Did you love the deconstructivism and sombre narrative of Chrono Trigger’s sequel on the PS1? Most importantly, did you relish in the majestic soundtrack created by Yasunori Mitsuda, arguably one of the most important composers in video game history? Then you’ll love the Cross Symphonic album.

Created by composer John Paul Hayward, the upcoming album will be featuring 70 minutes of cinematic music that will be recorded by a live symphony orchestra and choir. The album has been officially approved by Yasunori Mitsuda and rights holder Septima Ley, though keep in mind that it’s still a fan-made tribute. John told Kakuchopurei exclusively that getting in touch with both parties was the toughest part of this project.

“They’re both extremely busy and with so many fans constantly releasing cover songs and albums of Mitsuda’s music it can be hard to stand out in the crowd. Once I was able to get into direct contact with them the process was surprisingly quick. After listening to my plans for the album and looking over a few scores they granted me approval to move forward with the album.”

The recording will be done in Nashville Tennessee by a 75-player band. According to John, that number is comparable to the size of most major film score orchestras used on films like Star Wars and Lord of the Rings.

So why Chrono Cross? John said that he’s a fan of the game’s story.

“It’s both a casual experience, yet a deep and twisting labyrinth of storytelling. There is a ‘classic-ness’ to the story that really intrigues me, touching on themes of jealousy, betrayal, adventure, comradery love, deception; all things that could make up a classic Shakespearian tale. There are so many layers to the plot and world which you can easily miss without enjoying the experience any less.”

I make it a point to replay Chrono Cross every year or two, and I still discover a new detail or connection that enhances the world and lore every time I play. You could argue I’m just a bad player and missed all of it on the first go, but I’ll chalk it up to Chrono Cross‘ wonderfully rich and diverse world. A good part of that is thanks to Yasunori Mitsuda’s brilliant soundtrack.

His use and combination of different ethnic ensembles and instruments breathe life into the archipelago of El Nido. You can almost sense their tradition and culture through the music as if they have a general and style unique to their little archipelago, which is really an incredible feat.”

Just like yours truly, he’s also in the minority that loved Chrono Cross as a de facto sequel to Chrono Trigger. I’ll be sure to write something about that closer to Chrono Cross’ birth month.

Speaking of which, the album will be out on 18 November of this year, to celebrate the game’s 20th anniversary. You can help fund for the live recording on Kickstarter starting tomorrow.