Vice City had a great classic rock soundtrack. For someone like me who grew up through the 80's it was heaven.
For instrumental/orchestra styled music, I have to give nods to both FFX and Xenosaga. FFX had varying, interesting music, but I find Xenosaga's music more emotional and connected to the game.
Best music on Playstation 2? I don't really know. I don't drool over game music like some people do. There were a ton of people that bashed Legend of Dragoon for it's music, and I thought it sounded great. Whereas, some people freak out over Vice City's music, and I find it average, considering that absolutely none of it is original material.
Best music on PS2? I'll say Legacy of Kain: Defiance, simply because the Soul Reaver theme is fucking amazing, and they use it in all of the perfect places.
It was an interesting idea, I just don't think it deserves to be praised for having stellar music, because all they did was find a creative way to recycle old songs. The music in Vice City doesn't deserve the congratulations, the implementation of the music deserves the credit.
Nicely said... so since I haven't played Defiance yet (It's been rented out since I've been back from vacation) I'll go with Rez. Just play it, you'll understand.
I'm an 80's fan. 80's rock, that is. And if ever a game shall have 80's rock in it, I shall buy! But when it comes to games and music, I prefer Final Fantasy soundtracks.