Ever watched Neon Genesis Evangelion, the anime about giant robots fighting monsters, and thought, "Hmm, needs more jazz"? Well, you're not alone!
The Endless Variations
One of the most surprising things about Evangelion is the sheer number of versions of its ending theme, "Fly Me to the Moon." It’s like they had a musical buffet and decided to sample every single dish. Seriously, there are dozens.
Think of it as a musical advent calendar, except instead of chocolate, you get a slightly different rendition of a classic song. It's a gift that keeps on giving (or maybe slightly confusing).
From Piano to Bossa Nova
You've got your classic, melancholic versions, perfect for wallowing in teenage angst (which, let's be honest, is a core Evangelion experience). Then you have upbeat, jazzy versions that make you want to snap your fingers and maybe, just maybe, pilot an EVA.
There are piano versions, electronic remixes, and even a bossa nova rendition that sounds like it should be playing in a trendy space cafe. The possibilities are seemingly endless.
Why So Many?
Why did they do this? Well, partly it was a practical decision. Licensing the original "Fly Me to the Moon" for every episode would have been expensive. So, they created a bunch of covers.
But it also became a kind of running gag, a little in-joke for the fans. Each new version became something to anticipate, a little surprise tucked away at the end of each episode.
More Than Just a Song
What’s truly fascinating is how each version subtly changes the tone of the ending. A somber piano version amplifies the loneliness and despair, while a more upbeat version hints at hope and resilience.
It's almost as if the song is a chameleon, adapting to the emotional landscape of the episode that just concluded. A truly masterful touch, and shows the genius of the creative team.
Think about it: a single song, reinterpreted countless times, adding layers of meaning to an already complex story. It’s pretty impressive when you stop to think about it.
The Fan Favorite
While everyone has their favorite, the Ayanami Rei version tends to be a crowd-pleaser. It's haunting, ethereal, and perfectly captures the enigmatic nature of the character.
It's also a bit of a meme within the Evangelion fandom. Search for it online, and you're bound to find countless remixes and parodies. The internet loves Ayanami Rei, and it loves "Fly Me to the Moon."
A Legacy of Lunar Proportions
Ultimately, the many versions of "Fly Me to the Moon" have become an integral part of the Evangelion experience. It's more than just background music; it's a character in its own right.
So, the next time you're watching Evangelion, pay attention to that end credits sequence. You might just discover your new favorite version of a classic song. Who knew giant robots and jazz could go so well together?
And who knows? Maybe one day they'll release even more versions. The moon is a big place, after all, and there's always room for more music.
