Listen More! A Collection of Hidden Gems in Anime Songs

Destiny -Sunflower-Shimatani Hitomi

Hitomi Shimatani / “Destiny - Sunflower -” [OFFICIAL MV FULL SIZE]

This song sings straight and deep about “love.” It’s a track by singer Hitomi Shimatani, also known for the hit “Amairo no Kami no Otome,” released in 2006 as her 22nd single.

It was used as the opening theme for the anime Black Jack 21.

Its hallmark is a grand, expansive sound that evokes images of an endless sky, earth, and the universe.

Shimatani’s beautiful vocals truly shine.

When you’re carrying heavy anxieties or feel like you’re about to be overwhelmed by hardship, this song might just help you through.

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Araki Jakkan

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aporiaYorushika

Anime “Chi: On the Movements of the Earth” Non-Credit Ending Video “Aporia” by Yorushika

This song likens the desire to know—and the confusion that accompanies it—to a balloon voyage.

From the vantage point of a balloon lifting off the ground and striving for greater heights, it expresses curiosity and the joy of discovery through the changing scenery below.

An irregular-meter riff intertwines with the timbre of a mandolin, crafting a distinctive sonic world that conveys both thirst for knowledge and wavering doubt.

Released by Polydor Records in October 2024, it was selected as the ending theme for the NHK General TV anime Chi: On the Movements of the Earth.

Acclaimed as a track that resonates with the anime’s worldview—set in 15th-century Europe and depicting seekers of the heliocentric theory—it comes recommended not only for those interested in science and philosophy, but also for anyone looking for music that sparks intellectual curiosity.

calendrierOkui Aki

Dusk Maiden of Amnesia ED – Aki Okui – Calendrier (Chinese and Japanese Subtitles)

This piece was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Dusk Maiden of Amnesia and was released as a single in 2012.

Aki Okui’s delicate vocals convey both the yearning and the anguish for someone you can’t touch but love from the bottom of your heart.

The lyrics explore the depth of love and bonds, etching unforgettable emotion into the listener’s heart after just one listen.

This bittersweet yet beautiful song is especially recommended for quiet nights alone, when you find yourself reminiscing about the past or wanting to touch the feelings hidden in your heart.

Take this! Telepathy!maharājiyan

Maharajan – Take This! Telepathy [TV Anime Tomo-chan Is a Girl! Anime PV]

Singer-songwriter Maharajan, known for his distinctive look of a suit paired with a turban, has written his first-ever anime theme song: “Kurae! Telepathy,” the opening theme for the anime Tomo-chan Is a Girl! Its driving beat and catchy melody create a refreshing sound.

Midway through the track, there’s also a chiptune-like synth section that really evokes the feel of “telepathy.” In addition to a music video produced in an ’80s anime style, there’s also a collaboration version with Tomo-chan Is a Girl!, so if you’re interested, be sure to check out both!

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Hamada Takuya

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REALISMELISA

ELISA　『REALISM (Music Video / Short Version)』

Battling fate and seeking the truth…

Even from the sound alone, you can feel the vastness of its world.

This anime song was used as the ending theme for Valvrave the Liberator and is sung by ELISA.

Released in 2013 as her 11th single.

Its development showcases multiple facets depending on the phrase—ranging from electronic music to a gothic atmosphere to operatic elements.

It’s a work made possible by ELISA’s exceptional vocal ability.

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Araki Jakkan

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Run, SAKAMOTOVaundy

Run, SAKAMOTO / Vaundy: Music Video

This is an anime tie-in song that stirs the heart with an exhilarating melody and powerful beat.

Packed with Vaundy’s love for anime, the track powerfully conveys the protagonist’s determination and courage to keep moving forward.

Its richly layered sound—recorded in London—vividly depicts the struggles the protagonist faces while trying to live a normal life despite a past as an assassin, along with the strength to press on regardless.

Released in January 2025 as the opening theme for the TV anime SAKAMOTO DAYS, the song’s dynamic energy pairs perfectly with the action-packed series, making you feel as if you’re sprinting alongside the hero.

It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to take a new step or need the courage to face challenges.

GHOST SWEEPER / with Marty FriedmanMoriguchi Hiroko

GHOST SWEEPER / with Marty Friedman

Hiroko Moriguchi has worked on many anime songs.

One of the tracks included on her album Anison Covers, which compiles her anime song covers, is “GHOST SWEEPER / with Marty Friedman.” This piece is a collaboration with Marty Friedman on a song of the same title, the opening theme of Ghost Sweeper Mikami.

It’s arranged with a sophisticated feel, blending elements of jazz and rock.

It could be interesting to compare it with the original version.

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yamamoto

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