yoko takahashi a cruel angel's thesis

Zankoku na Tenshi no These

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" Zankoku na Tenshi no These "  (残酷な天使のテーゼ, Zankoku na Tenshi no Tēze ? , " A Cruel Angel's Thesis ") is the theme song of the popular anime Neon Genesis Evangelion performed by Yoko Takahashi . It is used as the opening to the series, and two instrumental versions of it are played in the final episode, " Take care of yourself. " These are "The Heady Feeling of Freedom" and "Good, or Don't Be", scored for violin, piano, and guitar. "The Heady Feeling of Freedom" is a somber and reflective piece for bowed strings and guitar, while "Good, or Don't Be" is played to a light piano and guitar tone. A similar version can also be heard during the intermission between the two parts of Evangelion: Death and Rebirth .

The single was released on 25 October 1995 within the Zankoku na Tenshi no These (Single) the catalog number KIDA-116 and it also reached a peak rank 17 in the Oricon album database, appearing in the ranks 61 times.

Unlike what is commonly assumed, this song was written without any involvement from the show's creators. [1] Anno originally wanted to use an excerpt from Borodin's Polovtsian Dances in the opening, but the producers did not approve of this and instead decided to use a J-Pop song, which eventually resulted in the creation of "A Cruel Angel's Thesis". The lyricist, Neko Oikama had next to no knowledge of the show. Oikama simply skimmed through a proposal of the show (possibly Neon Genesis Evangelion Proposal ) and watched unfinished versions of two episodes on fast forward, only serving to broadly "fit" the anime after the fact. [2] [3] [4] Oikama took inspiration for the title from the manga A Cruel God Reigns . [5] She said the lyrics "become a legend" were originally "become a weapon". She was orientated that the show was "difficult and philosphical". Oikama described it as: "older women", "mothers" and "14-year-old boys and girls", and decided to make it about the perspective of a mother when her child "leaves the nest". [6] The original song included a male chorus, which was cut at director Hideaki Anno's request in order to "emphasize maternal affection". [7] The writing process for Episode:01 took as long as six months, [8] and the opening sequence was not yet finished. [9] [10] Singer Yoko Takahashi was also brought in relatively haphazardly and had no knowledge of the series, and would only see the opening featuring her voice when it aired on TV. [11] She had also first met Anno on the day of recording. [12]

• 1.1 TV Size
• 1.2 Full Size
• 4 External Links
• 5 References

TV Size [ ]

Full size [ ].

[13]

During the instrumental break in the middle of the song, a chorus can be heard. The lyrics to the chorus are not in Japanese, nor in any other recognizable language. According to the January 1996 issue of Newtype magazine, the lyrics can be phonetically transliterated into Japanese as 「ファリィア。セタ(or セパ）メッソ。ファリィア。トゥスェ」 "Fariya. Seta (or sepa) messo. Fariya. Tuse" , and they are supposedly written in an untranslated language passed down from ancient times. One could entertain the possibility that they are written in the same language as that of the Dead Sea Scrolls . [14]

See Also [ ]

• " Zankoku na Tenshi no These 2009 VERSION "
• " Zankoku na Tenshi no These MATSURI SPIRIT "

External Links [ ]

• 「残酷な天使のテーゼ」MUSIC VIDEO（HDver.）/Zankoku na Tenshi no Te-ze“The Cruel Angel's Thesis” at King Records' YouTube channel

References [ ]

• ↑ "Producer Ootsuki said he allowed Anno to do whatever he wanted in the anime except for the theme music. Ootsuki was particular about the theme and handled the music staff by himself. No anime staff, even Anno, met the music staff, he said." - Yuko Miyamura, BS AnimeYAWA
• ↑ “My manager got the job, we had a quick meeting lasting about 30 minutes, skim-read the proposal and watched two episodes on fast-forward. And with that I was told ‘so, yeah, just write whatever you want!’, and finished the song [lyrics] in about two hours. Sorry to burst your bubble, guys!” https://soranews24.com/2015/01/08/a-cruel-angels-thesis-took-just-two-hours-to-write-says-evangelion-lyricist-neko-oikawa
• ↑ "I hadn't watch Eva and wrote it in 2 hours. I don't even know what the story is or who is fighting who." https://twitter.com/otakucalendarjp/status/1356542049751687171
• ↑ She also professed that she didn't know much about Neon Genesis Evangelion when she first wrote the song, and she still hasn't watched the series. "It's a finished job, so [I'm] not really [interested]," she said. When she wrote the song, the anime hadn't been finished yet and she only had the proposal and the first two or three minutes to go by. "It wasn't even colored. I wrote the song, and my job was done. I wrote it in about two hours." - https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2021-02-03/lyricist-neko-oikawa-shares-how-she-was-scammed-out-of-her-evangelion-royalty-money/.169084
• ↑ https://web.archive.org/web/20160830224921/http://news.livedoor.com/article/detail/11939169
• ↑ https://www.sankei.com/west/news/161228/wst1612280011-n1.html
• ↑ Refrain of Evangelion OST Booklet, 2003.
• ↑ 2nd JUNE interview
• ↑ Notenki Memoirs
• ↑ According to Hidenori Matsubara during the Animazement 2015 convention, "the song was created before they even got done with animation for the opening theme. Strangely enough, the song manage to go along with the opening animation."
• ↑ Yoko Takahashi Performs Neon Genesis Evangelion Theme, “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” to Excited Crowd at Anime Expo 2015 in LA
• ↑ —When was your first meeting with Mr. Anno? "It was on the day of recording. As I said earlier, when I entered the studio before anyone else to get ready, even while I couldn't afford, a man dressed in black and wearing sandals suddenly appeared. I didn't know who it was, but I just said hi, and he was actually Mr. Anno (Hideaki). It was a shocking encounter (laughs)." - Yoko Takahashi: EVANGELION FINALLY (2020)
• ↑ https://www.animelyrics.com/anime/eva/ngetnshi.jis
• ↑ http://www.mars.dti.ne.jp/~yato/eva/ura.htm
• 2 Rei Ayanami
• 3 Kaworu Nagisa

Lyrical Nonsense

Yoko Takahashi - The Cruel Angel's Thesis (残酷な天使のテーゼ) [Zankoku na Tenshi no Thesis] English Translation Lyrics

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The Cruel Angel's Thesis English Translation

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Like a cruel angel, young boy, become a legend!

A blue wind is now knocking at the door to your heart, And yet you are merely gazing at me and smiling. Something gently touches, you’re so intent on seeking it out, That you can’t even see your fate yet, with such innocent eyes.

But someday I think you’ll find out that what’s on your back Are wings that are for heading for the far-off future.

The cruel angel’s thesis will soon take flight through the window, With surging hot pathos, if you betray your memories. Embracing this universe and shining, young boy, become a legend!

Sleeping for a long time in the cradle of my love The morning is coming when you alone will be called by a messenger of dreams. Moonlight reflects off the nape of your slender neck. Stopping time all throughout the world, I want to confine them, but…

So if two people being brought together by fate has any meaning, I think that it is a “bible” for learning freedom.

The cruel angel’s thesis. The sorrow then begins. You held tight to the form of life when you woke up from that dream. You shine brighter than anyone else. Young boy, become a legend!

People create history while weaving love. Even knowing I’ll never be a goddess, or anything like that, I live on.

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Yoko Takahashi - The Cruel Angel's Thesis English Translation

Yoko Takahashi - Zankoku na Tenshi no Thesis English Translation

Yoko Takahashi - 残酷な天使のテーゼ English Translation

Neon Genesis Evangelion Opening Theme English Translation

Shinseiki Evangelion Opening Theme English Translation

残酷な天使のように　少年よ神話になれ

蒼い風がいま　胸のドアを叩いても 私だけをただ見つめて微笑んでるあなた そっとふれるもの　もとめることに夢中で 運命さえまだ知らない　いたいけな瞳

だけどいつか気付くでしょう　その背中には 遥か未来めざすための羽根があること

残酷な天使のテーゼ　窓辺からやがて飛び立つ ほとばしる熱いパトスで　思い出を裏切るなら この宇宙(そら)を抱いて輝く　少年よ神話になれ

ずっと眠ってる　私の愛の揺りかご あなただけが夢の使者に呼ばれる朝がくる 細い首筋を　月あかりが映してる 世界中の時を止めて閉じこめたいけど

もしもふたり逢えたことに意味があるなら 私はそう　自由を知るためのバイブル

残酷な天使のテーゼ　悲しみがそしてはじまる 抱きしめた命のかたち　その夢に目覚めたとき 誰よりも光を放つ　少年よ神話になれ

人は愛をつむぎながら歴史をつくる 女神なんてなれないまま　私は生きる

残酷な天使のテーゼ　窓辺からやがて飛び立つ ほとばしる熱いパトスで　思い出を裏切るなら この宇宙を抱いて輝く　少年よ神話になれ

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Interview: Cruel Angel's Thesis singer Yoko Takahashi

Yoko Takahashi is the iconic voice behind one of the most well-known anime theme songs of all time, A Cruel Angel's Thesis from the original 1995 TV series Neon Genesis Evangelion . The song is a classic around the world and continues to be one of the most popular songs sung at karaoke in Japan. She's no one-hit wonder, either; with 11 albums and several other anime theme songs under her belt, including the closing for Shakugan no Shana and most recently the second opening theme for Cross Ange . We had the chance to ask her a few questions about her career ahead of her first-ever performance in Los Angeles at Anime Expo this past July 4.

Zac: Thank you very much for your time. So 20 years ago, the show was very controversial and I wanted to know if you personally were ever touched by that controversy?

Yoko Takahashi : When I was first deciding to sing the song, I'd never seen the show, nothing, no information at all. I watched the show on the air at the same time as other people.

Zac: Did you have any inkling ever that it would be as big as it was? At any point during the recording process, any idea that it would be such a huge thing and you'd be singing this song for 20 years?

I didn't know about the story, I didn't know about the anime until it was aired so I had no idea.

Zac: How does it feel, in the aftermath, how does it feel to be part of something that's that much of a cultural touchstone? It's such an iconic song and your voice is iconic, it's immediately associated with something millions of people know worldwide. What does that feel like? Do you feel any pressure to represent it in a certain way?

I do sometimes when the title is brought overseas, maybe some other people sing or do the voice acting, so I feel very happy that they recognize my voice in Japanese.

Zac: If there were a new fan who wanted to get into your back catalog, they wanted to explore the rest of your work outside the one song, where would you want them to start and what would you want them to know going in?

My most recent work, I sang the second season opening for Cross Ange , I think that went on sale around January of this year, so that might be a start.

Zac: Are there any songs you feel that you've performed that are underappreciated, that you wish more people knew about?

So my past work?

Zac: Your past work. Anything that's not your most famous song that you feel like, "I wish people discovered that more, they should go check it out because personally I feel like that's a really strong piece of work."

I sang the opening title for Pumpkin Scissors , Aoki Flamme, you know that one?

Zac: I know that one.

You know? Oh, wow. I was really proud of that one, but it wasn't as popular as I hoped, so I hope people will check that one out.

Zac: What are you most excited to see at the convention this year here in LA?

Response: Since it's actually my first time performing in the United States, I just want to see how the American audience will react to my event.

Zac: So are you nervous at all?

I don't know yet! I'll see on the day of.

Zac: Well they're going to love you, don't worry.

Zac: If you could contribute in any way to the final Evangelion film, what would you want to do? Would you rather voice a character, sing a song for it?

Unfortunately who's going to sing the theme songs has already been decided. I would love to participate, but since it's already been decided we'll see how it turns out.

Zac: In the last 20 years, you've been doing this a while, how have things in the pop industry in Japan changed the most for you? What's the biggest thing you've noticed in the past two decades?

It's actually my 25th year since my solo debut. At first I was just kind of a ballad singer and not really popular, but around 1989-1990 the Japanese economy went bust. I didn't know what to do so I actually studied in Los Angeles for about half a year. Then I went back to Japan and was looking for work and that's when the gig for Evangelion came up. At the time I didn't realize the song and anime was going to be such a social phenomenon. Even until now, Cruel Angel's Thesis is always in the top ten for Japanese karaoke for people in their teens, 20s, 30s, 50s, 60s, it's always in the top ten. I didn't realize it was going to be such a social phenomenon. So maybe it began the trend for voice actors or actresses to sing, so that kind of started the whole trend, maybe.

Zac: Have you ever gone out for karaoke and the people you were with pestered you to get up and sing the song? Has that ever happened?

Response: Actually I don't really go to karaoke that often. I'm actually kind of shy about singing in front of people! Thanks to Yoko Takahashi and Anime Expo for the opportunity.

this article has been modified since it was originally posted; see change history

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Yoko Takahashi Performs Neon Genesis Evangelion Theme, “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” to Excited Crowd at Anime Expo 2015 in LA

• Jul. 09, 2015 17:13 PDT

Yoko Takahashi is the booming voice behind the Neon Genesis Evangelion theme songs, “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” and “Tamashii no Refrain.” On July 2 at North America’s largest anime conventon, Anime Expo 2015 in Los Angeles, Takahashi performed her first live show in America to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Evangelion series. Before she went on stage, Tokyo Otaku Mode got the chance to interview Yoko Takahashi about this exciting event and her memories of the iconic Evangelion theme songs.

At long last: America

——How do you feel about performing at the largest anime convention in North America?

Takahashi: I’m really looking forward to it! However, while I've performed in other countries outside Japan, this is my first performance in America. I’m a bit anxious about how many people will show up, and whether or not they’ll be excited to see me. I think they’ll definitely enjoy hearing “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” though.

With this year being the 20th anniversary of the series, I would like to use this opportunity to meet more Evangelion fans abroad. In particular, I’ve always wanted to perform in America, but unfortunately have never had the chance. When I was contacted by Anime Expo and asked to perform, I gladly accepted.

——Is there anything in particular about this performance that you’re excited for, or nervous about?

Takahashi: Well the performance is tomorrow, and to be honest that fact hasn’t hit me quite yet (laughs). If I had to go one way or the other, I’d say that there’s something about the atmosphere here that I’m still getting used to. But many of my staff came with me from Japan, and with next year also being the 25th anniversary of my debut as a singer, I know that everything before this has prepared me to come to America, so I’m still excited and ready to perform.

——You’ve performed in Brazil, China (Shanghai), and South Korea in the past. Are there any particular memories from those performances abroad that have stuck with you?

No matter what country I’m in, whenever I sing “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” I can hardly hear my own voice because the whole crowd is singing along. But when I sing the second theme abroad, it gets really quiet. Coming from Japan, where everyone usually sings along to both songs, it was a strange feeling.

——You had your first ever meet-and-greet with your fans here at Anime Expo. How was that?

It was my first time ever doing something like that, so I wasn’t exactly sure what I should do. But everyone was very polite, they even bowed to me and tried their best to speak in Japanese to me. One person asked me to sign something for them in katakana, and I was happy to!

Looking back on 20 Years of Evangelion and “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis”

——Please tell us about the story behind “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis.” How did the song come about and how were you chosen to sing it?

Well I don’t actually know the specifics of where the song came from. But about 20 years ago I was studying to be a singer in Los Angeles, and after I went back to Japan I was looking for work. So I contacted someone I had met in the music industry to see if they had any jobs available. From them I found out about an audition to sing “Fly Me to the Moon,” the ending theme song of a TV series called Evangelion . After my audition they invited me to try and sing the opening theme, “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis.”

When I recorded the song all I knew was the title, Evangelion . I didn’t know anything about the plot or characters at all. So the first time I saw the anime was the same time as everyone else, when it aired on TV. Seeing the song paired with the opening sequence was really striking. The music and visuals matched perfectly and I remember it giving me goosebumps. At that moment I knew without a doubt that the song would be a hit.

——Were you coached to sing the song in any particular way during the recording?

The first time I met Hideaki Anno was in the recording studio. At that time, it wasn't even summer, but he was wearing only sandals on his feet and all black clothes. The staff were gathered together at the last minute to make changes to the lyrics, but from the recording booth I couldn’t hear what they were saying and I was just standing there nervously. The most memorable direction I got while recording was when the producer told me, “Give us your best young voice! Try to sound as young as possible."

——What lyric from the song is your favorite or the most memorable to you?

I’d say “Young boy, become a legend!” is my favorite part. At the time, I didn’t think the song would become the phenomenon that it did. But once it did it gave me a greater sense of duty towards the series that I sang for.

Since doing “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” whenever I sing an anime song, I make sure to look at the illustrations, hear the story behind it, and really understand the message of each work.

——After 20 years of listening to “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” what comes to mind looking back?

I’m really, truly grateful. Actually, this year on Sept. 9, the 1995 release of the original Neon Genesis Evangelion soundtrack will be rereleased as an LP record (Currently only to be sold within Japan). The jacket and design will be redone for the anniversary. The fact that after all these years it hasn’t changed, or rather that it’s only continued to evolve, is amazing to me.

In the beginning I didn’t know the story or what the characters looked like. After a while it became incredibly popular, to the point that lots of people were asking me questions just because I was the singer behind the opening theme. After that, I began reflecting on how I came to be the one who sang that song. It really made me reflect on my life as a singer.

The truth is, in 2000, I lost my place in the music business and I nearly gave up. Even if I wanted to work, I thought that I wouldn’t be able to continue unless I could find what I wanted to do, what I could do, and what I had to do. During that period Evangelion weighed heavy on my mind and I couldn’t keep myself together doing the titles I was working on.

I haven’t sung an Evangelion song since “Tamashii no Refrain.” But I still thought about how I could continue to associate myself with Evangelion . It really has had a profoundly meaningful impact on my life.

I received offers to perform in America before, but I always declined. For some reason I didn’t see the point in going. But after having troubles with my career, and seeing all the support I’ve gotten from fans abroad over the years, I feel like I'm finally ready to perform here. I feel like now I need to make up for all the times I decided not to come here and give everyone the best performance I possibly can.

The Secret to Singing: Drive on Through!

——Do you have any tips for TOM readers on how they can sing “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” well?

Alright, I’ll give up the secret! The person that wrote the song was a guitar player, so the range is very wide. The melody is also very fast to incorporate all the words, so there’s not a lot of time to take a breath. It’s a difficult song.

The secret is to just keep driving through the song. Like a skipping stone, it needs to keep moving quickly forward in order to make it across the water, right? That’s the trick to singing the song: keep on driving through until the end. Another tip would be to start by singing it at a slow, easy tempo. If you can do that, then you just gradually increase the tempo until you can sing it at full speed.

——You made an official Facebook page in preparation for your performance here in America. What sort of info do you see yourself posting there?

It’s only been about a month since we set it up, and I did it because a volunteer staff convinced me that I needed one if I was going to perform abroad.

Until now, I didn’t think there would be any interest in my personal life. I didn’t want to confuse fans of works like Evangelion and Cross Ange (Cross Ange: Rondo of Angels and Dragons ) by giving them information about this person named Yoko Takahashi who is the voice behind the theme songs of those shows.

But the response was very positive and people seemed interested, so I decided to try and provide some info about myself and make something useful out of it. I thought that perhaps there are some fans out there who weren’t yet born 20 years ago. I’m hoping that my Facebook page will be interesting and useful for those people.

On the other hand, I also think of it as a chance to connect with the rest of the world. Especially now, coming to America, I think that my association with anime songs is like an international passport of sorts. No matter what country I go to, the fans happily sing along. It would be a dream come true to be able to continue doing this in the future, so I decided to make the Facebook page to connect more with my fans all over the world. I’m looking forward to not only letting fans know what I’m thinking and what I’m doing, but also to express myself and let them know who I am.

——Do you have anything to say to TOM readers?

Otaku are currently playing a very important economic role right now. I respect their enthusiasm for the things they like to watch, listen to, and learn about. Otaku are really extremely talented people who are making a difference in the world. I promise to continue to sing the songs for the works they love, and hopefully give them something that they can get excited about.

Also, don’t forget to “Like" my new Facebook page!

*This interview was conducted before the performance.

Yoko Takahashi’s Official Site Yoko Takahashi’s Official Facebook Page Anime Expo 2015 Official Site

Photo by Kumo Takeda

This is a Tokyo Otaku Mode original article.

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Singles & eps, about yoko takahashi.

Best known for her contributions to the Neon Genesis Evangelion franchise, Japanese pop singer Yoko Takahashi debuted in the early '90s with her first album, Pizzicato, and went on to foster a decades-spanning career that balanced mainstream trends and frequent anime-related collaborations. The most notable of those efforts remains "A Cruel Angel's Thesis," the famed opening theme song to the original Evangelion series that premiered in 1995. That track, and her contributions to the series, made her a pop culture fixture all the way into the 2020s, when Evangelion: Finally broke onto the U.S. album chart.

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• Jun 5, 2023

[Analysis] Yoko Takahashi - A Cruel Angel's Thesis by Animenz

Attention all anime fans! Are you ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of anime soundtracks? Prepare to be blown away by the incredible talent of pianist Animenz as he takes iconic songs, like the unforgettable "A Cruel Angel's Thesis," and transforms them into breathtaking piano arrangements with his unique classical style.

These arrangements ensure that these beloved OSTs stay fresh and captivating for years to come, allowing you to relive the storylines and hinting plotlines through the mesmerizing melodies. Join us on a musical journey that transcends time and experiences the magic of Animenz's anime piano arrangements. Get ready to be amazed!

Yoko Takahashi: The Voice Behind Iconic Anime Theme Songs

Yoko Takahashi is a Japanese singer and songwriter known for her contributions to the music industry, particularly in anime theme songs. She was born on August 28, 1966, in Tokyo, Japan. Takahashi gained widespread recognition for her iconic song "A Cruel Angel's Thesis," which served as the opening theme song for the popular anime series "Neon Genesis Evangelion" in 1995.

The song became a significant hit and is still widely recognized and celebrated as one of the most iconic anime theme songs ever. Aside from her work on "Neon Genesis Evangelion," Yoko Takahashi has also performed theme songs for other anime series, including "Martian Successor Nadesico," "Memories Off," and "Golden Boy."

She has released numerous albums and singles throughout her career, showcasing her versatility as a singer and songwriter. Takahashi's music often combines pop, rock, and electronic elements, and her powerful and distinctive voice has made her a beloved figure in the anime music scene. Her contributions to the industry have earned her a dedicated fan base both in Japan and internationally.

Photo Credit: Last.fm

A Cruel Angel's Thesis: A Powerful Anthem of Neon Genesis Evangelion

A Cruel Angel's Thesis is a song composed by Hidetoshi Sato and performed by Yoko Takahashi. It serves as the opening theme song for the anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion, created by Hideaki Anno. The song was released in 1995 as part of the soundtrack for the anime.

Composed in the key of D minor, A Cruel Angel's Thesis has a distinct and energetic sound. The song combines elements of pop, rock, and electronic music, creating a catchy and memorable tune. It features strong guitar riffs, upbeat synthesizer melodies, and dynamic vocals. Lyrically, the song touches upon themes of self-discovery, loneliness, and the struggle to find one's place in the world.

The lyrics are in Japanese and reflect the introspective and philosophical nature of the anime series. The song's title itself, A Cruel Angel's Thesis, suggests a contrast between angelic and cruel aspects, reflecting the complex and often contradictory themes explored in Neon Genesis Evangelion. A Cruel Angel's Thesis became a massive success in Japan and gained international recognition as well. Its popularity can be attributed not only to its catchy composition but also to its association with the groundbreaking and influential nature of the anime series. The song has been covered and remixed by various artists and has remained a beloved and iconic piece of anime music since its release.

Neon Genesis Evangelion Original Soundtrack

A Cruel Angel's Thesis

from Anime Neon Genesis Evangelion

- Artist: Yoko Takahashi

- Released: October, 25th, 1995

- Anime:Neon Genesis Evangelion

- Label: Starchild

- Music: Shiro Sagisu

- Genre: Jpop

- Key: C Minor

- Length: 4'05"

Discover the Masterful Artistry of Animenz, the Anime Piano Virtuoso

Animenz is the talented Anime Piano Arranger and Steinway Artist! With over a decade of experience, this classically trained pianist has been enchanting audiences with exquisite piano arrangements of Anime Openings, Endings, and Soundtracks since 2010. If you're a fan of anime music, you won't want to miss the captivating playlist this artist has curated, featuring a collection of their remarkable anime piano covers. Animenz started his YouTube channel on January 14th 2010, and now currently has almost 500 million total views with 2.1 million subscribers. He uploads his content regularly and currently has 221 videos.

Animenz’s most popular video was posted on YouTube on February 12th 2015 with more than 90 million views is yet again an anime OST called “ Unravel – Tokyo Ghoul OP [Piano] ” from the anime Tokyo Ghoul.

With a passion for music spanning more than 20 years, this accomplished pianist resides in Japan, where they have established their very own recording studio. Each video showcases their exceptional talent on a Steinway D-274 Grand Piano, capturing the pure essence of their performances with the utmost precision, thanks to state-of-the-art microphones.

The goal of this Anime Piano Arranger is to elevate anime music to the level of "Classic music" that will be cherished not only in the present but for centuries to come. By infusing their arrangements with a touch of classical brilliance, they aim to create a timeless connection between the world of anime and the rich heritage of classical music.

Immerse yourself in the captivating melodies and skilful interpretations that Animenz has to offer. Prepare to embark on a musical journey that transcends time, as they breathe new life into beloved anime compositions. Whether you're a fan of the original soundtracks or simply appreciate the artistry of piano music, this artist's arrangements are sure to captivate and delight you.

Cover of A Cruel Angel's Thesis by Animenz

Elevating the Art: Animenz's Transformative Approach to 'A Cruel Angel's Thesis

The song is an iconic song, for both anime and non-anime lovers equally. Having said that if there is anime OST, then Animenz would have or will be soon covering it on his piano. He describes that this song was a bit challenging but he still managed to make it his style, adding the orchestra style in the arranging.

The video was uploaded on YouTube on May 23, 2020, and it has 7.7 million views on the song. The original song is in key signature C minor and Animenz’s song is also in C minor. Where the original song is faster around 128 BPM, the Animenz’s song has 76 BPM. The time signature is 4/4.

The song starts with the lyrics and after fifteen seconds of the powerful high-pitched voice of Yoko Takahashi, other instruments join the song. This part of the song calling the protagonist to rise up and to have become a legend.

In Animenz’s song, he starts off with arpeggios. He said that usually while playing this song in front of a Live audience, he does make some changes while playing but kept this arpeggios part the same as he loved this part. Then he takes a short pause and starts with the first verse.

The original song starts with the beats of drums which is a memorable part, and with that, there are lyrics again. The song where the protagonist is Shinji Ikari, falling in love and earning for it. Shinji desperately needs to be loved and to the point where it causes him to take wrong decisions.

The singer hopes for Shinji to get better in love and find happiness. The song and the soothing voice of Yoko Takahashi bring out the essence and feelings of Shinji more promptly. The song has the same beats till the last stanza of the first verse where the singer also takes a bit of a higher pitch and then there is a pause to take the chorus of the song.

Animenz’s takes a bit faster note. There is still the essence of the original composition but the bits of his own added varieties. He starts with a slower tone, and then the next time pitch and volume of the song has been increased. Then again he keeps up the beat till he reaches the chorus of the song.

The singer sings this in a higher pitch and the background sound seems to be in similar beats. The song here talks about the plan of the series. Then it talks about Shinji in the finale of the Eva-1 [spoilers ahead] in space and becomes a ‘God-like’ legend. Hence for shading the part where the boy will go forward and become a legend.

Animenz’s song is very upbeat and can be a stand-alone piano piece and itself. The song is arranged here that way and then added the left-hand accompaniment as Animenz didn’t quite understand the ‘mysterious guitar solo’ part even though he has listened to the song many many times. The hand synchronization is highly commendable and the way his fingers play on the piano is a treat to the eyes and ears.

Instrumental

There is an instrumental part before going to the next verse. It has similar beats following as the earlier but in the middle, there is a short part where it feels that the song has gotten slower but then it gets back on the similar beats fast.

Because the Animenz wasn’t about the original harmonics of the song so he added his own piano solo in this part, he used jazz to lyrical style here. He tried to be as minimalist with his approach, in doing so he did it by reducing two bass notes in the left hand as he wanted the attention to be on the upcoming choir.

Just after the instrumental piece the singer again starts to sing about Shinji. Some talk about the anime and his character in the anime. Singer also sings about wishing Shinji to have his own happiness. This also talks about Shinji’s relationship with the characters of the anime, while the biblical-themed story continues. The song again has a bit higher pitch before starting the chorus.

In Animenz’s version, he follows a similar approach as the previous verse. The atmosphere is a bit faster than the original song and the way his fingers dance on the song is admirable. This is one of the best versions of the song on piano ever made. The song is again played lightly on the piano.

The original song also starts as the previous chorus and with the same energy and beats the singer continues to sing the part. The lyrics have many references to the ongoing story from the anime. Shinji had behaviour to escape and abandoning pattern. But this time singer is praising Shinji and leaving his behaviour. Yet again ending in the part where the singer sings about Shinji becoming the future legend.

In Animenz’s this part is played with an amazing finger movement and the arrangement feels magical. With the gliding of the piano from right to left and differentiating the next piece. This has the same atmosphere and environment built as the original song. On YouTube, this is most times a repeated part of the song. Then the song has a similar feeling as the previous chorus.

There is a bridge in the song with a small stanza. This line has the singer telling Shinji that there is help. Again, raising Shinji to God status, and talking about making history. After this comes the final chorus.

Animenz’s version is also short as the original version. The speed and the song’s tempo are decreased in this part. The keys are played softly. And with the song the Animenz picks up the speed of the piano. Then he plays the short part with his right hand only. Then continues with both hands. Then goes on to play the final chorus.

Then comes the final chorus of the song. This is the short chorus as compared to the other chorus of the song. It talks to stay true to the desecrated symphony and not to betray the memories.

During the final repeat of the chorus, Animenz introduces an alternative harmonization in the left hand, strategically building towards the song's climax. At this moment, Animenz envisions the addition of a striking Tam-Tam, enhancing the impact of the composition. Following this turning point, the artist brings back the atmosphere reminiscent of the song's beginning. In a captivating twist, the right-hand arpeggios resurface, gradually ascending like an angel until they reach the highest possible piano key, C8.

Notably, this marks the first time the Animenz has utilized the C8 note in any of their arrangements (as of the posting of the song). These artistic choices contribute to the dynamic and emotive qualities of the arrangement, elevating the overall impact of the song.

This is the final part of the song. The final refrain again talks about the boy drifting and going to the galaxy and shining with the stars. Henceforth the boy will become a legend.

Animenz’s plays this part of the song softly and continuously to repeatedly play it. The main part of the song is repeated and played around nine times throughout the song, but while listening or for Animenz to play it repeatedly never got boring.

Finally, the song ends softly on the final keys played at the right-hand side of the piano and the final note played by the left hand at the left-most side of the piano.

Also, check out the live singing of Yoko Takahashi posted on YouTube by Japoin TV.

In conclusion, the world of anime soundtracks has been forever transformed by the extraordinary talent of pianist Animenz. Through his breathtaking piano arrangements, he has taken iconic songs like A Cruel Angel's Thesis and infused them with his unique classical style. These arrangements not only breathe new life into beloved OSTs but also ensure their lasting captivation for years to come. By joining us on this musical journey, you'll experience the magic firsthand and be transported back into the storylines, reliving the emotions and discovering hidden plotlines through the mesmerizing melodies. Prepare to be amazed as Animenz's hands dance effortlessly across the keys, painting a vivid musical picture that ignites your imagination. Whether you're a devoted anime fan or simply appreciate the beauty of piano music, this adventure is one you won't want to miss. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Animenz's anime piano arrangements and let the melodies speak to your heart like never before. Get ready to be captivated, to feel the music deep within your soul, and to unlock the timeless allure of his extraordinary talent. Step into the world of Animenz and let the melodies carry you away on a journey you'll never forget.

If you love this arrangement, you can check the arrangement here. There are other Animenz arrangements which are definitely worth checking out.

If you like this song or any other song, there are many more sheet music you can find on MyMusicSheet or mymusicsheet.com

Until next time, Happy Music!

Over 100,000 sheets with various songs and instruments, and 15 different local payment methods, MyMusicSheet provides the most convenient platform service for those of you who love music.

© 2023 MyMusicSheet | www.mymusicsheet.com

• Arrangement Analysis

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Fans Rank Top 20 Anime Openings: A Cruel Angel’s Thesis Tops the List

T he anticipation of a new anime series often begins with its opening theme—a blend of music and animation that sets the tone for the entire show. From catchy melodies to stunning visuals, these openings have the power to draw viewers into the world of the anime, leaving a lasting impression.

Recently, a survey conducted by Sosenkyo from TV Asahi has shed light on the most beloved anime openings according to fans worldwide. With input from 1,740 participants, the survey revealed a diverse selection of themes that have captured the hearts of anime enthusiasts across the globe.

Topping the list is A Cruel Angel’s Thesis by Yoko Takahashi, the iconic opening theme of Neon Genesis Evangelion. Known for its memorable melody and dynamic visuals, this opening continues to resonate with fans decades after the series’ release, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.

Joining A Cruel Angel’s Thesis is a mix of both classic and contemporary openings, showcasing the wide-ranging appeal of anime music. From the energetic anthem, We Are! by Hiroshi Kitadani (One Piece) to the emotional ballad Again by YUI (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood), each theme offers a unique peak into the world of its respective series.

However, with so many exceptional openings to choose from, narrowing down the list to just 20 was no easy feat. While iconic themes like Blue Bird from Naruto Shippuden and Unravel from Tokyo Ghoul secured their spots, many fan-favorite openings may have been overlooked in the ranking.

Ultimately, the survey serves as a celebration of the range of anime openings that have charmed audiences over the years. Whether it’s the nostalgia of childhood favorites or the excitement of discovering new series, these themes continue to hold a special place in the hearts of fans everywhere.

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