R.O.D. the TV Original Soundtrack Vol. #2 (of 1)

By: Lauren Goodnight
Date: Wednesday, July 21, 2004
Release Date: Tuesday, November 09, 2004



What They Say
R.O.D The TV continues to garner praise as one of the most entertaining secret agent series ever, with plenty of cool, dramatic espionage theme instrumentals provided by composer Taku Iwasaki, a master at enticing listeners with his dazzling style of fast-paced jazz compositions and remixes. "R.O.D The TV Original Soundtrack 2" rounds out the series with 22 engaging tracks, including the vocal song "Confidence" and the ending theme song "Moments in The Sun."

The Review!
This sounds so similar to the first ROD soundtrack that I almost wanted to overlook it in lieu of other titles. However, upon deeper listening, it became clear that the change in tone within the second half of the series was reflected in a more substantial musical way than I was giving the disc credit for. As with the other Read or Die offerings from Geneon, full orchestras are used and this helps the disc go down much more smoothly. I especially love the occasional jazzy number that slides between more dramatic tracks. If you liked the OAV disc and the first TV disc, this CD is a true must for your collection. I know a few people who have all three discs on repeat in their cars, and it makes for a very colorful driving experience!!
Where I took it: I listened to bits of this on airplanes, in cars, and around my house.
Where it took me: The lilting spy music and sweet sambas took me all over the globe in the search for living paper.
Standout tracks: 'ROD: Homeward Journey of My Heart Version' and 'Jump before seeing' - These two tracks perfectly demonstrate both the gorgeous orchestration and the heavy, fun ballroom feeling.
Skip-it track: Those who go underground in the darkness - While I understand the need for repetitive, keyed-up tracks used for atmosphere in a TV series, their presence on an album often makes for a jarring listening experience. Such is the way with this track.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Features
R.O.D -Homeward journey of my heart Version- ,Flower blossoming maidens' burdock's roots dish ,Anita, 12 years old ,Abandon the books go out on the town ,Jump before seeing ,The color ban ,Fu-Wa-Fu-Ra ,Passwords are happy-go-lucky ,Give us work ,A town that stepped on me and a town I stepped on ,There is no reward for a winner ,Absolute pitch
Strange ,Those who go underground in the darkenss ,Heaven inhabited by devils
Light from the passing days (God save the Queen),A cast off skin of soul ,Love is destiny, destiny is paper ,Friend ,Dreaming women ,Moments in The Sun ,Confidence

Review Equipment