The Dekus in Majora’s Mask have always been amusing little forest creatures to me, always aware of their surroundings and have a strong sense of community. Theophany made sure to keep these elements in mind while telling the Deku’s story at the same time. They combined a lively melody, two missing people, and a drop of impending doom to create a story. The result is Theophany’s superb interpretation of “Deku Nut’s Palace,” a song I once thought of as cheerful.
The original soundtrack for the Deku Palace, which we can hear when playing Majora’s Mask, has always been an upbeat and lively melody to my ears, but Theophany added layers to the melody that tell another story. After Link manages to get into the Palace, he learns that something isn’t quite right, and Theophany knows exactly how to make the listener understand that. They start with a rhythmic beat, a cheerful flute, and the noises of Dekus communicating with each other, but as we know, Majora’s Mask is far from a feel-good game. Theophany makes sure the listener knows that almost immediately from the start.
By adding war-like drums, heart-tugging violins, and a dark contrabass to the background, the melody we’ve known no longer seems so upbeat anymore. Theophany tells another story. This is the story of a community in crisis.
If epic drums, majestic fanfares of trumpets, and ominous sound effects aren’t enough to make you feel the Deku’s need for help, Theophany has one more surprise in store for you. Before you’re halfway through the song, the music suddenly stops and a loud scream can be heard. Who did the voice belong to? Was it a cry of rage or sorrow? Both? I personally like to think it might belong to the Deku Butler when he has discovered that his son has turned into a twisted, dead tree, or perhaps the Deku King when he can’t find the missing princess.
I feel like the song only grows more intense from there, and it’s a pure pleasure to let the mind wander as Theophany continues to tell the Deku’s story. Time is ticking, the search for the Deku Princess hastens, and Link finally reaches Woodfall Temple as the song reaches its climactic end. The silence is deafening after the track ends, but I can already see images in my mind of what happens next.
Be sure to check out the rest of our articles from Majora’s Month, our month-long celebration of Majora’s Mask’s 20th anniversary!
