Shiro Sagisu
Neon Genesis Evangelion I

THE REVIEW

The protagonist of this review is Neon Genesis Evangelion and its breathtaking soundtrack.

Let's start by introducing the composer of the soundtrack (and all others in the Evangelion series): Shiro Sagisu.

Composer, musician, producer. In 25 years of career, he has composed soundtracks for some famous anime, in fact, his resume includes names like "His and Her Circumstances", "Bleach", "Kimagure Orange Road", "Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water" and many others.

This CD contains 23 tracks: 20 BGM (Background Music) meaning instrumentals and 3 vocal tracks.

These pieces are related to the first 8 episodes of the series.

The opening is entrusted to "Zankoku Na Tenshi No Thesis" ("The Cruel Angel's Thesis") performed by pop singer Yoko Takahashi (even the series movie "Death And Rebirth" contains her song "Tamashii no Rufuran"). A beautiful piece of retro electronics with an absolutely irresistible chorus.

The ending is represented by an old pop hit from the 50s: "Fly Me To The Moon". Written by Bart Howard, the most renowned version was performed by the famous Frank Sinatra. In the anime, it is present in various versions. The most beautiful one, in my opinion, is the one performed by singer Claire. An excellent closing theme, really well-integrated with the images that flow: a full moon, the sea where it is reflected, and Rei Ayanami, suspended, rotating upside down. A sublime alchemy.

The instrumental themes manage better to convey the depth of certain scenes ("Angel Attack", "NERV"), particular situations ("Hedgehog's Dilemma"), the emotions of the characters ("Misato", "Asuka Strikes!"). How can one resist the bright theme announcing the next episode ("Jikai Yokoku") and the instrumental and acid bossa versions of "Fly Me To The Moon".

The soundtrack of Neon Genesis Evangelion knows how to seduce those who will give it more than a fleeting glance.