Links
Blue Eyes: An Aoshi/Soujirou site
Iron Puncher - Linc's site
Wandering Samurai - Midori Natari Himura's site
MP3's
I've noticed a lot of people are finding this place by searching for things like "Saitou's theme download" and such. I have all of the Rurouni Kenshin CD's, so I figure I can provide. Click here for a list of currently-uploaded MP3's They're listed in the order they appear in the MP3 directory to which they're uploaded (The number at the beginning of each file indicates track order on the original CD). Right-click titles to save. I'm not planning on using the space or bandwidth to upload everything at once, so I usually stick to one CD or collection at a time and switch 'em out every Saturday; for more songs, post your request here. Seriously, it's really OK to request stuff. I'll have it up within minutes if I'm home when you make the request, hours if I'm not. This is not a dead site, and I am happy to share lovely music.
Ishin Shishi he no Requiem, the Rurouni Kenshin movie, was little better than any old filler episode, but without commercial breaks. Its score, however, composed by Taro Iwashiro, was incredibly good, evocative and sad and with a lot of subdued tension and power to it. It's too cohesive, however, for me to attempt to give an opinion on each individual track. So here we have the Theatrical Animation Original Soundtrack, as the CD's called, in its entirety, without my usual inanities.
Sobakasu
Performed by Judy and Mary, this is the first opening theme. I've always thought that listening to JAM is like eating sugar-flavored stake: substantial and very sweet. Not that I've ever actually eaten sugar-flavored steak, but you get it, right? If you want something cute with almost punkish-sounding instrumentation, they're the group for you. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection
Tactics
First ending theme, performed by The Yellow Monkey. Some have commented that he seems to be trying to sound like Jimi Hendrix, and... he kinda does. I prefer the Monkey to Hendrix, though. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection
Namida wa Shitteiru
Second ending theme, performed by Suzukaze Mayo. She has such an elegant and sexy voice. One of my favorite songs ever. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection
HEART OF SWORD~Yoake Mae~
Third ending theme, by T.M.Revolution. Another one of my all-time favorites. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection
1/2
Second opening theme, performed by Kawamoto Makoto. This song takes some getting used to: the singer embraces heavily (even more than Judy and Mary) the J-pop tradition of sounding as child-like as possible while singing; and it is perhaps a little too long. I'm fond of it, though. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection
the Fourth Avenue Café
Fourth ending theme, performed by L'arc~en~Ciel. This song was pulled early from the show and replaced by Heart of Sword when a drug scandal started around LEC; the animation fit this song much better than that one, of course. Anyway, I don't really need to say anything in praise of L'arc~en~Ciel other than that if you don't know them, you're missing about the best J-pop band there is... but this isn't my favorite song of theirs. This can be found on either The Theme Song Collection or Laruku's album True.
It's Gonna Rain
By Bonnie Pink, this is the fifth ending theme. It's rather popular, I find, and the singer definitely does have a sexy voice, but it's pretty low on my list of favorite RK songs. It can be found either on The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection.
1/3 no Junjouna Kanjou
When the crappy third season started, everything took a quality plummet, and music was no exception. This, the sixth ending theme, is the first of several very good songs with increasingly bad performers. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection.
Kimi ni Fureru Dake De
This, the third and final opening theme, performed by Curio, is the second really good Rurouni Kenshin song whose singer simply cannot do it justice. It's very catchy, and I find myself singing it at random all over the place, usually better than the original performer -- which, with the way I sing, is not a compliment. This can be found on The Theme Song Collection.
Dame!
A pitiful ending to series lyrical music to match the pitiful end of the series, Dame! is the seventh and final ending theme, performed by Izumi You. It's another great song, but in this instance the singer is so bad she makes me want to shoot myself. This can be found on The Theme Song Collection.
Niji
By L'arc~en~Ciel and found on The Theme Song Collection or alternately on their HEART album, this was used as the opening theme for the crappy movie. One of my favorite Laruku songs; very sexy and emotional.
Towa no Mirai
By Animetal, this is the ending theme of the crappy movie. It's intense and powerful and has the most perfect buildup from beginning to end. This is my favorite song in all existence and has been for several years now. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection.
Itoshisa no Kate
Much as Seisou Hen needed not to exist, this its ending theme, performed by Kasahara Hiroko, is a decent song. A little on the dull side, but not too bad. This can be found on The Theme Song Collection.
Director's OST ----
Minagoroshi no Jungle (Drum'n'Bass Mix)
A lot of the Director's OST is, unfortunately, rather unremarkable. This repetitive techno-y track is nothing special. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Minagoroshi no Bouryaku (Drum'n'Bass Mix)
Another unspectacular, synth-heavy piece. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Minagoroshi no Youchou
This is almost a non-piece. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Minagoroshi no Jungle (Master Mix)
This is better than the drum'n'bass mix, but still repetitive. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Minagoroshi no Elegy (A Theme of the Sekihoutai)
As is to be expected, an exceptionally sad-sounding, lovely piece. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Unmei no Haguruma (Director's Mix)
A lot of the tracks on the Director's OST, especially anything marked "director's mix," are the same as the original versions, just with some of the instrumentation removed. Not really worthy of the name "mix" and, most of the time, not very good. With my level of kanji, I honestly don't know who did the "remixing," whether it was the director of the anime or what, but I can rarely forgive whoever it was. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Nihon Meisou - Ishin no Yami (Instrumental Mix)
Strings-only version, no percussion or brass. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
March of Ghost - Bourei no Koushin (Remix)
Same as the original, minus the evil frogs. I like to call it the karaoke version. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Hoeru Miburo (A Theme of Saitou Hajime - Director's Mix)
Minus the flutey-thing, and not nearly so cool without it. Ah, Saitou, how you are wronged. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Run to You (A Theme of Sagara Sanosuke - Director's Mix)
Notice Saitou's theme and Sano's theme are right next to each other on this CD. This is meaningful to nobody but me. Anyway, this is the same as the original, only without the jingle bells and guitar. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Frozen Flare - Shura no Fuuin (Pizzicato Track)
Strings-only (e.g. minus percussion and bass); it is quite pizzicato. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Battousai Futatabi... (Director's Edition)
No percussion. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Starless (Music Box Solo)
There can never be too many versions of Starless. This one, as can be expected, being solely music box, is very gentle. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Starless (Music Box + Guitar)
Like the music box only version, only with some guitar. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Starless (Director's Mix)
A shorter version of the master mix, minus some flute. As the flute was my favorite part of the master mix, I cannot entirely approve of this. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Departure (Piano Solo)
Having said there can never be too many versions of Starless, which is a take on the Departure theme, I have to add that there can never be too many versions of Departure. This piano solo is lovely. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
The Last Wolf Suite (Director's Mix)
This piece is a bit too long for me to do minute comparison against the original (I'm impatient), but I'm pretty sure the difference is just that the bass has been removed. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Departure (Director's Mix)
No jingle bells. The director doesn't seem to like jingle bells. Some synth'd noise has been removed as well. If there are other changes, I'm still too impatient to track them. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Suzume no Reggae
Short, annoying Kenshin-at-home piece. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Ayame no Reggae
Short, annoying Kenshin-at-home piece, but less annoying than Suzume's. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Yahiko no Boogy
Short, annoying Kenshin-at-home piece. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Wild Cat (A Theme of Makimachi Misao)
An absolutely perfect character theme; the hyper xylophone is so very good for Misao. Some might say it's even cooler and cuter than she is. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Over the Horizon (Ichiro Nakai Solo Version)
I can't quite figure out who Ichiro Nakai is -- a composer of video game music, it seems, and/or an instrumentalist. Possibly he plays the violin? That's the focus of this piece. It can't be the piano, as that's been removed. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Fallen Angel - Haiiro no Tenshi (Shinta's Mix)
Irrelevantly, this is the only time the name "Shinta" is mentioned in any of the soundtracks. I never thought this theme had much bearing on Kenshin's childhood; who is the grey angel in that case? But whatever. As far as I can tell, the only difference is that the percussion has been removed. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Warriors Blue (A Theme of Shinomori Aoshi - Frozen Mix)
Holy shit, a remix I like!! It's been entirely stripped down, as it were, to the main string part in the first half and the oboe in the second. It makes for a less heavy sound that's more melancholy than miserable, but still just as emo as Aoshi's theme in any form needs to be. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Hisan I (Strings Version)
These strings aren't as good as most other RK strings. The theme is pretty decent, though. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Hisan II (Church Version)
Not as awesome as Preacher, but still a fun organ piece. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Hisan III (Voice Version)
By "voice" they mean "synth." Mediocre. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Hiten Mitsurugiryuu Amakakeru Ryuu no Hirameki (A Theme of Hiko Seijuurou - Director's Mix)
As if the title of Hiko's theme needed to be longer, then you throw "Director's Mix" in there. Yeesh. This version is lighter, having removed the melody-carrying piano (some remains as support). Because of this you don't get the melody until the synthy thing picks it up after about a minute and a half, so this version actually has more buildup, more preview, if you will. I don't approve of it entirely, but for score, it works. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
NA-GO-MI (Extended Version)
NA-GO-MI was always somewhat annoying. This version is actually a little less cheesy and in-your-face, having delayed the heavy floating strings in the background until you were already used to the oh-everything-is-so-peaceful-and-we-are-euphoric melody. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
EXTRA STUFF --------------
Stereo Zenkai
This song technically has nothing to do with Rurouni Kenshin, but is the the c/w track on the Sobakasu single CD. It's another great Judy and Mary song.
Sobakasu (Backing Track)
Different groups call their karaoke tracks different things. Apparently JAM goes with "backing track." From the Sobakasu single CD.
Ippatsu Yarou (Arashi wo Yobu Otoko) (Original Karaoke)
From the Ippatsu Yarou single CD.
Anata no Kaeru Basho
Performed by Suzukaze Mayo, this nice song is the c/w track on the Namida wa Shitteiru single CD.
Anata no Kaeru Basho (Original Karaoke)
From the Namida wa Shitteiru single CD.
Namida wa Shitteiru (Original Karaoke)
From the Namida wa Shitteiru single CD.
Innocence (Original Karaoke)
From the Innocence single CD.
Intermezzo sinfonico
This piece from Pietro Mascagni's opera Cavalleria Rusticana was used in the scene where Kenshin says goodbye to Kaoru and leaves for Kyoto. This particular recording is performed by the National Philharmonic Orchestra, directed by James Levine. It is a rather heartrending song in any context, but I find it more emotional in the RK setting than in the midst of the absurdity of the Cavalleria Rusticana. No offense, Signor.
IMITATION CRIME
This decent T.M.Revolution song is the c/w track on the HEART OF SWORD~Yoake Mae~ single CD.
HEART OF SWORD~Yoake Mae~(Original Backing Track)
T.M.Revolution is more Original than Judy and Mary, I guess XD From the HEART OF SWORD~Yoake Mae~ single CD.
HEART OF SWORD~Yoake Mae~(Remix)
This is a pretty awesome remix of T.M.Revolution's very popular ending theme, but be warned... this is the one track I'm offering that I don't actually have on CD; I downloaded it m'self, and therefore cannot vouch for the quality of the file.
1
This is the the c/w track on the 1/2 single CD. If you don't like Kawamoto Makoto in 1/2 (or are not a fan in general of the little-girl-sound), don't download this one. I kinda like it.
1/2 (Original Karaoke)
From the 1/2 single CD.
Piano Sonata #8 In C Minor, Op. 13 "Pathétique" - Adagio Cantabile
This Beethoven piece was used in Yumi's death scene; this recording was performed by Jenö Jandó.
Kanawanai Koto
The c/w track on the It's Gonna Rain! single CD, this is another excellent display of the Bonnie Pink singer's sexy voice.
It's Gonna Rain! (Inst)
From the It's Gonna Rain! single CD.
D.D.D.
From the 1/3 no Junjouna Kanjou single CD, this c/w track is a much better use of the still-dubious vocal talents of Siam Shade. Incidentally, "D.D.D." seems, and I am not kidding, to stand for "dead duck doctor."
1/3 no Junjouna Kanjou (Original Karaoke)
From the 1/3 no Junjouna Kanjou single CD.
Piano Sonata #14 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27, No. 2, "Moonlight" - Adagio Sostenuto
This Beethoven piece seems to be the only song Magdaria Sayo knows how to play on her emo piano; this recording was performed by Jenö Jandó.
Crush
The c/w track on the Dame! single CD is every bit as annoying as Dame!. Izumi You's voice is just awful.
Dame! (Original Karaoke)
From the Dame! single CD, it's almost fun to listen to once Izumi You's gone.
Towa no Mirai (Acoustic Version)
From the Towa no Mirai single CD by Animetal, this acoustic version of my favorite song of all time is difficult to take seriously. It starts out mediocre and then gets silly.
Towa no Mirai (Original Karaoke)
From the Towa no Mirai single CD. I love listening to this almost as much as to the actual song.
Nana Iro no Kaze
This is a vocal version of Kimi wa dare wo Mamotte Iru performed by Kawai Hideboshi for the RK RPG Juuyuushi Inbou Hen. It's very pretty, and it's unexpectedly delightful to hear someone singing to that so-familiar melody. If you want the rest of the game soundtrack, you'll have to specifically request it, as I don't plan on putting it up otherwise -- video game score (from PS1 games, at least) generally means very little to people who haven't played the game and become attached to the music.
OST 1 ----
Kimi wa dare wo Mamotte Iru (Strings Version)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is the main theme of the first season and easily recognized. Off the first OST.
Kimi wa dare wo Mamotte Iru (Original Mix)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is the main theme of the first season and easily recognized. Off the first OST.
Himura Kenshin (Original Mix)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is obviously Kenshin's theme. It has an almost annoying feel-good quality to it. Off the first OST.
Himura Kenshin (Gut Guitar)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is obviously Kenshin's theme. I like this version better than than the original; it's very peaceful. Off the first OST.
Hiten Mitsurugiryuu (Kenshin's Battle Mode)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is default Kenshin-fighting music; it's very genki, actually. Off the first OST.
Tsuyoku Naritai (A Theme of Myoujin Yahiko)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is (fairly evidently) Yahiko's theme. It's about as likeable as he is, which statement you may interpret however you please. Off the first OST.
Aku Ichimonji (A Theme of Sagara Sanosuke)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki. Sano's second theme is cooler, but this one's OK too. Off the first OST.
Kamiya Kasshinryuu (Kaoru's Battle Mode)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki. Generic Kaoru-fighting music. Off the first OST.
Kamiya Kaoru (Kaoru's Love Theme - Gut Guitar Version)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, off the first OST. All of Kaoru's love-love music is pretty and a bit on the dramatic side.
Omoi - Odorenai Waltz (Gut Guitar Version)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki. More pretty, love-love stuff from the first OST. This one, like many of the gut guitar tracks, is very peaceful; I like it quite a bit.
Aku no Ichi - Shinjiru ga Yueni (A Theme of the Oniwabanshuu)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki. A decently cool Oniwabanshuu theme. Off the first OST.
Aku no Ni - Mou Hitotsu no Ishin (A Theme of Shishio Makoto)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki... it's always puzzled me why this is here at all. The first season actually ends after Kenshin leaves for Kyoto, not after the idiotic pirate episodes as the western release would have you believe, but even so, it seems odd to have a Shishio theme on the first soundtrack. Especially when said theme is used all through the season for other characters...
Aku no San - Satsui no Uragawa (A Theme of the Dark Side of Your Heart)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, off the first OST. Soulful guys singing "Danger zo~o~one!" and then warblechanting are the coolest. The Dark Side of My Heart must be a pretty awesome place.
Kamiya Dojo (A Theme of Kenshin's Family)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, off the first OST. Peaceful; not at all annoying despite the title.
Ayame to Suzume (A Theme of Kenshin's Family)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, off the first OST. This is the music you'll often hear when the Kenshingumi and add-ons are doing stupid shit. It's not a bad piece, but one can only take so much of it.
Gyuunabe de Paato! (A Theme of the Akabeko)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, off the first OST. This is a very lively piece, as suggested by the title, and though not particularly inspiring isn't too bad.
Demo ne! Honto wa ne...!
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, off the first OST. The plucked violin strings here are a really fun effect. This is another Kenshingumi-daily-interaction theme, and pretty decent.
Kenjutsu Komachi (Kaoru's Theme)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, off the first OST. Kaoru drama! Again. Starts out a little dull, but picks up eventually. Too bad Kaoru never did the same.
Kimi wa dare wo Mamotte Iru (Acoustic Version)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is the main theme of the first season and easily recognized. This is the most classically-Japanese-sounding (relatively speaking) version. Off the first OST.
Omoi - Odorenai Waltz (Strings Version)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki. This is the heavier, more dramatic version of this piece; I don't like it as much as the gut guitar, but it's not bad. Off the first OST.
Kamiya Kaoru (Kaoru's Love Theme - Original Mix)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, off the first OST. This is the really sweeping, dramatic mix. Actually, this may be the most dramatic piece of RK score there is. I like it, but I do kinda wince at the soap opera feeling I get from it.
Kimi wa dare wo Mamotte Iru (Electric Guitar Version)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is the main theme of the first season and easily recognized. This is by far the coolest version. Off the first OST.
VOCAL ALBUM ---
Tsuioku ~ in the Past
This is the "Overture" to the character image songs. It's kinda nice; it starts out classical-ish and turns techno-ish, and sets up the first song very well. I honestly don't know who composed this -- I have not been able to romanize the name, and haven't found it anywhere online -- so I've got it tagged as "[unable to romanize]" I know, I suck. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
Aisuru Hito wo Mamoru Tame ni
This is Kenshin's image song, so it's sung by Suzukaze Mayo. It's not bad, but I prefer Anata no Kaeru Basho. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
Suki toka ja Nakute
Kaoru's image song, sung by Fujitani Miki. This song has grown on me quite a bit to the point where I really love it, though at first I thought it was just mediocre. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
Kokoro no Hadaka
Sano's first image song, sung by Ueda Yuuji. Definitely a cool song, but his second one is better. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
1/Sekai no Boku
Yahiko's image song, sung by Tominaga Miina. This is another song that I started out indifferent to and grew to adore. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
Shiroi Ichigo
This is a song of Ayame and Suzume, and as such is sung by Yuasa Kaori and Namiki Noriko. I put it up for completist purposes, but I don't actually recommend downloading it. It's enough to send you on a murderous rampage. As if it isn't sufficiently annoying that they had to add two (more) obnoxious little girls to the story, then they had to go give them a song... I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
Blast
This is a character song for Jinpuu-whatever-his-name-was-guy from the really, really boring filler story in the first season. I think the guy only got an image song because his seiyuu was Koyasu Takehito. Now, I love Koyasu as much as the next fangirl, but I don't think he sings very well... and this is not even his best performance. The instrumentation and background vocals, though kinda silly, could have made a decent song out of it if he sounded a bit better... plus I can't help giggling every time he says "Livin' in a blast of wind!" This actually comes from the Brilliant Collection compilation, but I've thrown it in with the other character songs in my own composite character songs arrangement. If you think it feels out of place, feel free to rearrange accordingly.
Natsu no E
This is a duet by Kenshin and Kaoru, a.k.a. Suzukaze Mayo and Fujitani Miki. It's not too bad, but I prefer the other version. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
2 of a Kind
This is one of two times we get to hear Megumi (Doi Mika) sing, and in this case it's with Sano (Ueda Yuuji) about how much they hate each other. It's kinda cool; they sound good together. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
Shukuteki Genzan!
This is a long image song for Hannya, Aoshi, Raijuta, Jin'e, and Saitou (mmmSaitou), performed by Animetal. It's the least cool of the RK Animetal songs, which is still pretty damn cool. It actually comes from The Best Theme Collection, but as it isn't a theme and is a character song even if it isn't sung by seiyuu (and I think I would be long dead if Suzuoki Hirotaka had actually done a song), I've thrown it in with the other character songs in my own composite character songs arrangement. If you think it feels out of place, feel free to rearrange accordingly.
Over the Horizon
This is an intermission piece of sorts; the CD booklet calls it a "Promenade." It's kinda pretty. This one was composed by Asakura Noriyuki. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
Innocence
Soujirou's first image song, sung by Hidaka Noriko. It's OK. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Ice Blue Eyes
Misao's image song, and therefore, obviously, performed by Sakurai Tomo; I've always been very fond of this one. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Ippatsu Yarou (Arashi wo Yobu Otoko)
Sano's second image song, e.g. sung by Ueda Yuuji. This is probably my third favorite song in all existence. It's so... so... Sano. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
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The Juppongatana
Performed by Animetal, this is a character song for all of the Juppongatana, Shishio, and Yumi. Sounds ambitious, ne? Well, that's why it's eight and a half minutes long. Their guitar turns me into a puddle of admiring goo every time. My second-favorite song in the universe. It actually comes from The Best Theme Collection, but as it isn't a theme and is a character song even if it isn't sung by seiyuu, I've thrown it in with the other character songs in my own composite character songs arrangement. If you think it feels out of place, feel free to rearrange accordingly.
Journey
Soujirou's second song, so again sung by Hidaka Noriko. It's OK too. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Innocence Drum'n'Bass Mix
Remix of Soujirou's first image song, so still performed by Hidaka Noriko. This version is a trip; listen to it with good stereo headphones for a really cool experience. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Kanashimi ni Tamasaretemo
Magdaria (Amakusu) Sayo's image song, sung by Kasahara Hiroko. It's OK if you can divorce it from memories of watching that arc. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Sono Mama
Oh, god, what was that character's name...? By this point in the third season I was paying more attention to things like trimming my toenails than the DVD. Itsuka, I think. Performer is Iwao Junko, anyway. This song is tolerable at times. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
The End of the Day
This dull song is sung by Yokoyama Chisa, who voiced Moriya Misanagi, the only RK character to provide a boob jiggle. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Water Puzzle
Yuuki Hiro sang this; the character is that Feng Shui guy, whose name I think was Reisui, in the third season. I fast-forwarded through the last half of the third season, so I never caught his name for sure. This song is mediocre. It doesn't suck, and has some sing-along potential, but he's got a weak voice and won't wow you out of your chair. It actually comes from the Brilliant Collection compilation, but I've thrown it in with the other character songs in my own composite character songs arrangement. If you think it feels out of place, feel free to rearrange accordingly.
Ashita no Kakera
This song would be great if the singer (Sasaki Nozumu) didn't make me want to destroy the world or just curl up and die. And what I have to ask is why Takatsuki Gentatsu, a dead filler guy who (though he did provide some rather blatant hints at yaoi) only ever appeared in flashbacks, gets an image song?? I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Natsu no E ~98 Summer Version~
This is the version of Kenshin and Kaoru's duet that I prefer. Still sung by Suzukaze Mayo and Fujitani Miki. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Kono Sekai no Katasumi de
This is a cute and fun song featuring Kenshin, Kaoru, Yahiko, Sano, Megumi, Tae, and Tsubame... that is to say, Suzukaze Mayo, Fujitani Miki, Tominaga Miina, Ueda Yuuji (the only man, heh), Doi Mika, Shimamoto Sumi, and Hiratori Yuri -- though they're even listed in the CD booklet as "Rurouni Kenshin VOICES," so thus I've tagged the file. The second, instrumental half of the track is what the CD booklet calls the Epilogue entitled Zanshou ~Venus and Mars~, and it's pretty decent too, although a little troublesome when you've got the lyrical songs on random and then you suddenly get this long instrumental thing. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
OST 2 ----
Unmei no Hagaruma ~ Kyoto he no Prologue
Naturally, most of the really spectacular Rurouni Kenshin music came from the second season. The feel of this piece is just a step above the worried tension before a battle, which is very appropriate for a prologue to the journey to Kyoto. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
The Last Wolf Suite
Oddly enough (given the title), this track is Juppongatana music. It will all be very familiar; it's ominous in parts, wildly dangerous-sounding in others, and just totally cool. It's divided into seven sections: I. Cold Heart -- A Theme of Seta Soujirou, II. The Land of Anger, III. Juppongatana, IV. Death Parade, V. The Last Wolf -- A Theme of Shishio Makoto, VI. Red Rain, and VII. Chi no In. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Hoeru Miburo (A Theme of Saitou Hajime)
This is, self-evidently, Saitou's theme. It's kinda tribal-sounding with a techno twist, and very cool. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Departure (Piano + Acoustic Guitar Version)
Departure is the main theme of the second season. It's got a very sad-sounding melody in any form, and, as always, the guitar makes things mellow and even sadder. Very beautiful. From the second OST, Departure (obviously?), composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Nihon Meisou ~Ishin no Yami~
This track starts out with a tense, waiting feeling to it, breaks into a quick-moving battle theme, then returns to the tension; the whole thing has a very paranoid feeling to it. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
March of Ghost - Bourei no Koushin
Every soundtrack needs at least one track with a chorus of evil frogs singing in the background. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Run to You (A Theme of Sagara Sanosuke)
Sano's second, cooler theme, this piece is quirky and energetic and cute; very appropriate for Sano. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Frozen Flare - Shura no Fuuin
More fun with plucked violin strings. It's especially cool when they eventually get harmonic. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Welcome to my Nightmare (Youkoso, Waruiyume he)
And this particular nightmare's pretty psychotic, involving chaos-driven techno-jazz. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Dancing With Devils
You'd think this would be a wild track all the way through, but it starts out really mellow and actually has a somewhat depressing sound to it. It gets pretty intense after while, though -- if still not necessarily wild. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Battousai Futatabi...
This bass-driven piece is the very essence of ass-kickage. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Starless (Acoustic Guitar Version)
Starless is a sort of alternate, I'd almost say more personal version of the Departure theme. Like Departure, it's beautiful in all its incarnations; this is the most peaceful version. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Departure (Master Mix)
This is the epic version of the second season main theme. It takes its time and has a very intense, narrative feel to it. From the second OST, Departure (obviously?), composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Starless (Master Mix)
This is the most beautiful version of this variant on the Departure theme; it has a very touching quality to it, but, unlike some of the themes from the first seasons, not to the point of being overly dramatic. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Kimi wa Dare wo Mamotte Iru (Hard Version)
A rather unremarkable mix of the first season's main theme. Which is not to say that it's bad or anything. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
OST 3 ----
Hiten Mitsurugiryuu Amakakeru Ryuu no Hirameki (A Theme of Hiko Seijuurou)
By far the most beautiful of all the Rurouni Kenshin score, in my opinion, which is perfectly fitting for Hiko-sama; extremely elegant and intense. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Fallen Angel - Haiiro no Tenshi
Methinks the title of this track is very appropriate; the feeling of the piece fits that imagery so well. And dreary never sounded so catchy before. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Kaoru to Misao I (Gut Guitar Version)
Asakura Noriyuki again shows his growth since the first season; this is a much more compelling female-character/drama theme than anything Kaoru previously got. And as always, the gut guitar is beautiful and peaceful. This is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Ishin Tenpuku Keikaku
Proving that enemies are allowed to have drama too. Yeah, you overthrow those Ishinshishi! Go you! Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Sakura no Ki no Shita ni - Shisha no Shi
Yeah, try saying this track's title ten times fast. And if I were dead, this is the kind of poetry I'd have. I have to agree with a lot of people that parts of this piece sound like weird Christmas music. Weird, very cool Christmas music under the sakura trees for the dead. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Kaoru to Misao II (pf version)
Another pretty version of the Kaoru/Misao theme. (Oh, did I just put a slash between their names? I totally did. Hmmmmmm.) Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Reppuu (A Theme of Hiko Seijuurou)
Now presenting Hiko as video game badass, with some brass. Pretty awesome track. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Oniwabanshuu - Kyoto Tansakugata
This is one of my favorite RK score pieces. I do find the background a little over-synthesized-sounding, but it's still very beautiful. The guitar is poignant, but not to the point of being heartrending like Warriors Blue, which makes it an excellent Kyoto counterpart to that piece and the Fixated One/Dead Four. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Warriors Blue (A Theme of Shinomori Aoshi)
This is by far one of the most gorgeous RK score pieces; it has this intense but subdued misery to it, and couldn't fit Aoshi better. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Kaoru to Misao III (Full Mix Version)
As is often the case, the full/original mix is the best version of this theme. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Warriors Suite
This track kicks ass from beginning to end. It has the infamous Evil Xylophone, and what could ever be cooler than an Evil Xylophone? Most climactic battles of the Kyoto arc drew at least some of their score from this piece. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
NA-GO-MI
I actually find this track rather annoying, not so much because of how it sounds but because of how very heavy-handed is its usage in the series. Listen for it; you'll see what I mean. (But, then, I rarely find any of the RK musics used as well in the actual series as they deserve to be. Which is why I prefer to read the manga and listen to the music untainted.) Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
OST 4 ----
welcome to my nightmare
This is not to be confused with Welcome to my Nightmare (Youkoso, Waruiyume he) from the second OST. It does not sound at all like what you would expect with such a title. It's very mellow and kinda forlorn-sounding; I suppose it does fit a dreary, unhappy nightmare... Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
curved air
Actually, a lot of the titles on the fourth soundtrack are fanciful to the point of not making sense. This piece is somewhat jazzy with some really nice guitarwork and voices singing something I can't understand at intervals in an almost gospel-choir-sounding style. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
dancing madly backwards
Parts of this track, though carrying Asakura Noriyuki's signature sound, remind me very much of the score of Legend of Dragoon. Once again, it's a good deal calmer than you'd expect from the title. From the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
lunatic
Here you'd expect total wildness, right? Wrong. Instead we continue with the subdued, surrealistic style of this entire soundtrack. Which is not to say that it's a bad thing; it's just not what you'd expect. This piece is definitely crazy, though, making good use of a wide variety of instruments and sound effects to suggest a lack of balance and cohesion while still keeping with the feel, as previously mentioned, of the soundtrack as a whole -- and at the same time heralding back to the highly-dramatic dark melodic sound of the second OST. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
preacher
This piece always makes me think of Saitou, since it played when he skewered Usui and then... preached at him XD It's entirely organ, and it's very awesome. It doesn't shake the house down or even make my speakers rumble as it could, but maybe they just didn't have access to a big enough organ. Still awesome. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
justice
Mmmmjustice. Though once again, what justice has to do with this music, I really couldn't tell you. It's a decent piece, but not the best on the CD. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
let it burn
And this one, possibly, is the best piece on the CD (except preacher, which has happy Saitou memories). Following the trend, it's very calm, does little to suggest fire -- especially when the phrase "let it burn" calls Shishio immediately to mind -- beautiful, and also forlorn. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
shades of cloud
I rarely listen to the fourth soundtrack by itself. It isn't that I dislike any of the individual tracks, but I find that as a whole the CD almost has too much connecting theme, and every piece sounds better when contrasted with pieces from other eras of RK music. This is another mellow, surreal, forlorn-sounding track along those lines. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
lightning
Here we have a deviation that sounds more like something off the first soundtrack, what with the cheesy rock organ, cheerful synthesis, and goofy upbeat feeling. Unsurprisingly, it's a little annoying... but not too bad. It's actually a collection of several smaller pieces in this vein, and thus is rather long. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
typhoon
More Kenshin-dork music. I find it interesting that he gets the same heavy bass as swirly-eyed rurouni and ass-kicking Battousai. At least at first. This track gets pretty irritating pretty quick; the second half sounds like circus music. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
let it rain
Finally, a piece off the fourth soundtrack whose title fits its sound. This is a very peaceful track with only a hint of sadness, and is a perfect accompaniment for a moderately complacent, memory-filled rainy afternoon. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
little wing
And the fourth soundtrack goes out with a bang. This is the most energetic piece on the CD, and sounds, again, a little more like the second OST and even sometimes the first -- except that it can't seem to decide whether it's cheering for the good guys or the bad guys. Then the latter half hearkens back to the let it theme, and it ends very peacefully. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
Seisou Hen OST ----
Seisou Hen was retarded enough that it pretty much merited the idiotic western butcher title that was shoved on it (Samurai X: Reflection), but as they once again got Iwasaki Taku to compose the score, it has some damn good music despite being crap in every other respect. It's too cohesive for me to feel like commenting on any of the individual tracks, however, so here they are free of my usual ramblings:
The Duel (in the name of love)
Pie jesu
Movie OST ---
Ishin Shishi he no Requiem, the Rurouni Kenshin movie, was little better than any old filler episode, but without commercial breaks. Its score, however, composed by Taro Iwashiro, was incredibly good, evocative and sad and with a lot of subdued tension and power to it. It's too cohesive, however, for me to attempt to give an opinion on each individual track. So here we have the Theatrical Animation Original Soundtrack, as the CD's called, in its entirety, without my usual inanities.
Days to Remember
Tsuioku Hen OST ----
Tsuioku Hen, otherwise idiotically known as Samurai X: Trust and Betrayal, has a really spectacular, emotional score composed by Iwasaki Taku. It's too cohesive for me to comment on the tracks individually, but I will say that The Wars of the Last Wolves is my absolute favorite RK score.
In Memories - "A Boy Meets The Man"
Quiet Life
Favorites ----
Hiten Mitsurugiryuu Amakakeru Ryuu no Hirameki (A Theme of Hiko Seijuurou)
By far the most beautiful of all the Rurouni Kenshin score, in my opinion, which is perfectly fitting for Hiko-sama; extremely elegant and intense. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Hoeru Miburo (A Theme of Saitou Hajime)
This is, self-evidently, Saitou's theme. It's kinda tribal-sounding with a techno twist, and very cool. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Namida wa Shitteiru
Second ending theme, performed by Suzukaze Mayo. She has such an elegant and sexy voice. One of my favorite songs ever. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection
HEART OF SWORD~Yoake Mae~
Third ending theme, by T.M.Revolution. Another one of my all-time favorites. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection
Ishin Tenpuku Keikaku
Proving that enemies are allowed to have drama too. Yeah, you overthrow those Ishinshishi! Go you! Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Minagoroshi no Elegy (A Theme of the Sekihoutai)
As is to be expected, an exceptionally sad-sounding, lovely piece. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
preacher
This piece always makes me think of Saitou, since it played when he skewered Usui and then... preached at him XD It's entirely organ, and it's very awesome. It doesn't shake the house down or even make my speakers rumble as it could, but maybe they just didn't have access to a big enough organ. Still awesome. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, from the fourth OST, Let it Burn.
Run to You (A Theme of Sagara Sanosuke)
Sano's second, cooler theme, this piece is quirky and energetic and cute; very appropriate for Sano. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Oniwabanshuu - Kyoto Tansakugata
I find the background here a little over-synthesized-sounding, but this piece still very beautiful. The guitar is poignant, but not to the point of being heartrending like Warriors Blue, which makes it an excellent Kyoto counterpart to that piece and the Fixated One/Dead Four. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Futility
This piece really does convey a sense of futility and desperation. It's about as intense as the movie OST ever got, but other than that is a fairly good representation of that soundtrack as a whole. Composed by Taro Iwashiro, this is from the Theatrical Animation Original Soundtrack.
The Wars of the Last Wolves
This is my favorite RK score piece, and one of my favorite classical-esque compositions of all time. It's very heroic and dramatic, and somewhat dark at the same time, calling up visions of Saitou (the ultimate dirty hero) kicking ass and being hot and doing other heroic, dramatic things. No, seriously. This piece has an exciting buildup to a rousing climax without sounding too cheesy. A very intense and engrossing song by Iwasaki Taku from the Tsuioku Hen OST.
Warriors Blue (A Theme of Shinomori Aoshi)
This is by far one of the most gorgeous RK score pieces; it has this intense but subdued misery to it, and couldn't fit Aoshi better. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
The Duel (in the name of love)
A fairly good representation of the Seisou Hen OST by Iwasaki Taku, this piece starts and ends with the soundtrack's main, peaceful theme, but is primarily a sometimes intense, sometimes just tense battle track. Don't ask me where it played in the OAV, though, since I repressed my memories of Seisou Hen as soon as I finished fast-forwarding through the second episode.
Niji
By L'arc~en~Ciel and found on The Theme Song Collection or alternately on their HEART album, this was used as the opening theme for the crappy movie. One of my favorite Laruku songs; very sexy and emotional.
Warriors Suite
This track kicks ass from beginning to end. It has the infamous Evil Xylophone, and what could ever be cooler than an Evil Xylophone? Most climactic battles of the Kyoto arc drew at least some of their score from this piece. Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is found on the third OST, Kyoto Kessen.
Towa no Mirai
By Animetal, this is the ending theme of the crappy movie. It's intense and powerful and has the most perfect buildup from beginning to end. This is my favorite song in all existence and has been for several years now. This can be found on either The Best Theme Collection or The Theme Song Collection.
Departure (Master Mix)
This is the epic version of the second season main theme. It takes its time and has a very intense, narrative feel to it. From the second OST, Departure (obviously?), composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Ice Blue Eyes
Misao's image song, and therefore, obviously, performed by Sakurai Tomo; I've always been very fond of this one. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Ippatsu Yarou (Arashi wo Yobu Otoko)
Sano's second image song, e.g. sung by Ueda Yuuji. This is probably my third favorite song in all existence. It's so... so... Sano. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs 2.
Shades of Revolution
This is just one of a few Battousai-kicking-ass pieces from Iwasaki Taku's Tsuioku Hen OST. It starts paranoid, tense, and slow, then gets a sort of controlled wildness to it as the battle melody kicks in, and eventually moves on to one of the main themes of the OAV, which it then speeds up for a very elegant ending that feels somewhat epic and morose at the same time.
Starless (Master Mix)
This is the most beautiful version of this variant on the Departure theme; it has a very touching quality to it, but, unlike some of the themes from the first season, not to the point of being overly dramatic. From the second OST, Departure, composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
v
The Juppongatana
Performed by Animetal, this is a character song for all of the Juppongatana, Shishio, and Yumi. Sounds ambitious, ne? Well, that's why it's eight and a half minutes long. Their guitar turns me into a puddle of admiring goo every time. My second-favorite song in the universe. It actually comes from The Best Theme Collection, but as it isn't a theme and is a character song even if it isn't sung by seiyuu, I've thrown it in with the other character songs in my own composite character songs arrangement.
Kimi wa dare wo Mamotte Iru (Electric Guitar Version)
Composed by Asakura Noriyuki, this is the main theme of the first season and easily recognized. This is by far the coolest version. Off the first OST.
Wild Cat (A Theme of Makimachi Misao)
An absolutely perfect character theme; the hyper xylophone is so very good for Misao. Some might say it's even cooler and cuter than she is. From the Director's OST, this was composed by Asakura Noriyuki.
Kono Sekai no Katasumi de
This is a cute and fun song featuring Kenshin, Kaoru, Yahiko, Sano, Megumi, Tae, and Tsubame... that is to say, Suzukaze Mayo, Fujitani Miki, Tominaga Miina, Ueda Yuuji (the only man, heh), Doi Mika, Shimamoto Sumi, and Hiratori Yuri -- though they're even listed in the CD booklet as "Rurouni Kenshin VOICES," so thus I've tagged the file. The second, instrumental half of the track is what the CD booklet calls the Epilogue entitled Zanshou ~Venus and Mars~, and it's pretty decent too, although a little troublesome when you've got the lyrical songs on random and then you suddenly get this long instrumental thing. I've got both character image song CD's combined into one; this track is originally from The Original Vocal Album: Songs.
Music Videos
Du Hast (Enishi Remix) direct download
Pants Quotes (from scanslations)
More manga pants frames to come. Meanwhile, in the tradition of such quotes, click here for an MP3 of the amusing 'drop my pants' outtake from Shishio's dub voice actor.
Quizzes
Which Rurouni Kenshin Opening/Ending Theme Are You?
If You Were Paired With Aoshi, Who Would You Be?
Doujinshi Scans
OK, not complete doujinshi scans. But scans of some of my favorite scenes from my collection. Almost exclusively yaoi, but almost nothing explicit. The pages give them some context, but if you'd rather you can just browse the directory.