and 900,000 points on Jordan without looking at the screen! u suck at GH too") or GameFaqs scrub.

Actually, as ashamed as I am of myself for taking that shot I thought it was pretty good. Anyway, can we clear the air here and the both of us just drop this stupid argument? I'm not having fun anymore... uh, not that it was fun or anything. You'd probably laugh if I told you if I usually shied away from confrontation. Of course, arguing with an anonymous person on the internet is a little different than doing it in real life.

Zane's already mentioned "410 Challenge" from FF10. I'm rarely in a really heavy rock kind of mood when I listen to vgm, but this one really gets me going.

It's kind of old school and not close to the type of music "Challenge" is, but I still really enjoy "13 Fight 2" and "28 The Dreadful Fight" from FF4.

If you're into remixes, "04 The Battle with Gilgamesh" and "05 Within the Giant" are very good tracks. You can find them on the Project Majestic Mix - A Tribute to Nobuo Uematsu cd.

Changing gears again, "103 Battle For the Glory ~ Evil One" from Dragon Quest Legend (POCX-1057) is among my favorite arrangements of those two pieces. So is "603 Fight" and "606 Gruelling Fight" from the DQ Symphonic Suite Complete CD-Box (SVWC-7155).

The last one I'll leave you with is "220 Final Conflict" from Headhunter Redemption - Headhunter soundtrack (LLLCD-1023). Very nice, especially near the end.

ZAKAT!!!!!

From Zone of the Enders 2. The one used on the actual soundtrack. In game, it's toned down, sadly.

Yeah, I'll second "Challenge". It's one of a handful of Hamauzu themes I really think are amazing. I think it would probably be more hardcore electronica than hard rock though...Reminds me of the Idola tracks from the Phantasy Star Online soundtracks. One of the more overlooked tracks on the OST in any case, which is a shame.

Some more:

"Your Eyes are Beautiful When You Fight" - Mystic Ark
"Wanted Person Battle" - Metal Saga
"Final Attack - Dencyu's Arrange Version" - Metal Slug 5
"Theme of Onslaught 1" and "Theme of Onslaught 2" - Marvel vs Capcom
"Jin" - Yu Yu Hakusho Game Music Ensemble 2
"Omega Red/Juggernaut" - X-Men Mutant Apocalypse
"Nightmarish Fight" - X-Men Arcade Game (complete with amazing "I am Magneto...Master of Magnet!" line!)

Ah yeah, this track is excellent.

Hahahaha... you are an S-Class douche.

It's cool. Same here.

1) I thought so, and 2) not really because 3) it really shouldn't have been brought up. But, it's done now and we're getting back on track here again...

Here's another recommendation: "Confidence in the domination" from Valkyrie Profile OST. It's too damn short, though.

That's a good subject for the next poll - kick ass songs that are too short!

A ton of Rockman songs (like stage selects and weapon screen themes) fall under that category... 20 seconds is hardly enough time to indulge something even if it does loop twice.

I've always liked Meta Crystal from SSB.

Phew!

Thanks for all the replies and suggestions. I've definitely got enough for a couple of shows, so there'll be a part two forthcoming. For the first I've settled on this playlist:

Clash on the Big Bridge - Black Mages
Relic of Moirai - Shin Contra
Vs. Meta Ridley - Metroid Prime
Growl, From the Depths of the Earth - Phantasy Star Online
Regret - Soukaigi
The Final Battle - Final Fantasy IV (OSV)
Frost Dragon - Brave Fencer Musashiden
Melancholy Joachim - Castlevania Lament of Innocence
The Third Malformation of 'G' - Biohazard 2
The Empire's Transport Ship - Panzer Dragoon Zwei
Stab the Sword of Justice - Star Ocean the Second Story
Game - Wild Arms Alter code:f
The Strongest Foe - Ys Oath in Felghana
Gothic Neclord - Suikoden 2
The Sun Rises - Okami
Fate - Drag-On Dragoon 2
Shudder - Einhander
Deceitful Wings - Atelier Iris
Boost Up! - Xexex Perfect Selection
From Seeing the Rough Wave - Phantasy Star Online
Danger - Secret of Mana
The Decisive Battle - Black Mages
Heroic Battle - Digital Devil Saga 2
Salamander Boss - Gradius V
Yell "Dead Cell" - Metal Gear Solid 2
Final Battle - Ys I&II PC Engine
Master of Shadow - Persona 3
The Extreme - Final Fantasy 8
Butsutekkai - Ikaruga
Cry, For "IDOLA" the Holy - Phantasy Star Online

It's been hard but great work listening to all these tunes and finalising a set

Glad to see you liked this one, especially when taken out of context... I personally had no idea what Naruke was shooting for with this track prior to playing the game. Still, it does shout "battle arena" all the way...

Guess I'll have to wait until part two for one of my picks to get in.

Nicely varied playlist though.  I'm sure it'll turn out to be a smashing success.

The battle to end all battles (with video!): Casiopea Vs. T-Square.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Edc2yVHR … ed&search=

I'm honored one of my selections made the cut.  Really, if I could've suggested only one battle theme, that would have been the one.  Good luck on your show.