Mondo Us Vinyl & CDs

Review: In 1991, 'Super Casltvania IV' smashed onto the SNES rocking a brand new story and soundtrack composed by Masanori Adachi and Taro Kodou. Of the huge amounts of critical acclaim the game garnered for it's gothic, creepy atmosphere, the sound design was always at the forefront of the conversation. Even retrospectively, many publications consider 'Super Castlevania IV' to be a contender for best Castlevania, SNES and even videogame of all time.

Extremely limited to the sound chip, leading to what we now recognise as chiptune music, the atmosphere wasn't sacrificed at all, with the bitty synths imitating organs and bass guitar to create some low-key jams like 'Forest of Monsters' and of course the 'Theme of Simon'. These sounds have gone on to influence huge game franchises like Capcom's Phoenix Wright series. Part of Mondo's effort to have these soundtracks available for Castlevania's 30th anniversary, this comes packaged on beautiful 180g eco vinyl and unique artwork.

Review: Joseph Kosinski, famous for his direction on 'Tron: Legacy' scored by Daft Punk, wanted to go a completely different direction for 2013's 'Oblivion' starring Tom Cruise. An emotional, epic soundtrack composed by French electronic act M83 was the only real option for him - a match made in heaven. Immediately, 'Jack's Dream' and 'Waking Up' are cinematic and vast in scope with blaring strings that swell in ways that only movie soundtracks can. A complete departure from Anthony Gonzalez's megahit 'Midnight City', 'Oblivion' is an orchestral affair that is bold and punchy, with soft and ethereal ambient patches scattered throughout. The title track is a major standout, featuring Norwegian talent Susanne Sundfor, a favourite vocalist and frequent collaborator of Royksopp. Expect the unexpected, but prepare to be amazed.