Let's get out of gaming for a moment, shall we? Cowboy Bebop once again cleared through its run on Adult Swim's late night action block, now known as Toonami. But next week the show will not be starting from the beginning-- in fact, it won't be airing at all. It's taking a hiatus for a little while. A shame as I could watch episodes of Cowboy Bebop over and over again (in moderation, of course) as they air on TV. It's a series that is atypical from your average anime; so much so that I have shown it to people who ordinarily don't care for Japanese animation shows and they absolutely adored it.
This list of five depicts my personal favorite episodes from the 26 session run of Cowboy Bebop. There will be spoilers, so be aware if you have yet to watch this show. This includes pictures, so for the first time on SPC, this story will follow the break.
Showing posts with label anime. Show all posts
Showing posts with label anime. Show all posts
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Friday, February 3, 2012
Top Ten Anime Soundtracks
Two top tens within the same week? Have I gone mad?! Well, as longtime readers of SuperPhillip Central very well know I have always been mad. Despite this, we are trekking forward and capping off the week with a non-video game related entry into SPC history. As you may or may not know, I love imposing my taste in music on my readers and forcing them to adhere to my tastes. Part of that previous statement is not true. Can you guess which? Anyway, today's list is all about anime soundtracks and the best of the best that I have heard. Of course, I have not listened to every anime soundtrack there is, and even I will admit my bouts of anime fandom are limited at best. That won't stop me from making this list, though! Each anime soundtrack listed is accompanied by six songs. I felt that was the right number to show off the better themes and songs of each soundtrack. I hope through listening to these pieces that you expand your musical tastes outside of your comfort zone. Enjoy!
10) Macross Frontier
Starring a popular pop star, a rising pop star, and a military pilot, Macross Frontier is the latest in the long-running franchise. This go around Yoko Kanno lends her compositional talents and leads the musical crusade to craft an epic-sounding score to accompany all of the onscreen action. Since there's a duo of pop stars to work with, Kanno needed to create some pop-ish sounding tunes, and she delivered with songs like "What 'bout my star" and "Welcome to My Fan Club's Night!" Her other efforts add to the buffet of musical tastiness Kanno dished up for fans of her work and of the Macross Frontier anime. Especially listen to Zero Hour, her best work on the soundtrack.
9) Brain Powerd
Just to get this out of the way, you will most likely notice that half of the soundtracks on this list are composed by Yoko Kanno. With that mentioned, her work on Brain Powerd (no, I did not leave out a letter) is full of mellow melodies and gentle tunes. The majority of the soundtrack is orchestrated with a sensational use of strings and Kanno pounding away on the keys of her piano as shown in Power of the Light. One of her vocalist staples, Steve Conte, appears in True Love and once again delivers a stunning performance.
8) Darker Than Black
After delving deep into jazz with her Cowboy Bebop soundtrack (posted later on this list), Yoko Kanno returned to the genre with Darker Than Black. Full of tunes reminiscent of her work on Bebop, Kanno shines like a shooting star with tracks like GO Dark, Highheel Runaway, and Guy. Then there's non-jazz tracks to complete the soundtrack, rounding it out, and give it even more amazing music. There's no doubt that Yoko Kanno knows her stuff, and Darker Than Black is yet another piece of evidence to prove just that.
7) Fullmetal Alchemist
Is Michiru Oshima a name that rings any bells for you? Perhaps some of her works would shed some light on her. She has written music for several anime, video games, movies, and television shows. Her works spread from Godzilla movies to even having a hand in crafting one of The Legend of Zelda themes in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Her compositional creations in Fullmetal Alchemist are not to be taken lightly either. Gentle melodies at one time, powerful at others, Mrs. Oshima really knows how to tug at the heartstrings with her music.
6) Wolf's Rain
Yoko Kanno takes a more subdued approach with her Wolf's Rain soundtrack. Unlike Darker Than Black and Macross Frontier, there's little if any in the way of loud rock or peppy jazz pieces. Instead we get more rustic flavors of music and orchestra cacophonies. Wolf's Rain follows the story of a pack of wolves who can shape-shift into human forms to fit in with society while struggling to survive. I caught the show on Adult Swim back when anime was still relatively popular in North America. Scope out some of the sounds with the links below.
5) The Big O
Toshihiko Sahashi penned one doozy of a score with his The Big O soundtrack, made up of a rich range of styles like electronica and jazz. The entire score sounds like something from a combination spy film/film noir/sci-fi epic. What else could it be when you're concerning a show about a negotiator who dabbles in being a detective, has an android, a butler, and a big giant mecha known as Big O? Then you have several of the battle themes with bombastic brass and strings which come off as compositions for some kind of monster movie or something. See... er... hear what I mean by listening to these six fine examples.
4) Outlaw Star
Koh Otani is the man behind the music for this anime and the next one on my list. Outlaw Star is heavily made up between rock and orchestral pieces. A great soundtrack is one that can be heard outside of the anime and you still enjoy it. Outlaw Star is just that. I loved the score so much that I "borrowed" some of the themes for my RPG Maker 2003 game, SuperPhillip RPG: The Crystal Quest (Away for the battle theme and Power for the boss theme; see below examples). What I consider to be the main theme of the series, Flight, is an exceptional piece that you can imagine Gene Starwind and the gang taking off into the great unknown. A tremendous soundtrack for a tremendous anime.
3) Gundam Wing
The other soundtrack on this list from Koh Otani (he also did the music for the PlayStation 2 classic Shadow of the Colossus), Gundam Wing takes both real instruments and synthesized instruments to create a soundtrack that is both rocking and harmonious. Taking cues from Outlaw Star (or was it the other way around?), Gundam Wing is mostly built upon rock and orchestral themes, sometimes even a combination of the two. One of the better themes is To Beauty, To Elegance, and To Noble-Mindedness which is a waltz version (played in 3/4 time as is customary of waltzes) of Relena Peacecraft's theme. This 50+ episode series is my personal favorite form of Gundam even though it is a spinoff. Regardless, enjoy these following samples.
2) Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
If you are in desperate search for a soundtrack that encompasses the genres of techno, rock, rap, jazz, symphonic pieces, and a plethora of others, then look no further than Yoko Kanno's Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex soundtrack. Full of memorable themes, catchy riffs, and toe-tapping tunes, Kanno's masterpiece knows no bounds. Whether you're rocking out to Yakitori, listening to the female vocals of Gabriel Robin in Cyberbird, or bopping your had to the jazzy wonders of 3tops, you cannot deny the impressive amount of content Yoko Kanno dished out for this 52 episode series.
1) Cowboy Bebop
Yoko Kanno was listed as my number one favorite composer, beating out Nobuo Uematsu (Final Fantasy) and Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Trigger, Xenogears). She even got a top five (one of the most popular posts in SPC history) devoted to her. The reason for this is that her range is impossibly incredible with her work on Cowboy Bebop being a testament to this. Yoko Kanno and her band The Seatbelts comprised the majority of tracks with several vocal themes from singers like Mai Yamane, Steve Conte, and Gabriel Robin. Whether you like jazz, funk, heavy metal, country, or anything else, there is most definitely a song or theme on the soundtrack that has your name on it. Cowboy Bebop doesn't just stand as the anime with my favorite score, but it's also the anime that I admire the most.
10) Macross Frontier
Starring a popular pop star, a rising pop star, and a military pilot, Macross Frontier is the latest in the long-running franchise. This go around Yoko Kanno lends her compositional talents and leads the musical crusade to craft an epic-sounding score to accompany all of the onscreen action. Since there's a duo of pop stars to work with, Kanno needed to create some pop-ish sounding tunes, and she delivered with songs like "What 'bout my star" and "Welcome to My Fan Club's Night!" Her other efforts add to the buffet of musical tastiness Kanno dished up for fans of her work and of the Macross Frontier anime. Especially listen to Zero Hour, her best work on the soundtrack.
9) Brain Powerd
Just to get this out of the way, you will most likely notice that half of the soundtracks on this list are composed by Yoko Kanno. With that mentioned, her work on Brain Powerd (no, I did not leave out a letter) is full of mellow melodies and gentle tunes. The majority of the soundtrack is orchestrated with a sensational use of strings and Kanno pounding away on the keys of her piano as shown in Power of the Light. One of her vocalist staples, Steve Conte, appears in True Love and once again delivers a stunning performance.
8) Darker Than Black
After delving deep into jazz with her Cowboy Bebop soundtrack (posted later on this list), Yoko Kanno returned to the genre with Darker Than Black. Full of tunes reminiscent of her work on Bebop, Kanno shines like a shooting star with tracks like GO Dark, Highheel Runaway, and Guy. Then there's non-jazz tracks to complete the soundtrack, rounding it out, and give it even more amazing music. There's no doubt that Yoko Kanno knows her stuff, and Darker Than Black is yet another piece of evidence to prove just that.
7) Fullmetal Alchemist
Is Michiru Oshima a name that rings any bells for you? Perhaps some of her works would shed some light on her. She has written music for several anime, video games, movies, and television shows. Her works spread from Godzilla movies to even having a hand in crafting one of The Legend of Zelda themes in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Her compositional creations in Fullmetal Alchemist are not to be taken lightly either. Gentle melodies at one time, powerful at others, Mrs. Oshima really knows how to tug at the heartstrings with her music.
6) Wolf's Rain
Yoko Kanno takes a more subdued approach with her Wolf's Rain soundtrack. Unlike Darker Than Black and Macross Frontier, there's little if any in the way of loud rock or peppy jazz pieces. Instead we get more rustic flavors of music and orchestra cacophonies. Wolf's Rain follows the story of a pack of wolves who can shape-shift into human forms to fit in with society while struggling to survive. I caught the show on Adult Swim back when anime was still relatively popular in North America. Scope out some of the sounds with the links below.
5) The Big O
Toshihiko Sahashi penned one doozy of a score with his The Big O soundtrack, made up of a rich range of styles like electronica and jazz. The entire score sounds like something from a combination spy film/film noir/sci-fi epic. What else could it be when you're concerning a show about a negotiator who dabbles in being a detective, has an android, a butler, and a big giant mecha known as Big O? Then you have several of the battle themes with bombastic brass and strings which come off as compositions for some kind of monster movie or something. See... er... hear what I mean by listening to these six fine examples.
4) Outlaw Star
Koh Otani is the man behind the music for this anime and the next one on my list. Outlaw Star is heavily made up between rock and orchestral pieces. A great soundtrack is one that can be heard outside of the anime and you still enjoy it. Outlaw Star is just that. I loved the score so much that I "borrowed" some of the themes for my RPG Maker 2003 game, SuperPhillip RPG: The Crystal Quest (Away for the battle theme and Power for the boss theme; see below examples). What I consider to be the main theme of the series, Flight, is an exceptional piece that you can imagine Gene Starwind and the gang taking off into the great unknown. A tremendous soundtrack for a tremendous anime.
3) Gundam Wing
The other soundtrack on this list from Koh Otani (he also did the music for the PlayStation 2 classic Shadow of the Colossus), Gundam Wing takes both real instruments and synthesized instruments to create a soundtrack that is both rocking and harmonious. Taking cues from Outlaw Star (or was it the other way around?), Gundam Wing is mostly built upon rock and orchestral themes, sometimes even a combination of the two. One of the better themes is To Beauty, To Elegance, and To Noble-Mindedness which is a waltz version (played in 3/4 time as is customary of waltzes) of Relena Peacecraft's theme. This 50+ episode series is my personal favorite form of Gundam even though it is a spinoff. Regardless, enjoy these following samples.
The Wings of a Boy That Killed Adolescence
When the Dragon Swims, Everything Ends
Eternity & Infinity Are in These Hands
To Beauty, To Elegance, and To Noble-Mindedness
Swinging Target
Gundam Attack
When the Dragon Swims, Everything Ends
Eternity & Infinity Are in These Hands
To Beauty, To Elegance, and To Noble-Mindedness
Swinging Target
Gundam Attack
2) Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
If you are in desperate search for a soundtrack that encompasses the genres of techno, rock, rap, jazz, symphonic pieces, and a plethora of others, then look no further than Yoko Kanno's Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex soundtrack. Full of memorable themes, catchy riffs, and toe-tapping tunes, Kanno's masterpiece knows no bounds. Whether you're rocking out to Yakitori, listening to the female vocals of Gabriel Robin in Cyberbird, or bopping your had to the jazzy wonders of 3tops, you cannot deny the impressive amount of content Yoko Kanno dished out for this 52 episode series.
Run Rabbit Junk
Lithium Flower
Cyberbird
From the Rooftop ~ Somewhere in the Silence (Sniper's Theme)
Smooth in the Shell - Part Six
Smooth in the Shell - Part Thirteen
Lithium Flower
Cyberbird
From the Rooftop ~ Somewhere in the Silence (Sniper's Theme)
Smooth in the Shell - Part Six
Smooth in the Shell - Part Thirteen
1) Cowboy Bebop
Yoko Kanno was listed as my number one favorite composer, beating out Nobuo Uematsu (Final Fantasy) and Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Trigger, Xenogears). She even got a top five (one of the most popular posts in SPC history) devoted to her. The reason for this is that her range is impossibly incredible with her work on Cowboy Bebop being a testament to this. Yoko Kanno and her band The Seatbelts comprised the majority of tracks with several vocal themes from singers like Mai Yamane, Steve Conte, and Gabriel Robin. Whether you like jazz, funk, heavy metal, country, or anything else, there is most definitely a song or theme on the soundtrack that has your name on it. Cowboy Bebop doesn't just stand as the anime with my favorite score, but it's also the anime that I admire the most.
Tank!
Blue
Car 24
Space Lion
Bad Dog No Biscuits
The EGG and YOU
===
Blue
Car 24
Space Lion
Bad Dog No Biscuits
The EGG and YOU
===
This concludes our dip into the deep, expansive ocean that is anime music. Did you find a song or soundtrack that you especially enjoyed? Great! Let me know about it in the comments section. Have a great weekend, everybody.
Friday, April 29, 2011
SuperPhillip's Favorite Anime Themes - Round Four
We've reached the end of another week here at SuperPhillip Central. To celebrate, let's dig out the favorite anime themes to cap off the week in style. This time around we're listening to music from Samurai Champloo, Fooly Cooly, and Ghost in the Shell.
Volume 16: Battlecry [feat. Shing02] (Samurai Champloo)
Samurai Champloo came from some of the fine folks who worked on the Cowboy Bebop anime. In the case of this one, it was much more upbeat. It took place in feudal Japan where samurais were a dime a dozen. Fortunately, Mugen and Jinn weren't a dime a dozen at all. In fact, they could kick the butt of nearly anyone that got in their way. When a coin toss goes the way of Fuu, a troublesome girl, both Mugen and Jinn (two warriors destined for battle) agree to tag along with her to find the man who smells of sunflowers. It's a basic description for the premise, yes, but it gets the job done. What was unique about this anime was that the music was almost entirely hip-hop.
Volume 17: Advice (FLCL)
Advice is a song performed by the Pillows, a band formed in 1989 in Japan. The group has an expansive discography, and it was from the anime, FLCL (or Fooly Cooly) that I was introduced to them. I've been a fan ever since. The production team behind FLCL asked of the Pillows to provide three past albums as part of the soundtrack for the short six-episode anime. The band agreed, and musical history was made. As for the anime, it seemed this is what anime producers make when they're in a foul mood. Well, hope these guys have more bad days in the future!
Volume 18: Red Green Wild Pokémon Battle (Pokémon)
Pokémon was such a giant hit for me. I played the original games, I collected the cards, I drew comics, and I watched the anime. Pokémon was a phenomenon, and for newer generations it continues to be one. You're never too old to play Pokémon in my opinion. It's such an addicting franchise. Regardless, I got bored with the anime after all the recycled Team Rocket jokes, plotlines, and material, so I skipped out after the Kanto region episodes. This theme from Pokémon Red and Green (or Red and Blue as it is here in the West) is the Wild Pokémon battle theme. Watch Ash has he tries to catch 'em all, gives away his Pokémon, and then tries to catch 'em all all over again.
Volume 19: Zero Signal (Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society)
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society was a one-off movie in the GitS: SAC (what a mouthful) franchise. I personally haven't watched it yet. I'm waiting for adult swim to maybe show it. Nonetheless, this song seriously rocks. It starts off with female vocals followed by a stirring beat. Then comes the hardcore rock which seriously kicks ass. The ending rock arrangement is perfect, and shows that stuff is about to go down if it hasn't already. While the anime itself is confusing to me (I'm a simple superhero after all), I do respect the creators and especially Mrs. Kanno and her great talents.
Volume 20: Heaven's Not Enough (Wolf's Rain)
Coming as the first track from the second Wolf's Rain OST, Heaven's Not Enough is performed by Steve Conte, a performer who Yoko Kanno would use often and many times in her productions. Wolf's Rain has a group of wolves who can shapeshift into human beings in an instant, longing for a mystical land known as paradise. Whether or not they reach their destination is something I'll leave for you to find out. Produced by the same team that came up with Cowboy Bebop, this anime was a departure from the jazz stylings of Bebop. The score was more symphonic in tone and featured some heart-tugging themes including this one.
That's all she wrote for this round of anime themes. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for the next five excellent anime themes to be heard on a date that is to be determined.
Volume 16: Battlecry [feat. Shing02] (Samurai Champloo)
Samurai Champloo came from some of the fine folks who worked on the Cowboy Bebop anime. In the case of this one, it was much more upbeat. It took place in feudal Japan where samurais were a dime a dozen. Fortunately, Mugen and Jinn weren't a dime a dozen at all. In fact, they could kick the butt of nearly anyone that got in their way. When a coin toss goes the way of Fuu, a troublesome girl, both Mugen and Jinn (two warriors destined for battle) agree to tag along with her to find the man who smells of sunflowers. It's a basic description for the premise, yes, but it gets the job done. What was unique about this anime was that the music was almost entirely hip-hop.
Volume 17: Advice (FLCL)
Advice is a song performed by the Pillows, a band formed in 1989 in Japan. The group has an expansive discography, and it was from the anime, FLCL (or Fooly Cooly) that I was introduced to them. I've been a fan ever since. The production team behind FLCL asked of the Pillows to provide three past albums as part of the soundtrack for the short six-episode anime. The band agreed, and musical history was made. As for the anime, it seemed this is what anime producers make when they're in a foul mood. Well, hope these guys have more bad days in the future!
Volume 18: Red Green Wild Pokémon Battle (Pokémon)
Pokémon was such a giant hit for me. I played the original games, I collected the cards, I drew comics, and I watched the anime. Pokémon was a phenomenon, and for newer generations it continues to be one. You're never too old to play Pokémon in my opinion. It's such an addicting franchise. Regardless, I got bored with the anime after all the recycled Team Rocket jokes, plotlines, and material, so I skipped out after the Kanto region episodes. This theme from Pokémon Red and Green (or Red and Blue as it is here in the West) is the Wild Pokémon battle theme. Watch Ash has he tries to catch 'em all, gives away his Pokémon, and then tries to catch 'em all all over again.
Volume 19: Zero Signal (Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society)
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex: Solid State Society was a one-off movie in the GitS: SAC (what a mouthful) franchise. I personally haven't watched it yet. I'm waiting for adult swim to maybe show it. Nonetheless, this song seriously rocks. It starts off with female vocals followed by a stirring beat. Then comes the hardcore rock which seriously kicks ass. The ending rock arrangement is perfect, and shows that stuff is about to go down if it hasn't already. While the anime itself is confusing to me (I'm a simple superhero after all), I do respect the creators and especially Mrs. Kanno and her great talents.
Volume 20: Heaven's Not Enough (Wolf's Rain)
Coming as the first track from the second Wolf's Rain OST, Heaven's Not Enough is performed by Steve Conte, a performer who Yoko Kanno would use often and many times in her productions. Wolf's Rain has a group of wolves who can shapeshift into human beings in an instant, longing for a mystical land known as paradise. Whether or not they reach their destination is something I'll leave for you to find out. Produced by the same team that came up with Cowboy Bebop, this anime was a departure from the jazz stylings of Bebop. The score was more symphonic in tone and featured some heart-tugging themes including this one.
That's all she wrote for this round of anime themes. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for the next five excellent anime themes to be heard on a date that is to be determined.
Friday, March 18, 2011
SuperPhillip's Favorite Anime Themes - Round Three
It's Friday here at SuperPhillip Central, and what better way to celebrate than with my favorite anime themes? That's a rhetorical question, so you don't have to answer that. On the lineup tonight, we have music from Macross Frontier, Inuyasha, and Sailor Moon, to name a few. Let's get to the wonderful music!
Volume 11: Infinity (Macross Frontier)
From Macross Frontier, comes an anime theme song in the line of Infiinity, a very catchy theme composed by Yoko Kanno. The artist listed is Sheryl Norm starring May'n. I assume either Sheryl Norm or May'n is the character in the anime, and the other is the actual singer of the song in reality. Regardless, Infinity is an intensely powerful theme, don't you agree? Get used to seeing Yoko Kanno on this list as I have stated in the very first volume, she is the queen of music composition in my humble and biased opinion.
Volume 12: Change the World (Inuyasha)
Now some of you might be anal about this, and you know what? That's okay. Perhaps it's proper to call it "InuYasha' with the capital Y. Regardless, I did not like this anime. When it premiered on [adult swim], I gave it the ten episode chance. It did not hook me. The relationship between the ever-annoying Kagome and Inuyasha did nothing for me. Nor did the band of misfits that joined the pair. Nonetheless, this first opening theme for the anime, Change the World, was performed by the J-rock band, V8. Not to be confused with the gross vegetable juice of the same name. I'm going off in a tangent here, and I apologize. The song is a happy rock song with some cool guitar riffs.
Volume 13: Dance of Curse (Vision of Escaflowne)
Dance of Curse is a song featuring a haunting choir, superb vocals, and some stirring strings to go with it all. It truly is a powerful theme most definitely heard during an intense mecha battle between Escaflowne (the hero mecha) and an unfortunate opponent. Yoko Kanno once again shows her range from the jazz, funk, and soul of Cowboy Bebop to the impressive orchestral arrangements of this soundtrack. I know what you putzes are thinking-- how can you see well with your head so far up Mrs. Kanno's ass? That may be a valid question, but there's no doubting the musical prowess found in her work.
Volume 14: Reckless Fire (S-cry-ed)
S-cry-ed starred Kazuma, a character who was an outcast in society, not fit for the rich types. With his powerful arm, he could take it to the best of them. Reckless Fire is the ending theme of the S-cry-ed anime series which was on [adult swim] for a short stay. Then they opted to relegate anime to Saturday nights only while increasing their lineup of unfunny, cheaply-made shows... oh, an Seth McFarlane abominations. Nonetheless, the anime is highly recommended from yours truly if you're a fan of a fast-paced, high-octane anime.
Volume 15: Atashi Datte Futsuu no Onnaoko (Sailor Moon)
Sailor Moon is a guilty pleasure of mine. I originally saw the DIC production on Cartoon Network when it was on Toonami (before Cartoon Network stupidly killed it along with a good chunk of their ratings). Nonetheless, the adventures of a blossoming young girl, a klutz, a bad student, but a superhero all the while. Sure, it took some getting used to-- getting into her new-found powers and all, but once she did, Sailor Moon shined. Then there was the love affair with the charming and handsome, Prince Darien a.k.a. Tuxedo Mask. A fun show to watch through all the arcs save for the final that was not shown in America since it had lesbians. Go figure.
That does it for round three of SuperPhillip's Favorite Anime Themes. What a wild and crazy week this has been-- full of musical treasures and delights! Until the VGMs come roaring your way on Monday, have a great weekend, folks!
Volume 11: Infinity (Macross Frontier)
From Macross Frontier, comes an anime theme song in the line of Infiinity, a very catchy theme composed by Yoko Kanno. The artist listed is Sheryl Norm starring May'n. I assume either Sheryl Norm or May'n is the character in the anime, and the other is the actual singer of the song in reality. Regardless, Infinity is an intensely powerful theme, don't you agree? Get used to seeing Yoko Kanno on this list as I have stated in the very first volume, she is the queen of music composition in my humble and biased opinion.
Volume 12: Change the World (Inuyasha)
Now some of you might be anal about this, and you know what? That's okay. Perhaps it's proper to call it "InuYasha' with the capital Y. Regardless, I did not like this anime. When it premiered on [adult swim], I gave it the ten episode chance. It did not hook me. The relationship between the ever-annoying Kagome and Inuyasha did nothing for me. Nor did the band of misfits that joined the pair. Nonetheless, this first opening theme for the anime, Change the World, was performed by the J-rock band, V8. Not to be confused with the gross vegetable juice of the same name. I'm going off in a tangent here, and I apologize. The song is a happy rock song with some cool guitar riffs.
Volume 13: Dance of Curse (Vision of Escaflowne)
Dance of Curse is a song featuring a haunting choir, superb vocals, and some stirring strings to go with it all. It truly is a powerful theme most definitely heard during an intense mecha battle between Escaflowne (the hero mecha) and an unfortunate opponent. Yoko Kanno once again shows her range from the jazz, funk, and soul of Cowboy Bebop to the impressive orchestral arrangements of this soundtrack. I know what you putzes are thinking-- how can you see well with your head so far up Mrs. Kanno's ass? That may be a valid question, but there's no doubting the musical prowess found in her work.
Volume 14: Reckless Fire (S-cry-ed)
S-cry-ed starred Kazuma, a character who was an outcast in society, not fit for the rich types. With his powerful arm, he could take it to the best of them. Reckless Fire is the ending theme of the S-cry-ed anime series which was on [adult swim] for a short stay. Then they opted to relegate anime to Saturday nights only while increasing their lineup of unfunny, cheaply-made shows... oh, an Seth McFarlane abominations. Nonetheless, the anime is highly recommended from yours truly if you're a fan of a fast-paced, high-octane anime.
Volume 15: Atashi Datte Futsuu no Onnaoko (Sailor Moon)
Sailor Moon is a guilty pleasure of mine. I originally saw the DIC production on Cartoon Network when it was on Toonami (before Cartoon Network stupidly killed it along with a good chunk of their ratings). Nonetheless, the adventures of a blossoming young girl, a klutz, a bad student, but a superhero all the while. Sure, it took some getting used to-- getting into her new-found powers and all, but once she did, Sailor Moon shined. Then there was the love affair with the charming and handsome, Prince Darien a.k.a. Tuxedo Mask. A fun show to watch through all the arcs save for the final that was not shown in America since it had lesbians. Go figure.
That does it for round three of SuperPhillip's Favorite Anime Themes. What a wild and crazy week this has been-- full of musical treasures and delights! Until the VGMs come roaring your way on Monday, have a great weekend, folks!
Friday, February 4, 2011
SuperPhillip's Favorite Anime Themes - Round Two
Two weeks ago, I introduced to the world my favorite anime themes. Two weeks later, they're back to kick off your weekend just right. This week we're piloting mechas with the Big O and Brain Powerd, fighting off demons in Darker Than Black, solving crimes with Detective Conan, and going all schizo in Paranoia Agent. Enjoy!
Volume 6: Stand A Chance (The Big O)
In the original season of the Big O, when Stand A Chance played, you knew that sh*t was about to go down. The Big O would rise from its underground chamber, destroying streets, buildings, and domes-- for sport! This track is the third track on the Big O OST 1. A second season would be made thanks to the efforts of the Cartoon Network's [adult swim]. Perhaps they shouldn't have done that. Sure, the new music was excellent, but the actual story was pretty stupid. Tomatoes! Oh my god! Those damned tomatoes! I'M NOT A TOMATO! GAAAAAAAAH!!!
Volume 7: Power of the Light (Brain Powerd)
I have no idea what Brain Powerd is, and I'm guessing the first OST cover art does not tell me anything I need to know. All I do know, however, is that this is another masterpiece from the virtuoso composer, Yoko Kanno. Power of the Light is the very first track on the first OST of Brain Powerd. I love the piano here, probably played by Mrs. Kanno herself. It's a happy-go-lucky tune that never fails to put a smile on my face. Now if one of you could explain to me what the hell a Brain Powerd is. Wikapedia, here I come.
Volume 8: Main Theme (Baker Gai Version) (Detective Conan)
You might know this anime in the West as Case Closed. I remember watching this show on Adult Swim and loving it. It's particularly satisfying when you solve the murder yourself! Otherwise known as Detective Conan in Japan, but changed to its obvious resemblance to the West's Conan the Barbarian, Detective Conan involves a teen sleuth who stumbles his way into a trap. He gets drugged with a youth serum their reverts him back to his childhood. Now living with his wannabe girlfriend and her doofus detective dad, Conan's gotta solve crimes while keeping undercover as his kid form. This theme is the main theme, Baker Gai version. Enjoy.
Volume 9: Dream Island Obsessional Park (Paranoia Agent)
Paranoia Agent was definitely a mindf**k of a series. It was grim in tone, sarcastic in nature, and just disturbing as all get out. Unfortunately, the creator of the series, Satoshi Kon, passed away late in 2010 way too soon. Onto happier things, this theme, Dream Island Obsessional Park, is the introductory theme to the anime, Paranoia Agent. Lil Slugger is out at night, taking out victims with his golden bat, skating on his golden roller skates. The soundtrack itself is quite eclectic with trance, suspenseful themes and much more. It's encouraged to listen to the whole soundtrack (someone's already uploaded it), and enjoy.
Volume 10: GO Dark (Darker Than Black)
Yoko Kanno sure gets around a lot. I mean that in a musical sense. Not calling her a tramp or anything. Anyway, no idea what a Darker Than Black is, and frankly, I don't care either. All I do know is that the soundtrack is amazing as per usual when Mrs. Kanno is at the helm. GO Dark sounds a lot like the beginning of a late night TV talk show to me. Dunno why. It's the very first track on the first Darker Than Black OST. It's a straight-up jazz song perfect for fighting, similar to her work on the Cowboy Bebop series. When you mention Cowboy Bebop, you know I'm there!
For the time being, that's all the favorite anime themes (or FAT) I have to share with you folks. Until two weeks from now, we'll see you back here where Sailor Moon, Kazuma from S-cry-ed and Escaflowne will be joining us!
Volume 6: Stand A Chance (The Big O)
In the original season of the Big O, when Stand A Chance played, you knew that sh*t was about to go down. The Big O would rise from its underground chamber, destroying streets, buildings, and domes-- for sport! This track is the third track on the Big O OST 1. A second season would be made thanks to the efforts of the Cartoon Network's [adult swim]. Perhaps they shouldn't have done that. Sure, the new music was excellent, but the actual story was pretty stupid. Tomatoes! Oh my god! Those damned tomatoes! I'M NOT A TOMATO! GAAAAAAAAH!!!
Volume 7: Power of the Light (Brain Powerd)
I have no idea what Brain Powerd is, and I'm guessing the first OST cover art does not tell me anything I need to know. All I do know, however, is that this is another masterpiece from the virtuoso composer, Yoko Kanno. Power of the Light is the very first track on the first OST of Brain Powerd. I love the piano here, probably played by Mrs. Kanno herself. It's a happy-go-lucky tune that never fails to put a smile on my face. Now if one of you could explain to me what the hell a Brain Powerd is. Wikapedia, here I come.
Volume 8: Main Theme (Baker Gai Version) (Detective Conan)
You might know this anime in the West as Case Closed. I remember watching this show on Adult Swim and loving it. It's particularly satisfying when you solve the murder yourself! Otherwise known as Detective Conan in Japan, but changed to its obvious resemblance to the West's Conan the Barbarian, Detective Conan involves a teen sleuth who stumbles his way into a trap. He gets drugged with a youth serum their reverts him back to his childhood. Now living with his wannabe girlfriend and her doofus detective dad, Conan's gotta solve crimes while keeping undercover as his kid form. This theme is the main theme, Baker Gai version. Enjoy.
Volume 9: Dream Island Obsessional Park (Paranoia Agent)
Paranoia Agent was definitely a mindf**k of a series. It was grim in tone, sarcastic in nature, and just disturbing as all get out. Unfortunately, the creator of the series, Satoshi Kon, passed away late in 2010 way too soon. Onto happier things, this theme, Dream Island Obsessional Park, is the introductory theme to the anime, Paranoia Agent. Lil Slugger is out at night, taking out victims with his golden bat, skating on his golden roller skates. The soundtrack itself is quite eclectic with trance, suspenseful themes and much more. It's encouraged to listen to the whole soundtrack (someone's already uploaded it), and enjoy.
Volume 10: GO Dark (Darker Than Black)
Yoko Kanno sure gets around a lot. I mean that in a musical sense. Not calling her a tramp or anything. Anyway, no idea what a Darker Than Black is, and frankly, I don't care either. All I do know is that the soundtrack is amazing as per usual when Mrs. Kanno is at the helm. GO Dark sounds a lot like the beginning of a late night TV talk show to me. Dunno why. It's the very first track on the first Darker Than Black OST. It's a straight-up jazz song perfect for fighting, similar to her work on the Cowboy Bebop series. When you mention Cowboy Bebop, you know I'm there!
For the time being, that's all the favorite anime themes (or FAT) I have to share with you folks. Until two weeks from now, we'll see you back here where Sailor Moon, Kazuma from S-cry-ed and Escaflowne will be joining us!
Friday, January 21, 2011
Introducing SuperPhillip's Favorite Anime Themes!
Just like I have done with video game music (VGMs), I am now constructing a list of my favorite anime music to share with the SPC populace! Join me as I take a listen to various anime soundtracks one track at a time in this new feature to SPC! Unlike the weekly VGMs, SP's Favorite Anime Themes will most likely be a monthly occurrence. I know, you're already salivating at the thought!
Volume 1: Tank! (Cowboy Bebop)
The queen of music composition, Yoko Kanno, deals out this, the opening theme for the anime series, Cowboy Bebop. One could say that it is worth watching Cowboy Bebop for the music alone, and I could agree. However, the show is such a delight even for non-anime fans that I highly recommend you watch the 26 episodes and one movie. "I think it's time we blow this scene. Get everybody and their stuff together. Okay, 3, 2, 1, Let's jam!"
Volume 2: The Wings of A Boy That Killed Adolescence (Gundam Wing)
Are you familiar with the name Kou Otani? He'll be featured a lot on this list as he composed music for both Gundam Wing and Outlaw Star, two anime that I enjoyed so much I purchased their collections. Nevertheless, Kou Otani has also done video game music as well. Do you know the video game, Shadow of the Colossus? He did the music for that. Regardless, The Wings of A Boy That Killed Adolescence plays twice during the Gundam Wing saga. Once in the first episode as the Wing Zero descends toward Earth's atmosphere and during Zechs' and Heero's fight in Antarctica. It's a rockin' version of Code Name Heero Yuy.
Volume 3: Rewrite (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Rewrite is the fourth and final opening theme of the original Fullmetal Alchemist. It is performed by Asian Kung-Fu Generation, and it really, really, truly rocks ass. I prefer the original Fullmetal Alchemist's soundtrack to Brotherhood. Perhaps it's because I'm more familiar with the original's score. Regardless, I enjoy the second and fourth title themes the best. You'll hear the second in a forthcoming edition of my favorite anime music. Not only do I like the music the best in the original, but the story is much more satisfying to me. Again, it's probably because I'm more familiar with it than the manga-faithful Brotherhood series.
Volume 4: Flight (Outlaw Star)
Whereas Kou Otani used synthetic instruments with real live instruments in Gundam Wing, in Outlaw Star, he uses real instruments through and through. Flight is a theme for when Gene Starwind's ship takes flight for the first time. With Melfina as the operator, naked in a cube of water (I don't ask, I just write the descriptions), and Jim, Twilight Suzuka, and that crazy cat girl, Gene has a tight crew with him to take care of anything. Outlaw Star's soundtrack is compromised of two original soundtracks. I own both, but I think they're bootleg versions. Alas, it's still good music even if I didn't send my monies to the right company.
Volume 5: Robin (Witch Hunter Robin)
Robin is the titular character in Witch Hunter Robin. I've only watched a few episodes, but this theme was common throughout. I would imagine Robin hunts witches with old sorcery ways whereas her companions use new technology to track and kill witches. I do not know if they go after warlocks, male witches. Perhaps warlocks are taken care of differently than witches. Who knows? All I know is that if I were a male witch, I would want to be called a warlock and not a witch. What was I talking about again? Oh, yes. This theme, Robin, has a beautiful piano melody. When it plays again, it is supported by powerful accompaniment that sent chills down my spine the first time I listened to it. If you're unfamiliar with this song or the anime, maybe it will do the same for you?
Volume 1: Tank! (Cowboy Bebop)
The queen of music composition, Yoko Kanno, deals out this, the opening theme for the anime series, Cowboy Bebop. One could say that it is worth watching Cowboy Bebop for the music alone, and I could agree. However, the show is such a delight even for non-anime fans that I highly recommend you watch the 26 episodes and one movie. "I think it's time we blow this scene. Get everybody and their stuff together. Okay, 3, 2, 1, Let's jam!"
Volume 2: The Wings of A Boy That Killed Adolescence (Gundam Wing)
Are you familiar with the name Kou Otani? He'll be featured a lot on this list as he composed music for both Gundam Wing and Outlaw Star, two anime that I enjoyed so much I purchased their collections. Nevertheless, Kou Otani has also done video game music as well. Do you know the video game, Shadow of the Colossus? He did the music for that. Regardless, The Wings of A Boy That Killed Adolescence plays twice during the Gundam Wing saga. Once in the first episode as the Wing Zero descends toward Earth's atmosphere and during Zechs' and Heero's fight in Antarctica. It's a rockin' version of Code Name Heero Yuy.
Volume 3: Rewrite (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Rewrite is the fourth and final opening theme of the original Fullmetal Alchemist. It is performed by Asian Kung-Fu Generation, and it really, really, truly rocks ass. I prefer the original Fullmetal Alchemist's soundtrack to Brotherhood. Perhaps it's because I'm more familiar with the original's score. Regardless, I enjoy the second and fourth title themes the best. You'll hear the second in a forthcoming edition of my favorite anime music. Not only do I like the music the best in the original, but the story is much more satisfying to me. Again, it's probably because I'm more familiar with it than the manga-faithful Brotherhood series.
Volume 4: Flight (Outlaw Star)
Whereas Kou Otani used synthetic instruments with real live instruments in Gundam Wing, in Outlaw Star, he uses real instruments through and through. Flight is a theme for when Gene Starwind's ship takes flight for the first time. With Melfina as the operator, naked in a cube of water (I don't ask, I just write the descriptions), and Jim, Twilight Suzuka, and that crazy cat girl, Gene has a tight crew with him to take care of anything. Outlaw Star's soundtrack is compromised of two original soundtracks. I own both, but I think they're bootleg versions. Alas, it's still good music even if I didn't send my monies to the right company.
Volume 5: Robin (Witch Hunter Robin)
Robin is the titular character in Witch Hunter Robin. I've only watched a few episodes, but this theme was common throughout. I would imagine Robin hunts witches with old sorcery ways whereas her companions use new technology to track and kill witches. I do not know if they go after warlocks, male witches. Perhaps warlocks are taken care of differently than witches. Who knows? All I know is that if I were a male witch, I would want to be called a warlock and not a witch. What was I talking about again? Oh, yes. This theme, Robin, has a beautiful piano melody. When it plays again, it is supported by powerful accompaniment that sent chills down my spine the first time I listened to it. If you're unfamiliar with this song or the anime, maybe it will do the same for you?
===
There goes this batch of wonderfully wonderful anime themes! We heard some great themes from Cowboy Bebop, Gundam Wing, Fullmetal Alchemist, Outlaw Star, and Witch Hunter Robin. Stay tuned for the next installment where we'll get Brain Powerd, go Darker Than Black, and get help from the Paranoia Agent! Until then, toodle-loo!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Top Five Anime
Anime used to be this big fad with many people. I caught the bug myself, but my fandom would only go as far as watching shows on cable television. I didn't buy many DVDs. That was until I found my five favorite anime shows period. These are my absolute favorites, and I hope some of them are your favorites, too. You can bet that all of these anime that I'm a fan of their source material. *wink wink*
5) Paranoia Agent
This thirteen episode series is one total mind-screw. You think you know what's going on, but then boom! Some new plot element happens from nowhere that changes your perception of the series. The series follows the story of a mysterious attacker who uses a golden bat to knock people's troubles away. He preys desperate people, and now many citizens of Tokyo find "Lil Slugger" as a messiah, a way to escape their problems. Part thriller, part satire, all attitude, Paranoia Agent is a confusing anime that will keep you guessing until the series' crazy conclusion.
4) Case Closed
This anime is known as Detective Conan in Japan, and it has run over 300 episodes thus far with multiple movies and games released. It's a mystery show with a twist-- all of the cases are solved by a teenager trapped in a little boy's body. Confused? Don't be. It creates some hilarious situations as the bumbling old detective who's with Conan usually solves the case with unnoticeable help from Conan. It's always a blast to solve a crime and noticing what went awry at the crime scene or which suspect isn't telling the entire story. If you love Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's mystery novels or love a good mystery yourself, check out Case Closed where only one truth prevails!
3) Gundam Wing
Who doesn't love giant robots? Did you know chicks dig giant robots? I heard that from someone smart. Gundam Wing follows a global war with the mysterious OZ corporation in the middle. It's your typical Gundam Japanese soap opera with giant mobile suits fighting the wars. There's five Gundam pilots in all, each with their own themed Gundam. Labeled as mercenaries by many, united as one they have one goal-- to stop OZ. With intense action, fifty-plus episodes, a great soundtrack composed by Kou Otani of Shadow of the Colossus and Outlaw Star fame, and plenty of thrills and chills for anime fans. If you're tired of your wars being realistic, check out Gundam Wing.
1) Cowboy Bebop
One ship, one crew, four souls, four destinies, one awesome show with the best anime soundtrack ever composed by the best composer ever, Yoko Kanno. Unlike most of the other shows on this list, this anime is purely episodic with a recurring theme that pops up occasionally in five of the twenty-six episodes. This was the first anime to make me cry with Fullmetal Alchemist being the second. Those who have watched from beginning to end know what I'm talking about. The show does a great job of conveying a story without pounding it into the viewer. Instead the show is much more subtle about how it handles situations and its narrative. Combine all this with a fantastic soundtrack full of every type of music imaginable from jazz to heavy metal, rap to rock, Cowboy Bebop has every anime beat. It's not just entertaining for otaku either. My mom sat down and loved this show, and she cried her heart out, too.
Other Favorties Include: Yuyu Hakusho, Outlaw Star, Sailor Moon, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, S-Cry-Ed, and G Gundam.
5) Paranoia Agent
This thirteen episode series is one total mind-screw. You think you know what's going on, but then boom! Some new plot element happens from nowhere that changes your perception of the series. The series follows the story of a mysterious attacker who uses a golden bat to knock people's troubles away. He preys desperate people, and now many citizens of Tokyo find "Lil Slugger" as a messiah, a way to escape their problems. Part thriller, part satire, all attitude, Paranoia Agent is a confusing anime that will keep you guessing until the series' crazy conclusion.
4) Case Closed
This anime is known as Detective Conan in Japan, and it has run over 300 episodes thus far with multiple movies and games released. It's a mystery show with a twist-- all of the cases are solved by a teenager trapped in a little boy's body. Confused? Don't be. It creates some hilarious situations as the bumbling old detective who's with Conan usually solves the case with unnoticeable help from Conan. It's always a blast to solve a crime and noticing what went awry at the crime scene or which suspect isn't telling the entire story. If you love Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's mystery novels or love a good mystery yourself, check out Case Closed where only one truth prevails!
3) Gundam Wing
Who doesn't love giant robots? Did you know chicks dig giant robots? I heard that from someone smart. Gundam Wing follows a global war with the mysterious OZ corporation in the middle. It's your typical Gundam Japanese soap opera with giant mobile suits fighting the wars. There's five Gundam pilots in all, each with their own themed Gundam. Labeled as mercenaries by many, united as one they have one goal-- to stop OZ. With intense action, fifty-plus episodes, a great soundtrack composed by Kou Otani of Shadow of the Colossus and Outlaw Star fame, and plenty of thrills and chills for anime fans. If you're tired of your wars being realistic, check out Gundam Wing.
2) Fullmetal Alchemist
When a human transmutation to revive their dead mother goes wrong, brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric lose something dear to them. Ed loses his arm and leg while Al lost his entire body. His soul is now attached to a heavy suit of armor. The two promise each other to get back their bodies, go after the Philosopher's Stone, and learn from their mistakes. Funny at times, warm at times, gravely depressing others, Fullmetal Alchemist is an entertaining anime unlike any other. The soundtrack by Michiru Oshima covers a variety of moods and scenarios with her epic orchestral score. Full of action, drama, and heart, Fullmetal Alchemist uses alchemy to draw up the number two spot.
When a human transmutation to revive their dead mother goes wrong, brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric lose something dear to them. Ed loses his arm and leg while Al lost his entire body. His soul is now attached to a heavy suit of armor. The two promise each other to get back their bodies, go after the Philosopher's Stone, and learn from their mistakes. Funny at times, warm at times, gravely depressing others, Fullmetal Alchemist is an entertaining anime unlike any other. The soundtrack by Michiru Oshima covers a variety of moods and scenarios with her epic orchestral score. Full of action, drama, and heart, Fullmetal Alchemist uses alchemy to draw up the number two spot.
1) Cowboy Bebop
One ship, one crew, four souls, four destinies, one awesome show with the best anime soundtrack ever composed by the best composer ever, Yoko Kanno. Unlike most of the other shows on this list, this anime is purely episodic with a recurring theme that pops up occasionally in five of the twenty-six episodes. This was the first anime to make me cry with Fullmetal Alchemist being the second. Those who have watched from beginning to end know what I'm talking about. The show does a great job of conveying a story without pounding it into the viewer. Instead the show is much more subtle about how it handles situations and its narrative. Combine all this with a fantastic soundtrack full of every type of music imaginable from jazz to heavy metal, rap to rock, Cowboy Bebop has every anime beat. It's not just entertaining for otaku either. My mom sat down and loved this show, and she cried her heart out, too.
Other Favorties Include: Yuyu Hakusho, Outlaw Star, Sailor Moon, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, S-Cry-Ed, and G Gundam.
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