Notes from Thomas about the arrangement:
Grant Kirkhopes theme for DK Isle from Donkey Kong 64 is, in my opinion, one of the best melodies ever put to a video game. Theres certainly a lot of Donkey Kong tracks that would fit the summer theme, and although I briefly considered arranging Simian Segue instead, Im glad we settled on this one. I love a melody that offers nearly endless possibilities for reharmonization, retexturing, and reorchestration. To help bring this piece to life, we enlisted the help of four incredible woodwind players: Dan DeSimone (perhaps better known as 8BitBrigadier) on flute, Peter Anthony Smith (Soundole) on clarinet, Kristin Naigus on Oboe, and Bassonify on.... Bassoon. When we have guest artists, I find it important to make sure they get a moment in the spotlight, and everyone here gets their shot at this iconic melody. Its always a pleasure to bring in more players to help extend the capabilities of the Game Brass, and I hope you all enjoy this very special Game Winds arrangement of DK Island!
