New Moderator
Ghost in the Shell is one of those series that I've always intended to watch but never remember until the oddest moments. Now was one of those times, and it's thanks to xp that I do. He sent me a Youtube link for the full version of Rise quite some time ago, and I fell in love with it on my first hearing.
I can't say what this show is about, because I've been intentionally avoiding information until I can watch it. It's an interesting opening visually. I don't know just how well it covers events or characters, but I like how everything is portrayed. It fits in well with the lyrics. The lyrics themselves have already given me an impression on what the show will be like, but I obviously can't speak until I see it.
I hope I got the title of the anime and that fact that it has a single opening correct. This is why I am reluctant to post openings and endings of series I haven't verified yet. But this is such an awesome song (and a great opening artistically) that I had to put it up.
Rise - Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG: Full Version
I'm a soldier, meaning that I'm
Both the defendent and the judge
I'm standing on both sides of the fire
Moving along curves, overtaking death and life
I'm running to battle with the shadow of a lie
No matter how many threads deception would weave
Truth will show its face of light
Save your tears
for the day
when our pain is far behind
on your feet
come with me
we are soldiers stand or die
Save your fears
take your place
save them for the judgement day
fast and free
follow me
time to make the sacrifice
we rise or fall
I'm a soldier, born to stand
in this waking hell I am
witnessing more than I can compute
pray myself we don't forget
lies, betrayed and the oppressed
please give me the strength to be the truth
people facing the fire together
if we don't, we'll lose all we have found
Save your tears
for the day
when our pain is far behind
on your feet
come with me
we are soldiers stand or die
Save your fears
take your place
save them for the judgement day
fast and free
follow me
time to make the sacrifice
we rise or fall
After a dream to the edge of a chasm
Only that way can the world be saved
Don't you cry,
Hide the tears,
Because a new day will begin
Your fire
Will warm
Thousands of hearts
And now rise
Tuck away the pain and fear
The one who's right will win
Know that everything is in your hands
Save your tears
for the day
when our pain is far behind
on your feet
come with me
we are soldiers stand or die
Save your fears
take your place
save them for the judgement day
fast and free
follow me
time to make the sacrifice
we rise or fall
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
Editor
Watching the show will absolutely not help you in this regard. <_<
Also:
Save your fears
take your place
save them for the judgement day
fast and free
follow me
time to make the sacrifice
we rise or fall
One of my absolute favorite verses from any song.
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"There's a pony in the shop, but don't buy it. It might do something unfortunate to you." ~from the first Summoner's Seal topic
Liberal Arts Major
I think I get most of the important points by now! But yeah, it's probably Evangelion-level for me in "trying to figure out just what is going on exactly." Well, most of that is in some things that I think are more background, I don't think the main plot is that hard to keep up with.
It's also my second favorite anime!
And Rise is likely my favorite opening in any anime ever, at the very least, it's definitely in the area.
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xp1337: Don't you wish there was a spell-checker that told you when you a word out?
New Moderator
One of my absolute favorite verses from any song.
Well I can at least try. Glad you like the song. =D
I think I get most of the important points by now! But yeah, it's probably Evangelion-level for me in "trying to figure out just what is going on exactly." Well, most of that is in some things that I think are more background, I don't think the main plot is that hard to keep up with.
It's also my second favorite anime!
And Rise is likely my favorite opening in any anime ever, at the very least, it's definitely in the area.
If you hold it that highly, I need to make a higher priority of watching it. And yeah, despite not seeing the show, this opening is just great. It's already rather high for me.
The Light Before We Land - Gunslinger Girl: Opening
This is one of the strangest openings I've seen. Not in a drug-trip way, like What's Up People?, but it just doesn't feel like other openings. Look at the animations, how they introduce the characters (with actual names going alongside them), and the song, which is very mellow for an opening where guns are being fired. It's also in English, which is always a rarer thing to see.
That said, I do like it. I haven't seen the anime for Gunslinger Girl, but I started reading the manga, which is really good. I can actually seeing the song fit the circumstances, because it is a rather depressing thing to read in total. It shows surprisingly little of the partners of the girls, but that's all right, they get the most focus anyway. I'm not sure I would listen to the song out of context, but as an opening, it's nice.
The Light Before We Land - Gunslinger Girl: Full Version
In cases such as these I'd like a hand
Don't wake me up without a master plan
With sight and sound becoming fragile
Don't you understand?
When things that once were beautiful
Are bland
And when I feel like I can feel once again
Let me stay awhile
Soak it in awhile
If we can hold on we can fix what is wrong
Buy a little time
For this head of me
Haven for us
In truth there is no better place to be
Than falling out of darkness still to see
Without a premonition
Could you tell me where we stand?
I'd hate to lose this light
Before we land
And when I feel like I can feel once again
Let me stay awhile
Soak it in awhile
If we can hold on we can fix what is wrong
Buy a little time
For this head of mine
Haven for us
Before we let euphoria
Convince us we are free
Remind us how we used to feel
Before when life was real
And when I feel like I can feel once again
Let me stay awhile
Soak it in awhile
If we can hold on we can fix what is wrong
Buy a little time
For this head of mine
Haven for us
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
I watched the first three episodes of the Disgaea anime, and to be honest, I wasn't that fond of it. It really rushed some plot point, Gordon and co. were around more often, and Laharl was made to be rather unsympathetic. He's a jerk in the game, but a lovable one, because he's funny and he does show occasional bits of goodness when it fits (mainly to do with Flonne). That said, it wasn't necessarily BAD. Maybe someone watching it without playing the game first would like it a lot more. And having Laharl's scarf turn into wings is, no matter how canon defiling, pretty awesome.
As for the opening, it's a bit odd. Etna is shown in a lot of sympathetic expressions which doesn't really fit her. Flonne looks adorable and I approve of that. Laharl's pretty awesome, so that's always good. The fight section near the end feels more like a scene than a clip for the opening, if that makes any sense. The song's okay, but the lyrics are... strange for Disgaea.
So why did I post it? Mainly because it does have some nice shots of Laharl. And the flying scarf is just that cool. So yep.
Aishitageru (I'll Give You My Love) - Makai Senki Disgaea: Full Version
Seems like I'm being strangled by the sigh of love
No spell in the world can set me free
To make things worse, your silent eyes that hide your grief
Are making my heart go crazy
I love
The stubborn old you
More than the stubborn old me
I don't care if you're the devil as long as it's you
Ah, the miracle of us being able to meet
Even with an incurable scar or some deep karma
Ah, I'll give you my love
No matter where you are, no matter how many times, oh oh
Although this night is so painful, I can't even seem to breathe
The stars twinkle and shine for tomorrow
You're not alone watching them
On these long, long nights
Do you love me, or do you not?
Ah, whichever is fine with me
This thing called reality is really an illusion
Ah, I'll hug you
I just do what I like, when I like, ah
I wanna be here close to you
I wanna be by your side
I wanna feel you a lot closer...
My dear
I don't care if you're the devil as long as it's you
Ah, the miracle of us being able to meet
Even with an incurable scar or some deep karma
Ah, I'll give you my love
No matter where you are, no matter how many times, oh
Do you love me, or do you not?
Ah, whichever is fine with me
This thing called reality is really an illusion
Ah, I'll hug you
I just do what I like, when I like, oh oh
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
Editor
0/10 OP
---
"There's a pony in the shop, but don't buy it. It might do something unfortunate to you." ~from the first Summoner's Seal topic
New Moderator
i c wut u did thar
Really, I don't like Etna all that much myself, but she's not THAT bad. Flonne, however, is awesome.
Uninstall - Bokurano: Opening
Here's yet another "I've read the manga but not watched the anime" example. I just looked up this opening and instantly decided to put it up for tonight for one main reason that I will get to soon.
Basically, Bokurano is probably the most depressing manga I have read yet. A quote on the tvtropes page said that it makes Evangelion "look like the Care Bears". I don't know if I would go that far, but it's an accurate assessment. Despite this, the characters are wonderfully developed for the most part. I really cared about the majority of them. It's an incredibly saddening read, yet at the same time, it's compelling to see just how these characters handle their situations. And yes I did break down crying for at least one of them.
Now, for the opening. The artwork isn't exactly my favorite but it's pretty faithful to the manga, and you don't really watch/read Bokurano for artwork anyway. It shows a good portion of characters (though I don't think it's all of them) and seeing as there's a lot, that's pretty nice. But what gets me is the song. It's beautiful, and the lyrics are so, so fitting. Those lyrics were what made me instantly decide this was worth posting. I'm sure I'll be coming back to listen to this one more in the future.
Uninstall - Bokurano: Full Version
It came from beyond the extreme reaches of our reality,
It came to laugh at our naive existences.
I am puzzled by the truth that slips through my hands even as I cover my ears.
Where in this thin body do I find the strength to stand?
Uninstall, uninstall.
I was told that I am just one of the countless specks of dust on this planet,
But that is something I cannot yet comprehend.
Uninstall, uninstall.
I have no choice but to pretend that
I am a warrior who knows no fear. Uninstall.
Our subconscious grows sharper without us realizing.
When I open my eyes to the contourless presence below my bed,
I am devoid of any feelings,
Except an impulse to destroy everything and anything.
Since I can't even choose the season of my passing...
Uninstall, uninstall.
If there's no one left to replace me,
Then I will take that regular daily life and
Uninstall, uninstall.
It makes me want to end everything with these hands.
It's not a bad thing to uninstall.
Uninstall, uninstall.
I was told that I am just one of the countless specks of dust on this planet,
But that is something I cannot yet comprehend.
Uninstall, uninstall.
I have no choice but to pretend that
I am a warrior who knows no fear. Uninstall.
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
Gungrave is one of my favorite animes that I always forget to mention. I still am not sure why it always slips my mind in favorite anime discussions, but I love it. The funny thing is it is based off a game, yet I have heard it is much, much better than that game. Few animes are able to claim such a feat. If one could though, I'd definitely believe Gungrave would be one.
The opening is fairly good, but it's lyricless and I didn't feel like posting another one of those in the near future. Besides, I like the ending more overall. The song is pretty good and I like to bring it up to listen to once in a while. The artwork fits well due to the vibe I get from most of the anime, especially the older picture and car. The lyrics are kind of cool too, though I'm not sure if they fit all that well.
I'd highly recommend Gungrave to anyone who hasn't seen it. Just be warned that the first episode is incredibly lousy, so at least get past that before making a judgment. Also, the Engrish in the original is hilarious. "BEYOND THE GRAVE~"
Akaneiro Ga Moeru Toki (When The Sky Burns Red) - Gungrave: Beyond the Grave: Full Version
Pain and tears are the beginning that paints tomorrow over today
The pulse piercing through the scattered loneliness is the farthest reach of uncertainty
This place where I am now is just a game that wears you down
and if that's so, I should be able to win just by laughing aloud
Cross over the night
Soon the blues that have lost all words and everything else
Will hit the road and throw away my merely daydreaming self
until my body that's left after both moment and eternity have faded away
will burst into flames as I wish for it to do
That song that's secretly replacing yesterday with today
carries within the tears of this era
If I look back on the road I've walked in my soiled state
I see that it's the road of contradictions and love
From where I'm standing right now, the game is about how far you can fall
and if that's so, I should be able to win just by thinking about it
A dream that crosses over the night
Soon the rhythm that's lost all words and everything else will start beating
and throw aside the worn-out sunrise
until this song that I cough out, that's left after both moment and eternity have faded away,
will blaze it's way to the furthest end of sadness
Still unable to find it
I stood still and looked at the deep red sky
From where I'm standing right now, the game is about how far you can fall
and if that's so, yeah!, everybody should be able to win just by dancing a little
A dream that crosses over dreams
Soon the blues that have lost all words and everything else
Will hit the road and throw away my merely daydreaming self
Soon the rhythm that's lost all words and everything else will start beating
and throw aside the worn-out sunrise
until this song that I cough out, that's left after both moment and eternity have faded away,
will blaze it's way to the furthest end of sadness
yeah...
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
That is one of the most annoying names of an anime to repeatedly type. But I've done it so much that I basically have it memorized in spelling!
This anime is actually based on a PC game, though I believe it is a SRPG. I really want to try it out myself and have been debating on trying to acquire the game before watching the anime, or deciding I won't get to the game for a long time and just going ahead with the anime. Tricky situation. But I love the character designs and it's supposedly great with character development.
While I really prefer the ending song, the ending has some incredibly boring artwork to go with it. The opening is definitely more interesting and its song is good too. I'd recommend checking out the full ending song simply because it's a beautiful piece, but for watching, you want the opening.
Lots and lots of cuteness in this opening, since Eruru and Aruru (the two dog-eared and tailed girls) are adorable. But there's a lot of cool scenes too involving conflict. It kind of makes me think of Fire Emblem, except with... not forty characters shown in the opening. A lot, but not forty! And as mentioned, the song is good too. I like to listen to this one a lot myself.
Oh yeah, another rare case where I could not use animelyrics. *Shakes fist*
Musouka (Dream Song) - Utawarerumono: Full Version
The dreams I had when I was a child
are scribbles that do not fade.
They reveal the feelings with which they were written
and are connected to the future that I draw.
Across the clear sky
was only endless blue
and my innocent heart
was thoroughly charmed.
Soon I obtained wings of freedom
with which I could fly.
I turned my eye towards my desire -
to go to that distant sky.
From countless wishes,
if only one could be granted,
I think anyone would want to seize their dreams
and never be made to let go.
The dreams I had when I was a child
are scribbles that do not fade.
They continue to be drawn forever
and are connected to the future I desire.
I heard a ringing note
from a far-off bell
and in my honest heart
it resounded an echo.
The light transformed into seven colors
and painted an arc on the sky.
I turned my eye towards my desire -
to go to that distant rainbow.
When wishes come to an end,
don
New Moderator
Hey look it's yet another anime I haven't watched but want to! All the rage these days!
As the name implies, Trinity Blood is another of those vampire animes that seem to like popping up. I've heard mixed reviews about it that seem to equal out to an average anime. Despite that, I really like the character designs, and I'm willing to give just about anything with vampires a chance so long as it doesn't involve tons of romance and sex. (That sadly leaves very few, but I have found some with only some romance, which turned out quite fine.)
This is a pretty calm opening for a vampire show. The song is mellow, the characters flow (it's not like clips being separated, the characters seem to replace each other very smoothly), and despite there being some fighting and one guy turning into a freaky vampire, it's not a high-key action-packed thing to watch. It kind of gives me a different feeling than what I first thought about it. It's another good one for catching interest though. Also, I really like the design of the guy with the silver hair and glasses. I *think* he might be the main character, but I can't say until I watch it.
Dress (Bloody Trinity Mix) - Trinity Blood: Full Version
I fell asleep with you in front of the mirror with light crimson fingertips
Your hand accidentally shows weakness
And you closed your lips
That day, we made a promise to each other
Now, neither of us can remember it
I listen to a boring song, and stare out the window
I wrap myself in a dress and show off a dance
Tell me, am I crazy?
One day, it will probably be carried off by the wind
Now, neither of us can remember it
Why do I rise up to that firmament with no wings,
Like the wind, like the clouds, why?
Without wings, like the stars, like the moon,
I sink into that all-engulfing night.
Don't forget those days that overflowed with love
I can't remember your face
One day, the wind will erase this
Now, neither of us can remember it
Why do I rise up to that firmament with no wings,
Like the wind, like the clouds, why?
Without wings, like the stars, like the moon,
I sink into that all-engulfing night.
Why do I rise up to that firmament with no wings,
Like the wind, like the clouds, why?
This love and these wounds were nostalgic
Now they are a cherished pain.
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
Samurai Champloo is an anime I've had some interest in but have not put as a high priority to watch. I'd like to get to it eventually, just not sure when. I decided to give its opening a try for tonight.
Here's an English opening song that is, of all things, rap. Forgive me if I'm not using the term correctly but I really can only call this song 'rap'. It's actually fairly slow-paced, which surprised me considering what I've heard of the show. It's not something I really care to listen to that much, but that's only because it's not my definition of catchy. As a song, I think it sounds good enough. The lyrics seem suitable as well.
The art also makes it stand out. I'm not sure if the whole anime is done in this style, but just look at the sky near the end. The character designs in general are quite different from most art styles I've seen. It's... gritty, I'd say. Not in a negative way, but the word gritty fits for me. I also really like how the sun turns into a record at the end, it's an cool touch.
Overall, I don't know how high I would rank this in my favorite openings, but its unique nature makes it worth taking a look at.
Battlecry - Samurai Champloo: Full Version
sharp like an edge of a samurai sword
the mental blade cut through flesh and bone
though my mind's at peace, the world out of order
missing the inner heat, life gets colder
oh yes, I have to find my path
no less, walk on earth, water, and fire
the elements compose a magnum opus
my modus is operandi is amalgam
steel packed tight in microchip
on my arm a sign of all-pro
the ultimate reward is honor, not awards
at odds with the times in wars with no lords
a freelancer,
a battle cry of a hawk make a dove fly and a tear dry
wonder why a lone wolf don't run with a klan
only trust your instincts and be one with the plan
some days, some nights
some live, some die
in the way of the samurai
some fight, some bleed
sun up to sun down
the sons of a battlecry
some days, some nights
some live, some die
in the way of the samurai
some fight, some bleed
sun up to sun down
the sons of a battlecry
look, just the air around him
an aura surrounding the heir apparent
he might be a peasant but shine like grand royalty
he to the people and land, loyalty
we witness above all to hear this,
sea sickness in the ocean of wickedness
set sail to the sun set no second guessing
far east style with the spirit of wild west
the "quote-unquote" code stands the test of
time for the chosen ones to find the best of
noble minds that ever graced the face of
a hemisphere with no fear, fly over
the blue yonder where
the sky meets the sea
and eye meets no eye
and boy meets world
and became a man to serve the world
to save the day, the night, and the girl too
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
In all my time on the internet, only one person has ever mentioned Sci-Fi Harry in my seeing range. It was a guy on Board 8 who seemed pretty smart from what I saw, and he praised this as an amazing anime. Because of that, I took the time to set it aside for watching later. Nothing prompted me to get to it quickly, so I haven't touched it yet.
I decided to check out the opening a few days ago out of curiosity. Whooooo boy. This is probably the freakiest opening I've seen yet. It's not drug-tripped like What's Up People?, but it's so incredibly creepy to watch. Basically the entire thing is weirdly-drawn people melting. I'm not exaggerating, watch and see yourself. (Though oddly enough, that was the only video of the opening I could find. It has a bit of what I assume is the first episode after it, so be warned.)
That said, I do like the song well enough. It's got a catchy feel to it. I don't think it really fits with all the people horrifically melting, but I guess the lyrics could go with the anime well. This is one opening where I am NOT encouraged to watch what follows, just because it disturbs me that much. But I already decided I would, so I'll get to it. Eventually.
Oh yeah, had to find the lyrics elsewhere. This seems to be a pretty unpopular anime, considering I had to go out of my way to get the opening, full version, and lyrics. (The guy who posted the full version even says it's the only one on Youtube, and I didn't see any when searching besides his.)
Mysterious - Sci-Fi Harry: Full Version
The night after you play that card, it seems there's something up, always
Tell me why I haven't gotten a call from you
Even if I tell myself "It's nothing to be concerned about..."
Since it makes me unable to sleep, unable to see even bad dreams, always
My pace without appearances
Once again, passion without response
With casual bargaining and an unconcerned technique
It's all over
An enigma formed...in my mind, your uninterested self is Mysterious
Your eyes with an air of playing the fool...is that for when you exhaust all your options?
It seems it's your business to try to avoid being kissed
Since I've found where you, who is so hidden, keeps your emotions
Strong attitudes are
Since I can hide the weakness in my heart
I won't lie to you, who is so innocent, anymore
With sexy eyes
I had to be enchanted...living in your deepest heart, Devil or Angel
Still with your pretense of feigned ignorance, I can't let it bother me, you won't outdo me
I felt it...up until now it wasn't there...that faint joy
Even just a pretense of flirting is fine with me, however regrettable, don't let go of this hand
Just one part of something is okay, make me feel peace of mind
Just like a child until this passionate love, don't leave things scattered
An enigma formed...in my mind, your uninterested self is Mysterious
Your eyes with an air of playing the fool...is that for when you exhaust all your options?
I had to be enchanted...living in your deepest heart, Devil or Angel
Still with your pretense of feigned ignorance, I can't let it bother me, you won't outdo me
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
Editor
Also fun fact: The Boondocks seasoning one opening is heavily, heavily inspired by Battlecry. I can't find a good video of it for some reason, but look it up if you want. >_>
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"There's a pony in the shop, but don't buy it. It might do something unfortunate to you." ~from the first Summoner's Seal topic
New Moderator
Also fun fact: The Boondocks seasoning one opening is heavily, heavily inspired by Battlecry. I can't find a good video of it for some reason, but look it up if you want. >_>
Have you watched Samurai Champloo fully, or did you just catch a bit on Adult Swim?
Hm, I never saw Boondocks. Interesting.
Don't Say "Lazy" - K-ON!: Ending
I frequent a Japanese figurine site, and one of the most popular series for figures happens to be K-ON!. I like the designs and it has inspired me to watch it at some point. I don't actually have it available to watch right now, so it's kind of on the backburner. However, I have been meaning to check out this ending because a line of figures came out that is specifically based on the character designs in the ending. That's either very rare or a first. One of my friends also said the song itself really inspired her.
Watching the opening once was enough to convince me that I liked it a lot, for multiple reasons. One, the characters do have totally different clothes that are pretty unique and neat. It's a lot more effort in art overall than most endings would get. I've noticed that openings are often a lot better in design than ending, but this is a pretty big exception. Two, the characters appear to be SINGING the ending. Watch their lips as the ending occurs. That is the first time I have seen such a thing, and considering this is a musical series, it's a really cool touch. Three, it shows all four main characters with their names and balances them very well. (I think there might be a fifth but I don't know enough to comment on it. Perhaps she's only one in season two?) No bias here!
As for the song itself, it is very catchy. I am still listening to it right now, it's definitely a keeper. I also like the lyrics. Some of them are a bit silly (oh no a nail broken?) but for the most part, they ARE inspirational. Overall, it's a surprisingly clever ending, and if the people who made this series put as much effort into the episodes themselves, I should seriously consider kicking it up on my planned-to-watch list.
Don't Say "Lazy" - K-ON!: Full Version
Please don't say "You are lazy"
Because seriously, we are crazy
When even the graceful swan
Thrashes its legs about underwater
We're truly following our instincts, open to criticism anytime
We got a bright future anyway
That's why we need to take a break sometimes
Judge the course carefully with your very own eyes
And mark your destinations on the map
Where there's a shortcut (take it), that's a given
Got wings to take you there? That's better
"Oh crap, I broke my nail!" and you fix it with glue
And just that can make you feel so accomplished
You need to take good care of yourself, that's important
You can't love others if you don't love yourself first
Please don't say "You are lazy"
Because seriously, we are crazy
When even the wise eagle
Hides away and peeks at corners
Imagination is everything because reality is doomed
We're not the finished article yet
That's why we inadvertently sing off-pitch (sometimes)
The fact that (what you want) isn't in front of your eyes
Can break your motivation limits
So when you go dream a lot, with all your might
You're also sleeping, with all your might
"Alright! I got a bit thinner" but in victory, you ate
And just that can make you feel so defeated
You need to lower your expectations quickly
Be flexible with your aims, those who adapt will win
Please don't say "You are lazy"
Because seriously, we are crazy
When even the charming peacock
Shows its beauty when it feels the time is now
We work on every single cell inside our bodies, wanting to be slim, pretty women
We get wooed all the time too
That's why we get badly distracted (sometimes)
"Uh oh, is that a red mark? Wait no, I barely made it!"
And just that can make you feel so smart
You need to keep being proud of what you can do, that's important
You can't accept others if you don't accept yourself first
Please don't say "You are lazy"
Because seriously, we are crazy
When even the graceful swan
Thrashes its legs about underwater
We're truly following our instincts, open to criticism anytime
We got a bright future anyway
That's why we need to take a break sometimes
---
"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
Editor
Fully. It's basically Implausible Fencing Powers: The Anime. Not that that's a bad thing, you just have to go in expecting very cool, very well choreographed fight scenes and not much else. IIRC, the main plot starts up in episode 25 (of 26). Sort of like Cowboy Bebop in that regard, only more so.
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"There's a pony in the shop, but don't buy it. It might do something unfortunate to you." ~from the first Summoner's Seal topic
Liberal Arts Major
[Spoiler for Samurai Champloo, click to show]In a broad sense, Fuu's subplot is the main plot, and that has involvement going on before Episode 25, AFAIK. Also, unless I'm very mistaken, the episodes involving Sara (I think it's Sara, the girl who was blind) was almost definitely part of the main plot, wasn't she being ordered around by Kariya/whoever was ordering Kariya around?
...Unless you're suggesting the main plot is something else entirely, but I'd pretty much call it anything that Kariya can be tied to. Much like you could say the same for Bebop and Vicious, only I'm fairly sure Vicious gets a lot more focus and screentime.
</spoiler>
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xp1337: Don't you wish there was a spell-checker that told you when you a word out?
Editor
</spoiler>
But, yes, I'll grant that I was off by a bit, it probably starts somewhere around episode 21 or so. And even then, there are some earlier episodes that tie into it, they're just not blatant about it, whereas Bebop definitely is.
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"There's a pony in the shop, but don't buy it. It might do something unfortunate to you." ~from the first Summoner's Seal topic
Liberal Arts Major
In Bebop, Spike is effectively the "main" character, and its his plot that is the "main" plot. In Samurai Champloo, Mugen would probably be the consensus "main" character, being pretty much the "Spike" of the group, however, in this case, his plot has pretty much nothing to do with the main plot. At all. At least as far as I can remember. Of course, in Samurai Champloo, it's likely a lot easier to argue some form of co-Main Characters than you could in Bebop.
Also, regarding Sara, that's what I mean. I also haven't watched the show in a really long time, so I'm operating off of memory, and that's not a good sign, but I can't recall how heavily they indicated that Sara was involved with Kariya (assuming she was, I'm almost certain he was manipulating her, but again, memory) and beyond that, how much you know about Kariya's role by then. But I'd say the only difference between the answers to those is whether or not you have to look back on the earlier events to tell they were part of the main plot, because either way I'd say they'd have to be considered such, even if you didn't know at the time.
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xp1337: Don't you wish there was a spell-checker that told you when you a word out?
New Moderator
Fair enough. I'll check it out at some point.
Tomorrow - Full Metal Panic: Opening
Full Metal Panic has interested me for a long time. I originally saw two episodes (maybe three, but I think it was just two) of Fumoffu in my anime club, and it was some of the funniest stuff I had ever seen. I was eager to watch more. Then I learned that the original series was more serious and story oriented, so I put that high on my watch list.
I wouldn't say this opening stands out in any particular area, but as a whole it is quite good. Good animation, good song, and good scenes. I particularly like the section at the end where the characters are shown saluting. It does a solid job of showing interesting things without giving explanation, leaving you to watch and figure it out yourself.
Tomorrow - Full Metal Panic: Full Version
Together, searching for shelter,
We ran in the rain
Even if I lose something,
There's just one thing
That I have to protect
I'll go search with you
For the meaning of my birth in this world
Even while wounded,
Let's go to meet
The new scenery
I shaded myself from the setting sun
The prism of my fingertips reflected orange
For your sake,
I want to become so kind
That almost everything else about me could be forgiven
The light that overflows this world
Gathers in my hands
Illuminating the darkness
So I won't lose sight of the long road
I'll go search with you
For the meaning of my birth in this world
Even while wounded,
Let's go
Even further on
To meet the new scenery
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"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
I had only seen the title Pumpkin Scissors when looking through manga and DVDs at stores. It always seemed like a silly name, and I wasn't sure what it was about, so I ignored it for a while. Then I found a superb figure of the main female from the series for a cheap price. It interested me enough to want to watch it at some point.
This is a really neat opening. I particularly like how much it focused on the male protagonist, as that can be a rarity for openings. Also, I appreciate how many scars he has and how realistic he looks in terms of hair color, eye color, stuff like that. It's not something you see often in anime, a realistic person who could almost be called 'ugly'. So props for that.
Other than him, there is a lot of scenes that really raise questions as to what happens in this anime. Many characters are present, and as always I appreciate that. The song is cool to listen to. This is another case of the song and animation clicking together well and making a seamless opening. Pumpkin Scissors just got kicked a bit higher on my to watch list.
Oh yeah, animelyrics failed me again!
Aoki Flamme (Blue Flame) - Pumpkin Scissors: Full Version
You ignite the blue light; that is destruction, slumber, resurrection
New Moderator
I wasn't sure what to think about this anime when I first heard of it. Taking a classic Shakespeare play and making it into an anime? This could turn out incredibly stupid or pretty epic. I kept an eye on it and was surprised by the amount of praise it got. I decided that was good enough to give it a try at some point, since so far I hadn't heard anything incredibly bad about it.
The opening is pretty good. I expected a more gentle, perhaps romantic, piece for this anime, and that's basically what it is. Despite that, it gets a vivid part near the second half for where most of the action scenes take place. The animation has promise from the opening. It also seems to have several characters, which will hopefully keep to their personalities from the play. Then again, a change could be interesting. I suppose I'll have to wait and see.
I do particularly like the scene at the end with Romeo and Juliet in the flowers. But one thing bothers me. What the heck is a pegasus doing in this anime?
Inori ~ You Raise Me Up (Prayer ~ You Raise Me Up) - Romeo x Juliet: Full Version
In the depths of my tear-filled eyes,
Is your everlasting beauty.
"How far does the world go?"
Those words from our bygone days.
Even on those freezing, stormy nights,
Though you are still out of sight, I continue on.
Please tell me, ocean-crossing winds,
That my prayers will pass through time.
Beyond the misty horizons,
Stars are fabled to lie.
"Dawn will surely follow every night."
The sins of my past laughs.
I try to embrace you trembling with uncertainty,
But I look up at the empty sky beyond reach.
I hear the chime that illuminates darkness,
Showing me that the path to you is still far.
Even on those freezing, stormy nights,
Though you are still out of sight, I continue on.
Please tell me, ocean-crossing winds,
That my prayers will pass through time.
Even on those freezing, stormy nights,
Though you are still out of sight, I continue on.
Please tell me, ocean-crossing winds,
That my prayers will pass through time.
My prayers will pass through time.
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"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
August 21st:
Xenosaga Main Title - Xenosaga: The Animation: Opening
Here's my second time posting two different openings. I am pretty sure neither of these have a full version, and they are both lyricless, so I'll put them both up.
So, Xenosaga: The Animation. I consider it an interesting experiment, and if I just watched it without playing the game, I would have thought it was pretty good. But since I had played the game first, this fell pretty flat. I enjoyed it for what it was but would not rank it that highly because the game is simply so much better.
I'm not sure if this is actually the title for this piece, but it was the only thing I could find. It's a pretty epic track and the voices give it the right atmosphere for Xenosaga-related material. The scenes and characters shown are good, it captures a lot of the dramatic moments. I still feel weird about the character designs, they always seemed really off to me. But other than that, it's a nice opening. It's got a pretty ending but it's not as entertaining to watch.
R.O.D. Theme - Read or Die (OVA): Opening
While I personally prefer the TV series a bit to the OVA, both are incredibly awesome and some of my favorite animes. However, Read or Die for the TV suffers badly in the opening and ending department. Its opening is... okay at best. Not enough of the main characters, too much of a random worded woman who has no clothing, and the music isn't that great. The ending is one of the worst I've seen; it shows a girl in a bookmark with a completely unremarkable song playing, and said girl doesn't even seem to be a character in the show. (I suppose it could be Michelle but it doesn't really look like her.)
Now THIS is how you do an opening. Awesome, awesome piece, with great action sequences and a good balance in characters. This should make just about anyone interested in anime want to see Read or Die's OVA. Whether they like it or not might be another story, but it's a great hook.
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"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
Kagerou - xxxHOLiC: Second Ending
I chose to post an ending from xxHOLiC for two reasons. One, the opening wasn't that great in my opinion. Two, I posted an ending for Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles. This series is basically its sister, so I wanted to mimic that. The first ending has a nice song, but the animation is incredibly boring, it's just the black Monoka asleep and then dancing a bit. Hurp.
This one... I'm not sure how much I like it. I enjoy the song if nothing else. The animation is unique. It has two main girls from the series doing air guitar in time with the ending song. I really like this interaction; it's like a mild version of Don't Say "Lazy". On the other hand, they have really goofy animations for most of it. The one near the end reminds me of Snoopy characters laughing. Either way, the good song and new concept are enough to give it a day in the spotlight.
Kagerou (Mayfly) - xxxHOLiC: Full Version
Pale pink and tangled, in a dream, a midsummer night
New Moderator
I really need to watch Outlaw Star. It's one of the few full animes that I own, yet I haven't touched it yet. I hear it's really good, I just suck at getting to watch DVDs with nobody else around.
This is a cool opening. The song is pumped up. I especially like this one part that plays three times, shortly after the chorus, in the full version. The animation is a bit old, it reminds me somewhat of Escaflowne, but it's still good. Lots of characters doing different things as well. It doesn't really make me go 'oh man I have to go watch this right now', but I appreciate it a lot as an opening despite that.
Through the Night - Outlaw Star: Full Version
Don't make fun of it! Don't destroy it! Don't cheapen it!
That one thing everyone has that they won't give up.
Only love! Only dreams! Only you!
Those are the only things I won't let go, ever.
On nights when I can't settle down no matter what,
I just want to throw anything and everything away.
Don't bitch and complain, just open the door, ya know.
I don't have time to quibble with you.
I want to fly all over the place.
I wanna throw caution to the wind.
It isn't because I've lost anything
It's because nothing's even started yet.
Don't make fun of it! Don't destroy it! Don't cheapen it!
That one thing everyone has that they won't give up.
Only love! Only dreams! Only you!
Those are the only things I won't let go, ever.
What do you want? What do you wanna do? Where do you wanna go?
Cut through the darkness and run to grab what you want (all) through the night
Sometimes I'll let my guard down to your kindness,
but sometimes I worry.
I've been doing whatever I want as much as I wanted to,
But to tell the truth, to be with you is the best
Believing, I want us to believe in each other.
I want it to be as plain as black and white.
Because it's not just intensity
Because it's not just gentless...
Don't make fun of it! Don't destroy it! Don't cheapen it!
Who do I want to hold? I should know.
Only love! Only dreams! Only you!
I can't protect even those unless I get moving.
Even if I get hurt, or I hurt someone, or I have to take the long way,
With my heart as it is, tumbling as I am, I'll pierce (all) through the night
Don't make fun of it! Don't destroy it! Don't cheapen it!
That one thing everyone has that they won't give up.
Only love! Only dreams! Only you!
Those are the only things I won't let go, ever.
Holding each other, getting hurt, then loss...
Everyone hurts the one they hold most dear.
Anyway, I just can't understand
being shackled with a promise... I can't put my finger on it...
What do you want? What do you wanna do? Where do you wanna go?
Cut through the dark and run to grab what you want (all) through the night
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"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
New Moderator
Apparently this was originally a PC game that was adapted into an anime. I only know of it due to the main female's design. Feena Fam Earthlight is pretty and was enough to convince me to look into it for animation if nothing else.
I think this game/anime is centered mainly around romance, so the opening would certainly fit if that was the case. It is a lovely song with nice lyrics. Animation wise, it focuses more on Feena than I would like; it would be good to see some side characters. But I like the scenes that are shown. It gives a feeling of peace overall, which is a nice change from the action-packed openings you'll see often.
Prelude -We Are Not Alone- - Yoake Mae Yori Ruriiro Na -Crescent Love- (Brighter Than Dawning Blue -Crescent Love-): Full Version
Our encounter will certainly be the dawn of my heart
A new wind will be born from there
When I notice that I
Editor
what the
I've never even heard of this
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"There's a pony in the shop, but don't buy it. It might do something unfortunate to you." ~from the first Summoner's Seal topic
New Moderator
I've never even heard of this
Well, it is pretty obscure. Glad I could introduce you to something new though, that's one of the points of the topic. =)
Natsukashii Umi - KURAU Phantom Memory: Opening
I found out about this anime in one of the strangest ways. My little sister and her mother actually mentioned seeing it on TV but did not know the name. Their vague descriptions were enough for me to later see a mention of it on tvtropes under a scientific trope and go, "Hey, that sounds familiar..." I followed it to its link and finally learned that it is. I am hoping to purchase it at some point to share with them, as I want to see it myself.
Anyhow, it's a beautiful opening. The song feels kind of nostalgic, though I really have no explanation as to why. I like the coloring used as well, which is something I rarely notice. There aren't many characters shown, but those two are definitely the main ones from what I've read, so I guess they got priority. The art in general is good. It makes me feel at peace to watch and listen to, even though there is a fight scene of sorts near the end.
Also, since it has to be said: ib4 kenri.
Natsukashii Umi (Beloved Sea of Infinity) - KURAU Phantom Memory: Full Version
Stay here and hug me,
I hear your voice in my heart.
In the light, if I could extend my hands out,
I'd reach,
for the arms that have no substitutes,
that I have wished for so deeply.
If I turn around,
the sky will give a blue smile
at my loneliness.
It seems like I might lost sight of my dreams in the darkness,
but if you are there for me...
Stay here and hug me,
I hear your voice in my heart.
Do you know?
This memory is precious to me.
The transparent heart barely visible, even wounded,
will guide us to our meeting,
like the flow of water.
That's right, the two of us have been here,
right from the beginning,
in the beloved sea of infinity.
I think that The tears,
overflowing in the chest I let go,
is more beautiful than anything else.
The direction of the wind,
the sound of the birth of a star,
will bring me only the most tranquil memories.
Something is piling up,
the joyous and wonderful words,
onto you.
The gentle things, the sweet and warm things,
the wonderful words.
I think that The tears,
overflowing in the chest I let go,
is more beautiful than anything else.
It seems like I might lost sight of my dreams in the darkness,
but if you are there for me...
Stay here and hug me,
I hear your voice in my heart.
I want to protect this memory no matter what.
This memory.
This memory...
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"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
Editor
I had to watch this OP twice to figure out what you were ib4kenriing me for.
Also: I'm seriously reminded of Eureka Seven. If it's a specific OP/ED I'm thinking of, I'll post it (me contributing to this topic? NO WAI) but it might just be that it looks sorta similar thematically. <_<
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"There's a pony in the shop, but don't buy it. It might do something unfortunate to you." ~from the first Summoner's Seal topic
New Moderator
Also: I'm seriously reminded of Eureka Seven. If it's a specific OP/ED I'm thinking of, I'll post it (me contributing to this topic? NO WAI) but it might just be that it looks sorta similar thematically. <_<
Laaaawlz.
Cool, you should post it sometime. =)
HOWLING - Darker Than BLACK: First Opening
I'm not sure if the title and Black are really supposed to be capitalized, but I've seen it more than not so I'll go with that for now.
Another anime I have been recommended by a friend is Darker Than BLACK. I honestly don't know anything about it, so watching the two openings I found has been my only exposure so far. The second opening was kind of boring until like forty seconds in, so I decided to put up this one instead.
Here's one of those strange songs where a lot of English words are present. I've heard many of them, but this one is more prominent than many others and it's one of the first ones I've actually posted with such a big role. I actually like how they sound in this piece, the singer does pretty well with the words. It's not a song I find myself wanting to listen to again and again, but I do like certain parts of it enough to want to relisten to it later.
As for the animation... I get the impression this is a pretty weird anime. A lot of the scenes felt strange, especially the one where the male is sitting in a room and the walls suddenly change color. A bit more flesh mixed in and I'd think it's from Silent Hill. Really, even after watching this, I'm not sure what's going on at all. But some of the scenes did perk my interest enough to want to learn what they mean, which means the opening did its job. Add the song and it's an opening I would place as above average.
HOWLING - Darker Than BLACK: Full Version
(a night sky full of cries
hearts filled with lies
the contract--is it worth the price?
a soul pledged to the darkness
now I've lost it, I know I can kill
the truth is just beyond the Gate)
Tears streamed from my squeezed-shut eyelids
My reason and the fragments of my blood are repeatedly undermined
I don't want anything anymore
(My exposed feelings go around and turn 'round)
I don't feel the same way as before
(Gang bang, son of a gun)
In the crack between two entwined chests
This parched body that only desires will--
Imbue itself into the night with filthy fingertips
And wrench you open until you're torn to shreds
And its peeling emotions will creak in a shallow sleep
If it can erase just about everything entirely right now
The sun will rise, so close your eyes
Downfallen (Fallen) Falling
Hold inside
Just HOWLING in the shadows
While struck by the incessantly pouring rain
I dug my claws deep into your clinging back
I don't need anything anymore
(No one else can take my place)
I don't see the same way as before
(I've been lost without a trace)
As if to interrupt the continuation of
Someone's touching dream, my locked-away heart will--
Embrace you many times over with filthy fingertips
And aimlessly reel you in close
And its fleeting memories will blur with the remaining pain
Even if everything it has obtained is a mistake
With power that awakens each time I lose something, I will--
Imbue myself into the night with these filthy wings
And wrench you open until you're torn to shreds
And my peeling emotions will creak in my shallow sleep
If I can erase just about everything entirely right now
The sun will rise, so close your eyes
Downfallen (Fallen) Falling
Give me sight to see inside
I'm calling
Take a bite, night by night
Downfallen (Fallen) Falling
Hold inside
Just HOWLING in the shadows
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"That was pretty interesting. But dropping a warship on me is cheating... Take it back!"-Id, Xenogears
Editor
Psalms of Planets Eureka seveN
- DAYS by Flow (OP1)
- Shounen Heart by HOME MADE KAZOKU (OP2)
- Taiyou no Mannaka he by Bivatchee (OP3)
- Sakura by NIRGILIS (OP4)
Note that, the longer you watch that video, the more likely you are to be incidentally spoiled on some minor thing about the series, because hey, spoilers in a show's 4th OP out of 4 total are pretty much guaranteed to have incidental spoilers. But there is, as far as I know, nothing that spoils any actual plot twists or anything like that, so it's probably relatively safe as far as OPs go. Also, there are like two frames that show OMG TASTEFUL DRAWINGS OF BARE BREASTS FOR ARTISTIC PURPOSES, so fairly warned be ye.
Eureka Seven has the rare distinction of having four OPs, all of which I actually like! It's not as common as you might think. Though I should qualify that by saying that I really just like all the songs themselves; I consider the animation to be, for the most part, unremarkable. In terms of how I rank the four songs, I'm actually tempted to go in reverse order: Sakura > Taiyou no Mannaka he > Shounen Heart > Days. However, I consider Days and Shounen Heart to be really close, and either one of them has a chance to surpass Taiyou no Mannaka he depending on my mood. Sakura is #1, though. Sakura is always #1.
(Incidentally, if you've played Ouendan 2, you'll recognize Shounen Heart, though I like the E7 version a lot more.)
As for animation, all four OPs - except OP3 a little bit - do a fairly good job of incorporating the major elements of the series, showing off the very diverse cast, and throwing in some nice action scenes. ...Then there's OP3's animation, which just sorta sucks and I don't like it. Though, honestly, like I said before, I really consider OP1 and OP2's animations to be fairly unremarkable as well, simply because I tend to gravitate towards stylized OPs (Samurai Champloo, s-CRY-ed) rather than this sort of mishmash of fairly normal scenes and one frame flashes of important stuff. It's just been done to death and I prefer a little more creativity. ...Of course, OP4, which wins in a landslide again, does exactly what I just described, but it does it well enough that I don't care.
If you watched the KURAU Phantom Memory OP CG7 posted, and these Eureka Seven OPs, you'll probably figure out easily enough why one reminded me of the other. The most obvious similarity would be at 1:06 in the KURAU OP, where the character whose name I don't care to determine swerves around and dodges a bunch of crazy lasers while flying around in space. Compare this to every single fight scene in Eureka Seven, OP or otherwise, where the characters... swerve around and dodge a bunch of crazy missiles while flying around in the atmosphere. There are other similarities but this one is blatant enough that I'm willing to stop there.
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"There's a pony in the shop, but don't buy it. It might do something unfortunate to you." ~from the first Summoner's Seal topic