### Review of the Undertale Determination Symphony Concert in Kansas City
Last night, the Kauffman Center in Kansas City hosted the **Undertale Determination Symphony**, a concert that united enthusiasts of the cherished indie game for an evening filled with orchestral melodies. The event radiated a lively atmosphere, with numerous attendees donning remarkable cosplay inspired by the game. The spectators were engaged and courteous, contributing to an overall uplifting experience that was further amplified by the orchestra’s performances.
Although many facets of the concert were delightful, including the music itself, the choice and arrangement of the pieces performed drew some critique.
#### Mixed Feelings on Musical Selections
The concert commenced with recognizable themes such as “Once Upon a Time,” “Your Best Friend,” and “Fallen Down,” following the game’s chronological sequence. However, the order soon became confusing. Crucially, themes associated with Papyrus were completely ignored, which led to bewilderment among fans. Instead, the program abruptly transitioned to pieces like “Snowdin Town,” followed by other well-known tracks such as “Waterfall” and “Memory,” skipping over several vital thematic elements.
While the concert did highlight exceptional performances of certain tracks, including “NGAHHH!!!” and “Spear of Justice,” numerous fans were surprised by the absence and arrangement of other important pieces. The latter portion of the concert deviated even further from the anticipated structure, resulting in a disorganized arrangement that felt scattered. Essential tracks such as “Spider Dance” and “It’s Raining Somewhere Else” were performed, while others like “Another Medium” and “Enemy Approaching” were conspicuously missing.
#### Notable Omissions from the Setlist
The absence of specific beloved tracks left many audience members perplexed. Here’s a compilation of songs that were omitted, which struck many as astonishing given their significance to the game’s story and emotional journey:
1. **Can You Really Call This A Hotel, I Didn’t Receive A Mint On My Pillow Or Anything** – Although it shares its melody with various pieces, its jazzy remix deserves recognition.
2. **Stronger Monsters** – This track shines as an energetic piece that could have seamlessly complemented the battle themes.
3. **An Ending** – Featuring a breathtaking piano rendition of “Ruins,” its exclusion felt like a lost chance for a more dramatic finish.
4. **Reunited** – This lengthy composition would have served as a superb transition following the grand “Hopes and Dreams/SAVE the World.”
5. **Quiet Water** – A brief yet impactful piece that could have blended effortlessly with other serene moments.
6. **Here We Are** – This atmospheric theme was a key component missing from the concert, with fans eager to hear its orchestral version.
7. **Start Menu/Menu (Full)** – A climactic rendition of the menu themes would have made a striking opener for Act 2.
8. **Bring It In, Guys!/Last Goodbye** – The exclusion of this credits theme was disappointing, as it holds emotional significance from the game’s conclusion.
9. **Another Medium** – As the main theme for the expansive territory of Hotland, its absence was especially noticeable.
10. **Battle Against a True Hero** – This powerful composition could have enhanced the finale alongside “Megalovania,” serving as a memorable encore.
11. **Enemy Approaching** – The game’s iconic battle theme was anticipated to be featured in the concert, but its omission left fans bewildered.
#### Conclusion
While the **Undertale Determination Symphony** concert highlighted a remarkably talented orchestra and an enthusiastic audience, the decisions surrounding song choice and arrangement created a gap between the experience and fan expectations. Many attendees felt a sense of loss over the pieces that formed the game’s emotional heart, even as they expressed gratitude for the enjoyable performances that were offered. As fans look ahead to upcoming concerts, the hope persists for more considerate curation that respects the beloved soundtrack of **Undertale**.
