I can't say enough good things about the music of Manabu Namiki. He is, as far as I'm concerned, the king of the Stage 1 theme. What's that mean, exactly? Listen close and I'll post a few examples. https://twitter.com/manabn/status/1330058812821221380

In the cacophony of lights & sounds that make up an arcade, the player's attention is often limited. Thus, it falls on the game to grab them and never let go. Dodonpachi DaiOuJou accomplishes this via an absolutely wonderful Stage 1 theme.

Stage 1 of the arcade classic Battle Garegga lasts for just a minute. During that time, players are treated to what is liable to go down as one of the most memorable tracks in the Shmup genre.

I am TERRIBLE at ESP Galuda 2, just plain awful really. The music is just sublime though. It's so effortless and so perfect.

As good as Manabu Namiki's Stage 1 themes are, his Stage 2 themes are even better. That's a story for another day.