Rockstar Games has released a short compilation of five songs from their 2018 game Red Dead Redemption 2. The EP was released in response to popular demand and is available digitally and as a limited-edition vinyl record.
The industry took notice when Red Dead Redemption 2 released, showcasing a beautiful open world, top-class storytelling and an attention to detail rarely matched by contemporaries. The music from the game also received special attention, with many reviewers praising Woody Jackson's original soundtrack. Rockstar’s Western epic took home four wins out of eight nominations from the 2018 Game Awards, including Best Narrative, Best Performance and Best Score/Soundtrack.
While the full soundtrack from the game was released in 2019, Rockstar has now released a special five-track album titled The Music of Red Dead Redemption 2: The Housebuilding EP. The name refers to the first track of the album, “The Housebuilding Song”, a fan-favorite piece that scored one of the more memorable moments in the Red Dead franchise. David Ferguson performs himself in the title track, while NYC guitarist Mark Sweeny joins him for the rest of the album. The compilation is available digitally on iTunes, Spotify and other streaming services, as well as a gorgeous physical vinyl EP via Rockstar Warehouse and Lakeshore Records. The album will likely be in short supply, so fans should waste no time in picking it up.
As suggested in the name, Red Dead Redemption 2 is a redemptive tale that sees a main character trying to literally build a new life for him and his family. In a game that largely focuses on the hard realities of the old outlaw life, the title track of this new album is contrastingly lively and hopeful. Many critics noted the contrasting tone of the song, naming it one of the more memorable and fulfilling moments during the long play-through. The other tracks might not be as recognizable or popular as "The Housebuilding Song," but the atmospheric pieces will transport fans right back to the western world Rockstar created.
Music has always played an integral role in video games, with many past games being remembered for having unforgettable soundtracks. When done right, a game’s soundtrack can really elevate the experience by helping the player lose themselves in the game world or focus during a tough battle as needed. Red Dead Redemption 2 is primarily a narrative-driven experience, and such titles live or die on the ability to pull the player in and immerse them in the game. Given the popularity of the game and its original soundtrack, it seems Rockstar hit all the right notes.
Red Dead Redemption 2 is available on PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Stadia.
Source: Rockstar; Lakeshore Records