Unveiling the Symphony of Neon Genesis Evangelion: A Comprehensive Review of the 25th Anniversary Soundtrack Box Set

Introduction:

The groundbreaking anime series, Neon Genesis Evangelion, has captivated audiences worldwide with its profound themes, unforgettable characters, and iconic soundtrack. To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the anime's debut, King Records released an all-encompassing soundtrack box set that showcases the brilliance of composer Shiro Sagisu's musical masterpiece. This comprehensive review delves into every aspect of this extraordinary collection, exploring its contents, significance, and the impact it has had on the anime landscape.

The Contents: A Symphony in 10 CDs

• CD1-2: Neon Genesis Evangelion Original Soundtrack
• CD3-4: Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death (True)² Original Soundtrack
• CD5-6: The End of Evangelion Original Soundtrack
• CD7: Shiro Sagisu Music from "Evangelion: Another Impact (Confidential)"
• CD8: Evangelion: The Shinji Ikari Raising Project Original Soundtrack
• CD9-10: Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone / 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance / 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo Original Soundtracks

The box set not only encompasses 25 years of iconic music but also includes 136 tracks, many of which have never been officially released before. These include alternative versions, unused cues, and demo recordings, providing fans with unprecedented access to the creative process behind this legendary soundtrack.

The Significance: A Symphony that Defined a Genre

Shiro Sagisu's compositions for Neon Genesis Evangelion have had a profound impact on anime music. His distinctive blend of classical, electronic, and experimental elements created a sound that was both innovative and emotionally resonant. The soundtrack has been praised for its ability to capture the psychological complexity of the characters and amplify the series' themes of isolation, hope, and despair.

The Impact: A Symphony that Transcended Boundaries

The Neon Genesis Evangelion soundtrack has transcended the realm of anime fandom and become a cultural phenomenon in its own right. Its music has influenced countless composers and musicians, and it has been featured in a wide range of media, including video games, commercials, and live performances. The 25th anniversary box set serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Sagisu's masterpiece.

Step-by-Step Guide to Listening

To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of the Neon Genesis Evangelion Soundtrack 25th Anniversary Box Set, consider the following approach:

1. Start with the Original Soundtrack (CD1-2): This is the foundation of Sagisu's work and provides a comprehensive overview of the series' musical themes.

   

2. Explore Death (True)² (CD3-4): This score captures the dark and often chaotic nature of the series' second half, introducing new elements and building on the motifs established in the Original Soundtrack.

3. Delve into The End of Evangelion (CD5-6): Sagisu's masterpiece, this soundtrack is a powerful exploration of the series' themes and features some of its most iconic cues.

4. Discover Shiro Sagisu Music from "Evangelion: Another Impact (Confidential)" (CD7): This album contains early demos and unused tracks from the series, providing insights into Sagisu's creative process.

5. Experience The Shinji Ikari Raising Project (CD8): This soundtrack explores the character of Shinji Ikari in a more intimate and introspective setting.

6. Immerse Yourself in Evangelion: The Rebuild of Evangelion (CD9-10): These scores provide a fresh take on the series' music, incorporating elements of electronic dance music (EDM) and other contemporary genres.

Pros and Cons of the Box Set

Pros:

• Comprehensive collection of all Evangelion soundtracks
• Includes previously unreleased tracks and demo recordings
• High-quality audio mastering and packaging
• Immersive listening experience

Cons:

• Price may be prohibitive for some fans
• Some tracks may not appeal to all listeners
• Limited availability due to its limited-edition nature

Call to Action

For fans of Neon Genesis Evangelion and collectors of iconic soundtracks, the 25th Anniversary Soundtrack Box Set is an indispensable addition to their collection. Its depth, range, and emotional resonance make it a timeless treasure that will continue to inspire and captivate listeners for years to come.

Appendix: Tables

Table 1: Track Listing

Table 2: Sales Figures

Table 3: Critical Reception

Bonus: Humorous Stories

Story 1:

A Fan's Obsession

A devoted Evangelion fan named Hiro purchased the 25th Anniversary Soundtrack Box Set and listened to it non-stop for three days straight. By the end of the third day, he could hum every single cue and recite the lyrics to every vocal track. His family and friends began to worry about his health, but Hiro was too engrossed in Sagisu's masterpiece to notice.

What we learn: The power of music to consume us completely.

Story 2:

The Music That Made a Cat Dance

A cat named Neko was known for its indifference to music. However, when her owner played the "Thanatos -If I Can't Be Yours-" cue from the Evangelion soundtrack, Neko jumped up and started dancing around the room. The owner was amazed and couldn't help but laugh at the sight of her cat's newfound musical appreciation.

What we learn: Music has the ability to connect with anyone, even those who seem least likely to enjoy it.

Story 3:

The Missing CD

A group of friends purchased the soundtrack box set together and decided to listen to it on a road trip. However, they soon noticed that CD5, containing the iconic "Komm, süsser Tod" cue, was missing. They searched the car high and low, but the CD was nowhere to be found. The friends were devastated, as this was one of the most important pieces in the entire soundtrack.

What we learn: Always check the contents of a box set before leaving the store.