Review: Keiichi Okabe + Shotaro Seo – NieR Re[in]carnation Original Soundtrack

The latest installment of the beloved “Nier” franchise, “Nier Reincarnation,” may be a mobile-only game, but its soundtrack is far from limited in its scope and beauty. Composed by the talented Keiichi Okabe, who has worked on previous “Nier” soundtracks, this OST is a mesmerizing journey through haunting and ethereal melodies.

Okabe’s signature style of neoclassical New Age music is on full display in this album, with gauzy, suspended chord-heavy progressions and breath-stopping vocals in nonsense languages that create a sense of otherworldly mystique. While previous “Nier” soundtracks have been vast and sprawling, “Nier Reincarnation” OST is more concise and focused, making it a more accessible listen for newcomers to the series.

One of the standout tracks on the album is the pairing of “Ikō” and “Shinpan,” which showcases Okabe’s ability to create evocative and layered compositions that draw the listener in. The album is filled with tracks that evoke a sense of melancholy and wonder, from the eerie “Kaikyō” to the haunting “Aun.” Each piece is a gem in its own right, inviting the listener to immerse themselves in a world of sound and emotion.

While Okabe’s compositions are the highlight of the album, co-composer Shotaro Seo also adds his own unique touch to the soundtrack. Seo’s pieces provide a complementary contrast to Okabe’s work, adding depth and variety to the overall listening experience. Tracks like “Sabigoe” showcase Seo’s talent for crafting emotionally resonant music that resonates with the listener.

Overall, “Nier Reincarnation” OST is a stunning and immersive musical journey that captures the essence of the “Nier” universe in a condensed and accessible format. With its evocative compositions and enchanting melodies, this soundtrack is a must-listen for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

Rating: 9/10

Written by staticwire