Last time I posted, I gave you an introduction to the character themes of the main protagonists of the series. For length reasons, I decided to split this into a few shorter posts instead of one painfully long one. So, for the second post in this series, I'm going to introduce you to the themes for some of the other major characters in the show: Kikyou, Sesshoumaru, Naraku, Kouga, and Kagura.
Everyone Else!:
"Misfortunate Priestess, Kikyou"
I would guess that it's because she's probably my favorite anime character ever, but I think Kikyou's theme is the most emotionally powerful in the entire series. It is beautiful and haunting, just like her. The series uses it masterfully as well, employing her theme at the most opportune and appropriate moments. The other arrangements are gorgeous as well.
"Demon, Sesshoumaru"
Sesshoumaru's theme is probably one of the coolest in the whole series, just because it uses some really nifty instruments to create the sound Wada was looking for. This theme was somewhat abandoned after the first few seasons, but when Sesshoumaru was first introduced it was used during each of his appearances.
"Evil Demon, Naraku"
Naraku's theme is probably the song most deserving of the designation "character theme." It's familiar harpsicord plays during nearly every single appearance he makes, even up through Kanketsu-Hen -- be it as himself or as a puppet. Other arrangements vary little form the original, making Naraku's theme one of the most recognizable in the entire show.
"Wolf Demon Tribe, Kouga"
Kouga's theme is seriously one of the coolest in the show, with a mariachi kind of feel, but honestly, I can't name a single instance when I've ever heard it. Maybe I need to re-watch some of Kouga's introductory episodes or something, but it's not recognizable as his theme. Doesn't make it any less cool, though!
"Wind Sorceress, Kagura"
Definitely a great, but underrated character theme. Mostly used when InuYasha (or another character) is in battle with Kagura, this theme embodies Kagura's wind-based attacks and adds a cool touch to her battle scenes. However, it lacks her emotional depth, which was only revealed in later episodes. Kagura develops, but her theme doesn't really develop with her.
All right, that's enough for this installment. Check back soon for the minor characters post. I've also decided to add a fourth post to this series, as each member of the Shichinintai has a unique theme song as well. And while they're not major protagonists, they are memorable characters who hang around for a long time in the series.
And feel free to leave comments! What do you think of InuYasha's BGM??
- Paige
