Brief Summary
This video introduces the concept of anime soundtrack reviews, a niche the creator aims to fill. The creator, a classically trained composer, shares insights on various anime soundtracks, highlighting their musical complexities and emotional depth. The video explores soundtracks from "Kono Oto Tomare!," "Welcome to the Ballroom," "Clannad After Story," "Bakemonogatari," and "Nagi no Asukara," discussing the composers' styles, rhythmic modulations, and unique musical choices.
- Introduction to anime soundtrack reviews
- Discussion of various anime soundtracks
- Analysis of musical complexities and emotional depth
Introduction
The creator expresses surprise at the lack of dedicated anime soundtrack review videos on YouTube, despite the presence of general discussions about music in anime. Identifying a gap, the creator, a classically trained composer, decides to create content in this area. Despite a background in composition, the creator clarifies they are not necessarily a proficient musician or fond of in-depth music theory analysis, preferring to leave that to experts like 8-bit Music Theory.
Kono Oto Tomare!
The video starts with music from "Kono Oto Tomare!," composed by Haneoka K, also known for "Hanamonogatari," "Owarimonogatari," and "Kaguya-sama: Love Is War." The soundtrack is described as a strong component of the show, which is about a high school koto club. The emotional arrangements, which heavily rely on orchestral string and woodwind instruments, give the anime a romantic aura, reflecting the characters' changing relationships. The piano accompaniment evokes nostalgia, and the koto tracks themselves are particularly impressive, creating hype comparable to that of sports anime. The soundtrack's grandiose nature fits the rose-colored lens through which high school life is often depicted in anime.
Welcome to the Ballroom
The discussion shifts to "Welcome to the Ballroom," highlighting its upbeat tracks composed by Hayashi Yuki, also known for "Haikyuu," "Death Parade," and "My Hero Academia." The music is designed to inspire dancing. Hayashi's versatility is noted, contrasting the dance-oriented tracks with his other works. While Hayashi's familiar style is present in less dance-focused tracks, the fusion of electronics, electric guitars, drums, and orchestral instruments creates a compelling sound. The composer's ability to integrate his style with the show's theme is exemplified in the "Hyodo's Tango" track, where the intensity of Hayashi's composition matches the imposing nature of Hyodo's character.
Clannad After Story
The video examines the opening theme of "Clannad After Story," pointing out its rhythmic complexity. Despite sounding like a standard J-pop song, it features significant rhythmic modulation, with changing numbers of beats in each bar. The song includes groupings of three and four beats, transitioning between them, and even incorporates a bar of 6/8 among 5/8 rhythms. This complexity challenges the notion that pop music is simple, showcasing the talent of composer Maida Dune.
Bakemonogatari
The video analyzes "Gaidan Kosetsu" from "Bakemonogatari," composed by Kosaki Satoru, noting its avant-garde style that complements Shaft's artistic approach. The rhythmic pattern is simple and minimalist, but the unusual beat groupings make it difficult to follow, even though it's technically in 4/4 time. The beat groupings of three and two create a disorienting effect, disrupting the listener's sense of rhythm. The melody dropping a half step further enhances this disorienting effect.
Nagi no Asukara
The discussion moves to "Marine Snow" from "Nagi no Asukara," where the piano plays a repeating five-note sequence. While it might seem to be in 5/4 time, the guitar enters with phrases in 4/4, creating a superimposition of two time signatures. Eventually, the other instruments join in 4/4, making the piano a background element. The piano's unique role, being in a different time signature yet tying the piece together, is highlighted.
Conclusion
The video concludes by reiterating the purpose of providing insight into anime music and its significance beyond background noise. Anime soundtracks often avoid the pitfalls of Western soundtracks and possess a characteristic touch that makes them enjoyable even without context. The creator shares a personal collection of over 600 anime and game soundtracks, emphasizing the ability of many to stand alone. The creator encourages viewers to share their thoughts on anime music and invites support through Patreon to continue creating content.
