Hey guys! Ever found yourself completely swept away by a scene in an anime, and you just had to know what that incredible music was? Anime soundtracks, or OSTs as they're often called, are seriously the unsung heroes of the animation world. They take good scenes and make them unforgettable. A great soundtrack amplifies the emotion, intensifies the action, and generally elevates the entire viewing experience. So, let's dive into a list of ten anime soundtracks that are absolute must-listens, guaranteed to give you goosebumps and maybe even inspire you to rewatch some classics!

1. Attack on Titan

When talking about epic anime soundtracks, you simply cannot skip Attack on Titan. Composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, the OST is a powerhouse of orchestral arrangements, intense vocals, and heart-pounding rhythms. The music perfectly captures the desperation, the struggle, and the sheer scale of the battles against the Titans. Tracks like "YouSeeBIGGIRL/T:T" (aka the Titan theme) are instantly recognizable and synonymous with the series' most iconic moments. What makes Sawano's work so special is his ability to blend different genres seamlessly. You'll find elements of classical music, rock, electronic, and even traditional German influences woven into the score. Each piece is meticulously crafted to reflect the character's emotions and the story's progression, making the soundtrack an integral part of the narrative. The use of powerful choral vocals adds an almost operatic quality, further enhancing the sense of grandeur and drama. Whether it's the soaring strings of "Eren the Coordinate" or the aggressive percussion of "The Reluctant Heroes," every track leaves a lasting impact. The soundtrack doesn't just underscore the action; it drives it, making the audience feel every blow, every sacrifice, and every moment of triumph. The impact of Attack on Titan’s soundtrack extends beyond just the anime itself. Many of the tracks have become popular in their own right, frequently used in trailers, commercials, and even sporting events. This widespread recognition is a testament to the music's universal appeal and its ability to evoke powerful emotions regardless of whether you're familiar with the anime or not. For anyone looking to experience the pinnacle of anime OSTs, Attack on Titan is an absolute must-listen.

2. Cowboy Bebop

Cowboy Bebop's soundtrack, composed by Yoko Kanno and performed by the band The Seatbelts, is a legendary blend of jazz, blues, rock, and country. It's as eclectic and stylish as the anime itself. "Tank!" is the iconic opening theme that immediately sets the tone with its high-energy big band sound. But the soundtrack goes far beyond just one great song. It's a diverse collection of tracks that perfectly capture the mood of each episode, from the melancholic saxophone solos of "Blue" to the upbeat funk of "Space Lion." Kanno's genius lies in her ability to create a cohesive musical landscape from such disparate elements. The soundtrack isn't just background music; it's an active participant in the storytelling, enhancing the atmosphere and adding layers of depth to the characters and their experiences. The Seatbelts' performances are equally crucial, bringing a raw energy and authenticity to the music that makes it feel alive. Tracks like "Bad Dog No Biscuit" and "Piano Black" showcase the band's versatility, seamlessly shifting between genres and moods. The soundtrack's influence extends far beyond the anime world. It's been praised by musicians and critics alike for its innovative approach and its ability to transcend genre boundaries. Many of the tracks have become staples in jazz clubs and music schools, inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore the possibilities of blending different styles. Cowboy Bebop's soundtrack is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

3. Your Lie in April

Get ready to feel some feels, because Your Lie in April's soundtrack is an emotional rollercoaster. Composed by Masaru Yokoyama, it's a beautiful and heart-wrenching collection of classical pieces and original compositions. The soundtrack is intrinsically tied to the story of Kousei Arima, a piano prodigy struggling to overcome his trauma. The classical pieces, such as Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata" and Chopin's "Étude Op. 10, No. 4," are used to represent Kousei's past and his connection to music. Yokoyama's original compositions, on the other hand, capture the emotions of the present, from the joy of making music with friends to the pain of loss and grief. The use of strings and piano is particularly effective, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. Tracks like "Hikaru Nara" and "Kirameki - Every Little Thing" are upbeat and hopeful, reflecting the blossoming romance between Kousei and Kaori. However, the soundtrack also delves into darker territory, with tracks like "Watashi no Uso - Main Theme" evoking a sense of sadness and regret. The soundtrack is a powerful reminder of the healing power of music and the importance of cherishing every moment. It's a testament to Yokoyama's skill as a composer and his ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level. For anyone who's ever experienced loss or struggled to find their way, Your Lie in April's soundtrack is a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. It is a symphony of the human spirit.

4. Made in Abyss

Made in Abyss features a soundtrack by Kevin Penkin, and it is an enchanting and ethereal score that perfectly complements the mysterious and dangerous world of the Abyss. Penkin's music is a masterclass in world-building, using a combination of orchestral arrangements, electronic textures, and haunting vocals to create a sense of wonder and unease. The soundtrack evokes a sense of both beauty and danger, reflecting the dual nature of the Abyss. The use of ethereal vocals adds a dreamlike quality, while the dissonant harmonies and unsettling sound effects create a sense of foreboding. Tracks like "To the Abyss!" and "Hanezeve Caradhina" are instantly recognizable and perfectly capture the spirit of adventure and exploration. Penkin's ability to blend different genres seamlessly is also on full display, with elements of classical music, ambient electronica, and even traditional folk music woven into the score. The soundtrack is not just background music; it's an active participant in the storytelling, enhancing the atmosphere and adding layers of depth to the characters and their experiences. It is a journey into the unknown.

5. Death Note

The Death Note soundtrack, primarily composed by Yoshihisa Hirano and Hideki Taniuchi, is a dark and dramatic score that perfectly captures the psychological tension and moral ambiguity of the series. The music is characterized by its use of heavy orchestration, electronic elements, and choral vocals. Tracks like "L's Theme" and "Kira's Theme" are iconic and instantly recognizable, representing the two main antagonists and their conflicting ideologies. The soundtrack is a masterclass in creating suspense and building tension, with tracks like "The World" and "Near's Theme" adding to the atmosphere of intrigue and paranoia. The use of heavy percussion and dissonant harmonies creates a sense of unease, while the soaring melodies and choral vocals add a touch of grandeur and drama. The Death Note soundtrack is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys dark and atmospheric scores. It's a perfect accompaniment to the series' themes of justice, morality, and the corrupting influence of power.

6. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion's soundtrack, primarily composed by Shiro Sagisu, is a groundbreaking and influential score that perfectly captures the psychological complexity and existential angst of the series. The music is a blend of orchestral arrangements, electronic textures, and jazz influences. Tracks like "A Cruel Angel's Thesis" (the opening theme) and "Fly Me to the Moon" (the ending theme) are iconic and instantly recognizable. However, the soundtrack goes far beyond just these two songs, with a diverse collection of tracks that perfectly capture the mood of each episode. The use of dissonance and atonality creates a sense of unease and anxiety, while the soaring melodies and choral vocals add a touch of hope and beauty. The Neon Genesis Evangelion soundtrack is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates experimental and thought-provoking music. It's a perfect accompaniment to the series' themes of identity, trauma, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.

7. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

The Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood soundtrack, composed by Akira Senju, is an epic and emotional score that perfectly complements the adventurous and heartwarming story of the Elric brothers. The music is characterized by its use of orchestral arrangements, folk instruments, and choral vocals. Tracks like "Again" (the opening theme) and "Brothers" are uplifting and inspiring, while tracks like "Lapis Philosophorum" and "Crisis" add to the sense of danger and suspense. The soundtrack is a perfect blend of action, adventure, and emotion, making it a must-listen for anyone who enjoys anime scores. Senju's composition captures the essence of brotherhood and sacrifice.

8. Spirited Away

Spirited Away's soundtrack, composed by Joe Hisaishi, is a whimsical and enchanting score that perfectly complements the magical world of the film. Hisaishi's music is characterized by its use of orchestral arrangements, piano melodies, and Japanese folk instruments. Tracks like "One Summer's Day" and "The Name of Life" are beautiful and heartwarming, while tracks like "The Sixth Station" and "Reprise" add to the sense of mystery and wonder. The soundtrack is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The melodies are captivating and transport the listener to another world.

9. Hunter x Hunter (2011)

The Hunter x Hunter (2011) soundtrack, primarily composed by Yoshihisa Hirano, is an adventurous and exciting score that perfectly complements the action-packed and heartwarming story of Gon Freecss. The music is a blend of orchestral arrangements, electronic elements, and rock influences. Tracks like "Departure!" (the opening theme) and "Reason" are upbeat and energetic, while tracks like "Kingdom of Predators" and "The Last Mission" add to the sense of danger and suspense. The soundtrack is a perfect blend of action, adventure, and emotion, making it a must-listen for anyone who enjoys shonen anime scores. It captures the spirit of adventure and camaraderie.

10. Naruto Shippuden

The Naruto Shippuden soundtrack, featuring music from Yasuharu Takanashi, is an iconic and unforgettable score that perfectly complements the epic and emotional story of Naruto Uzumaki. The music is characterized by its use of traditional Japanese instruments, rock influences, and orchestral arrangements. Tracks like "Blue Bird" (one of the opening themes) and "Sadness and Sorrow" are instantly recognizable, while tracks like "Need to be Strong" and "Girei" add to the sense of determination and sacrifice. The Naruto Shippuden soundtrack is a must-listen for any anime fan. It's a perfect representation of the series' themes of friendship, perseverance, and the importance of never giving up.

So there you have it! Ten epic anime soundtracks that you absolutely need to experience. Each of these scores is a masterpiece in its own right, adding depth, emotion, and excitement to their respective anime series. Happy listening, and let the music transport you to new and exciting worlds!