Welcome To Inazuma: A Musical Analysis...

[@_iridescence_842]

4:48 “Fallen leaves… adorn my night!-” LOL, spoken like a true kazuha haver -a kazuha main

[@zephskiee5395]

im laughing so hard too. im ded. its also like a certain other genshin youtuber i watch everytime he says "right here" it follows by right now, emerge a reference to yae miko e skill.

[@weeee455]

@@zephskiee5395 is this certain youtuber a short male lamenting pogo stick?

[@uttopielec]

@@weeee455 i think he meant a certain Thundering Fury salesman

[@v00.d00_child]

true lol

[@emmanuel7489]

LOL I came here just for that. I love to say that phrase randomly too.

[@t.k.5088]

The craziest thing about genshin ost is that all regions have their own leitmotifs and at the same time all leitmotifs are connected deep down. The amount of different ways that hoyomix manages to present the same melody is insane tbh

[@KunoMochi]

Yes, Inazuma has that distinct "Sakura Sakura" theme written into some of the pieces. It's a classic Japanese folk song, and used in a number of anime and Japanese films so it's a nice nod and respect to the place it took inspiration from. Makes me wonder if the other regions also took some iconic folk songs as a part of the pieces as well.

[@imnotreanalbertospynotatal6968]

@@KunoMochi sumeru definitely has Arabian nights inspiration

[@naranikarsa1608]

Yes, my thoughts exactly. Every region is always uniquely connected to other regions as if truly creating a world of its own...

[@RizkyBambangWiratmoko]

@@naranikarsa1608 and then every region have their own flavor of photon of fluctuation leitmotifs

[@Moon1tan]

Also the fact that they're all somehow connected to their Archon's theme as well To keep on the inazuma theme Both Raiden's boss and trailer themes have the general inazuma leitmotif embedded into them

[@ammyokami5350]

I know people say that Inazuma music is melancholic, and I won’t deny that But as a Japanese person, I also get a hard-to-describe feeling of peace? Appreciation? Tranquility? In Japanese culture we tend to find beauty from things that have a very short lifespan such as Sakura blossoms, autumn leaves, and fireworks (especially like Senkou hanabi, a handheld sparkler that you need to keep still as much as possible so it won’t fall mid-sparkle): because of the fact it doesn’t last long/is fragile/is ever changing, you appreciate the beauty of it in its prime more than ever The music reminds me of that; nothing last forever, so one should appreciate the beauty of things in its present state

[@alastairroachie6325]

that's a good cultural innovation opinion

[@saracchi1515]

As a japanese i also agree, so rare these days to find an opinion like that.

[@Melotaku]

Wow, after reading this it makes me really appreciate what Mihoyo did with the Raiden Shogun. She pursues eternity. Everything that you just described is the furthest from eternity that you can get. No wonder she’s the perfect antagonist for Inazuma. That’s so cool! I love what they did there!

[@yakineko6635]

Very on brand for Inazuma’s themes and story. I wonder if that was intentional

[@athos9293]

your english is flawless

[@ZeddPlay]

Man I am so addicted to these analysis videos. Its just so nice to see someone else appreciate genshin music like that

[@MarcoMeatball]

❤️

[@lepworra7514]

fr

[@Midgardia]

It is a testament to how much Marco knows music that he nearly *always* pauses right before the song changes/morphs. It's not JUST a coincidence, it's knowing the music language well enough to 'hear' the period in the musical sentence.

[@MarcoMeatball]

That’s actually correct. 😅

[@cguralol]

Everytime I hear "Inazuma" or "Fall of maples" I always get goosebumps, both tracks are simply incredible. Wish someday Hoyoverse makes a symphonic world tour to hear this amazing compositions live

[@clover.8147]

Fall of Maples is so tragic ;----;

[@KaagKagamine5]

I really love the melancholy feeling the entire Inazuma OST gives, is fascinating

[@ara_ara-]

Inazuma is sad boi hours

[@Schuldig]

i've been listening to Ruu's melody because yeah

[@hoang7850]

Inazuma OST really showcase Hoyomix ability to utilize traditional instruments of Japan. Just the effort that get put in makes Inazuma’s OST special to me.

[@mrnmoren]

Every time I listen to Inazuma OST I always get so emotional and reminded of a Japanese untranslatable term called "Mono no Aware": The awareness of impermanence of things, and both a transient gentle sadness or wistfulness at their passing, as well as a longer, deeper gentle sadness about this state being the reality of life. Just like how the Sakura blooms beautifully, but it only lasts for a few days, and gone for the rest of the year. It is sad that something as beautiful as the Sakura does not last for the entire year, but on the other hand we cherish the moment the Sakura blooms, and once it withers we long for that moment to come again. I feel like everything that happens and has happened in the past in Inazuma is very related to this term.

[@effortlessfury]

Be careful with what you say about things Marco has yet to experience, yeah?

[@mrnmoren]

@@effortlessfury Sorry if you think I speak too much about the topic, I really didn't mean to. I was simply sharing what I thought the first time I listened to the this particular song and the first time I arrived in Inazuma.

[@effortlessfury]

@@mrnmoren for sure, it's very poetic and I think it describes well something the theme reflects. You definitely understood what specifically I was referring to given your edit though ;) The music of Inazuma communicates a dense amount of information/emotion that one's perspective/perception of can change as they go from place to place, story to story. I'm curious to see if Sumeru's music will do the same; we're still essentially at the beginning of that journey given how new content released for Inazuma over the year...I have thoughts but those would be spoilers lol

[@effortlessfury]

And to clarify, it's not that you speak too much about the topic at all. Just hoping, perhaps in vain, that Marco doesn't end up being given any further perspective on events and characters long before you're meant to. It really does affect the experience of the story. Even if you have guesses as to what is being foreshadowed, whether by dialogue or music, that's still very different than people who know definitively confirming such things before the story itself does.

[@vanshakes2369]

the term writes as "物哀"，which means "sorrow inside of everything"

[@MonoNonsensicalProduction]

4:40 : *Analyzing the aesthetics of Inazuma* . 4:46 : *Marco Unleash his Elemental Burst* . 4:48 : *Back to the Topic* .

[@irina7922]

As you do, as you do

[@Ikcatcher]

This one song gives me chills every time I hear it in game. You can just feel the overwhelming presence of the Raiden Shogun with that one leitmotif I remember seeing a comment from someone saying Inazuma’s music has a sense of “melancholic pain” and I find that really fitting.

[@williansnobre]

The music itself speaks of her "Omnipresence over Mortals". I love how deliberate the music is, along with the visual and story. Everything has a reason to be there.

[@kasumiayanami4501]

Mondstadt: Openness, Freedom (like the wind) Liyue: Joyful & Lively (Like the city of commerce it is) Inazuma: Mournful, Melancholy, Serene/Serenity, Serious, Ominous, Omnipresent, Grander Sumeru (when you get there): Just pure vibes 😍🎶🏝🌳🌳🌳

[@haiiro1757]

Now I get why I don't always stay in inazuma, music feels really sad. 🥲

[@MarkusAtlisus]

Fontaine: Dance, beauty, waltz, formality, baroque, sociality

[@BrentNewhall]

6:40 "Dreams and aspirations are getting lost in the air." -- Yep, that sums up so much of Inazuma. Nailed it again!

[@Rawhite007]

The live verison done by the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra is honestly a treat , please give it a watch/listen

[@talamioros]

Yes he did, in one of his livestream watch parties.

[@diralis7316]

@@talamioros may i have the link?

[@arthoormoorgen9492]

@@talamioros do you have a linkM

[@shrooroom]

@@diralis7316 Marco's reaction to Realm of Tranquility and Reflections of Spring kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4XdfKOjiMuNbq8

[@kyoya6882]

No, actually all Inazuma Ost are made by Tokyo Symphony Orchestra

[@gladiusbladeofthenorth9939]

Its really nice how you can tell the vibes of each nation just by their city themes

[@EnderHeart5911]

You definitely have to take a moment and listen to Konda Village’s Day and Night Themes when you get there in game! One of the pieces, like Port Ormos, that entranced me enough to stop playing and just stand there to hear more.

[@PhilipeM]

Inazuma still is my favorite region, the music remembers me so much of Studio Ghibli movies, I love it.

[@PrograError]

I kept coming back to the soundtracks of inazuma especially the shogun's (tho Fischl's midsummer realm hits~ Hard... just like grant's impression of it)

[@Snappukingu]

Can't wait to see you to listen to Tsurumi Island and Enkanomiya's OST.

[@cris5383]

Specially Tsurumi Island.... One of my favorites, and a very underrated one

[@panjimartiandaru3081]

Oh gosh, Tsurumi Island OST.... My favorites, even if it makes my depression worse. I try not to listen to those too often, or when I'm at my best condition.

[@alexissaldivar209]

Marco's interpretation is always so on point with the story. Its always incredible how much emotion and info you can transmit with music, and when I see Marco getting it the first time, It grows my admiration for him and the work of Yu-peng Chen

[@mannakallat2894]

Your reaction to getting to Inazuma the first time was Exactly the same as mine. 😂 I hope you enjoy it! There's Quite a bit to it but that's what makes it so exciting

[@IgnoredAdviceProductions]

I had a big goofy grin the first day I played lol, I don't know what it is about Inazuma that makes it so much more interesting. Sumeru is nice, but it doesn't really come anywhere close to the Inazuma release

[@mannakallat2894]

@@IgnoredAdviceProductions I think it was because at the time Genshin was still relatively "new" and a majority of people's expectations of where it would go were so high and positive. As time went on and we got to Sumeru, public reception started mellowing out or turning bitter due to how slow paced and casual (imo) Genshin is. There's also the Japan=familiar factor for a lot of anime enjoyers versus Sumeru's Egypt and Middle East. I think those two things contribute a lot in general, though I could be off since I prioritize enjoying genshin within a small circle and rarely look at what other people think.

[@IgnoredAdviceProductions]

@@mannakallat2894 Perhaps it is because of it being the first new nation being added, but I don't know. It's just a feeling, which is why it's frustrating, I can't explain it logically.

[@EthNet34756]

just started playing two months ago and now i finally made it there too. currently my favorite zone cause everything isn't 50 miles apart

[@leontran1852]

Just an island apart my friend, nothing far….

[@lupinusaria2316]

Oh hey! Anby!

[@boeman6702]

That is until theyre on an island far away and theres no port nearby

[@trashraccoon2635]

as someone who also started playing not too long ago, i advise you to just quickly unlock as many waypoints in inazuma as possible. it's fine to travel around in one island but once you have to get to other islands...

[@synthesissixtyfive22]

@@beigehues sumeru is bets in terms of lores Like for real But everyone in there is high on drugs

[@SaraBearRawr0312]

For me, when the horns and trumpet come in I almost get a sense of the dark broody themes heard in old film noir, especially when it feels like the story is reminiscing about times gone by. While I'm unsure if that was the intent, I feel that it fits well in that interpretation because of Inazuma almost being like a sort of film noir itself - A story from long ago which is still ongoing.

[@mr.cheese9299]

Can't wait for you to explore inazuma, it is quite an experience!

[@riotangel4701]

You're right. Artifact domains are the most terrifying thing in all gaming.

[@zamboozle3741]

You nailed it with the drums on Raiden. She's based off of the japanese mythological figure Raijin, a demon born of Izanami who controls the thunder through the use of his drums, so that sound in Inazuma's music is absolutely a motif for her.

[@Nokyyyyy]

"The land of her serenity" is probably one of my favourite genshin music. It's so quiet and fluffy, as well as melancholic, like a cloudy dream (That's the night theme)

[@pleasantsnail]

I just wanna add that at 7:50 the faster cascade sounds like something is brewing, a revolt against the main theme. Then when the main comes back gentler but with the faster melody quieter intersecting it, it feels like the Raiden shogun is the main person, restful in her position, but the revolution is starting behind her back

[@xenon6911]

i've commented this before, but there is something hauntingly nostalgic about the inazuma theme that just brings a tear to the eye... even when i have no heritage/cultural connection present its quite a stark contrast to the "hostility" in your interpretation

[@elizabethsmith7224]

Same I'm not chinese but Liyue felt like home to me immediately so bright and friendly. I'm from the southern U.S and the bright music, the food it just really gave me a you're home vibe.

[@johambastion4938]

I've always thought of this song as the musical form of endless and eternal progress, especially near the end.

[@geosustento8894]

The first two notes of Inazuma's theme (its most recognizable and the ones that last longer than thr rest of the notes) also sound oddly similar to the first three notes from the Raiden Shogun's theme. In fact, the Shogun's theme (at least the first half) sounds like a direct response to Inazuma's theme.

[@iamhumanOWO]

4:45 Fallen leaves... *Inner Kazuha* : ADORN MY MIGHT

[@sanctus9857]

When I first arrived at Inazuma, my jaw dropped. This theme is just sublime, so glad you've finally made it!

[@itssoccermom]

Inazuma is my favorite piece of music in the entire game, and honestly one of my favorite pieces of music in general. The elegance and tension that it is able to convey whilst using native Japanese instruments combined with an orchestra is so beautiful. Even though the song is only just about over a year old, the amount of nostalgia I get from hearing it now is overwhelming. I will never forget this song.

[@Rina_TL]

I can't wait for you to go to the Grand Narukami Shrine, the melody that plays there is amazing, and Duel in the Mist is still my favourite battle theme even though I absolutely adore the Sumeru's ones too.

[@geosustento8894]

Me, watching Marco's face as he takes in the music: sir, this is a family-friendly channel. LOL

[@MarcoMeatball]

😂

[@PrograError]

KZbin: we get it...

[@spiderdude2099]

Inazuma is definitely a land of sublime beauty but also sublime sorrow. Just WAIT until you get to tsurumi island osts.

[@rtstallion1847]

Just a heads up: the koto is the instrument that opened the piece. The drums are actually called Taiko Drums. I am not Japanese, but their traditional instruments are definitely among my favorites. Also I believe the flute you talked about is called a shakuhachi

[@talamioros]

Shakuhachi

[@rtstallion1847]

@@talamioros ah yes thank you

[@MarcoMeatball]

Yup thank you!

[@emilliovitelli2176]

I absolutely love the melody of Inazuma and you had the same way of describing it (especially the French horn), gorgeous. I hope you make a sort of part 2 or revisiting La Signora once you reach that part of the story. I'd recommend the album release version as it is much higher quality than the in game rip that most people posted last year. Love the videos, Marco.

[@rinadesu962]

Wait, there was an album release for La Signora? Which album again? As I never actually heard it anywhere :( been looking for it

[@emilliovitelli2176]

@@rinadesu962 It's in the album with Watatsumi island, Seirai Island, Tsurumi Island, and Enkanomiya. It's called Islands of the Lost and Forgotten, and the battle themes are on disc 3

[@rinadesu962]

@@emilliovitelli2176 kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4Wuk6GHl5mghdU Dude.. I wanna say, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA I swesr I'd went through the whole album on Spotify previously but I don't remember listening to it 😭 thanks again man, greatly appreciated it!!!

[@benjamincastro7091]

Man, Hiroyuki Sawano, Kevin Penkin and Yu-Peng Chen are my top 3 favorite composers of all time. Their music is full of so many emotions and ideas, and the performers are all so talented and passionate; it all comes together to bring life to all these absolutely beautiful pieces of art, I just really love their music and it always moves me.

[@vingvingduy1779]

Couldnt agree more with all 3 of them!

[@monadoboy9639]

seeing you so happy witht this music just fills my heart with joy thank you

[@scrappy_horns8139]

Yes I had the same emotions when i first stepped into Inazuma…the music blends so well with the location and the story making it much more powerful…

[@dzintars8034]

Listening to you gush about inazuma really reminds me of how I was the same a year ago, when i took my first steps into inazuma I talked to the random npc's and just vibed to the music while learning about the land and admiring the scenery for hours just in Ritou Island alone the day it came out And it's the same how I am right now about the music in Sumeru, Genshin music is just on another level, I'm looking forward to more future music analysis videos :)

[@samsaumaralikhan]

The more i listen to this the more i realized its like a love letter. Like leaving something cause you're not gonna be there anymore

[@cameronium7027]

My man, i just stumbled accross your reaction videos. Music is the main reason why i love Genshin Impact, HoYo-Mix, but it seems because of difference in professions, usually if i want to express to my friends those analytics like yours, i always need a moment for some thoughts to come, while your words come out so fluent xD I love to join others' experience of music. I love your contents so far, you are very talented in sharing your passion

[@MarcoMeatball]

🥰 it’s my pleasure. Thank you for being here.

[@thanhnguyenduc2867]

Keep going Marco,you soon to get your heart broke not one,not twice,it's three hits only in Inazuma. I don't wanna spoil it out,just let you experience the story in fullest.

[@f0cz.k4]

I am always impressed, that you can describe music like that. The Inazuma archon quest is basically all about dreams, hopes, aspirations and ambitions. You're amazing and keep up the great work!

[@thattrickytrickster612]

Inazuma is my favorite region in all of Genshin, even after the release of Sumeru. Purely because I fell in love with the sincere and quiet majesty of the region. Not just in it's aesthetic, but also in the music. You can tell this is a nation of serenity, a country of sophistication and beauty. Yes, it is also a very tragic and solemn area, but that adds to its entire identity. It really emphasizes that this elegant island nation will, like what Raiden said, will endure for all eternity.

[@RibeyeJohnny]

I would love to hear your analysis on Duel in the Mists, it's my favorite Inazuma battle theme (not counting bosses) There's also Sorrows of Strays which is one of the overworld themes of Tsurumi Island. I hope you do the questline there too so you can understand the meaning behind Ruu's Melody (another very good theme)

[@RuneFactoryFreak101]

Thanks for the great video and analysis Marco! I was in complete awe when I first listened to Inazuma's music. Its been a year but I still get tingles in me when I listen to Inazuma music!

[@NO-su3mf]

Ive been watching your channel for a while now. Music and video games have always been huge intrests for me and your channel has been an endless source of entertainment. Ive started to play genshin again recently and I gotta say, the effort hoyo puts into this games music is on another level and I'm so glad you cover it so much. Always look forward to your uploads. Keep up the phenominal work man.

[@MarcoMeatball]

Thank you so much

[@Luis-325]

I'm so glad you're covering this. The Inazuma theme is one of my favorites for basically all the things you just mentioned. It's hard to come by someone who can speak about Genshin's music (and all games in general) with so much passion.

[@gio87vr]

Dunno if they already said it in the comments, but the Sakoku-rei (isolation decree) was really enforced in Japan during the Tokugawa shogunate and lasted since 1635 until 1853, when the shogunate fell and the decree was lifted.

[@PrograError]

also the parallel of a outsider (Traveller-American Navy) forcing the opening but one of the outsider (Fatui- Dutch) was already doing diplomatic ties during the ban...

[@nmdvalkyrie2862]

@@PrograError I think the merchant from Fontaine more represented the Dutch than the Fatui, because as you can see when we first landed on Inazuma, there are more Fontainian merchant in Inazuma than other nation merchant, and they have more special right to build an outpost and a bit freedom to trade with Inazuma but still very limited to only trade within ritou Island. Just like how the dutch were the only western state that allowed to trade with the Tokugawa Shogunate but only allowed to trade within Hirado, Nagasaki. Also the Dutch weren't really have that mutch diplomatic ties with the Tokugawa Shogunate other than just a trade partner

[@saracchi1515]

Fabdom on, 1 or 2 years of Sakoku-rei in game: " AGHHHHHHHH NOOOOOOOOO BAD STUFF BAD STUFF! INAZUMA WILL FALL" Fandom on, 2 ficking centuries irl Sakoku-rei: Tis, fine.

[@gio87vr]

@@saracchi1515 Sadly true.

[@lockysigarlaki163]

oh damn, really? which tokugawa that started that?

[@hazxiii9657]

I always come here to listen to your talks and opinions on the music from Genshin because I just loved the music in this game.

[@aorinatha3442]

thx for the great content as always, cant wait till u react to watatsumi & tsurumi sountrack as well. its just sound so good :)

[@annalisehua]

I literally cried that one time I walked out of the Kamisato estate and into an unnamed area just between it and the forest, and Hanachirusato started playing. The simple beginning, so gentle, so touching, I wasn't able to find it again for so long since Inazuma just came out back then, and it took me ages to find it again. And man i used to spend so much time there. Now I just have it on loop on my phone

[@florensiuschristian6272]

since Inazuma based like Edo-period, it makes sense that going to the city already made u kinda feel goosebumps oh btw, road to 100k subs 👍

[@HenSt-gz7qj]

with the fatui as the black ship? or was it us?

[@sentience3033]

It’s both . Pre Inazuma archon quest is Edo period & post is Meiji era with the release of Ayato

[@synthesissixtyfive22]

@@sentience3033 yup

[@edgeoftheworld9505]

@@sentience3033 how do you that very detailed?

[@sentience3033]

@@edgeoftheworld9505 VHD is inspired by Tokugawa Shogunate which is happened in Edo period. Meiji era is when European or Western influences started to spread on Japan . Variety of people came (aka casts of Irodori festival) & also Ayato whose Suit is Japanese European mix .

[@PCVP4729]

“Inazuma” track is the one I requested on patreon many months ago so I’m very happy you finally made a breakdown of this. Looking forward to your journey further into Inazuma.

[@yukiteruyandere3563]

I thought to myself, when the tension starts to build up, it’s where Inazuma shows not only her contemplative and even dreamy side, but also her valor and pride, military glory even. Knowing a bit about the period in Japan’s history, from which hoyo took inspiration, I believe it makes a lot of sense! A secluded land, with a lot of mystery and even “otherworldliness” to it, which prides herself in her might and glory. But there’s also indeed lots of conflict, tension and scars from it. Great listening to all of this spectacular music with you, Marco! I find it super fun to look into the Genshin music, and explore lore-related things inside of it, heheee)

[@albroiser]

In my opinion this is where Hoyoverse goes crazy in music and specially creating leitmotifs. This here encapsulates what we are gonna witness in the Inazuma arch of our journey. Without any spoilers we have, beauty, melancholy, mistery, and the sounds of military/war. And yes Marco as you said you're gonna love hearing the leitmotifs of all the regions of Inazuma, and will be glad to know that characters starts to have their own here. Hope you have an amazing time exploring the land of thunder! But beware of the storm!

[@CelticBotansDigitalArt]

Inazuma's theme is such a treasure, I love it soooo much! It starts so soft and melancholic, it's like "the calm before the storm" sort of feeling; I also interpret it as all the ancient secrets and mysteries Inazuma's islands holds underneath its calm surface, all the turmoil in its history. And then it grows SO MAJESTIC, transitioning to a contained and disciplined kind of energy, but still a very powerful one! I love how this theme has all kinds of emotions going on, it's oppressive but also warm and welcoming, it's energetic yet melancholic. Mysterious and peaceful. Very complex and nuanced. I just love it, ahhh

[@poggersbks1e341]

I love how you see through the music and the messages it give I always admire your content sir Marcomeatball

[@MarcoMeatball]

❤️

[@lukeh419]

I love this so much! Such a powerful track that portrays the story of Inazuma better than any lore dump could, and it's a large part of the reason why I love video game music. It can tell a full story, through nothing but its instrumentation. I also want to thank YuPeng Chen and Hoyo-mix for actually using a full live orchestra. Genshin Impact perfectly encapsulates why using live musicians can elevate an already excellent score to new heights, as there is a breadth to the music that is too hard to replicate with digital orchestration alone. It definitely isn't easy, and it's a hell of a lot more expensive to do, but man does it produce some jaw dropping soundscapes.

[@Eli-422]

Guards of a Precious Chest in Mondstadt/Liyue: A group of hilichurls, maybe has one or 2 mitachurls Guards of a Common Chest in Inazuma: 2 Swordmasters with volatile elemental synergy and gains an enraged second wind when one falls

[@Koutouhara]

The bamboo flute at the beginning is a shakuhachi, a wonderful sound to convey wistful fleeting sadness and loneliness. there are a lot of kinds to get different pitches. The drums are taiko with the bigger deep sounding one being an odaiko, it really does have that presence that you can't ignore. Taiko is physically demanding to play as well so it is a very respected instrument! and the koto is actually the string instrument playing around 5:30, it's an amazing kind of instrument in the way they actually like bow the strings by hand to change the sound on the spot ^^ There are also some shamisen in the background but they are not really featured in this particular piece, also a wild instrument to see played

[@Koutouhara]

the beginning of the song, also has the sound of mystery in it for me too.

[@MarcoMeatball]

Thank you for correcting me it means a lot!!!

[@glacialfoxx7361]

Seeing your reaction on stream was great. 😂 it was a perfect reaction to the build up for the moment. 😊 Also always excited to see your musical breakdown/reactions, and Inazuma has a bunch I know you’ll love!

[@Blitz_Spencer]

7:31 I felt like I should just clarify. The instrument we hear here is actually a Flugelhorn, not a French Horn! It’s essentially a much darker, smoother trumpet, and sounds absolutely gorgeous as a solo instrument. (And brownie points if you know that the solo trumpet after the flugelhorn is actually a piccolo trumpet :P)

[@MarcoMeatball]

thanks for this comment Spencer!

[@synthesissixtyfive22]

Man! Inazuma was such a ride I get immense nostalgia when I heard it's track

[@Nonnominon]

Inazuma songs (specifically this one) has vibes of this great country, beautiful with mysteries and history. The song goes on it gives off the sense of how powerful (and scary) this place more specifically the Shogun can be, with beauty and power she rules this lands. Then underneath that you have that oppressed and constricted freedom, sorrow and pain you can feel from the song, showing that this place may be beautiful and a like, but that doesn't mean its a utopia. that's what I felt hearing this song for the first time XD Anyway a great analysis as always Marco!

[@panjimartiandaru3081]

The first time I heard the Inazuma music, I'm struck with despite how grandeur and sweet it is, there's loneliness and sadness concealed behind the notes. Grandeur, yet mournful at the same time. Wishful and melancholic.

[@lacunaheart1883]

i love your analysis!! i feel like it makes me appreciate the music even more and really make me think about the soundtracks!!

[@MarcoMeatball]

[@Kasraken]

I love hearing your commentary on Genshin music, thank you!

[@itsdioandn]

It's amazing that not only the incorporation of various instruments and leitmotifs, but it's that each region is thematic. Without spilling any spoilers, each region sounds the way it is because it's what the region's overall feelings/heart is about.

[@blazingmonolith4323]

This is my favorite music in all of Genshin. The segment that begins at 6:06 is one of those parts that makes me imagine rain drops falling on a pond, sort of the beginning of the storm.

[@potato1674]

When you were talking about hopes and dreams being suspended of some sort I loved your thoughts on it and I hope the Inazuma storyline will bring you much much joy Genshin music has a way of moving me emotionally like close to no other

[@xeruexe1624]

I was on edge when I got to Rito Village, and I was never really into the people of Inazuma, especially as immediately upon entering you get to see the corruption and red tape inherent in the government for the first time ever in Teyvat. Even I was really skeptical of Thoma, who I just called "Alolan Childe". Because of that the first parts of Inazuma really just passed me by. That's why I really appreciate this analysis because I thought "Huh, didn't think of that." What really got me into Inazuma though was one of the first character quests there, and it was just breath-taking. I can't wait for you to get to that part, and I hope you do a video about it too.

[@Kishisuke]

Say what u guys want but inazuma ost and its overall scenary is my most fav so far Sumeru is gorgeous i wont deny it but inazuma has a special place in my heart like when i m in other nation i yearn to go home back in inazuma In a year it made me feel like i belong there and cant stop thinking bout that place like kazuha idle animation says "wherever i go, i carry memories of my home"

[@GrimMeowning]

Inazuma shines eternal!

[@zeromailss]

It is amazing how the Archon of each nation have such a significant impact on every aspect of the nation that they are in and they were represented so well through the lore, the culture, the temperament of the people, and of course, the music In Mondstat you feel the easygoing vibe that the people have and although Barbatos the Anemo archon was often mentioned and revered, most of the time it was for his past deeds and contribution and rarely about his presence in the present times. Even when Dvalin was running amok no one (as far as I'm aware of) was looking for him to ask for help to solve the problem or protection but instead the Knight of Favonious and basically the government and the people try to do something about it themselves (Although Venti end up helping it was not with his real identity) In Liyue the city is prosperous and bustling, the people have unconditional trust in the Geo Archon and wholeheartedly follow his rule. Although the Geo Archon spends most of his time incognito and lives among the people similar to Venti but unlike him, Zhongli is still the head of the state and rules the people as a leader. He appears once a year to give out his decree and The people probably never expect nor hope that his reign would ever end but alas, nothing last forever. (No spoiler) In Inazuma, The Electro Archon rule with an iron fist, and the people who disagree have to fight with their lives on the line. Although she protects them from any foreign threat and monsters, she cannot allow the people to have freedom in her reign for she only long for a never-changing eternity. The contrast in the 3 regions so far has been very interesting and I love it so much.

[@MarcoMeatball]

Great point!

[@ExecutorArtaris]

ohohoho welcome to inazuma, also, be ready, Tsurumi Island has the best OST all of inazuma, any time Fading Memories play, i just stand around and listen to it, it's soo good

[@xingwang9246]

I'm not a professional musician and had never received any music education but I can still easily catch the emotional message that this song is trying to express. At 3:34 I can feel the sadness and the powerlessness in that 'sigh' like flow and it made me want to cry for whatever happened to the creator of this song (in games lore of course)

[@nat_sukashii]

Can't wait to see you react to major events in Inazuma!

[@danielm5535]

I would love to see your take on the themes from Tsurumi Island (a later-accessible area)- it’s an abandoned pre-Inazuma civilization- it plays out the lore of the Thundering Fury artifact set. One theme is heart-wrenchingly desolate and another is of such innocent joy.

[@LupusRegina22]

Funny thing: i have that song as my alarm clock and every time i'm in inazuma and hear that music at the first moment i think "oh shit i forgot something or i have to to something" and thats always such a shock moment.

[@zeromailss]

bad move, no matter how good alarm music is, you will unintentionally correlate the song with the feeling you have at the moment of hearing them. In the case of Alarm music, you probably don't feel too good because it disturbs your sleep and reminds you of the thing you have to do which isn't necessarily what you want to do This is why I usually use a basic ringtone as my alarm then I will open youtube to watch some harmless fun video then I will play Genshin music while I cook/shower/eat where my emotion is already stable enough as it helps bring me comfort and make me at ease

[@constabrielbell4523]

Changw your alarm dude, you’ll come to hate the song.

[@LupusRegina22]

@@constabrielbell4523 😂 i think im kind of weird with that but i love that song and still love it but i also can hear one song in repeat for weeks so i think that it's just me

[@DianitaSan05]

You’re so right regarding leí motives. I think the video “Teyvat chapter storyline” contains leí motives of each region.

[@GwiYeoMi]

So excited to watch you explore more of this region Marco! Inazuma is without question my favorite region in the sense of integrating geography and lore together. Without spoiling anything plotwise, Inazuma's a nation that's gone through an incredible amount oftrauma, to the extent that you can literally see it on almost every single island, so you're definitely on point about the sadness. Playing through the region, every island had storylines that made me cry multiple times :D

[@henrychan4870]

Looking forward to see more of your live reaction to Inazuma's themes, especially battle theme！

[@zangy3748]

I don't know why but I love how this Inazuma music sets me into a meditative state. It lets me focus and relax at the same time. It puts me in a state of mind that lets me see everything like I'm in a 3rd person view seeing myself reflecting on my own thoughts. It's such a great tune to sit silently, drinking tea and just enjoying the small things not being bothered by anything. I love this music because it literally halts the turmoil in my head and gives me a moment of inner peace.

[@namba3886]

Inazuma has my favorite city theme, the buildup and climax is just so amazong

[@anni8541]

Thank you for your analysis of the osts Marco!! I learn a lot each video and I find it very fascinating. I don’t know much about music but you make it very enjoyable to learn :)

[@jonson856]

11:53 this always makes me think of a Samurai running along the shore line

[@rainerfrickanisce2485]

The drums perfectly encapsulate the nickname Inazuma holds in some parts of the game: The Land of Thunder and Eternity.

[@RafidW9]

One other thing about this track is the use of leitmotif over and over again also represents eternity, as Inazuma is the nation of eternity.

[@0xVENx0]

cant belive soon enough u will actually react to all the raw music INGAME, youve come a long way well done :D

[@mooniestar91]

Inazuma is beautiful, terrifying, peaceful, nostalgic, serene and tragic all the same time ! Please check the boss themes and fighting themes to see the dynamic of strength, discipline, danger and power. Most of them have a shamisen as the main or secondary instrument, and it can mark so well the speed up of the songs, as well the taiko drums.

[@JB_Yu]

Inazuma OST is by far my favourite! Don't know why but it always brings me to tears. Also when I listen to it I keep seeing the lone warrior, injured just after battle, holding his blade. And yet he realizes that he will be swept into another bloodbath any moment again. Even the elements seem to be against him as storm rages on, thunder claps and lightning is the only source of light for him to see. Yet the most difficult battle is the one with himself - all the regrets, different choices he could have made, and consequences of choices he had already made are haunting him. Regardless of festivities that are going around, ordinary lifes - maybe some choose to ignore their inner doubts, maybe some have no capacity for it. But then again, he wishes was like them as, partake in mundane traditions, enjoy everyday pleasures - simplier transitory life is easier without inner burdens. Now that I think of it sounds like Raiden Shogun tbh, Hoyomix captured it perfectly.

[@Nitsuj293]

Thrown into the eye of the storm there is surface level peace

[@tommynobaka]

For me, Inazuma is a reflection of Ei's thought process for the idea of eternity. The beginning is very somber, beautiful, but sad. Like Marco says, its descending. This is Ei enjoying life and then slowly losing her closest friends and family. Towards the middle, the pensiveness and aspirational dreams is EI thinking about what to do next with losing everyone and continuing to rule and enforce eternity. At this point she is angry, bitter, afraid and alone. Reaching the climax, Ei has now understood eternity is a necessary evil to enforce stagnation that preserves everything and loses nothing. There is a conflict of emotion here, like she's insecure about her decisions but having made them anyway. Then at the end of the song, she realizes her decision and is wrong but it's her life now and this is eternity. She is thunder, powerful, beautiful, deadly. The tensions in the end is a reflection of power in electro, life giving but also extremely volatile.

[@butterknight1236]

I love how Hoyoverse uses local instruments to the represented regions

[@nyanyan7030]

i really love to see your reaction in 10:42 because it's perfectly match with the music! 💕💕💕

[@karlamendezquezada5862]

He really feels the soundtrack like me Inazuma is one of my favorite soundtracks