Square Enix releases commemorative Final Fantasy IX vinyl record
Square Enix has released a special commemorative vinyl record to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its classic role-playing game, Final Fantasy IX.
The new record, titled FINAL FANTASY IX 25th Anniversary Vinyl – Timeless Tale -, focuses on the game’s iconic main theme, “Melodies of Life”.
Final Fantasy IX, first released on the PlayStation, is often remembered for its return to the high-fantasy roots of the series and its deeply emotional story.
The game’s music, composed by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu, is a core part of its enduring legacy, and “Melodies of Life” is one of its most recognizable themes.
This anniversary vinyl features a newly recorded version of the song, titled “Melodies of Life -Timeless Tale-“, with vocals once again provided by the original singer, Emiko Shiratori.
The record also includes the original version of the song, “Melodies of Life~Final Fantasy”, and the instrumental piece, “Song of Memories.”
The tracklist is split between two sides, labeled “SIDE: 2000” and “SIDE: 2025”, representing the original release and the new recordings.
The full tracklist includes:
- SIDE: 2000
- Melodies Of Life〜Final Fantasy
- Melodies of Life [The Layers of Harmony]
- Song of Memories
- SIDE: 2025
- Melodies Of Life -Timeless Tale-
- Melodies of Life -Timeless Tale- (English Version)
- Song of Memories -Timeless Tale-
The vinyl’s jacket features brand-new 25th-anniversary artwork created by the game’s original character designer, Toshiyuki Itahana.
The release also includes a booklet with liner notes from key members of the music production team, including Nobuo Uematsu himself.
To ensure the music is accessible to all fans, the record comes with a special bonus.
A download code is included, allowing purchasers to download MP3 versions of all the tracks on the vinyl, making it possible to listen to the music without a record player.
The FINAL FANTASY IX 25th Anniversary Vinyl – Timeless Tale – is priced at 4,950 yen (approx. $31 USD / £23 GBP) and can now be ordered via the Square Enix online store.
To coincide with the release, a promotional video featuring an interview with both Nobuo Uematsu and Emiko Shiratori has been uploaded to YouTube:
As part of the game’s 25th anniversary, a wide range of merchandise is being produced, including a new statue of Vivi and a life-size recreation of his hat.
Source: Official Website
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