They say jazz is all about the notes you don’t play, but after the uber-talented Blueshift Big Band turned in the terrific masters for Joystick Jazz (Volume 1), we knew we needed to hear more. 

Introducing Joystick Jazz: The Blueshift Big Band Plays Iconic Video Game Hits (Vol. 2) Vinyl Soundtrack, a second scooping of jazzy video game goodness presented on audiophile black vinyl, with a digital download code to boot. 

For Volume 2, The Blueshift Big Band turned to classic video game tracks from titles near and dear to iam8bit’s pixelated heart — games like Castlevania, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Grim Fandango. They reimagined iconic themes as only the Blueshift Big Band can do, revivifying them through the power of brass, beats, and big band bravado. 

And iam8bit pal Mark Borgions is back, too, to lend the release some of his Jim Flora-flavored visual design and artwork. You don’t have to be a jazz aficionado to appreciate the perfection available in this incredible package.

Want a preview of the music in Volume 2? Listen to the album here!