MUSIC FOR YOUR EARS | REVIEW Videogame! (Album) By Zach Bilcsik

Zach Bilcsik’s album Videogame! is a fascinating and ambitious project that highlights
his talent as a musician and his dedication to his craft. This album, steeped in the
nostalgic essence of video game soundtracks, is a clear reflection of Bilcsik’s ability to
channel his diverse influences into a cohesive and evocative collection of tracks.
Growing up in an environment rich with the sounds of classic video games, combined
with his exposure to his father’s eclectic CD collection, Bilcsik has crafted an album
that is as unique as it is engaging.
The album was recorded in the intimate setting of Bilcsik’s spare bedroom, a space
shared with his girlfriend, where the clutter of everyday life merged with the creative
process. This setting contributes to the album’s authentic and personal vibe, grounding
its complex and atmospheric soundscapes in the reality of its creation. The recording
process was not without its quirks; the abrupt ending of the first track, The Grind, was
the result of a happy accident during the export process. This unexpected twist was kept
in the final cut, as it metaphorically mirrors the sudden and often jarring halt of grinding
for experience points in a video game.
The opening track, The Grind, sets the tone for the album with its methodical yet
engrossing rhythm. The track’s sudden end is a brilliant touch, echoing the often
monotonous yet essential task of grinding in video games. Musically, the track builds a
sense of anticipation, drawing the listener into the album’s world. The repetitive nature
of the melody, paired with subtle shifts in tone, mirrors the cyclical nature of grinding,
making this track both thematically and sonically compelling.
The second track, Caves, plunges the listener into a darker, more introspective
atmosphere. The use of percussive drips throughout the track creates an eerie,
subterranean vibe, reminiscent of exploring the depths of a video game dungeon. The
melody is haunting, with a slow build that evokes a sense of discovery and tension. The
synths and keyboards are used masterfully here, creating a quiet yet unsettling
atmosphere that lingers long after the track ends. Caves is a remarkable piece that
demonstrates Bilcsik’s ability to convey mood and setting through sound.
Shop is a clever and intriguing track that introduces a dynamic shift in the album’s tone.
The beat switch-up that occurs midway through the song signals a transition from light
to dark, much like entering a mysterious or ominous shop in a game. The track’s
structure mirrors the duality often found in such settings, where the surface might be
welcoming, but there’s an underlying sense of danger or deceit. The rhythm is
infectious, drawing the listener in with its groove, while the melody carries a sense of
unease, making Shop a track that is both immersive and thought-provoking.
Character Creation is perhaps the most playful track on the album, embodying the
excitement and endless possibilities of crafting a new character in a video game. The
music is lighter, with an upbeat tempo that contrasts with the previous tracks. The
melody is whimsical, with a sense of freedom and creativity that reflects the

personalisation process. This track is filled with energy and optimism, capturing the joy
of starting a new adventure, and it adds a refreshing change of pace to the album.
Energy Reserves takes the listener into a reflective and restorative space. The mid-
tempo pace allows the track to breathe, giving a sense of recuperation and preparation
for the challenges ahead. The synths here are more subdued, creating a calm and serene
atmosphere. The track is meditative, with a soothing quality that provides a moment of
respite in the album. The subtle layering of sounds adds depth, making Energy Reserves
a track that invites repeated listening to fully appreciate its nuances.
The final track, Title Screen, brings the album full circle, evoking the familiar feeling of
anticipation that comes with starting a new game. The melody is grand and sweeping,
with a sense of finality and resolution that ties together the themes explored in the
previous tracks. The composition is polished and cinematic, with a memorable hook
that lingers in the listener’s mind. Title Screen serves as a fitting conclusion to the
album, reflecting the journey that the listener has just experienced.
Videogame! is a meticulously crafted album that shows Zach Bilcsik’s creativity and
originality. The tracks are not only sonically pleasing but also deeply thematic, each one
contributing to the overarching narrative of the album. The use of synthesisers and
keyboards throughout creates a cohesive sound that is both atmospheric and charming.
Bilcsik’s ability to draw from his influences while crafting something entirely his own
is evident in every track, making Videogame! a fascinating listen from start to finish.
The album’s slow-moving storyline, haunting tunes, and polished sound make it a
higlight in the genre. Bilcsik has created something truly special, an album that is both
musically sophisticated and emotionally impactful. It’s clear that a lot of thought and
effort went into the production of this album, and it’s an experience that will linger with
listeners long after the final track has played.
For anyone with an interest in music, particularly those who appreciate the intersection
of video game culture and music, Videogame! is a must-listen. The album’s unique
rhythms, inspiring messages, and sheer musical quality make it a gripping and subtle
masterpiece. Zach Bilcsik has proven himself to be an artist of remarkable talent, and
Videogame! shows his creativity and dedication. This album is not only a pleasure to
listen to but also a deeply absorbing experience that will leave listeners inspired and
eager for more.