K.K.UTU

kazenagh

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[Comments from the judges]

If I had to classify it, I would say it's close to New Wave. It's frantic and comical, but the song also carries a technical flair, with unexpected chord progressions that give it a challenging, almost progressive-rock quality. And beneath it all is an emotional melody that adds depth to the fun.

These seemingly contradictory elements coexist in perfect balance, and I felt that Taiko no Tatsujin, which has actively embraced such concepts, has a high degree of compatibility with this song.

There are some unique rhythmic accents that make you go 'Huh?', but since they are divided into groups of five or ten sixteenth notes, they don’t have the difficulty of odd tuplets. It feels 'seemingly complex, but once you understand it, it's easy to play,' and I think that’s done really well. You can ride this wave!
(Masubuchi))

Extreme End

IKUTO feat. Aira

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[Comments from the judges]

When I first heard this song, I couldn’t take off my headphones until the very end. More than that, though, it grabbed something else—my heart.

Right from the start, I was bobbing my head back and forth, thinking: 'What’s next? Wow, they did that?! What now?!' I was completely engrossed and enjoyed every moment of it. I even got a neck workout in the process. Now I understand why I couldn’t take off my headphones!

Also, Fumen (note chart for game) came to me almost instantly while listening (about 70% ). That’s how stimulating and exhilarating this song was!

The way it builds and applies tension and release is also excellent. The feeling of wanting more, the desire to keep drumming, is something the gameplay captures wonderfully.

Congratulations!
(Eto)

The highway No.205 [SSS]

TAKIO

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[Comments from the judges]

I could see the ocean… It appeared to me… While reviewing this song, I found myself listening to it on repeat.

The song conjured up images of a highway running alongside the ocean, and of running away with someone you love. The catchy chorus drew me in, and the midsection, with its 'SeaSideSecret…', took me by surprise. The world that TAKIO created, or rather the drama it portrayed, unfolded vividly before my eyes. The element of surprise, like discovering what the 'SSS Line' in the title means as you listen, adds a special touch.

As for the genre, it’s categorized as post-rock, but there’s a nostalgic quality in the sound that resonates with modernity and fits perfectly into the rhythm game genre. This balance between complexity and catchiness makes the song highly suited for gameplay.

I hope every Donder enjoys the journey this song offers, experiencing the story, the ocean waves, and the highway imagery along with the music. Congratulations on your selection!
(Rihito Tsuboi)

Singularity Game

oxygenvil

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[Comments from the judges]

If I had to classify it, I would say it's close to New Wave. It's frantic and comical, but the song also carries a technical flair, with unexpected chord progressions that give it a challenging, almost progressive-rock quality. And beneath it all is an emotional melody that adds depth to the fun.

These seemingly contradictory elements coexist in perfect balance, and I felt that Taiko no Tatsujin, which has actively embraced such concepts, has a high degree of compatibility with this song.

There are some unique rhythmic accents that make you go 'Huh?', but since they are divided into groups of five or ten sixteenth notes, they don’t have the difficulty of odd tuplets. It feels 'seemingly complex, but once you understand it, it's easy to play,' and I think that’s done really well. You can ride this wave!
(Masubuchi)

Swim among the clouds

Kurubukko

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[Comments from the judges]

A bright yet somewhat melancholic atmosphere lingers throughout the song, leaving the listener with a gentle feeling. I believe this song has a unique charm.

From a gameplay perspective, the metric modulation section will likely be rhythmically challenging, but the cool section that follows allows for free, fluid play. This combination offers a new, refreshing gameplay experience.

Considering the unique qualities of the song and the structure of Fumen (note chart for game), I am confident it will deliver a deeply fulfilling experience. I hope everyone enjoys these aspects upon release. Once again, congratulations!
(Sue P) "

RAGING FIRE

Delta Low

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[Comments from the judges]

From the moment I hit the play button, I felt a shockwave through my entire body. Sound Designer Tsuboi remembered something ancient: 'Humanity has evolved to groove to rhythms like this.' (Various theories)

The genre choice, 'Jungle Terror', is primal yet refreshingly suited for rhythm games. The raw rhythm appeals directly to human instincts.

The key to this Fumen (note chart for game) is its catchiness. Despite its unconventionality, it avoids being overly stoic and instead brings a playful atmosphere with the quirky vocal snippets and jungle sounds. The absence of a consistent melody creates a different kind of memorability, making it a track that will be loved for a long time.

The song’s innovative rhythms will give Donders a unique challenge, one they won’t soon forget. With this prehistoric yet modern track, I hope to ignite the rhythm souls of Donders everywhere! Congratulations!
(Rihito Tsuboi)

Ka.Ma.Se

RIZARDI

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[Comments from the judges]

Though 'Trap' and 'Hardstyle' might evoke thoughts of hard-hitting EDM, this track wears those genres with a unique flair.

The rap that opens the song will make you say 'That’s cool!' out loud. It’s got the gritty, aggressive tone you’d expect, but there’s also a playful touch in the instrumentation that stays true to the Taiko no Tatsujin spirit. The thundering kick drum creates powerful dynamics, which are then balanced by the bright, catchy elements in the composition.

Imagining how the Fumen (note chart for game) will play out, the use of triplets and irregular rhythms will provide a distinctive, fun, and groovy experience. The lyrics, especially the refrain 'Ka.Ma.Se Ka.Ma.Se…', will hype up Donders and push them to perform their best.

I’m confident that Donders everywhere will have a blast with this! Congratulations!
(Rihito Tsuboi)

CHUBAY

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[Comments from the judges]

When reviewing this piece, I instinctively felt a high level of quality. The song's message is powerful, capturing personal moments of self-reflection. The detailed melody line in the interlude, along with the impactful fills and key accents, promises engaging and rewarding gameplay.

The emotional message will resonate differently with each listener, with familiar words that Donders will recognize. The refreshing airiness and memorable melody will attract listeners and keep them hooked. As players experience a sense of accomplishment from playing it, I am excited about the potential game experience this song will create. Congratulations on your selection!
(Sue P) "

Yomii

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[Comments from the judges]

At first glance, this might seem like a typical rhythm game track, but 'EXRiXiS' is much more. With so many twists, turns, and elements, it’s a song that keeps pulling you back for more.

The song's depth is further highlighted by its precise note placements, as if tailored for drum rolls and Taiko strikes. The careful layering of different note values and rhythms shows remarkable craftsmanship.

Congratulations!
(Eto)