Best Anime Soundtracks Of 2022: Epic OSTs Ranked
Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the mesmerizing world of anime soundtracks? In 2022, we were blessed with some truly unforgettable OSTs (Original Soundtracks) that elevated our favorite anime series to new heights. So, let's explore the best anime soundtracks of 2022, ranking the most epic and memorable tunes that resonated with fans worldwide. Get ready to have your eardrums blessed!
Why Anime Soundtracks Matter
Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about why anime soundtracks are so important. A great soundtrack isn't just background music; it's a crucial element that enhances the emotional impact of a scene, amplifies the tension, and etches unforgettable moments into our memories. Think about your favorite anime scenes – chances are, the music playing in the background had a significant role in making those moments so powerful. Anime soundtracks are meticulously crafted to complement the visuals and narratives, turning a good anime into an exceptional one.
Composers pour their heart and soul into creating these sonic landscapes. They use a variety of instruments, from traditional Japanese instruments to modern electronic sounds, to create unique and immersive experiences. The music can evoke a wide range of emotions, from heart-wrenching sadness to exhilarating joy, making the viewing experience all the more captivating. Moreover, a well-composed anime soundtrack often transcends the series itself, becoming beloved pieces of music that fans listen to for years to come. It’s not uncommon to find anime OSTs topping music charts and gaining recognition outside of the anime community, proving their universal appeal and artistic merit. Anime soundtracks are truly a testament to the power of music in storytelling.
Furthermore, the impact of a stellar anime soundtrack extends beyond mere emotional enhancement. It plays a pivotal role in establishing the identity and atmosphere of the anime. A soundtrack can define the tone of a series, whether it’s a light-hearted comedy or a dark, brooding drama. The choice of musical styles, instrumentation, and even the tempo can significantly influence how viewers perceive the anime's world and characters. Think about how different genres like cyberpunk, fantasy, or slice-of-life each have distinct musical signatures that help immerse the audience in their respective settings. This careful curation of music ensures that the auditory experience aligns seamlessly with the visual and narrative elements, creating a cohesive and immersive world for viewers to lose themselves in.
Top Anime Soundtracks of 2022
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! These are some of the best anime OSTs of 2022, ranked based on their impact, memorability, and overall quality. Prepare for some serious eargasm!
1. Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 2 OST
Attack on Titan always delivers when it comes to intense and gripping music, and the final season part two was no exception. Hiroyuki Sawano's compositions are just chef's kiss. From the heart-pounding battle themes to the more somber, emotional pieces, this OST perfectly encapsulates the epic scale and emotional depth of the series. Tracks like "The Rumbling" and various character themes are instant classics.
Hiroyuki Sawano's work on Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 2 is a masterclass in creating tension and drama through music. The use of powerful orchestral arrangements combined with rock and electronic elements creates a soundscape that is both epic and intimate. Each track seems perfectly tailored to enhance the emotional impact of the scenes they accompany, making pivotal moments even more unforgettable. For instance, the track "The Rumbling" has become an anthem for the series, capturing the sheer scale and devastation of the events unfolding on screen. Sawano's ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly allows him to create a truly unique and immersive auditory experience that resonates deeply with fans.
The Attack on Titan OST doesn't just amplify the action sequences; it also delves into the characters' emotional landscapes, offering a profound understanding of their struggles and motivations. The somber, melancholic pieces provide a poignant contrast to the more intense battle themes, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. This emotional depth is what sets Sawano's work apart, elevating the soundtrack beyond mere background music into an essential component of the storytelling process. By capturing the essence of the characters' inner turmoil and the overarching themes of the series, the OST becomes an integral part of the Attack on Titan experience, leaving a lasting impact on viewers long after the credits roll.
Moreover, the instrumentation and arrangement choices in the Attack on Titan OST play a significant role in establishing the series' distinct atmosphere. The use of heavy percussion, soaring strings, and haunting vocal performances creates a sense of impending doom and urgency that perfectly complements the apocalyptic world of the anime. The integration of traditional Japanese instruments, such as the shakuhachi and taiko drums, adds a cultural dimension to the music, grounding it in the setting and enriching the overall sonic tapestry. This blend of Eastern and Western musical influences creates a unique sound that is both familiar and exotic, drawing listeners deeper into the world of Attack on Titan.
2. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners OST
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners delivered a gritty, neon-soaked soundtrack that perfectly matched its dystopian world. The music, featuring artists like Franz Ferdinand and themes composed by Akira Yamaoka, is an eclectic mix of electronic, industrial, and rock. It's stylish, edgy, and downright cool – just like the anime itself!
The Cyberpunk: Edgerunners OST is a masterful blend of genres, reflecting the diverse and chaotic nature of Night City. The inclusion of established artists like Franz Ferdinand adds a layer of credibility and appeal to the soundtrack, while Akira Yamaoka's original compositions provide a cohesive and immersive soundscape. The music captures the essence of the cyberpunk genre, with its mix of high-tech and low-life, seamlessly blending electronic beats with gritty industrial sounds and edgy rock elements. This eclectic mix creates a listening experience that is both exhilarating and unsettling, mirroring the themes of transhumanism, corporate greed, and societal decay explored in the anime.
The soundtrack not only complements the action-packed sequences but also delves into the emotional struggles of the characters, adding depth and resonance to their stories. Tracks like "I Really Want to Stay at Your House" have become synonymous with the series, evoking a sense of longing and vulnerability amidst the technological excess and violence. The music serves as a poignant reminder of the humanity that still exists within the chrome and steel of Night City, creating a powerful connection between the audience and the characters. This emotional depth elevates the soundtrack beyond mere background music, transforming it into an integral part of the narrative.
Furthermore, the Cyberpunk: Edgerunners OST is a testament to the power of collaboration between musicians and filmmakers. The seamless integration of existing tracks with original compositions creates a cohesive and immersive listening experience that enhances the overall impact of the anime. The carefully curated selection of songs reflects the diverse cultural influences present in Night City, from Japanese electronic music to Western rock and hip-hop. This fusion of styles not only adds authenticity to the soundtrack but also reflects the globalized and interconnected nature of the cyberpunk genre. By bringing together artists from different backgrounds and musical traditions, the Cyberpunk: Edgerunners OST creates a unique and unforgettable sonic landscape.
3. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War - Ultra Romantic OST
The Kaguya-sama: Love Is War OST is always a delight, and the third season, Ultra Romantic, didn't disappoint. Kei Haneoka's score is lighthearted, whimsical, and utterly charming. The use of orchestral arrangements combined with playful melodies perfectly captures the comedic and romantic essence of the series. It's the kind of OST that puts a smile on your face.
Kei Haneoka’s compositions for Kaguya-sama: Love Is War - Ultra Romantic perfectly encapsulate the series’ blend of humor, romance, and psychological gamesmanship. The soundtrack is characterized by its lighthearted and whimsical melodies, often employing playful orchestral arrangements and catchy motifs. Each track is carefully crafted to enhance the comedic timing and emotional impact of the scenes they accompany, adding depth and dimension to the characters’ interactions. The use of bright, cheerful instrumentation creates a sense of optimism and joy, while the subtle incorporation of more dramatic elements underscores the underlying tensions and rivalries.
One of the key strengths of the Kaguya-sama OST is its ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and romantic moments, reflecting the series’ tonal shifts. The music is equally adept at amplifying the humor of the characters’ ridiculous schemes and capturing the heartfelt emotions of their burgeoning romance. This versatility ensures that the soundtrack remains engaging and relevant throughout the series, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The use of recurring themes and motifs also helps to reinforce the characters’ relationships and development, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
Moreover, the Kaguya-sama: Love Is War soundtrack is a testament to the power of music in enhancing storytelling. The carefully selected instrumentation and arrangement choices create a distinct atmosphere that perfectly complements the series’ visual style and narrative themes. The use of playful melodies and upbeat rhythms underscores the comedic aspects of the story, while the more romantic and emotional pieces add depth and resonance to the characters’ interactions. By seamlessly blending humor and romance, the soundtrack elevates the overall viewing experience, making Kaguya-sama: Love Is War a truly unforgettable anime.
4. Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun OST
Kevin Penkin’s score for Made in Abyss continues to be a masterpiece of atmospheric and emotional depth. The music is hauntingly beautiful, combining orchestral arrangements with ethereal vocals and ambient textures. It perfectly captures the sense of wonder and danger that permeates the Abyss. This OST is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates evocative and immersive soundtracks.
Kevin Penkin's work on Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun is a testament to his ability to create deeply immersive and emotionally resonant soundscapes. The soundtrack is characterized by its hauntingly beautiful melodies, ethereal vocal performances, and intricate orchestral arrangements. Each track is meticulously crafted to evoke the sense of wonder and danger that permeates the Abyss, drawing listeners into its mysterious and perilous depths. The use of ambient textures and unconventional instrumentation adds a layer of surrealism to the music, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the series.
One of the key strengths of the Made in Abyss OST is its ability to capture the complex emotional landscape of the characters and the world they inhabit. The music is equally adept at conveying the sense of awe and discovery that accompanies the exploration of the Abyss, as well as the fear and despair that arise from its inherent dangers. This emotional depth ensures that the soundtrack remains engaging and relevant throughout the series, adding layers of meaning to the narrative. The use of recurring themes and motifs also helps to reinforce the characters’ relationships and development, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
Moreover, the Made in Abyss soundtrack is a testament to the power of music in enhancing storytelling. The carefully selected instrumentation and arrangement choices create a distinct atmosphere that perfectly complements the series’ visual style and narrative themes. The use of haunting melodies and ethereal vocals underscores the mysterious and surreal nature of the Abyss, while the more dramatic and intense pieces add tension and excitement to the adventure. By seamlessly blending wonder and danger, the soundtrack elevates the overall viewing experience, making Made in Abyss a truly unforgettable anime.
5. SPY x FAMILY OST
SPY x FAMILY has a delightful and versatile soundtrack that perfectly complements its blend of action, comedy, and heartwarming family moments. The music, composed by [ various artists ], is upbeat and jazzy, with moments of tension and tenderness. It's an OST that’s both fun and emotionally engaging, making it a standout of 2022.
The SPY x FAMILY OST is a delightful and versatile collection of tracks that perfectly captures the series' unique blend of action, comedy, and heartwarming family moments. The music is characterized by its upbeat and jazzy melodies, often incorporating elements of swing and Latin rhythms. Each track is carefully crafted to enhance the comedic timing and emotional impact of the scenes they accompany, adding depth and dimension to the characters’ interactions. The use of bright, cheerful instrumentation creates a sense of optimism and joy, while the subtle incorporation of more dramatic elements underscores the underlying tensions and secrets.
One of the key strengths of the SPY x FAMILY OST is its ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and action-packed moments, reflecting the series’ tonal shifts. The music is equally adept at amplifying the humor of the characters’ ridiculous situations and capturing the excitement of their espionage missions. This versatility ensures that the soundtrack remains engaging and relevant throughout the series, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The use of recurring themes and motifs also helps to reinforce the characters’ relationships and development, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
Moreover, the SPY x FAMILY soundtrack is a testament to the power of music in enhancing storytelling. The carefully selected instrumentation and arrangement choices create a distinct atmosphere that perfectly complements the series’ visual style and narrative themes. The use of playful melodies and upbeat rhythms underscores the comedic aspects of the story, while the more dramatic and intense pieces add tension and excitement to the action sequences. By seamlessly blending humor and action, the soundtrack elevates the overall viewing experience, making SPY x FAMILY a truly unforgettable anime.
Honorable Mentions
Of course, there were plenty of other great anime OSTs in 2022! Here are a few honorable mentions:
- Ranking of Kings OST
- Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc OST
- My Dress-Up Darling OST
Final Thoughts
2022 was a fantastic year for anime soundtracks, offering a diverse range of musical styles and emotional experiences. Whether you’re a fan of epic orchestral scores, gritty electronic beats, or whimsical melodies, there was something for everyone. These soundtracks not only enhanced our favorite anime series but also stood on their own as incredible pieces of music. So go ahead, give them a listen and relive the magic of 2022's best anime!
So there you have it, folks! What were your favorite anime OSTs of 2022? Let us know in the comments below! Keep enjoying the amazing world of anime and its equally amazing music!
