Hiroyuki Sawano: Best OST Soundtracks You Need To Hear

by Jhon Lennon 55 views

Hey guys! Ever found yourself completely captivated by a soundtrack that just gets you? Like, it amplifies every emotion, making epic scenes even more breathtaking and quiet moments even more poignant? Well, chances are, you've stumbled upon the genius of Hiroyuki Sawano. This Japanese composer is a master of creating musical landscapes that elevate anime and film to a whole new level. We're diving deep into some of his best OST (Original Soundtrack) works that you absolutely need to experience. Trust me, your ears (and your heart) will thank you!

What Makes Hiroyuki Sawano's OSTs So Special?

So, what's the secret sauce? What makes a Hiroyuki Sawano OST so instantly recognizable and deeply affecting? It's not just about catchy melodies; it's a complex blend of several key elements:

  • Epic Orchestration: Sawano isn't afraid to go big! He frequently employs a full orchestra, creating sweeping, cinematic soundscapes that feel like they belong in a Hollywood blockbuster. Think soaring strings, powerful brass, and dramatic percussion – all working together to build tension and release in the most satisfying way.
  • Electronic Fusion: But it's not all traditional orchestral music. Sawano expertly weaves in electronic elements, adding a modern edge and a sense of urgency to his compositions. You'll hear synths, electronic drums, and processed vocals, creating a unique and dynamic sound that sets him apart.
  • Vocal Powerhouses: Sawano often collaborates with incredibly talented vocalists, both male and female, who lend their voices to his tracks. These vocal tracks aren't just afterthoughts; they're integral parts of the composition, adding emotional depth and lyrical meaning to the music. Some of his frequent collaborators include Aimer, Mika Kobayashi, and Gemie.
  • Dynamic Range: One of the most striking aspects of Sawano's music is its incredible dynamic range. He's a master of building from quiet, introspective moments to explosive, high-energy crescendos. This dynamic range keeps you on the edge of your seat and fully immersed in the emotional journey of the music.
  • Emotional Resonance: Ultimately, what makes Sawano's OSTs so special is their ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. His music evokes a wide range of feelings, from hope and inspiration to sadness and despair. It's music that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Must-Listen Hiroyuki Sawano OSTs

Alright, let's get down to the good stuff! Here are some of the most iconic and unforgettable Hiroyuki Sawano OSTs that you absolutely need to add to your playlist. Get ready for an eargasm!

Attack on Titan

Okay, let's be real. Attack on Titan wouldn't be the cultural phenomenon it is without Sawano's iconic score. From the moment you hear the opening notes of "Guren no Yumiya" (Crimson Bow and Arrow), you know you're in for something special. The soundtrack perfectly captures the show's themes of despair, hope, and the struggle for survival. Tracks like "Eren the Coordinate" and "YouSeeBIGGIRL/T:T" are instantly recognizable and evoke powerful emotions. Seriously, if you haven't experienced the Attack on Titan OST, you're missing out on a major piece of anime history. Each track is a mini-masterpiece, building suspense, amplifying the action, and tugging at your heartstrings. The use of German lyrics in some of the tracks adds to the show's unique atmosphere and gives the music a sense of gravitas. Even if you're not a huge anime fan, the Attack on Titan OST is worth checking out for its sheer musical brilliance. It's a testament to Sawano's ability to create music that is both epic and emotionally resonant. The choir arrangements, the driving percussion, and the soaring melodies all combine to create an unforgettable listening experience. It's the kind of soundtrack that makes you want to charge into battle, even if you're just sitting at your desk. And let's not forget the impact the music has on the show itself. The Attack on Titan OST isn't just background music; it's an integral part of the storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes and making the characters' struggles feel even more real. It's a perfect example of how a great soundtrack can elevate a good show to a truly legendary status. Attack on Titan OST is a must. Period.

Aldnoah.Zero

Aldnoah.Zero is a mecha anime with a complex plot and even more complex characters, and Sawano's OST perfectly complements the show's tone. The soundtrack is a blend of orchestral and electronic elements, creating a futuristic and slightly melancholic atmosphere. Tracks like "aLIEz" (performed by Mizuki) and "BRE@TH//LESS" (performed by SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]: mizuki) are powerful and emotionally charged. The OST captures the sense of loss and despair that permeates the series, while also providing moments of hope and inspiration. The use of vocal tracks in Aldnoah.Zero is particularly effective, with the singers' voices adding another layer of emotional depth to the music. The soundtrack is also notable for its use of silence, which is used to great effect in creating tension and suspense. Sawano's ability to create a sense of atmosphere is on full display in Aldnoah.Zero, with the music perfectly complementing the show's visuals and narrative. If you're a fan of mecha anime or just looking for a soundtrack that will take you on an emotional journey, Aldnoah.Zero is definitely worth checking out. The Aldnoah.Zero OST is more than just background music; it's an integral part of the show's storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes and making the characters' struggles feel even more real. It's a perfect example of how a great soundtrack can elevate a good show to a truly legendary status. The Aldnoah.Zero soundtrack also features a number of instrumental tracks that are equally impressive, showcasing Sawano's skill as a composer and arranger. The use of electronic elements in these tracks gives them a futuristic feel, while the orchestral arrangements add a touch of grandeur. The overall effect is a soundtrack that is both exciting and emotionally resonant, making it a must-listen for fans of anime and music alike.

Kill la Kill

Okay, Kill la Kill is known for its over-the-top action and outrageous humor, and the OST reflects that perfectly. It's a high-energy, adrenaline-pumping soundtrack that will get your blood pumping. Tracks like "Don't Lose Your Way" and "Before my body is dry" are iconic and instantly recognizable. The soundtrack is a blend of rock, electronic, and orchestral elements, creating a unique and chaotic sound that perfectly captures the show's spirit. The use of guitars and heavy drums gives the music a raw and aggressive edge, while the orchestral arrangements add a touch of grandeur. The Kill la Kill OST is not for the faint of heart, but if you're looking for a soundtrack that will get you pumped up, this is the one for you. The Kill la Kill OST is a wild ride from start to finish. It's a soundtrack that perfectly captures the show's energy and over-the-top nature. The music is loud, aggressive, and unapologetically chaotic, but it's also incredibly catchy and memorable. The use of vocal tracks in Kill la Kill is particularly effective, with the singers' voices adding another layer of energy and excitement to the music. The lyrics are often nonsensical, but they perfectly capture the show's irreverent humor. The overall effect is a soundtrack that is both fun and exhilarating, making it a must-listen for fans of anime and music alike. Let's be real, the Kill la Kill OST wouldn't be the cultural phenomenon it is without Sawano's amazing score. It enhances the emotional impact of key scenes and making the characters' struggles feel even more real. The Kill la Kill OST is a wild ride from start to finish. It's a soundtrack that perfectly captures the show's energy and over-the-top nature. The music is loud, aggressive, and unapologetically chaotic, but it's also incredibly catchy and memorable.

Guilty Crown

Guilty Crown is a visually stunning anime with a melancholic and emotional story, and Sawano's OST perfectly complements the show's tone. The soundtrack is a blend of orchestral and electronic elements, creating a futuristic and slightly dystopian atmosphere. Tracks like "βios" and "Release My Soul" are beautiful and haunting. The OST captures the sense of loss and despair that permeates the series, while also providing moments of hope and redemption. The use of vocal tracks in Guilty Crown is particularly effective, with the singers' voices adding another layer of emotional depth to the music. The soundtrack is also notable for its use of silence, which is used to great effect in creating tension and suspense. If you're a fan of anime or just looking for a soundtrack that will take you on an emotional journey, Guilty Crown is definitely worth checking out. And guys, the Guilty Crown OST is more than just background music; it's an integral part of the show's storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes and making the characters' struggles feel even more real. It's a perfect example of how a great soundtrack can elevate a good show to a truly legendary status. The use of electronic elements in these tracks gives them a futuristic feel, while the orchestral arrangements add a touch of grandeur. The overall effect is a soundtrack that is both exciting and emotionally resonant, making it a must-listen for fans of anime and music alike. Overall, it evokes a wide range of feelings, from hope and inspiration to sadness and despair. It's music that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Where to Find Hiroyuki Sawano's Music

Okay, so you're hooked, right? You need to get your hands on these incredible OSTs. Here are a few places where you can find Hiroyuki Sawano's music:

  • Streaming Services: Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music are your best friends. Most of Sawano's major OSTs are available on these platforms.
  • Digital Music Stores: You can purchase his albums on iTunes, Amazon Music, and other digital music stores.
  • CDs and Vinyl: If you're a collector, you can find physical copies of his albums on Amazon, eBay, and other online retailers.

Final Thoughts

Hiroyuki Sawano is a true master of his craft. His OSTs are more than just background music; they're works of art that can stand on their own. If you're looking for music that will move you, inspire you, and take you on an emotional journey, look no further than Hiroyuki Sawano. His soundtracks are an experience that you won't soon forget. So, go ahead and dive in! Explore his discography and discover your new favorite OST. You won't regret it!