That vibe youre getting from 9 was exactly what Squenix was going for, a return to the classics. Nobuo Uematsu considers FF IX to be his best work ever (his words) the OST of this game has some very legendary tracks. Altought 9 isnt my favorite FF (VII is) its probably the second on my list or third I can never realy decide beteween 9 and 10.
Also chocobo sidequests in this game are a complete joy.