October 15, 2021
STAR WARS: VISIONS Digital Soundtracks Available Now
– Randall D. Larson
Following the success of anime anthology series STAR WARS: VISIONS (see my original report here), digital soundtracks from each short are now available from Walt Disney Records.
STAR WARS: VISIONS celebrates STAR WARS through the lens of the world’s best anime creators, storytellers, and composers. Stay immersed in the galaxy far, far away by listening to the soundtracks from each short, now available where music is streamed.
See below for my comments on the scores, and streaming/purchasing links for all 9 soundtracks. – rdl
● “The Duel” –From composer Keiji Inai – This alternate history is based on Japanese folklore, focusing on a battle between the Jedi and Sith, but with an alternate history pulled from Japanese lore. An intriguing mixture of Japanese music and STAR WARS-styled Williams-isms is provided for this unique period piece. There are also some provocative Japanese choral voicings.
Music link here.
● “Tatooine Rhapsody” – From composers Yoshiaki Dewa & Nonpe – Taking place in a galactic rock & roll arena, the episode depicts a battle between Galactic Republic Clone troopers and Separatist B1-series battle droids, energized by fun, electric rock music coming from the bands on the arena stage.
Music link here.
● “The Twins” – From composer Michiru Ōshima – Orchestral mysterioso and energetic action music in STAR WARS style, with a dark, rumbling motif associated with the introduction of the unique Gemini-class Star Destroyer appearance and the battle that ensues between opposing twin characters.
Music link here.
● “The Village Bride”– From composer Kevin Penkin – A fallen Jedi protects a wedding ceremony from bandit raiders using reprogrammed Separatist battle droids. The score is given a number of orchestral and exotic treatments using flutes and drums, source music for the wedding party, female voices, metallic synth, and finally choir for the heroic climax.
Music link here.
● “The Ninth Jedi” –From composer Nobuko Toda & Kazuma Jinnouchi – A fully orchestral adventure and action score. The episode is set after RISE OF SKYWALKER as the last remaining Jedi Knights reconnoiter after the fall of the New Order.
Music link here.
● “T0-B1” –From composers A-bee & Keiichiro Shibuya – Reminiscent of old school Japanese cartoons, the episode focuses on an abandoned droid facing off against an Inquisitor. A variety of cute electronic music is presented for the various droids, given more dramatic effects during the final battle against the inquisitor.
Music link here.
● “The Elder” – From composer Michiru Ōshima – Set prior to THE PHANTOM MENACE, a Jedi and his padawan encounter a mysterious foe on an isolated planet. The English version features a tremendous voice cast including David Harbour, Jordan Fisher, and James Hong. The music is a mix of orchestral at the opening, with a sparser use of more traditional music from strings and Japanese flutes during the final confrontation.
Music link here.
● “Lop & Ochō” –From composer Yoshiaki Dewa – Taking place between REVENGE OF THE SITH and A NEW HOPE, the episode explores the conflict between the esteemed daughter in a space yakuza family who is turning toward the dark side and the devoted rabbit-hybrid alien adopted into the family. The music is a compelling mix of orchestra and ethnic, with a keyboard motif for the adopted alien and traditional Japanese music for the family patriarch, with vivid orchestration for the final battle.
Music link here.
● “Akakiri” – From composer U-zhaan – Prior to the initial extinction of the Sith, a Jedi protects the princess he once loved against a group of assassins, but visions he’s been having project a tragic end to the conflict. The English language version includes an exceptional voice cast, including Henry Golding, Jamie Chung, and George Takei. The score is largely percussive featuring traditional hand drumming and light electronics, giving the story an agreeable historical atmosphere.
Music link here.
Watch the STAR WARS: VISIONS Trailer below:
