Bakumatsu Rock - What is the appeal of this anime that depicts the fusion of era and music?

Bakumatsu Rock - Bakumatsu Rock - comprehensive review and recommendation

overview

"Bakumatsu Rock" is a TV anime series that aired in 2014, based on a game created by Marvelous AQL. It aired from July 2nd to September 17th, 2014, and consisted of 12 episodes. It was broadcast on TOKYO MX, and each episode was 30 minutes long. It was directed by Itsuro Kawasaki, animated by Studio Deen, and copyright belongs to ©2014 MarvelousAQL Inc./Bakumatsu Rock Production Committee.

story

"Bakumatsu Rock" is set in Japan at the end of the Edo period and tells the story of historical figures who form a rock band and try to change the times through music. The protagonist, Ryoma Sakamoto, is a high school student who travels back in time from the present day, and his existence has a major impact on the history of the end of the Edo period. The story depicts how Ryoma Sakamoto meets historical figures such as the Shinsengumi, Toshizo Hijikata, and Souji Okita, and overcomes the chaos of the end of the Edo period by playing music together with them.

character

The characters in "Bakumatsu Rock" are modeled after historical figures, and each one is drawn in a unique rock style. The main characters are introduced below.

Ryoma Sakamoto

The protagonist is a high school student who travels back in time from the present day and forms a rock band in late Edo Japan. He has a free-spirited personality and inspires people through music.

Toshizo Hijikata

Vice-commander of the Shinsengumi. He has a calm and strict personality, but his passion for music is unmatched. He meets Ryoma Sakamoto and grows as a person by playing music together with him.

Okita Souji

A member of the Shinsengumi. A pure and innocent character, he deepens his bond with his friends through music. Influenced by Ryoma Sakamoto, he finds the courage to pursue his dreams.

Takasugi Shinsaku

A patriot of the Choshu clan. He has anti-establishment ideas and tries to change society through music. Although he is at odds with Ryoma Sakamoto, they come to understand each other better by playing music together.

music

The biggest attraction of "Bakumatsu Rock" is the music. Each character forms a rock band and there are many scenes where they perform original songs, which have the power to draw viewers in. The opening theme "BANZAI JAPAN" and the ending theme "KAKUMEI" in particular gained popularity as songs that symbolize the theme of the story. Furthermore, the songs performed in each episode were created to match the personalities of the characters and the development of the story, which touches the hearts of viewers.

animation

The animation by Studio Deen vividly depicts the world of Japan at the end of the Edo period. The character designs are based on historical figures, but also feature a unique visual style that incorporates rock style. The music scenes are also produced with a live feel, making viewers feel as if they are at a concert.

evaluation

"Bakumatsu Rock" is an appealing work with a unique setting that combines music and history, and unique characters. At first glance, the story is light-hearted and comedic, but the theme of people coming together through music and changing the times is deeply moving. In addition, the growth of each character and the changes in their relationships are carefully depicted, drawing viewers in. However, there were also parts where the development of the story to reach its conclusion felt a bit rushed in the short broadcast period of 12 episodes.

Recommendation

"Bakumatsu Rock" is a work that I would especially recommend to music and history lovers. The image of historical figures forming a rock band offers viewers a new perspective, and the theme of changing the times with the power of music has a message that is relevant to the present day. In addition, since you can enjoy the individuality and growth of each character, it is also recommended for those who like character-based works. Furthermore, the live-like production of the music scenes is an element that can be enjoyed by people who are not anime fans.

Related Titles

If you enjoyed "Bakumatsu Rock," we also recommend the following related works:

"SHOW BY ROCK!!"

This music-themed anime tells the story of characters who form a band. Like "Bakumatsu Rock," the live-like music scenes are a big attraction.

"K"

It is an anime that features characters with supernatural powers, and the highlights are the music and battle scenes. Like "Bakumatsu Rock", it depicts the growth and relationships of unique characters.

"Bakuman."

The story depicts young people who aspire to be manga artists and how they chase their dreams. Like "Bakumatsu Rock," the story is moving in the way it depicts the growth and friendship of the main characters.

summary

"Bakumatsu Rock" is a work that is appealing for its innovative setting that combines music and history, and its unique characters. It is especially recommended for music and history lovers, and the growth of each character and the changes in their relationships are carefully depicted. The live-like performance of the music scenes is also a highlight, and it is an element that can be enjoyed by people who are not anime fans. You will be able to get even deeper impressions by enjoying related works as well.