The Mighty Nein's Opening Sequence Selected the Wrong Critical Role Track
The Mighty Nein, the most recent animated series from Critical Role, unveiled a new introductory sequence. It showcases the beloved cast of misfits, outcasts, and rogues fighting hard and taking names, while also hinting at multiple heart-wrenching backstories for characters such as Liam O'Brien's wizard Caleb, and another actor's orc warlock, Fjord.
Overall, the intro looks stunning. However, I felt that something was lost in the music selection.
The intro uses "Welcome to Wildemount", an exceptional song created by artist the talented musician. This piece originating from the official score of that title, the second one released by the production company's music division Scanlan Shorthalt Music. It's a wonderful nostalgic option, and I believe that fans of the second campaign will appreciate its presence.
But for me, The series' intro fails to capture the hype and energy that was part of the show's actual-play adventure. "It's Your Turn", written by singer-songwriter Jason Charles Miller, was an instant classic in my view when it was initially unveiled in 2015, and it only got better when co-founder Sam Riegel added lyrics to the tune for the animated Campaign 2 opening in 2018.
Featuring vocals from one actress, Laura Bailey, Travis Willingham, as well as Riegel himself, the track was catchy and fun. Back then, I hadn't seen the follow-up series at that point, but it was so infectious that I kept it on my phone. This track that knows how to get you pumped before you dive into an episode of fantasy hijinks.
The show's opening with "the new song" fails to hit the same chords in my opinion. It's a grand composition, but based on my understanding of the group, I feel that its mood is a little off.
Naturally, Critical Role has already said that the animated show will have some surprises and variations from the actual-play campaign. An adjusted mood for its intro seems to be one of them.
The Mighty Nein will be released on the streaming service from Nov. 19. If you can't wait before that, or wish to prepare to learn about the personas of the second series, the original episodes are available on the audio platform and YouTube.
