Level 7 is the latest addition to a series of annually released albums created by Irish musician, Gavin Dunne, also known as Miracle of Sound. The songs on these albums are primarily based around video games, though there are songs about TV shows as well as original pieces that are often included. Level 7 is no different; with 21 tracks dedicated to games like Dark Souls 3, Overwatch, Doom, and even a song based off of Game of Thrones.

What separates Level 7 from other albums in its vein, however, is the way the songs are written. Each piece takes inspiration less from the game itself, and more from its themes, tones, or soundtrack. In this way, the tracks in Level 7 manage to be accessible to people unfamiliar with the source material.

A good example would be “The Path,” a rock song inspired by CD Projekt Red’s fantasy role-playing game “The Witcher 3.” While never directly addressing the game in question, the song’s tune manages to capture the atmosphere of its world, and address themes present throughout the story by focusing on a man who has lived a full life, eager to embark on one last quest before settling down for good.

One thing Miracle of Sound is known well for is his tendency to jump between genres with every song. This, I would argue, is the strongest part of both Level 7, and Dunne’s work as a whole. Whether it is the jaunty, upbeat folk tunes of “Skellige Winds,” the slow, melodic rhythm of “Some Things Never Change,” or the deep, powerful vocals in “Forever Flame,” each song has its own identity that makes it stand out amongst others.

Level 7 also features some excellent guest vocals.  Fellow musician Sharm duets with Gavin in “Fires Fade,” and has lead vocals in “Mother of Flame,” while video game journalist, Lisa Foiles, sings lead in “Edge of the World.” Lisa’s great voice and strong delivery lend a fierce, empowering feel to her song, while Sharm’s dramatic style is captivating and easy to listen to. The quality of her singing does not diminish in “Fires Fade,” where she harmonizes very well with, though sometimes overshadows, Gavin’s dulcet tones.

A few highlights from the album include “Hell to Pay,” a loud, pulse-pounding, and all-around fun metal song with wonderfully cheesy lyrics. This piece is contrasted by “Get the Gang Back” with its light, energetic tune and catchy chorus. Special mention also goes out to “Kana” which is sung entirely in a fictional language.

It’s also got what sounds like a didgeridoo from hell, and that’s something I never thought I wanted until hearing it.

In writing this review, the song that has stuck with me the most is “The Man Who Rocked The World.” This heartfelt tribute to David Bowie is probably the best song of the whole album. The music is amazing, as it manages to mimic Bowie’s style without simply copying it, but the best part is the lyrics. Raw, genuine and emotional lines like “I want to hear one more song, oh let the music live on” passionately convey the sense of loss the artist felt at Bowie’s death, and will resonate with anybody else who loved his work.

A low point of the album was the male only version of “Fires Fade.” While Gavin does a great job singing, the absence of Sharm’s voice made the song feel incomplete. It is not bad, but it doesn’t hold up as well when compared to the original.

All in all, Level 7 is a great album with a memorable and diverse collection of songs. It is a great choice for fans- of music, of video games…or both.