It’s been 362 days since Marvin (aka BlackearacheXD) posted his last video, and the VGM community hasn’t been the same since he announced his hiatus last year. Although his name has changed to MDXD, he’s still producing high-energy prog rock/metal covers, and this arrangement of “Cosmo Canyon” from Final Fantasy VII might be his best to date. In addition to a sleek production and amazing riffs, the track manages to balance old and new, giving listeners just enough nostalgia while also keeping it bold and fresh.

In short, this is my favorite VGM cover of the year.

Welcome home, MDXD.