Top Anime Soundtracks Of 2022 You Can't Miss

Hey anime fans! Let's talk about something super important that often makes or breaks our viewing experience: the music! The best anime OSTs of 2022 weren't just background noise; they were characters in themselves, amplifying emotions, setting the mood, and sticking with us long after the credits rolled. We're diving deep into the most unforgettable soundtracks that 2022 blessed us with, guys. Get ready to add some bangers to your playlists because these tunes are chef's kiss.

The Unforgettable Melodies of the Year

When we talk about the best anime OSTs of 2022, we're really celebrating the composers and artists who poured their souls into creating sonic landscapes that perfectly complemented their respective series. It’s not just about catchy openings or epic battle themes; it's about the subtle cues, the melancholic melodies, and the triumphant swells that elevate the narrative. Think about it, how many times has a perfectly placed track sent shivers down your spine or made you well up with tears? The power of music in anime is immense, and 2022 delivered some absolute gems. We saw a return of beloved franchises and the rise of new hits, each bringing its unique musical flavor to the table. From heart-pounding action sequences underscored by intense orchestral arrangements to quiet, introspective moments made poignant by delicate piano solos, the variety was incredible. The best anime OSTs of 2022 showcased a masterful blend of genres, incorporating everything from J-rock and electronic music to traditional folk elements and classical influences. It’s this diversity that keeps the anime music scene so vibrant and exciting. We’re not just listening; we’re experiencing the stories through sound. This year, composers really pushed the boundaries, experimenting with new sounds and techniques to create truly original and memorable pieces. They understood the assignment: to enhance the viewer's emotional connection to the characters and their journeys. Whether it was a soaring anthem that made you feel invincible or a haunting melody that echoed a character’s inner turmoil, the music was a crucial storytelling tool. We’ll be highlighting some of the series that truly stood out, not just for their animation or plot, but for their exceptional musical scores that have earned them a spot on our list of the best anime OSTs of 2022. Get your headphones ready, because we're about to relive some incredible auditory moments.

Diving into the Hits: Specific Showcases

Let’s get down to brass tacks, shall we? We're talking about the shows that truly delivered on the audio front. One of the most talked-about series, Chainsaw Man, absolutely blew us away with its soundtrack. Kensuke Ushio absolutely nailed it. The opening theme, "KICK BACK" by Kenshi Yonezu, was an instant earworm, but it was the entire OST that deserves accolades. Ushio’s score perfectly captured the raw, chaotic energy of Denji's world, blending industrial sounds with haunting melodies. Tracks like "GUM GUM" and "Buddy" had this gritty, almost unsettling vibe that just fit the show's dark humor and brutal action. It’s the kind of music that doesn’t just accompany the visuals; it becomes part of the narrative, adding layers of depth and intensity. When you think of Chainsaw Man, you don't just remember the visuals; you remember the feeling, and a huge part of that feeling is the music. Another series that hit it out of the park was Spy x Family. While known for its heartwarming and hilarious antics, WIT Studio and CloverWorks didn't skimp on the music. The OST, composed by [K) [K]KO [K) [K]KO and Yuya Mori, was a delightful mix of playful, jazzy tunes and more sweeping, emotional pieces. Tracks like "Mixed Nuts" by Official Hige Dandism (OP1) and "Comedy" by Gen Hoshino (OP2) were infectious and perfectly captured the whimsical, spy-thriller vibe. But it was the background score that truly shone, adding charm and emotional resonance to Anya’s adorable antics and the Loid and Yor’s secret lives. It’s the perfect example of how music can enhance comedy and drama simultaneously. The best anime OSTs of 2022 have this magic touch, where the music feels inseparable from the show's identity. We also can't forget Mob Psycho 100 III. The music in this series has always been a standout, and the final season was no exception. Kenji Kawai returned with a score that was both epic and deeply emotional, perfectly mirroring Mob's growth and inner struggles. The blend of electronic beats, orchestral grandeur, and Goth-Bopper's vocal tracks created a soundscape that was uniquely Mob Psycho. Each track felt carefully crafted to enhance the emotional impact of Mob's journey, especially as he grappled with his powers and his identity. The best anime OSTs of 2022 often come from series where the music is as integral to the storytelling as the animation itself. These soundtracks aren't just background filler; they are meticulously crafted sonic experiences that elevate the entire viewing experience, making these shows unforgettable for all the right reasons. It's the kind of music that makes you want to rewatch scenes just to appreciate the score again.

The Power of a Killer Opening and Ending

Alright, guys, let's be real: the opening and ending themes are often our first and last musical impression of an anime each week. And when we talk about the best anime OSTs of 2022, we absolutely have to give props to the OPs and EDs that grabbed us from the get-go and left us wanting more. These aren't just songs; they're anthems that define a series. Think about "KICK BACK" from Chainsaw Man. That song wasn't just an opening; it was a cultural moment. Kenshi Yonezu delivered a track that was simultaneously aggressive, catchy, and undeniably unique, perfectly encapsulating the wild ride that Chainsaw Man is. It’s the kind of song that gets stuck in your head for weeks and makes you hit the replay button before the episode even starts. It immediately sets the tone, promising a show that’s going to be anything but ordinary. Then you have the delightful duo from Spy x Family. "Mixed Nuts" by Official Hige Dandism and "Comedy" by Gen Hoshino were both incredibly catchy and perfectly suited the show’s quirky charm. "Mixed Nuts" with its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics felt like a secret agent's theme song, while "Comedy" brought a more laid-back, feel-good vibe. These OPs did more than just introduce the show; they invited us into its world, making us eager to see what wacky adventures the Forger family would get into next. It’s amazing how a good OP can create such an immediate connection. And we can't overlook the sheer emotional punch of some ending themes. While often more subdued, EDs have the power to leave a lasting emotional residue after an episode concludes. Sometimes, a poignant ED can perfectly capture the lingering feelings of a dramatic or sad episode, leaving the audience to reflect. The best anime OSTs of 2022 often feature EDs that are as memorable as their OPs, providing a musical moment of catharsis or contemplation. It's a testament to the fact that every musical element in an anime, from the explosive opening to the quiet closing, plays a vital role in the overall experience. These opening and ending themes are the calling cards of a series, and the ones from 2022 certainly made a powerful statement, proving that a killer song can elevate an already great show to legendary status. They are the perfect appetizers and digestifs to the main course of the anime episode, ensuring that the musical journey is complete.

Beyond the Hits: Hidden Gems and Underrated Scores

While the mainstream hits often grab the spotlight, the best anime OSTs of 2022 also include some incredible hidden gems and underrated scores that deserve way more love. It’s these tracks that often prove how much thought and artistry go into even the less-hyped series. We're talking about the soundtracks that might not have had a chart-topping single but provided a rich, immersive experience that significantly enhanced their respective anime. For instance, consider a series like Bocchi the Rock!. This show was a sleeper hit, and part of its charm was its fantastic soundtrack. The music, performed by the fictional band Kessoku Band (voiced by the actual voice actresses), was not just diegetic within the story; it was genuinely good music. The blend of J-rock and pop created incredibly catchy and energetic songs that perfectly reflected Bocchi's anxieties and her journey of overcoming stage fright. Tracks like "Guitar, Loneliness, and Blue Planet" became instant fan favorites, showcasing impressive musical talent that went beyond typical anime BGM. It’s the kind of soundtrack that fans will listen to outside the context of the anime, which is a huge testament to its quality. Another series that delivered an unexpectedly brilliant score was Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. While the anime itself was a massive hit for its mature themes and stunning visuals, the OST, featuring artists like Franz Ferdinand and P. T. Barnum, added an extra layer of gritty, electronic authenticity. The music perfectly captured the dystopian atmosphere of Night City, with driving beats and atmospheric synths that made every action sequence feel more intense and every melancholic moment more profound. Composers like Akira Yamaoka (known for Silent Hill) also contributed, adding a distinctive horror-tinged edge. It’s this kind of careful curation and original composition that elevates a series, proving that the best anime OSTs of 2022 aren't always the loudest but are often the most thoughtfully integrated. These soundtracks prove that incredible musical talent exists across the anime spectrum, and it's always worth digging a little deeper to discover these auditory treasures. They remind us that great music can come from anywhere and often enhance our appreciation for the entire anime experience, turning a good watch into a truly memorable one. Sometimes the most impactful music is the music that surprises you the most, coming from an unexpected corner and leaving a lasting impression.

The Composers Behind the Magic

When we're basking in the glory of the best anime OSTs of 2022, it's crucial to give a massive shout-out to the masterminds behind the music: the composers and sound directors. These guys are the unsung heroes who translate emotions, actions, and atmospheres into sound. Their talent is what weaves the sonic tapestry that immerses us in the world of anime. Take Kensuke Ushio, for example, who was an absolute powerhouse in 2022. His work on Chainsaw Man was phenomenal. He managed to capture the visceral, chaotic, and darkly comedic essence of the manga with a score that was both experimental and incredibly effective. The way he blended industrial sounds, synths, and melodic fragments created a soundscape that felt entirely original and perfectly suited the grim yet exhilarating world of devils and devil hunters. It wasn't just background music; it was an active participant in the storytelling, heightening tension, emphasizing brutality, and even underscoring moments of unexpected tenderness. His ability to create such a distinct and memorable sonic identity for the series is a hallmark of a truly great composer. Then there's the legendary Keiji Inai, who contributed significantly to multiple series in 2022. His work on Blue Lock, for instance, was crucial in capturing the high-stakes, intense psychological drama of the titular facility. Inai's score masterfully blended aggressive electronic beats with powerful orchestral arrangements, perfectly mirroring the fierce competition and individualistic struggles of the young strikers. Each track felt designed to pump you up, making you feel the adrenaline rush alongside the characters. The best anime OSTs of 2022 often come from composers who understand the delicate balance between supporting the narrative and standing out on their own. We also saw incredible work from composers like Yuji Nomi, who continued his long-standing collaboration with Studio Ghibli-adjacent projects (though maybe not exclusively 2022 releases, his influence is felt!). And let's not forget the contributions of music teams like GOON TRAX for Isekai Ojisan (Uncle from Another World), who brought a unique blend of chiptune and funk that perfectly suited the show's retro gaming sensibilities and comedic tone. These composers, through their unique styles and dedication, are the architects of our emotional journeys. They craft the sound of victory, defeat, friendship, and despair, making the best anime OSTs of 2022 not just collections of songs, but symphonies of the soul that resonate deeply with fans long after the final frame fades. Their work is the hidden engine that drives our connection to these stories.

Why Music Matters So Much in Anime

So, why are we even nerding out this hard about anime soundtracks, guys? It boils down to this: music matters immensely in anime. It's not just an add-on; it's a fundamental pillar of storytelling. Think about your favorite anime scenes – chances are, the music playing during those moments is just as vivid in your memory as the animation itself. The best anime OSTs of 2022 prove this point time and time again. Music has this incredible power to manipulate our emotions. A soaring orchestral piece can make us feel triumphant, a somber piano melody can evoke deep sadness, and a frantic electronic beat can amplify the tension of an action sequence. Composers use these tools with incredible precision to guide our emotional responses, making us root harder for the protagonists, feel the sting of their defeats, and celebrate their victories as if they were our own. Beyond just emotional manipulation, music is key to establishing atmosphere and tone. A dark, ambient soundtrack can instantly signal danger or mystery, while an upbeat, quirky tune can set a lighthearted, comedic mood. The best anime OSTs of 2022 created immersive sonic worlds that pulled us completely into the narrative, making the fictional settings feel tangible and real. Remember the distinct musical identity of Cowboy Bebop? That's the power of a cohesive and iconic soundtrack. Music also plays a huge role in character development. A recurring musical motif associated with a specific character can become intrinsically linked to their personality, their struggles, or their growth. It can subtly remind us of their past traumas or highlight their newfound strength, adding a layer of depth that dialogue alone might not achieve. Furthermore, a strong OST can significantly boost the overall memorability and impact of an anime. A series with an unforgettable soundtrack is more likely to be discussed, recommended, and rewatched. The songs themselves can become cultural touchstones, enjoyed independently of the anime and serving as constant reminders of the series' impact. The best anime OSTs of 2022 have undoubtedly achieved this status for many fans, becoming anthems that encapsulate the spirit of their shows. In essence, the music is the soul of the anime, breathing life into the visuals and narrative, and transforming a visual medium into a multi-sensory, deeply affecting experience. It’s the magic ingredient that makes us fall in love with these stories and characters on a profound level.

Conclusion: The Sound of a Great Year in Anime

And there you have it, folks! 2022 was an absolutely stellar year for anime music, giving us a treasure trove of the best anime OSTs. From the raw, industrial beats of Chainsaw Man to the charming jazz of Spy x Family, and the epic scope of Mob Psycho 100 III, the musical landscape was rich and diverse. We saw composers push creative boundaries, delivering soundtracks that were not only fitting but often groundbreaking, enhancing every emotional beat and action-packed moment. These weren't just background scores; they were integral parts of the storytelling, breathing life into characters and worlds, and leaving an indelible mark on our memories. Whether it was a hype-inducing opening theme that had us jumping out of our seats or a subtly melancholic ending that lingered long after the credits, the music played a pivotal role in making these series unforgettable. We also highlighted the hidden gems and underrated scores, proving that musical brilliance can be found across the entire spectrum of anime. The dedication of composers and sound directors truly shone through, crafting sonic experiences that resonated deeply with fans. Ultimately, the best anime OSTs of 2022 are a testament to the power of music in elevating narrative art. They remind us why we connect so deeply with anime – it's the complete package of stunning visuals, compelling stories, and, of course, unforgettable music. So, crank up those playlists, dive back into these incredible soundtracks, and let the music transport you. Here's to another year of amazing anime scores!