Here at Game Music Fans, we like to talk about video game music. But what about when the music is the game? Even though games like Rock Band and Guitar Hero fall outside of what we normally consider “video game music”, there’s no denying these games’ influence in the music genre or their ability to introduce gamers to new recording artists.
The recently released Rock Band Blitz for XBLA and PSN is a perfect example of what a music video game can be. Including more than 20 hit songs with purchase of this digital game, it is also immediately compatible with Rock Band 3, potentially increasing the possible setlist. Whether or not you’re a Rock Band veteran with a large library of music to play, or an enticed newcomer with Rock Band Blitz, the extremely varied and well done setlist has something for everyone.
For a song that’s a hair under 20 years old (making me feel even older), “Shine” holds up amazingly well. Fit for any classic or modern rock radio station, you can’t help but sing along and hum the infectious melody. It’s a great song with great lyrics, almost begging the question of how it hasn’t made it in to a Rock Band or Guitar Hero game yet.
I’m willing to bet most gamers probably aren’t familiar with Elton John’s music. No matter, “Still Standing” is a perfect introduction if you’re new to the John. Upbeat, funky, fantastic vocals – nothing short of what a good Elton John song is all about.
It’s always been baffling why we don’t see more Iron Maiden music in video games. I know there’s probably licensing issues to deal with, but c’mon, it’s perfect stuff for action or racing games. “Wicker Man” is a safe choice for a music game, delightfully satisfying thine taste for some metal.
All that really needs to be said about this song is that it’s from the 70s. Saying it’s funky is like saying Call of Duty has some guns and explosions in it – it just goes without saying. Listen and get down to this one.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqoQ4zki8UU&feature=related
“We Are Young” may have been one of the most overplayed songs of the summer, but that’s for good reason. It’s a feel-good hit with lyrics that have applied to everyone at some point in their life. Living life to its fullest is what this one’s all about.
Ah, “Jessie’s Girl”. I wonder if Rick Springfield knew his hit from the 80s would still be a goldmine for karaoke mishaps some 30 years later, let alone be featured in a downloadable video game? Another example of a perfect song for the Rock Band crowd, this one will probably stay stuck in your head longer than most are comfortable admitting.
Rock Band Blitz’s setlist is almost too good for a single feature. Every song included with purchase of the game is worthy of discussion here. The full setlist is as follows:
• “Kids in the Street” – The All-American Rejects
• “So Far Away” – Avenged Sevenfold
• “One Week” – Barenaked Ladies
• “Always” – Blink-182
• “Shine” – Collective Soul
• “I’m Still Standing” – Elton John
• “A Little Less Sixteen Candles, A Little More ‘Touch Me’” – Fall Out Boy
• “These Days” – Foo Fighters
• “Pumped Up Kicks” – Foster the People
• “We Are Young” – Fun. ft. Janelle Monáe
• “Once Bitten Twice Shy” – Great White
• “Jungle Boogie” – Kool & The Gang
• “The Wicker Man” – Iron Maiden
• “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” – Kelly Clarkson
• “Cult of Personality” – Living Colour
• “Moves Like Jagger” – Maroon 5
• “Sing” – My Chemical Romance
• “Raise Your Glass” – P!nk
• “Death on Two Legs” – Queen
• “Metal Health (Bang Your Head)” – Quiet Riot
• “Give It Away” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
• “Jessie’s Girl” – Rick Springfield
• “Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom)” – Shinedown
• “Spoonman” – Soundgarden
• “Shout” – Tears for Fears
Check out our sister site’s review for Rock Band Blitz right here by Justin Mellor. Also, if you’d like to get in on some contest action for a chance to win a copy of the game for XBLA, go to the XBLAFans contest page right here for a chance to win.
