Despite being one of the most progressive video game series in history, The Legend of Zelda has suffered similar impediments to other popular franchises, namely the technological limitations of a console’s hardware. While these creative handcuffs most notably manifest themselves in the form of graphical compromises, an overlooked facet of game development is the music. Such is the case with The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages soundtracks.
While the Game Boy and Game Boy Color were technological wonders during the 1990s, the internal processor was built with a 4-bit wave audio chip. Two of the audio bits were for wave pulses, which were designed for musical composition, while one was intended for sounds effects and the last for white noise. This hardware design meant that video game composers could produce only two concurrent musical tones at a time.
In spite of these limitations, musicians Minako Adachi and Kyohiro Sada created a set of revolutionary compositions for the Oracle games, which are some of the most underrated in the Zelda series. Perhaps none is more underrated than “Din’s Dance” from Oracle of Seasons.
Conveying the confident and energetic personality of the Goddess of Fire with only two musical tones is no small feat; however, Adachi and Sada proved to be creative geniuses. Because they could not add depth with a variety of instruments, the composers instead chose to focus on tempo for “Din’s Dance.” Notice how the base tone remains constant throughout the song while the melody tone varies in both rhythm and timing. This sharp contrast perfectly embodies Din’s spirit: one who is not afraid to break out in random dance and beckon others to join.
As I pondered the musical brilliance of this hidden gem, my heart yearned for a fully orchestrated performance of “Din’s Dance.” Little did I know that my craving would lead to the discovery of a truly unique musical talent.
Meet Luke. Better known as the InstrumentManiac on YouTube, Luke is one of the most versatile musicians on the internet. What makes him so special, you might ask? Luke is proficient at playing over 55 different instruments including percussions, woodwinds, strings, bass, and keyboard. His mission is to “bring the idea of the ‘one-man orchestra’ to life through YouTube videos”. Luke is also a colossal fan of video games and particularly the Zelda series. Much to my chagrin, Luke not only created several “one-man orchestra” versions of well-known Zelda tracks, but he also crafted a special version of “Din’s Dance.”
Notice how Luke establishes the base by performing a difficult plucking technique known as pizzicato with both a cello and violin. This choice is brilliant in that the technique not only adds rhythm but it also mirrors Din’s spirited personality. As the melody begins, the combination of bass clarinet and alto flute produces a tone that is equal parts whimsical and playful, which instantly reminded me of Link’s embarrassed expression as Din beckons him to the stage. Finally, the percussion instruments join in and augment the composition with the orchestrated depth that I so desperately sought.
As Luke’s version of “Din’s Dance” drew to its conclusion, I instantly pictured what a remastered version of Oracle of Seasons would look like: a traveling orchestra of musicians gathered around a campfire and whimsically filling the air with the melody to “Din’s Dance.” If you are an aficionado of classic Zelda music, be sure to check out Luke’s other compositions. Each is beautifully crafted with precise instrument selection and is sure to bring on a rush of nostalgia.
