As you ought to know by now, I thought the OST to Super Robot Wars Alpha 3 was great. I especially fell in love with the opening and ending songs. If I had to pick one fault to that soundtrack, it would be having no full versions of either of them. It is understandable since they were not in the actual game, but it still would’ve been a nice edition. Before the original soundtrack was released, this single emerged, providing the full versions of both songs, along with karaoke versions. Like the previous themes in several other Super Robot War games, it is performed by the mighty J-Rock group, JAM Project. I listened to a number of their songs, and to me, these are some of the very best they have to offer.
The opening song “GONG” starts off with a bang, then tones it down when the lyrics kick in. After a short while, the intensity picks up, and when the main chorus kicks in, the song really shines. These kinds of songs are not my cup of tea, but I thought the way JAM Project does it with their dynamic vocals, along with catchy melodies makes it engaging to me. Beneath its tough exterior lies deep, thoughtful lyrics, which can make an impact on you. You can only discoverthat if you find a translation or understand the words of the song, though. I found a translation, and I honestly find it quite surprising how deep the actual lyrics are. It is very hot-blooded so their style is something not for everyone, but still enjoyable. It complements the intensity of the game quite well most of all.
The ending song is “Brother in Faith,” and to be blunt, I just love it. It is quite an untypical style coming from JAM project, but thought it was extremely well done. Unlike most of their songs, it is not fast paced nor intense. It still has heavy uses of guitars, but the melody is much slower and feels more emotional. Complementing the beautiful melody are excellent vocals with such grace and fluidity. The band truly has an excellent vocal range that can fit under any tone. A lot of times, the last bit of the song makes me want to raise my hand high, holding a bright object, and wave my arm slowly like in concerts. I simply love this song, and fans, as well as non-fans of JAM Project should give it a listen.
In short, it is an excellent single. It is worth listening to the fiery opening “GONG” and the beautiful ending “Brother in Faith.” Definitely some of JAM Project’s finest works in my opinion.
