In my random Internet wanderings a few weeks ago, I stumbled across a kick ass band in California named Tanuki Suit Riot who plays video game covers and mash-ups. This type of band is not really a new thing, but it's their choice of style that particularly caught my personal interest.
Tanuki Suit Riot uses a fantastic blend of funk, jazz and rock in their tracks which I personally love. I am really into old big band era music and artists like Benny Goodman. So you can imagine my excitement after hearing some of my favourite retro game theme songs remixed and mashed-up in this style.
The group has some fantastic compositions when it comes to mashups. Their track "Moon Patrol" for example, covers the classic theme and mixes it with Donkey Kong, Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" and Prince's "Let's Go Crazy." It features wicked guitar and keyboard solos making this one of my favourite tracks from them.
The other track that I particularly dig is Snakeman Cowboy Bebop. I already loved the Intro to Cowboy Bepbop, so it would have to be a pretty tight mix for me to get on board. Tanuki Suit Riot delivers and the track is solid and catchy as hell. A special tip of the hat to the bands guitar player who executes consistently epic solos on the tracks in which he appears.
In the end their music speaks for itself, which is why I've embedded their MySpace player below for you to listen for yourself. The group has shows lined up all through California at various joints. You can check out their schedule here. If you live in the area I highly recommend you do! I would love to see these guys live!
Be sure to visit their official MySpace and Twitter pages and show some love to this great band who will likely only get better with time.
Official Tanuki Suit Riot MySpace Page
Official Tanuki Suit Riot Twitter Page
These are some sexy mixes. I'm quite enjoying what's been offered up, definitely interested in hearing some more from these guys. One question though, why only 8? What could they have possibly done better for you Corey!? Inquiring minds want to know!
These tunes are great!! I especially love the Megaman X one.
the fact they cover TMNT hits makes my day
@Casey
Hahaha, I think they're a great group with a lot of room to grow. I'd be interested in checking out a longer collection of tracks later on down the road. Also, the band seems to have greatly improved in their recently released tracks. Their earlier songs are pretty good, but the newer ones are just a lot tighter and on point. Much better execution over all, especially in the horn sections.
8/10 is a pretty good grade! Plus you need some head space in the rating for them to improve, which I think if they keep playing gigs and recording they most definitely will!
I love the Cowboy Bebop mashup.. but I wish they included a parody/play-on the opening lyric 'I think it's time we blow this scene, get everyone and the stuff together..ok 3, 2, 1 let's jam' =D