I would in my opinion, rate him equal, if not above, Uematsu. I know a lot of people might find that a tad "controversial" but his music has connected with me so much, especially the soundtrack for Star Ocean: The Second Story. That soundtrack made me feel wonder, sadness, fear, power and happiness all in one game. The soundtrack is one of the main reasons I name TSS my favourite all-time game.

Key songs from The Second Story are:

Theme of Rena (this is the arranged version. The original is only a minute and a half long). This song is, in my opinion, one of the saddest RPG songs ever written:


Stab the Sword of Justice. Anyone who has played The Last Hope will recognise this song as being the battle theme on En II:


Pure A Stream. This song plays in the first village of Expel, Arlia. It really captures the feelings of wonder and curiosity upon discovering this planet:


I'd post the final battle theme but that REALLY has to be heard upon playing the game to capture the true fear and adrenaline rush felt when fighting the last boss.

He also did the Golden Sun soundtracks and I love his work in that too.

Oh, and when he plays live...



His rig consists of 11 fricking keyboards!!!!