Neon Genesis Evangelion: Original Soundtrack Vol. 1
King Records, 1995
(Japanese-import only)
The first in a series of soundtracks, this CD features the most commonly-heard orchestral tracks by Shiro Sagisu (Macross II, Kimagure Orange Road) like "Angel Attack", "Rei I", "Misato", Asuka Strikes! and "Decisive Battle" (which sounds a lot like the John Barry compsition "007" from the James Bond series). Also featured are the opening theme "Zankoku na Tenshi no Thesis (Cruel Angel's Thesis)" and two versions of the ending theme "Fly Me to the Moon". A must-buy for any otaku.
Rating: *****
MIDI Samples
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Original Soundtrack Vol. 2
King Records, 1996
(Japanese-import only)
This follow-up soundtrack made history in Japan by becoming the first anime soundtrack in nearly two decades to hit #1 on the Japanese album charts. Included are more memorable BGM tracks like "Borderline Case", "Both of You, Dance Like You Want to Win!" and "Thanatos". Along the BGM tracks are the TV size version of "Cruel Angel's Thesis" and five versions of "Fly Me to the Moon".
Rating: *****
MIDI Samples
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Original Soundtrack Vol. 3
King Records, 1996
(Japanese-import only)
Volume 3 features more orchestral tracks by Sagisu and 12 more versions of "Fly Me to the Moon". Also included are two new image songs. If you have the first two soundtracks, add this one to your collection.
Rating: **** 1/2
MIDI Samples
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Addition
King Records, 1996
(Japanese-import only)
Looking for classical tracks like "Hallelujah" or Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, which were played throughout the series? This CD has them completely uncut, along with a radio drama (similar to those heard on the Gunbuster soundtracks) and the opening and ending themes performed by the trio of Kotono Mitsuishi (Misato), Megumi Hayashibara (Rei) and (Asuka). As a bonus, there are three audio tracks previewing the Death & Rebirth motion picture.
Rating: ****
MIDI Samples
Evangelion: Death
King Records, 1997
(Japanese-import only)
The soundtrack for the theatrical compilation consists mostly of mild orchestral interludes composed by Sagisu and some classical tunes by Bach and Pachelbel. As a bonus, a track from Rebirth (also in The End of Evangelion) is included. Half of the disc is occupied by Giuseppe Verdi's "Requiem" (used in the trailer). Unfortunately, the Rebirth ending song "Soul Refrain" is not included. Nevertheless, it's a good buy if you're into classical.
Rating: ****
MIDI Samples
The End of Evangelion
King Records, 1997
(Japanese-import only)
This has got to be Sagisu's best work yet! Orchestral tracks are both heart-pounding and poignant. Die-hard EVA fans will also enjoy the English songs "Thanatos -- If I Can't Be Yours" and "Komm, süsser Tod", wile classical buffs will like Sagisu's arrangements of Bach's "II Air [Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major, BWV.1068]" and "Jesus bleibet meine Freude" ("Jesus, Joy of Man's Desiring").
Rating: *****
MIDI Samples
Evangelion: The Day of Second Impact
King Records, 2000
(Japanese-import only)
To commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Neon Genesis Evangelion, King Records released this CD featuring 11 selected tracks from the TV series and the movies. Not really recommended if you want the most important tracks; but if you want a single EVA CD in your car stereo, pick this one up, then.
Rating: ***1/2
MIDI Samples
Evangelion: The Birthday of Rei Ayanami
King Records, 2001
(Japanese-import only)
This special edition CD was released on March 30, 2001, which is Rei's birthday. Coincidentally, it is also voice actress Megumi Hayashibara's birthday. The Birthday of Rei Ayanami contains selected tracks from previous soundtracks plus a brand new recording of "Cruel Angel's Thesis" by Rei. In addition, there are two bonus tracks: "Thanatos -If I Can't Be Yours-" and "Fly Me to the Moon" performed jazz-style by Makoto Kuriya. Unlike The Day of Second Impact, this CD is definitely worth it.
Rating: ****
MIDI Samples
