The Terminator (Sega-CD) - "Destinationz Unknown" (Original Vocal Ver.)

Avoid nonconstructive negative comments regarding the music or gameplay.

So here we have another Sega CD audio replacement test, this time featuring "The Terminator" on the Sega CD. This game is probably recognized by most for its unique soundtrack, composed by Bijan Shaheer, Joey Kuras, TeknoMan, and last but not least, the one and only Tommy Tallarico. The track played on the third stage, "Destinationz Unknown" (composed by Tommy) is widely considered the favorite of many, but what I didn't know is that the song itself has deeper roots before the Terminator game, something I don't think many gamers or game music enthusiasts may realize. So with an audio file replacement, I replaced "Destinationz Unknown" with "Destinationz Unknown". Confused? Read on.

"Destinationz Unknown" actually came into fruition before Tommy's days as a game music composer. It was originally performed by the band "Diamondz in the Rough", a Van-Halen-inspired band in which Tommy was a part of back in the late 80's. It looks like an instrumental and remastered version of the song would later make its way into a Terminator game, which could explain a thing or two.

Even among those who absolutely love this soundtrack to death, many will also argue that they find the soundtrack strange or unfitting for a "Terminator" game, given the dark mechanical soundtrack iconic of the first two movies. In contrast, this game takes a completely different and upbeat direction with rocking guitars in demolished canyons filled with Endoskeletons, a emotional piano piece in Skynet HQ, and what I can only describe as over-the-top heroic synth when helping Sarah escape from TechNoir. In its defense, I will say it does fit the 80's feel, as that was when the first Terminator movie was released. Listening to these views is even more amusing knowing that "Destinationz Unknown" existed prior to the Terminator game.

Regardless of what people say about 80's music, learning about this I decided to give the original a listen at the band's myspace page and actually enjoyed it, then again I'm a little partial to the music of that time. So then I wondered, what would it be like if I switched the game version of the song for the original band version in-game? And no, I didn't play the game without music only to put it in later - I replaced the music file itself (while keeping a copy of course). The music is too loud compared to the game sound effects, but then I suppose that's the focus, isn't it?

If you want to hear the song without the game sounds, you can visit Diamondz In The Rough's myspace page. You can see how Tommy looked in the 80's. =P And as usual, DO NOT ASK FOR FILES. Not sure if the band would like me giving out MP3s, and I don't share files on this channel anyway.

https://myspace.com/diamondzintheroug...

I haven't done a video celebrating Tommy's works so here's one. A lot of games I grew up with on the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive involved his work, such as the Earthworm Jim games, Aladdin and Cool Spot. Tommy, if you ever get the chance to watch, thanks from another fan. Thought I'd bring up some music history to light, as I'm sure there's a few people on youtube would love to hear a different version of this great song. Much respect to you and the band. =)