Duration: 8:26

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63

Composed by ZUN.
Arranged by Mono Chrome.
Artwork: https://www.pixiv.net/en/artworks/89719444


People have very distinct opinions regarding this theme. Some say it's bad, some say it's decent enough, some claim that it grows on you. My thoughts? This theme feels like something I would compose. ZUN describes the song as "where two sections intersect" and it honestly makes the song extremely experimental. Whenever I try to compose, I would... stick random melodies I came up with into one song... and this theme radiates the same energy. Because of this, it doesn't have defined climaxes, instead has multiple and none of them actually reaches a satisfactory height. Another controversal thing about this song is its repetition, where people would argue that it either does or does not repeat itself too much and I have to say: It absolutely does. The intro melody repeats itself in the background for most of the song, all the other melodies seems like just layering on top of it. I don't know if this is intentional on ZUN's part, but I kinda hated it. This combo'ing with the "no-climax" makes the theme feels like it's dragging and building to nowhere. After a few listen I would say, it's a decent enough song, but I won't place it in my favourites. I understand why some people like it though, this theme is emotional and intense as hell, having every part of the song trying to call out for your attention, with the multi-climax and all. Wonder if this is also part of ZUN's plan (?)
This arrangement was done with the feeling of "a last spark burning out in glory" kind of feel. I basically amped up the strength of the instruments and occasionally the theme would fade out or flicker. I would rank this arrangement around the same spot as Keiki's, since I don't like the original theme to begin with, and I kinda went lazy with drums.