The Harmony of Anime: 5 Shows with Soundtracks that Leave a Lasting Impression
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Anime has a way of transporting us to different worlds, of making us feel things deeply and of sparking our imaginations. One of the key elements that helps create this immersive experience is, without a doubt, the soundtrack. A good anime soundtrack can elevate the viewing experience, add depth to the story and characters, and leave a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
There are countless anime shows with incredible soundtracks, but here are five that stand out for their exceptional music, clever use of sound design and overall emotional impact.
1 ‘Attack on Titan’ – A Haunting, Gritty Soundscape
The dark and suspenseful world of ‘Attack on Titan’ is perfectly complemented by its haunting soundtrack. Composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, the music is a masterclass in building tension and evoking the desperation and fear of the characters. The blend of electronic and orchestral elements creates a gritty, discordant sound that perfectly captures the show’s dark atmosphere.
One of the standout tracks, "Guren no Yumiya" (Crimson Bow and Arrow), is a thrilling mix of techno and classical music that will get your heart racing. The use of sound design in the show is equally impressive, with the eerie, screeching sound of the Titans’ movements and the deafening crash of the walls as they fall.
2 ‘Your Lie in April’ – Beautiful, Poignant Music that Echoes the Heart
For those who love music as much as anime, ‘Your Lie in April’ is a must-watch. The show revolves around music, exploring the way it can evoke emotions, create connections and bring people together. The soundtrack, composed by Masaru Yokoyama, is a stunning collection of beautiful piano pieces, poignant ballads and soaring orchestral scores.
From Kousei’s melancholic piano performances to Kaori’s infectious enthusiasm, the music in the show perfectly captures the passion and vulnerability of its characters. The sound design is equally important, with the subtle tapping of piano keys, the creaking of instrument cases and the whispers of the characters all adding to the atmosphere.
3 ‘Death Note’ – Ominous, Techno-Infused Beats that Build Suspense
‘Death Note’ is known for its cerebral plot, moral ambiguity and high-stakes action, but one of its most underappreciated elements is its soundtrack. Composed by Yoshihisa Hirano and Hideki Taniuchi, the music is a blend of electronic and rock elements that creates a unique, suspenseful atmosphere.
From the ominous "Low of Solipsism" to the thrilling "Death Note Theme", the soundtrack perfectly complements the show’s intellectual cat-and-mouse game between Light and L. The use of sound design is equally impressive, with the ticking of the pen, the rustling of paper and the hum of the monitor all adding to the tension.
4 ‘Puella Magi Madoka Magica’ – Whimsical, yet Haunting, Chimes with the Strange
Few anime shows have undergone as dramatic a transformation in tone as ‘Puella Magi Madoka Magica’. The show’s charming, colorful exterior belies its dark, cynical exploration of the human cost of making deals with the devil. The soundtrack, composed by Yuki Kajiura, is an equally impressive blend of whimsy and menace.
From the saccharine sweetness of the opening theme "Connect" to the haunting melancholy of the ending theme "Magia", the music perfectly captures the show’s contradictions. The use of sound design is equally impressive, with the ticking of clocks, the whispering of voices and the roaring of flames all adding to the sense of foreboding.
5 ‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ – Sweeping Scores that Capture the Human Spirit
‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ is one of the greatest anime shows of all time, and its soundtrack is a key reason why. Composed by Akira Senju, the music is a sweeping collection of epic scores, beautiful ballads and rustic folk tunes that perfectly capture the show’s range of emotions.
From the soaring "Alchemy" to the poignant "Motherland", the soundtrack perfectly complements the show’s exploration of themes such as redemption, sacrifice and the power of the human spirit. The use of sound design is equally impressive, with the clanging of swords, the rustling of pages and the whispering of voices all adding to the show’s epic feel.
Each of these anime shows boasts a soundtrack that elevates the viewing experience, adds depth to the story and characters and leaves a lasting impression long after the credits roll. Whether you’re a fan of dark suspense, poignant drama or epic adventure, there’s something on this list for everyone.