Composer Lena Raine, renowned for her work on Celeste, has embarked on a new musical odyssey with the release of her concept album for Earthblade. Despite the game’s cancellation, Raine has crafted an evocative soundtrack that stands on its own as a powerful narrative journey.

A Musical Masterpiece That Transcends Boundaries

In a world where video game soundtracks often serve as ephemeral accompaniments to gameplay, Lena Raine’s EARTHBLADE ~ Across the Bounds of Fate emerges as a standalone symphony of emotion and storytelling. Although Extremely OK Games announced the development of Earthblade in 2022, the project was ultimately shelved in January of this year. Yet, rather than letting the music fade into obscurity, Raine meticulously assembled every piece of composition she had created for the game, weaving them into a cohesive emotional arc that resonates deeply with listeners.

The Genesis of a Concept Album

The genesis of this album lies in the heart of a cancelled game. When Extremely OK Games made the difficult decision to discontinue Earthblade, Raine found herself at a crossroads. Instead of abandoning the music she had poured her soul into, she chose to give it life outside the confines of the game. The result is a collection of tracks arranged not by the structure of a non-existent game but by the progression of emotions they evoke. Each note and melody carries the weight of unfulfilled potential, transforming the album into a poignant reflection on the creative process and the struggles that come with it.Raine’s approach to arranging the music mirrors her previous work on Celeste, where she masterfully crafted an emotional journey through sound. In this case, however, the absence of a visual narrative allows the listener to form their own interpretations, making the experience uniquely personal. The album flows seamlessly from moments of introspection to bursts of energy, much like the highs and lows of creating something from nothing.

Inspiration Drawn from Classic Animation and Film

Lena Raine’s inspiration for the Earthblade soundtrack draws heavily from classic animation and film scores. The synths and live strings reminiscent of Joe Hisaishi’s work on Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind lend an ethereal quality to the music, while Yoko Kanno’s use of saxophones and percussives in Cowboy Bebop and Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex infuse the tracks with a sense of urgency and depth. These influences are not merely stylistic choices; they serve as a bridge between past and present, connecting Raine’s compositions to a rich tradition of storytelling through music.The choice to draw from these sources is deliberate, as Raine sought to create a soundscape that could stand on its own without the need for visual accompaniment. The result is a blend of nostalgia and innovation, where familiar elements are reimagined in fresh and exciting ways. This fusion of old and new creates a listening experience that feels both timeless and contemporary, appealing to fans of both classic animation and modern video game soundtracks.

Beyond the Game: A Reflection on Creation and Struggle

The cancellation of Earthblade was undoubtedly a blow to the team at Extremely OK Games, but it also provided an opportunity for reflection. Studio director Maddy Thorson, along with programmer Noel Berry, acknowledged the challenges they faced during the development process. “Noel and I began to reflect on how the game has felt for us to work on day-to-day, and realized that it has been a struggle for a long time,” Thorson said in her announcement of the game’s cancellation. Despite the difficulties, the team maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing that Pedro Medeiros and his new project were not adversaries but fellow creators on different paths.Raine’s concept album serves as a testament to the resilience of artists in the face of adversity. By transforming the remnants of a cancelled project into a compelling musical narrative, she has given voice to the emotions and experiences that shaped the creation of Earthblade. The album is more than just a collection of songs; it is a reflection on the creative process, the struggles that come with it, and the beauty that can emerge from overcoming those challenges.

An Offering to Fans and Beyond

For fans of Lena Raine’s work, EARTHBLADE ~ Across the Bounds of Fate offers a glimpse into the mind of a composer who has consistently pushed the boundaries of video game music. But the album’s appeal extends far beyond the gaming community. Its universal themes of perseverance, creativity, and emotional depth make it accessible to anyone who appreciates thoughtful, well-crafted music.The album is now available for purchase on Bandcamp for $7, allowing listeners to support Raine’s artistic endeavors directly. Whether you’re a fan of Celeste, Minecraft, or Guild Wars 2, or simply someone who appreciates a good soundtrack, this concept album promises to be a rewarding addition to your collection. It stands as a reminder that even when projects don’t go as planned, the art created along the way can still leave a lasting impact.