I just read the story and listened to the album, honestly, I think it's one of the best works ZUN has done in recent years. Not only is the music excellent, but the story is also very good, and there are several details like Renko's theory and Maribel's ability that are better developed here, you know, real story development. If you're a true fan of the Touhou Project and know what the previous ones were about, this one definitely won't disappoint.
Even the chosen songs (the repeated ones) take on a new meaning with this album. I mean, when you listen to the theme of Sannyo or Okina, you immediately think of the characters, but damn, it seems like ZUN thought of them for this album from the start, they fit really well!
As for the music, I have mixed feelings. Like I said, it's too good, everything sounds clear and sharp, but on the other hand, I feel like ZUN is giving us "leftovers" in the games when he can still make such good music (or even better), and this album is living proof of that.
Here, ZUN put all his love and effort into the arrangements and quality, while in the games, I notice he's super neglectful, I just don't understand it.
I don't want to end on a negative note, so I'll say this again: I really enjoyed this CD. I loved the new music and the story, damn, even the cover and the repeated songs make sense when you read the story. ZUN put a lot of effort into this album, something like this couldn't have been rushed or done half-heartedly. I definitely recommend this album, and I dare say it's easily one of the best. I have a lot of affection for Dr. Latency's Freak Report, but this one is just too good.
