Lies of P Transforms DJMax Tracks into Haunting Soundtrack

The recent release of the game Lies of P has captivated audiences not only through its gameplay but also via its distinctive soundtrack, which features reimagined tracks from the popular rhythm game series DJMax. Developed by Neowiz, this atmospheric title draws on a collection of songs that many players may already recognize, creating a unique blend of familiarity and innovation.

Neowiz, well-known for its DJMax series, has repurposed several iconic tracks from the franchise, transforming them to fit the darker, gothic aesthetic of Lies of P. The game, which interprets the story of Pinocchio through a somber and melancholic lens, now boasts a soundtrack that enhances its narrative depth. According to an interview with Game Rant, the creative director Jiwon Choi stated that the decision to remix these tracks stemmed from a desire to align the music with the game’s art style and world. Choi mentioned, “We thought it would be fun to remake the music of the DJMax franchise into a Lies of P style. We are very happy with the result.”

The result is a stunning collection of rearrangements that maintain the essence of the original tracks while infusing them with a new emotional weight. One standout piece is “Why,” composed by Nauts. This track, introduced in DJMax Respect V in 2020, already featured strong melodic piano elements, which were further developed to evoke a more somber mood. The transformation cleverly shifts the piece from an upbeat melody to one that resonates with the game’s darker themes.

Another impressive remix is DJ Mocha’s “Feel.” Originally released in DJMax Online in 2004, this lively electronic disco track has been reimagined in Lies of P to create a noir-like atmosphere. The new version layers the original’s vocals over slow, deliberate chords, evoking the ambiance of a quiet jazz bar. This dramatic shift showcases Neowiz’s ability to creatively reinterpret its music catalog, offering players a fresh auditory experience.

From Upbeat to Melancholic

The transformation of tracks from DJMax into the haunting sounds of Lies of P does not stop with “Feel.” Another notable example is “Memory of Beach,” originally composed by M2U and released in 2006. The original version was characterized by its poppy, upbeat electronica vibes, but the rearrangement opts for a gentle piano rendition with soft vocal harmonies. The subtle yet profound changes make it almost unrecognizable until listeners latch onto the familiar melody, illustrating the skill involved in such creative reworks.

This process of rearranging music is no easy feat, especially in an age where creating wholly original compositions can be increasingly challenging. Yet, Neowiz has successfully harnessed the essence of its DJMax catalog to produce a soundtrack that resonates with both new players and long-time fans. Each arrangement allows listeners to experience these beloved tracks in a new light, further enriching the Lies of P experience.

For those interested in exploring these musical transformations, it is highly recommended to listen to both the Lies of P versions and their DJMax counterparts. Tracks such as “Feel,” “Divine Service,” “Someday,” “Quixotic,” and others exemplify the impressive work done by Neowiz in recycling iconic melodies into something entirely new. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the interplay between different genres and styles remains a vibrant aspect of the industry, with Lies of P standing as a testament to this dynamic creativity.