xi - Parousia FLAC album

Largely considered xi's best release, there's a lot to like in Parousia. It's a demonstration of xi's entire palette, from jazz tracks like Finders Keepers, to the schranz vibes of Peace Breaker, to the infamous FREEDOM DiVE, anybody who's heard the name xi from the likes of Sound Voltex, Cytus and beatmania IIDX will have something to be entranced by. A few tracks are even remasters and extensions from his work in rhythm gaming, namely Ascension to Heaven, Halcyon, FREEDOM DiVE, and the title track Parousia.

This album represents xi escaping from rhythm game work to produce music for himself primarily and make a name for himself as an independent artist, and the result is the work of a master in full control of the breadth of his abilities.

If you already know xi, chances are you have enough reasons to buy this album already, the least of which include a FAR AND AWAY improved version of FREEDOM DiVE that will leave you wondering why you even thought the BMS version was even anywhere close to decent. If you don't, I recommend looking up Halcyon, Ascension to Heaven, and Parousia, which are already available to listen for free, to get your first tastes.

High points: Bemani work, Peace Breaker, Finders Keepers
Low points: Sedap Malam, Beatrice (And even these aren't terrible, honestly.)