Artist: "Leeni"
Album: "8 Bit Heart"
Genre: Video Game
Label: Leeni

Reviewer: -RoG-
Posted: 8/19/2008

Review: I was first introduced to Leeni's unique style of video game music at the recent 2008 "I Am 8-Bit" opening reception in Los Angeles. As I was wandering through the ultra-crowded gallery, looking at some of the best video game inspired artwork, I couldn't help but wonder who was performing the retro-styled gaming tunes blasting on the speakers. When I made my way to the other end of the gallery, I found Leeni standing there, playing her live set... on a Game Boy.

For those unfamiliar with the chiptunes scene, it's basically a style of music where all the sounds are generated using some kind of video game equipment. If you're wondering what the sound is like, all you have to do is play just about any classic Nintendo Entertainment System game and you'll have a pretty good idea. Now, while I'm a big fan of chiptunes (especially acts like 8 Bit Weapon), it's certainly not something for everybody. But that's where Leeni comes in.

Leeni doesn't just perform instrumental chiptunes (though she's perfectly capable of it), she seamlessly blends them together with her mellow voice. Her vocals aren't too overpowering, they're just the right balance for all the bleeps and bloops coming out of her Game Boy. Only Leeni can make square waves sound romantic.

If you're new to the chiptunes scene and looking for a great way to ease into it, I highly recommend picking up her "8 Bit Heart" album. You won't be disappointed with what you hear, because she's found a nice way to make this style of music very accessible for just about anyone. And at the very least, you'll have some great new tunes to listen to while playing your favorite classic 8-bit games.

Overall rating:
(Scored on a 0.5 - 5 pickles rating: 0.5 being the worst and 5 being the best)