New releases last four weeks: Soundtracks

Review: This definitive 2025 edition of the Donkey Kong Country soundtrack has been meticulously recreated by Jammin' Sam Miller using original SNES data and studio-grade equipment. Originally released in 1994, the game's music, featuring classics like 'Aquatic Ambiance' and 'Fear Factory', redefined video game soundtracks. This triple-vinyl boxset takes in all of the many highlights with fixed playback speeds and refreshed packaging. It's a nostalgic listen for those old enough to have been gaming back in the mid-nineties but also a rich source of samples for adventurous modern producers.

Review: Recorded live in Switzerland on September 27-28, 2024, this special concert celebrates 20 years of the instantly recogniseable game, with the iconic music performed by a sweeping 190-piece ensemble. The concert features compositions from various expansions, with a standout performance by the 21st Century Orchestra and three choirs: Tale of Fantasy, Ardito and Madrijazz Gospel. The music, orchestrated by William Liston and Penka Kouneva and conducted by Derek Duke, brings the beloved scores to life in a grand, emotionally charged presentation. From the iconic 'World of Warcraft Suite' to 'Burning Crusade: Beyond the Dark Portal' and the stirring 'Wrath of the Lich King: Echoes of Northern'. this collection captures the epic journey through Azeroth. With mastering by James Plotkin and stunning graphic design by Janie Peacock and Nolan Fleming, this release is a nostalgic dive into the past and a new way to experience the game's rich musical legacy.