Sharp's X68000 had FM synthesis that could make Konami arcade ports sound absolutely wild, and this collection proves it. The Gradius opener "Beginning of the History" pushes that YM2151 chip into territory that splits the difference between arcade perfect and something richer, then Salamander's "Power of Anger" hits with layered FM guitars that have this biting metallic edge you can't get anywhere else.
Read more
"Burn the Wind" rips through with percussion that feels physically sharp. These are MIDI arrangements pulling from the X68000's specific sound capabilities, so they sit in this fascinating space between the original arcade versions and full studio recordings.
Essential listening for anyone who thinks FM synthesis peaked with the Genesis.