Akira Symphonic Suite

By Lauren Goodnight     August 02, 2005



What They Say
There's no arguing that AKIRA is one of the top anime theatrical features of all time, with a uniquely unorthodox soundtrack that retains its futuristic, yet modern-day appeal, becoming an integral part of this groundbreaking film.

From the initial tribal chanting that builds up to a cacophony of primal disorder and frenzy, to the unmistakably haggard breathing that signifies the arrival of the Clown biker gang, there are 10 over-the-edge instrumentals that will have your aural senses reeling on this percussion rich CD.

The Review!
Let me explain now that I have never seen Akira in its entirety. However, I remember someone very special to me making me a set of mix tapes with this music on it about 9 years ago. I had no intention of seeing Akira then, but I remember thinking that this was some of the most lovely music I'd ever heard. I still believe that, and listening to a CD-quality version brightens the experience considerably. Reading the accompanying liner notes and understanding the creators' intentions with this recording enhances the experience greatly, so if you load this into your iPod of DOOM, grab the booklet before you head out. I love how the explanation of the 'Tetsuo' track went deeply into technical specifics ("polyrhythmic triple measure and quadruple measure") and how that reflected the character ("Tetsuo's unrighteous 'laughter'").
Where I took this: I went shopping around the mall with this in my ears, and I found myself on one of the benches reading the liner notes intently.
Where it took me: This is a truly astounding artistic movement within popular Japanese entertainment, and I felt like I was being challenged in one of the best ways.
Standout track: Shohmyoh - Wow! This is a true example of complexity arising from the simple. Exquisite use of traditional Buddhist tempo and subtle synthesizers. Yes, it is over 10 minutes, but if you ever get a chance to hear real Buddhist chanting, especially Tibetan Buddhist chanting, it takes much longer, but it feels much shorter to your soul.
Skip-it track: Battle Against Crown - I've never liked this track, and now I can put my finger on exactly why. The chaos here builds in a slightly different way than the other tracks, and when you hear it, you'll know what I mean. Sometimes I think this track may be art for art's sake.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Features
Kaneda ,Battle Against the Clowns ,Winds Over Neo-Tokyo ,Tetsuo ,Doll's Polyphony ,Shoumyou ,Mutation ,Exodus from the Underground Fortress ,Illusion ,Requiem

Review Equipment