Cadence of Hyrule, the completely unexpected yet extremely delightful rhythm-based Zelda game, released just over a year ago. As a seasoned Crypt of the NecroDancer fan (the game that Cadence of Hyrule is based on), I was so hyped for this game and its guaranteed remixes of classic Zelda tracks. Likewise, as a long-time Gerudo fan girl, you can imagine my delight when they made an appearance and I heard their classic theme in the game.
But that’s not the piece I want to talk about today. Rather, I want to acknowledge one of the game’s original compositions by Danny Baranowsky (who composed the whole game’s music) — the “Gerudo Ruins (Combat) Theme”. It’s an absolute headbanger that gives off retro Zelda dungeon vibes to me and captures the essence of both Crypt of the NecroDancer and Zelda beautifully, especially because it integrates a classic Zelda tune that you might not have expected, but makes perfect sense when you analyze it. The whole piece has a refreshing new sound, yet is satisfyingly familiar when you hear the callback, making it a real standout in the game.
The “Gerudo Ruins (Combat) Theme” starts out slow but with a notably catchy beat, and Ocarina of Time players will hear a very familiar tune if they listen carefully as soon as it starts, as it emerges very early on and recurs throughout the song. Although it is quite subtle and sped up compared to its original version, the “Bolero of Fire” melody from Ocarina of Time is tightly interwoven into the tune.
As a spin-off game with new compositions, Cadence of Hyrule could have easily felt quite alien to the series, but by calling back to such a classic Zelda melody it makes you feel right at home. And besides that, it’s a really intelligent use of the melody thematically. Anyone who knows Ocarina of Time intimately will immediately think back to the fiery interior of Death Mountain when hearing the “Bolero of Fire”. Invoking this melody for the fiery, volcanic environment of the Gerudo Ruins is simply perfect for reinforcing the theme, and shows just how much thought and care the composer Danny Baranowsky put into his work for this game.
The “Bolero of Fire” motif runs throughout the track as it builds up and becomes more intense, leading to the ‘chorus’ of the tune. When it reaches its epic peak, it will undoubtedly get you eagerly and firmly tapping the movement buttons to the beat (and bopping your head — if you don’t you’re a liar). I love this part of it so much; it gets me so pumped up to fight my way through the ruins on my quest to save Hyrule.
So many of Cadence of Hyrule’s tracks are equally addictive to listen to as this one, but I wanted to highlight the “Gerudo Ruins (Combat) Theme: in particular as it’s a perfect example of how Cadence of Hyrule includes subtle nods to past Zelda tunes (and even some from Crypt of the NecroDancer) in its original compositions and remixes. Another good example is the “Temple of Storms”, and I’m guessing you can figure out what that references. I encourage you to go play the game or at least listen to some of the game’s tracks to admire how incredible its soundtrack is. This attention to detail is not only a testament to Danny Baranowsky’s talents as a composer, but it also reveals the level of passion put into this game and its music. It is really an underrated gem in my eyes.
