I loved the use of the erhu in Tiny Shangri-La and Kingdom of Nothingness (I understand there is some debate about whether it was actually erhu in the latter, but let’s say it is). It’s so nice to see ZUN branching out so much in style. Most of my favorite songs in this game have a kind of longing, almost nostalgic quality to them, with the exception of Kindom of Nothingness which has this air of grief and regret that feels to me like the dark reflection of the happier songs’ energy. I also really like that quick little three-note piano progression he keeps doing in this game, it ties every song together in a subtle but very strong way.
I know some people didn’t care for this game and it does have a lot of flaws and rough edges, but I find it really pleasant and relaxing to play in a way that is different from other Touhou games, and I think the new characters and music are just fantastic.