[Nostalgic] A special feature on legendary anime theme songs: revisiting those classic tracks

Their core as a person is wavering.Ōtsuki Kenji to Zetsubō Shōjotachi

Their core as a person is wavering.

This work is exhilarating for the way its lyrics boldly cut in from a deliberately slanted perspective against the trend of valuing social success and an unwavering way of life.

It served as the opening theme for season one of the TV anime Sayonara, Zetsubou-Sensei, based on Koji Kumeta’s manga, and was released in August 2007.

Its hard, high-velocity rock sound intertwines Kenji Ohtsuki’s tenacious vocals with the cute call-and-response of the girls, creating a uniquely addictive effect.

When you’re a bit worn out by society’s so-called common sense, it gives you energy along with a dose of cynical laughter.

Sakura KissKawabe Chieko

Chieko Kawabe – Cherry Blossom Kiss [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO] (Opening Theme for the Nippon TV Anime “Ouran High School Host Club”)

A dazzling number that sparkles like spring sunshine, with a melody that makes your heart race.

It sings of a straightforward longing to see the one you love and a sincere desire to cherish the “now,” this very moment.

The bubbly feeling you get just by listening may be thanks to its catchy sound.

This work was released by Chieko Kawabe in April 2006 as her fifth single, and it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Ouran High School Host Club.

It’s an irresistible track that brings back sweet, bittersweet memories.

Pokémon Symphonic Medley

Pocket Monsters OP08 / AG OP3 – “Pokémon Symphonic Medley” (Creditless)

This is a very lavish medley that played as the opening for Pokémon Advanced Generation! The way it strings together a lineup of classic theme songs in a grand symphonic arrangement truly lets you feel the history of the series itself.

It’s primarily instrumental.

The occasional vocals that drift in vividly bring back memories of past adventures.

Included on a single released in February 2005, this piece peaked at No.

73 on the Oricon chart.

For longtime fans, it’s the kind of track that makes your past journeys flash before your eyes and stirs your heart.

It’s also perfect for lifting your spirits with its epic sound!

Mega VYūsuke

Pokemon XY OP2 FULL SONG – Mega V (Volt) by Yusuke

It’s a rousing track sung by Yusuke, who’s also well known as an actor and TV personality.

Centered on themes of friendship and the courage to chase your dreams, it’s packed with elements that heat up your heart just by listening.

The lyrics, which rhythmically list Pokémon types, are very unique and amplify the excitement for the battles to come.

Released as a single in June 2014, the song served as the opening for the anime Pokémon XY and the film Pokémon the Movie: XY — Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction.

Its structure—adding new lyrics to a previous theme song—also conveys a sense of the story’s evolution.

It’s the kind of song that gives you a powerful boost when you’re about to take on a new challenge.

ultramarineKamiyama Yagi

Yoh Kamiyama – Gunjō [Music Video] / Yoh Kamiyama – Ultramarine

A song that portrays a mingled feeling of freedom and unease, like traveling across a vast sky.

Its sound is striking for blending brightness with a stylish flair.

This work was released digitally in advance in January 2020 and became Yoh Kamiyama’s major-label debut single in March of the same year.

It was also chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Drifting Dragons.” When you’re a little worn out by everyday life, if you listen to this gently conversational song, you’ll surely feel your heart begin to heal.

colored perfumeKamiyama Yagi

Yoh Kamiyama – Irokousui [Music Video] / Kamiyama Yoh – Irokousui

This song reflects on the fragility and preciousness of youth that we only realize after it has passed.

Kamiyama Yoh’s soothing low voice is striking as he sings over a delicate, wistful arrangement that evokes 80s pop.

The vocals leave a quiet afterglow that is healing to the heart.

Released as a CD single in March 2021, it also drew attention for being used as the opening theme of the TV anime Horimiya.

It was later included on the album CLOSET.

The nostalgic sound creates an atmosphere that aligns with the anime’s world.

It’s a number I hope you’ll listen to when you’re a bit tired of everyday life or when you feel like looking back on seasons gone by.

DIRTYnaitomea

NIGHTMARE – DIRTY [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This track was featured as the opening theme for the anime “Neuro: Supernatural Detective,” captivating many fans.

It’s characterized by a dark, fast-paced rock sound.

The lyrics portray a protagonist sunk in deep despair, yet the song has a curious charm that resonates with listeners and draws out an inner strength.

YOMI’s powerful vocals also strike straight to the heart.

Released as a single in November 2007, it reached No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and was later included on the album “Killer Show.”