I must say, I was a bit skeptical when given this soundtrack for review. Donning a name like "Wizap!" can you really blame me? Names aside, however, Wizap! turns out to be an excellent arranged album to some unknown videogame I'll never play.

Though arranged, instrumentation seems to include MIDI sound effects, which was unexpected. The soundtrack itself seems to be inspired by new age and techno; most of the tracks are percussion heavy with a steady synth beat. There are a few vocal tracks, but they're just Japanese voice-overs spoken over rhythmic music.

There is a bit of variation with some tracks, such as "Promise to Again," providing a traditional, classical style piece on a seemingly percussion-driven soundtrack. Most pieces have catchy riffs and beats, such as "Fotoria's Theme," which feels like a classy jazz piece. "Memories" provides a soothing piano piece accompanied by light percussion and violin.

Probably the only flaw would be the fact that a soundtrack considered to be "arranged" has only decent MIDI instrumentation at best. The music itself is surprisingly good; fans of game music in general should do themselves a favor and check Wizap! out. The catchy beats and riffs are enough to warrant a purchase.

Reviewed by: Robert Bogdanowicz