Yes, the soundtrack is rather wonderful, it's some of Sakuraba's best in my opinion! Gameplay is rather similar to the Tales series, although it's more fluid, which I think makes it a bit more involving; full 360 degree movement in Tales is awkward and more trouble than it's worth. Plus, blindsides are awesome, and the AI is *mostly* competent. Switching is a lot easier as well.
Argh, SO4's version of Welch makes me want to kill something...she had one golden moment with her teasing of Faize (GIVE ME THE TASTY HUMAN MEAT) but otherwise...Item Creation was hell. Edge gets a lot of criticism because of his mid-game depression, but honestly I think his reaction is kinda normal given the circumstances. Meracle is the only one who really got on my nerves, aha.
How far through are you? It's a bit difficult for me to say. xD