The Neon Genesis Evangelion Soundtrack: A Monumental Anniversary Celebration

Introduction

Twenty-five years ago, the groundbreaking anime series "Neon Genesis Evangelion" captivated audiences with its complex characters, philosophical themes, and iconic soundtrack. To commemorate this milestone, a comprehensive 25th Anniversary Box Set has been released, encompassing every note of the legendary music that defined the series.

The Genesis of a Soundtrack

The soundtrack for Neon Genesis Evangelion was composed by Shiro Sagisu, a renowned musician known for his ethereal and haunting compositions. Sagisu's work for Evangelion is considered a masterpiece of anime music, blending orchestral elements, electronic beats, and traditional Japanese instrumentation.

The Anniversary Box Set: A Treasure Chest of Sound

The 25th Anniversary Box Set is a comprehensive collection of all the soundtrack material ever released for Neon Genesis Evangelion. It includes:

• 15 CDs containing 102 tracks from the original series, movies, and spin-offs
• A bonus Blu-ray disc featuring rare and unreleased recordings
• A 100-page booklet packed with interviews, liner notes, and behind-the-scenes information

A Symphony of Emotions

The soundtrack of Neon Genesis Evangelion is not merely a collection of tunes; it is an integral part of the storytelling experience. Sagisu's compositions evoke a wide range of emotions, from the haunting melancholy of "Komm, süsser Tod" to the uplifting grandeur of "Decisive Battle."

The Themes of the Soundtrack

Underlying the music are the profound themes that underpin Neon Genesis Evangelion. The soundtrack explores:

• The nature of humanity and individuality
• The search for meaning in a chaotic world
• The duality of love and fear

Cultural Impact

The Neon Genesis Evangelion soundtrack has had a profound impact on popular culture. Its music has been used in films, television shows, and video games. It has also inspired countless musicians and artists.

The Numbers Game

• The soundtrack to Neon Genesis Evangelion has sold over 5 million copies worldwide.
• The 25th Anniversary Box Set has been a commercial success, with over 250,000 copies sold in Japan alone.
• The music of Neon Genesis Evangelion continues to be streamed and downloaded millions of times each year.

Humorous Anecdotes

• Sagisu's Inspiration: Sagisu has said that he drew inspiration for the soundtrack from listening to the sound of his own footsteps in the snow.
• The Silent Cue: In one iconic scene, characters Misato Katsuragi and Kaji Ryoji share a moment of silence while the track "Decisive Battle" plays. Sagisu originally intended to include dialogue in this scene, but it was removed at the last minute, leaving the music to speak for itself.
• The 'Anno' Opening: The opening theme of Neon Genesis Evangelion, "Cruel Angel's Thesis," is known for its distinctive "Anno" opening, named after director Hideaki Anno. The opening features a distorted version of the track's melody played on a single piano note.

Useful Tables

Table 1: CD Contents

Table 2: Blu-ray Disc Contents

Table 3: Booklet Contents

Pros and Cons of the Box Set

Pros:

• Comprehensive collection of all Evangelion soundtrack material
• High-quality audio recordings and packaging
• Extensive booklet with valuable insights

Cons:

• High price tag
• Some fans may prefer the original individual releases
• Limited availability

FAQs

1. Is the soundtrack available on streaming services? Yes, the soundtrack is available on major streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music. However, it does not include all tracks from the box set.
2. Is the box set limited edition? Yes, the box set is limited to 25,000 copies worldwide.
3. Where can I find the lyrics to the songs? The lyrics to the songs are available in the booklet included in the box set.
4. What is the significance of the number "12" in the soundtrack's title? The number 12 has a recurring significance throughout the Neon Genesis Evangelion series, representing the number of regular Angels that must be defeated.
5. Who sang the opening theme, "Cruel Angel's Thesis"? The opening theme was sung by Yoko Takahashi.
6. Is the soundtrack instrumental or does it feature vocals? The soundtrack is primarily instrumental, with some tracks featuring vocals.
7. Is the soundtrack suitable for all ages? The soundtrack is not recommended for children under 13 due to its intense and sometimes disturbing themes.
8. What is the best way to experience the soundtrack? The best way to experience the soundtrack is to listen to it in the context of the anime series. However, it can also be enjoyed as a standalone musical work.

Call to Action

If you are a fan of Neon Genesis Evangelion or simply appreciate extraordinary music, the Neon Genesis Evangelion Soundtrack 25th Anniversary Box Set is an essential addition to your collection. Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies that have defined one of the most iconic anime series of all time.