Kentaro Miura‘s Berserk manga is considered by many as the greatest manga of all time, and I fully back that sentiment. And in 1997, the GOAT-manga was adapted into a 25-episode anime by OLM, which is what I’ll be talking about today. So let’s dig into Berserk songs, shall we?
The 1997 TV anime, Berserk (Kenpuu Denki Berserk) is one of my personal favorites, so it brings me great joy to write a list about it. But what will this one be about? If you clicked on the title, you already know that I’ll be focusing on Susumu Hirasawa‘s music for the anime. In turn, I present to you the 5 best Berserk songs! I truly hope you enjoy!
If you enjoy this list, don’t forget to check out my other lists HERE!
Honorable Mention: Behelit
While I rarely include honorable mentions, I couldn’t leave Behelit off my list, as it’s been playing in my head since I finished watching Berserk. But what makes it so enthralling? Personally I find the song to be alluring, almost enchanting, with magical qualities to it. However, it has some eerie undertones, that make me feel uneasy, and for whatever reason, I’m still drawn to the song. So, it’s properly named “BEHELIT”, as the track captures the object’s mysterious qualities beautifully!
5. Fear
Considering my love for horror, including “FEAR” was an easy decision. I simply love the way the song slowly grows from mildly disturbing, to downright horrifying. As I’m writing this, and listening to “FEAR”, I have goosebumps. It’s THAT type of song; it’ll crawl under your skin and feed off you.
When it comes to the songs melodic structure, it’s almost like an anthem for the dark lord, isn’t it? The way we hear metal clang in sync with the beat and rhythm of the song, it makes me feel like I’m about to be hypnotized. Why? I’m honestly not sure, but the song has many structural qualities that I enjoy, without really being able to put my finger on it, and I love it!
As far as horror soundtracks go, I’d say Berserk is at the tippity-top when it comes to anime. Any objections?
4. Ghosts
While “FEAR” is a song that crawls under your sking and strikes fear into you, “GHOSTS” hits you with an anxiety overdose and will make you panic! Don’t believe me? Listen to this 4-minute track and tell me how it makes you feel? In my opinion, it’s like being tormented by ghosts, while being dragged to hell, which is exactly what Guts experienced in Berserk.
This chaotic song is truly a 4-minute experience that no one should miss. While it’s not for your day-to-day playlist, nor should it be, it’s a must-listen solely because of the experience. So if you have the time, I’d suggest listening to “GHOSTS”, as it’ll awake interesting emotions inside of you. In all fairness, it’s one of the best Berserk songs.
3. Earth
The cool summer breeze… fields of grass… friends and loved ones gathered around; it’s magical, isn’t it? Can you feel it? “EARTH” is like catching your breath in the midst of a struggle, giving you time to enjoy the little things, right before a triumphant party to seal the night!
There’s too much beauty in this song’s composition, that I don’t know where to start? The angelic voices, that echo throughout the song, draw us into “EARTH” like a magic spell. Together with the flute, our mind gets wrapped into a warm blanket. It removes all of our worries, if just for one moment.
Towards the end of the song, when the tempo picks up, we’re treated to a triumphant celebration, with joyous melodies! While it’s my interpretation of the song, I must say that music from Berserk (1997) takes my mind to all types of place. Maybe it’s just me? Honestly, I’m interested in knowing how you feel about “EARTH”? Is it your cup of tea?
2. Forces
I will never forget about you
On this road of unfulfillment, I still walk alone
Go forth! O loquacious shadows, come and guide me!
Words can’t describe the energy of “FORCES”, but it’s a full-blown anthem! Honestly, it’s the type of song that’ll make you march into war and slay over 100 men by yourself, just like Guts himself.
“FORCES” is an anthem, with beautiful lyrics accompanying the commanding melodies, making it one of the most recognizable songs from Berserk (1997). While I could explain the lyrics, and how it ramps up together with the song, It’s best to read the english translation by yourself, so vist the following website: lyricstranslate.
While I could sit here and write a 1000-word essay about “FORCES”, I believe that would be unnecessary. Therefore, I’ll end it by saying that this song plays in my mind every day, and that I absolutely love the feeling it gives me. I’m sure I’m not alone. It’s a masterpiece.
1. Guts Theme
Susumu Hirasawa deserves far more recognition, as his music for Berserk will go down in history as one of the greatest of all time! Thus, it’s only appropriate that I praise him for his efforts. And thank him for creating these sensational tracks that will live forever, including Guts Theme.
It’s enchanting, isn’t it? Somewhat alluring? It’s as if the most beautiful angels and elves are serenading you, making you feel at ease, without any pressure or stress on your shoulders. I mean, it’s simply breathtakingly beautiful! There are so many layers to Guts Theme that it can evoke a variety of emotions within you, as it’s a passionately composed piece. Therefore, it’s capable of sending shivers down your spine and make you teary-eyed, without knowing why you even feel that way. But that’s the beauty of it, isn’t it? That’s music. That’s what it’s all about; feeling something that your mind can’t comprehend, but your heart accepts with open hands. It’s beautiful.
This song is played during the most prominent moments for Guts in Berserk. Therefore, it’s his theme song, as it so beautifully encapsulates the essence of the character and his perplexing, yet loveable, nature. It’s a journey in its own right, so I suggest listening to this song and truly taking it all in. It’s worth it. Trust me.
Last but not least, I want to officially crown Guts Theme as the best of the best Berserk songs!