Not too bad at all...
Let me begin by saying I'm fifteen. It was when I was eight that I first discovered Pokemon, and feel instantly in love with it. I had the games, the movies, the cards and everything. Around 2002, however, my interest waned and I gradually stopped collecting Pokemon, only playing one of the games now and then. Recently, however, I dug up this old CD in my closet and, having nothing better to do, decided to give it another shot.
Was I surprised! Eight years later, I'm still nodding my head, tapping my foot and (heaven forbid) singing to the catchy little tunes on 2.B.A. Master that amused me so much when I was younger. Now, how about a quick rundown of the songs?
1. Pokemon Theme
How can you go wrong here? The traditional theme of the anime, though in it's extended form. Nothing exicting, but a classic for tried-and-true fans.
8/10
2. 2.B.A Master
The namesake of the CD, though as to why sorta baffles me. The song in itself isn't all that great. It reminds me of some twisted combination of bubbly pop and pseudo-rap with a Pokemon coating, though that's probably a really bad description. Youc an safely pass this track up.
5/10
3. Viridian City
Oh wow...This one bring back memories...My favorite song on the CD when I was younger, and remains so today. Yeah, the lyrics are cheesy, but the beat itself is fun and fast-paced. And despite the rather corny lyrics, you just can't help but sing along at times.
9/10
4. What Kinds Of Pokemon Are You?
"Very Ehhh" is the only way to describe it. Another pseudo-rap that's only sub-par. It's essentially a guy naming all the Pokemon types and what sort of attacks they have. Still, it has its moments.
5/10
5. My Best Friends
The first of the trio of emotional songs on the CD. I can't put my finger on why I like it, but there's simply something about "My Best Friends" that makes me smile. It does sound very similar to the more popular "Together Forever", though.
8.5/10
6. Everything Changes
For the longest time I hated this song, I really did. But I gave it a chance and eventually it grew on me. Anyways, "Everything Changes" gets off to a verrrrrry slow start. In fact, you only get into the meat of the song about 1 minute in. That aside, it's not too shabby.
6.5/10
7. The Time Has Come
The second emotional track on 2.B.A. Master. Probably the slowest song yet, but don't let that deter you. The music itself is very beautiful and stunning at times, and the lyrics fit, I suppose. The only downside is I find the singer's voice to be off for some reason. But then, that's just my opinion.
8/10
8. Pokemon Dance Mix
Perfect for raising your spirits after the heartfelt "The Time Has Come". Makes for an exellent workout track with an almost techno-y feel to it. The typically corny Pokemon lyrics aren't too bad in this one, either.
9/10
9. Double Trouble
When I was younger, even my mom loved this track (but then, she's a Team Rocket fan)! And for good reason, I might add. Captures the Tema Rocket spirit perfectly - villainous with a tad of humor and wackyness. It's surprisingly well-sung considering the singers are using the voices of their characters rather than their actual singing voices.
8.5/10
10. Together Forever
Not quite as nice as "My Best Friends", in my opinion, but "Togther Forever" does a nice job of wrapping up the emotional trio of tracks. The beginning is very nice, and the song itself is uplifting.
8/10
11. Misty's Song
Ughhhh...The worst song on the CD. It's not that I don't like the pairing of Ash and Misty (I don't care either way), but this song is simply terrible. It's a cheap shot at a slow ballad that has no substance whatsoever. The lyrics are the corniest yet, and the singer's voice is rather nasally. Please, do yourself a favor and skip this track!
2/10
12. Pokerap
Puts your faith back in the Pokemon franchise after the dissapointing "Misty's Song". Pokerap is a compilation of the ending clips shown in the first season of the anime. It features two guys reciting the first 150 Pokemon peppered with some cute dialogue. While it doesn't sound like much, it's quite entertaining and catchy.
7.5/10
13. You Can Do It
The obligatory motivational track. While not bad in itself, it just doesn't fit the theme of Pokemon. Yeah, it touches upon the chasing after your dreams and reaching high sort of themes, but it feels out of place for some reason. Really, it's one of those songs you either love or hate.
6/10
Overall? Yeah, 2.B.A. Master is an exellent purchase, whether you're a long-time Pokemon Fan or a younger enthusiast. It provides some fun and peppy music even if you're not a die-hard fan.
-Reviwed by AiriKitsune
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