Grant Kirkhope's steel drums on "Treasure Trove Cove" still sound like pure serotonin, even in this polished re-recording. The Ruby Anniversary E.P. celebrates Rare's 40th with five tracks spanning decades of the studio's catalog.
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"Battletoads Arcade Stage 4" brings that aggressive early-90s arcade grit, all crunchy percussion and attitude. "Maian Tears" from Perfect Dark leans into haunting, atmospheric pads that still give chills. Robin Beanland's "Strongholds of the Sea" from Sea of Thieves rounds things out with swelling orchestral adventure.
Five songs, five different eras of Rare's sound. Short but stacked with composer talent from Kirkhope to Beanland to David Wise's legacy. Essential listening for anyone who grew up with that golden Rare logo.