Doodoo doo do dooo do, dah! - It's the Super Mario theme! Known across the globe and endlessly catchy, this tune has been played on every instrument under the sun, as well a few renditions that should barely count. Hearing a cover version is certainly nothing new, but allow us to present one just a little bit different.
You've more than likely not heard of the Chinese Sheng, but the music played in this clip is much more familiar. It's an ancient reed instrument expertly played by the musician here to replicate not only the Overworld and Underground themes from Mario's original adventure, but in-game sound effects as well.
It's surreal to hear the distinctive noise of mushrooms and coins being collected coming from an instrument dating back to 1100 BC, and even more so when the sheng itself resembles something Sauron from The Lord of the Rings might build on a lazy weekend. That being said, it's a fascinating example of retro meeting the really retro which is definitely worth a listen.
Check it out below and be sure to let us know what you think!
Many thanks go to Ryan Millar for the tip.
[source gizmodo.com]
Comments 35
Already listened to this on The Verge. But it was pretty cool actually.
Japan: "Hey China, look at this retro game we made!"
China: "Hey Japan, look at this retro instrument we made... what's that? Yeah, It's playing your tune, 3000 years older and it still sounds better."
I couldn't keep the smile off my face while watching this video. Dang, I must have looked like an idiot. Thankfully no one saw me LOL.
I'm kinda getting a Delfino Island Vibe from this, especially that underground section. Maybe a bit of Yoshi's Island as well.
That was a blast! What a treat to listen to!
That's a awesome instrument! and also a good tune!
That sounds like something off Delfino Island.
So the actual instrument she's playing is 3000 years old? Or the instrument in general is 3000 years old?
That is really awesome. It's the 3000 year old version of a one man band
That's a cool instrument. Why isn't it internationally known?
That sounds great! I mean it fits the Mario theme perfectly!
And I love how the author said the instrument looks like Something Sauron would build. He's right! It does!
@WingedSnagret The instrument in general. If it were REALLY 3000 years old, I'm pretty sure it'd be in a museum.
You boys must be pretty bored in the office.
Saw this on Destructoid. Amazing!
Sounds like something more from Super Mario Sunshine. (or at least the beta.) B )
Love it
@PvtOttobot I do not know what to even say to that.
I suppose compared to the original version it could be considered better since it is using a real instrument over computer genned. But even that is a bit of a stretch because the instrument is so high pitched and tinny. and now that nintendo use orchestra stuff that single instrument has no chance of sounding better.
@argol228 it's leagues better! Sure, the original soundtrack is nostalgic, bit it's really not that great sounding, grow up a bit
@koopatroopaX @Undead_terror My gosh! Listened to it again, it so does!
She forgot the first loop and kept repeating the second loop. Point deduction!
@TwoTheNines
Did you make your icon or is it from something else? If it is from something else, where is it from?
But does she own a Wii U?
@PvtOttobot ok what did I say that would make you say something like grow up? the fact that I correctly stated that the instrument sounds high pitched and tinny? You are also discrediting an entire music genre, chiptune.
My non gaming friend sent thus to me this morning, couldn't believe it. We all talked about it in the pub later tonight. I totally wanna learn more about this instrument. So many questions
That sounded great.
This is just epic! I really love it, Nintendo should use it in games, in island levels! :3
Really epic though the main theme isn't properly completed......
Someone get Nintendo one of these to record new versions.
@Blizzaga I found you!!!!
Some mistimings and a few wrong notes here and there, but otherwise brilliant!! I love the sound, it's almost like a handheld organ! Looks pretty sophisticated with the key placement too.
Fun stuff! Very cool instrument no matter it's time of origin.
A simply amazing rendition.
That's amazing. Certainly very unique, in the vast sea of Super Mario Theme music videos. :B
@bezerker99 Haha, I was totally reminded of that! Love that guy!
That's awesome!
Cool! And I also like the instrument, it looks like a tower made of pipes!
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