Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
VGM Collective is an ensemble dedicated to reimagining the music of late 20th-century Japanese video game composers through the lens of live jazz performance. Based in New York City and signed to GameChops, the group blends nostalgic melodies from iconic franchises like Pokémon, Kirby, and Mega Man with dynamic arrangements that honor the artistry of composers such as Junichi Masuda, Jun Ishikawa, Manami Matsumae, and many more.
Mix: Karl with a K
Their debut album, Live from Pallet Town, showcases selections from Pokémon Red & Blue through Black 2 & White 2, as well as tracks from Mystery Dungeon and Stadium 2, capturing the emotional depth and rhythmic vitality of these beloved soundtracks. VGM Collective has performed at venues ranging from MAGFest to intimate jazz clubs, building a community around the fusion of retro gaming and contemporary improvisation.
MAGFest is run by MAGFest, Inc., a volunteer-supported 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the appreciation of video games, video game culture, and video game music. We achieve this through numerous events, such as Super MAGFest, MAGWest, MAGStock, and Bit Gen Gamer Fest. We also support other not-for-profit organizations, such as Child’s Play. Learn more at https://magfest.org.
VGM Collective is an ensemble dedicated to reimagining the music of late 20th-century Japanese video game composers through the lens of live jazz performance. Based in New York City and signed to GameChops, the group blends nostalgic melodies from iconic franchises like Pokémon, Kirby, and Mega Man with dynamic arrangements that honor the artistry of composers such as Junichi Masuda, Jun Ishikawa, Manami Matsumae, and many more.
Mix: Karl with a K
Their debut album, Live from Pallet Town, showcases selections from Pokémon Red & Blue through Black 2 & White 2, as well as tracks from Mystery Dungeon and Stadium 2, capturing the emotional depth and rhythmic vitality of these beloved soundtracks. VGM Collective has performed at venues ranging from MAGFest to intimate jazz clubs, building a community around the fusion of retro gaming and contemporary improvisation.
MAGFest is run by MAGFest, Inc., a volunteer-supported 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the appreciation of video games, video game culture, and video game music. We achieve this through numerous events, such as Super MAGFest, MAGWest, MAGStock, and Bit Gen Gamer Fest. We also support other not-for-profit organizations, such as Child’s Play. Learn more at https://magfest.org.
