Elsewhere in the soundtrack, Hiroyoshi Kato's 'Mark That Drifts' is more reminiscent of Norihiko Hibino's work on the series, juxtaposing shakuhachi infusions against percussive furore. It is a very atmospheric depiction of the character, curiously blending traditional Japanese parts with urban jazz influences, and has since recurred on the Ryu ga Gotoku 3 soundtrack. However, perhaps the most iconic theme in this regard is Takumi's theme. The result sets the scene perfectly in context. Though Hideki Sakamoto's 'Mourning' is similar in mood to other Yakuza tension themes, it is primarily built around traditional percussive elements and the occasional exotic wailing woodwind. Nevertheless, many compositions focus on the historic setting of the game. We gave ourselves license to make contemporary rock styles the basis of the soundtrack. The final line is that it's entertainment. In the end, strict historical accuracy was not the number one priority.

The only significant absence are any vocal themes, which carried the soundtrack releases for previous Yakuza series.

It seems this was ultimately more important to the music team. I'm not sure whether tracks like these are appropriate, but they do ensure a compelling overall soundtrack release and ensure that the core audience of the series are not alienated. The awesome 'Blood Maker' and 'Brand-New Japanesque' even adds some funky solos and hip-hop voice samples along the way. While the thrashing guitar influence isn't predominant here, it still recurs in pieces such as 'Water & Melon', 'Dive to the Mess', and 'Sneakin' Drive' with a few historical twists along the way. However, pretty much nothing is ruled out in this score. An adaptation of Yakuza's trademark title themes, Shoji scores this one mainly in a new age style and rejects the electric guitar altogether for once. The album opens in a subtle and contemporary fashion with 'Cry of the Elder Dragon'.

Can the score possibly fit the game and come together as a whole? Body Nevertheless, score leader Hidenori Shoji and his Noisycroak assistants still maintained the contemporary rock and techno style of the series at many points. The change in direction is reflected in its music, which demonstrates clear influence from traditional Japanese music. Ryu ga Gotoku Kenzan! surprisingly took the Yakuza series back to the 17th century for a historical drama.

Ryu ga gotoku 3 ost raritan