I didn't mean it in a depressing way! I think hope itself is rewarding. Doing something with hope will be more enjoyable than doing something without it, and more likely to succeed, regardless of whether you actually do succeed in the end.
I guess the twins knew at that point they fucked up as well as NieR and they tried to correct the mistake. Imagine being thousands of years old and undefeated by most threats thrown at you - they overestimated their powers and underestimated the strength on NieR's side. I doubt they directly tried t ostop them if the Twins were aware how powerful NieR, Kaine, Emil and Weiss really are.
@@astrisperspecto4130 couldn't imagine how tiring it is for them ( well they're androids but still ).Their whole plan are coming to an end and yet they failed their mission at the very last phase, resulting in the extinction of humanity and getting themselves humiliated till nier automata. A very unfortunate ending for both of them.
@@callisto55 not only. Humiliated - hunted down. Prior to the first second machine war, other androids were ordered to destroy any Popola and Devola type they come across. It's very likely that the ones in Automata are the last of their kind. I also bet, that the entire project Gestalt was doomed to fail to begin with: the shades were inherently flawed by being too weak to withstand UV light and since they're pure emotion and thought, they had zero chance to block those out and had to give in. And the replicants? Similar issue, linking both together was a huge mistake. The parameters to reintroduce the soul and body again should also have been different but: we can talk with the knowledge of future past.
@@astrisperspecto4130the Replicants became people in their own right. How could you put someone else’s soul into another living being? And yeah that’s kind of the whole Shadowlord/Yonah situation you learn about in-game but man. Thinking about it hurts.
@@MalzraAirwynn I think she just realized she lost the most precious thing she had. And going by what Devola said about the world being too lonely, Popola even chooses to self-destruct trying to perform her duty. Maybe that was intentional? Because "no one stops" means she needs a reason to fight and not exist.
@@faizandilawar4491 I get what's going on in the scene. It's just a bit hard to feel sorry for her when Nier is begging them to stop throughout the fight and really doesn't want to fight them. Devola and Popola both knew it would only end with their deaths or his.
@@MalzraAirwynn they had no other choice. Both had a chance to avoid all of that once Nier came to them with Grimoire Weiss for the first time - taking it from him or shifting the tale that they need to study the book and notes he collected. They knew the real deal about the spellbooks. But they grew too attached to the Replicants. They also grew too distached from their original purpose, to watch and secure Replicants *and* shades.
My wife and I have been slowly going through your videos on the NieR OST. She's a classically trained musician, and I'm a huge fan of NieR, so it's really refreshing to watch someone who is not only analyzing the music, but relating it heavily to the game and its storytelling.
I saw a headcanon/theory on tumblr that Song of the Ancients is a sort of lullaby used to guide the Gestalt souls into the body of the Replicants and the twins would sing the song during the ritual.
When I was seventeen, I considered myself a far better driver than I rationally should have. I incurred a reality check one night when I took a turn too wide and too wild, crashed through a fence, down a ravine, and into a lake. I don't care for Popola's evil laugh either, but I could make the argument that it is born of lunacy. Because in that moment when I found myself in such an absurd circumstance, all I could do while my car sunk was laugh, after finding myself in such an unfavorable position. One could argue, why does she sound malicious? And maybe she has a hatred towards her fate, which has bound her to live her life in such unfavorable circumstances. I love your videos. Nier music is special. Even with no context, it can bring me to tears. Hearing smart analysis from someone who is so much more knowledgeable about the complexity of music than I am makes me appreciate the genius at play in the songs all the more. Thank you for enriching my experiences with these songs. Thank you for the videos. 🎉
The Devola version makes me so calm. Whenever I'm going through some chaotic moments, I simply turn this on, which makes my thought process very clear 😊
You're right! I totally agree with that read, they're very plaintive. More of that Ab-into-G business. Thank you so much for your support! That will be a bittersweet day indeed.
I was having hard anxiety attack, normally I tank it and just take it but it was so strong and so consistent that i imagined the boss fight scene and instead of the scream of, nobody stops, internally i screamed make it stop and the song came into my mind and I was able to calm
"Query: Why do the androids Devola and Popola seem to prefer death over surviving alone? There was a very high probability that at least one could have escaped." "I..." "..." "I hope you never have to understand."
I've cried most of the game, but I actually sobbed when the original Song of the Ancients played in the final battle with Popola. I could barely see, it hurt too much even after playing through it 4 times. It's like you said; after this, the song will never mean the same again. Love your videos!!
i was on the verge of tearing up on the 2nd playthrough just after Popola and Devola's fight with one of Emil's memories... like...holy sh*t, a game must be damn special to make me cry. Yes, both songs give me an instant knot in my throat
There are not a lot of songs that make me feel literal goosebumps, but the "Fate" version of this just does that. It's incredible, one of the best songs in the industry, but if you play the game, the then thing just hit you like a emotional train. Great analysis, especially the mix between music theory, and usage in the context of the game.
The fact that I've been ugly crying for the entire duration of this video because that just how much I love this song and the story behind it. Thank you once again Jonathan for delivering great content.
I'm not very musically nor literarily trained so I can't articulate well enough the amount of joy these analysis videos bring me. Thank you so much for the detailed work you put into not only the music analysis but also the animations and scripts for these videos; each time I come away from them having learned something new and valuable.
The best task reward in the game is when Popola and Devola sing together at the Tavern. I ended up putting the controller down because I was listening to them for so long; the song is just so beautiful.
12:50 Thatnks to that I noticed a neat parallel between the two games. While Gestalt/Replicant's story is really personal, but has big global consequences, Automata's has its big stakes pushed in the front, but ulimately ends up being emotional and about the people in it.
I found this while looking for the cover of all Nier's songs. It is rare to see someone professionally comment and create a video specifically for this. I really like it how you elaborate all the nier song. Thank you.. now.. let me just cry in the corner
I think I speak for everyone when I say that the first time I played the game and walked near Devola singing, I stopped and listened all throughout the performance. It really captivates your attention as if you were hypnotized. And knowing the background and meaning/weight of the song, it is very fitting. Either way you see it, if you are Nier (a replicant) or a human playing the game, being captivated by such song could be seen as a lost connection with the old world and the fate of it, involving of humanity and replicants. As if our soul recognizes something familiar. A song that captivates you as an instinctive reaction that was hidden deep within each and every individual. A song that represents the hope, sadness, and despair of the World from past, present to Future. A song that resonates with everyone that listens to it. Great video. Love how you add music theory as well as philosophical concepts, it really ties very well with understanding and analyzing the song. Thank you for yet another excellent video. Note: 22:03 such a good Quote!
Oooh "as if our soul recognizes something familiar," that really resonates with me somehow. I think that applies so well to a lot of the soundtrack, but yes, especially "Song of the Ancients." I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
20:28 the swap from Fate to Devola just never fails to double my goosebumps (that were already triggered a dozen time through Fate) and to make me feel like I've been stabbed in the chest.
So like, I found your channel yesterday, watched Snow in Summer, Shadowlord and Grandma and said to myself “okay then, that’s enough suffering for a morning or day… or week or month” just for you to upload more NieR the very next day ahhh
This theme and Kainé’s have become some of my go-to lullabies. It’s weird to think how much more peaceful life was when I played this game for the first time - that I had enough energy to volunteer myself to this level of tragedy. You have quite a way with words. Everything you said about the fight at the end shook me to my core. God, that final, wretched scream. “No one _STOOOOOOPS!!”_ Absolutely disemboweling.
i love the new part they added to devola's version in-game, too bad it's not in the official version as well. used to spend hours next to devola to hear her sing
21:15 "I consider Song of the Ancients to be a hopeful song." Honestly, I would be hard-pressed to think of a less hopeful song in literally any form of media ever. Somehow, that's why it's beautiful
Congrats on the sponsor!! The Emil shop theme was a good touch. (': Thanks as always for videos that are both interesting, informative...and also make me tear up a bit.
I hope this channel blows up because the effort and level of analysis here is incredible. It's helped me appreciate music which was already so incredibly moving and important even more and takes me through all the emotions all over again. I also spied the music of Kingdom Hearts on your channel too. Good stuff, man and looking forward to more of your content.
A channel properly analyzing some of the most incredible gaming music to exist? You get a hefty like and subscribe. Also I gotta say...the goosebumps I felt hearing the main vocals of Song of the Ancients play towards the end in Nier:Automata when the twins save you. That was legitimately one of the most powerful hits of nostalgia and realizations I've had in a game, and both Niers were already full of moments that took my breathe away. This series and its music are truly special
YES YES YESSSS!!! first of all CONGRATS FOR THE SPONSOR!! I highly anticipated this video and as always you didn't disappoint! It's beautifully structured and edited so nicely- you're really awesome. I got chills at 13:13 : even without the context of nier replicant, I always felt that SOTA: Atonement sounds disjointed, with the instrumental base hammering a sense of danger, frenzy and immediate action while the vocal duo peacefully sings together. It's almost as if they were ignoring the context they're in, as if the rest of world was just not as important. They are the only thing that matters, and they harmonize beautifully one with another as if they existed in a peaceful bubble, careless of the noise and chaos outside. While it's in smaller scale, I feel that this duality of the track is found in Fate as well (I prefer the original track for that, but the 1.22 version sounds really REALLY great on its own. I just felt it was a bit too flourished for the occasion, unlike the raw og tracks) Also the analysis that starts at 17:56 is just brilliant. I love when you deconstruct a musical track, explain why stuff works and then put it back piece by piece because everything just makes much more sense, but this segment feels like a good tl;dr! it goes straight to the point and you have enough time to read everything and understand, albeit more roughly, everything that you're simultaneously hearing. I think it's an awesome escamotage you found to deliver the info you wanted to discuss while not investing too much time on it. Love it Overall this is another amazing video, mr Barouch!! Thank you so much for all the love and care you put into these, it really shows in the final product. Can't wait for your next upload!
Thank you Elena! I like that reflection on (Atonement). It feels similar to how Devola & Popola are out of place and off to the side in Automata. I'm glad the text analysis worked! I feel like every track has asked me to try something new, and that's definitely what was new this time. It's definitely not perfect, but like you said I think it was a good balance since I didn't want to go back to the classroom that late in the video. Aaaand you just taught me a word that is technically in my native tongue, so thanks for that! Thanks so much for your continuing and thorough support!
Devola's theme playing after the midpoint of the fight absolutely broke me. And every subsequent route after, whenever I'd return to the village and hear it playing, I'd still hear Popola shouting in my mind.
I found these last night and have been absolutely bingeing them since. I just recently finished Replicant and loved the music but this gave me such a deeper level of adoration for it. Plus these essays all end in such a strong fashion that they truly leave an impression. I can't wait for more of your work!
I'm classical musician and a huuuuuge fan of Nier Replicant . I was very surprised that someone analyzed ost of Nier replicant like professional music theorist and grateful to you for your work! Im looking forward to your next videos!😊
Just found your channel after learning the entire history of Nier/Drakengaurd and holy hell what a ride it has been. It’s great to see more music oriented RUclipsrs take a crack at game soundtracks. Keep at it
RUclips randomly recommended me this video and I never seen any of your other videos but let me say that this was just perfect. I played through both games and I was just addicted to the music ever since. You explained the emotions in these pieces very well. Thanks, that's a sub from me.
I know you were focusing more on the original songs and not the 1.22 versions, but it’s worth pointing out that the 1.22 Devola version and Popola Version have extra lyrics that aren’t in the original. The first time I actually sat down and listened to the new versions I had to stop and rewind so I could hear the new lyrics again as I wasn’t expecting them. I think the new lyrics add a bit of longing to the feel of the song. Love your content and it will be cool to see your channel become so big that it will be hard to keep up with the comments.
I replied to this, but RUclips yeeted it into the ether, so sorry if this is a repeat. I agree with your take on the extension at the end! Simple yet effective - more of that Ab-into-G goodness. Thank you for your support! That will indeed be a bittersweet day.
Oh my god yes! I have been hoping and waiting for you to do a video on my favorite song in all of gaming. It's amazing how many different emotions this song can evoke just by changing the style/tempo/instrumentation. Thank you!
Why I didn't discover this channel before? The words choosed for describe and explain were so good with all of this splendid music in background that I almost cry. I wanna see EVERY video of this channel now.
16:52 THANK YOU for mentioning this I get sooo emotional every time I hear that part. My initial understanding of this part was a sense of hesitation from Nier and the party, maybe that what they're doing is wrong, maybe that they should stop, maybe that this is all crazy and they're trying to make sense of it and seeing the faces of devola and popola at that instance, singing, halts their fight. But then the rest of the instruments resume.. and they don't stop edit: it's actually an entire minute worth of that go to the original Replicant/Gestalt ver, it goes from 2:46 to 3:46 , an absolutely beautiful, tragic, moment
Congrats on the sponsorship. I won't lie about not having watched every video, but when I get the chance to watch them they're always a pleasant departure from the usual for me, and though I'm already familiar with the story of the games, it's still nice to hear it through the filter you provide. Besides, some of the subtle jokes you make... "In NieR:Automata, we're meant to feel the Weight of the World" (this one was really good, even if it wasn't intentional)... would be funny in any case. I hope you get to make many more, for games both familiar and unfamiliar.
Thank you so much! Even if you had only watched this one, that's more than enough. I don't even know if I would call that one in particular a joke, it just felt like wording it any other way would be almost disrespectful lol
Regarding Devola’s evil laugh, perhaps she, as the more empathic of the twins, does care for Nier and hope he might defeat them, despite that being against her directives. Thus, she tries to play the role of antagonist, to lessen the pain of her and her sister’s deaths as much as she can. If they win, they accomplish their directives. If nier wins, one of their sons gets to move onwards. Either way, they gain something and lose something. In contrast, popular is the more pragmatic of the twins, and only cares about Devola and her directives, hence truly taking her gloves off when half of her reason for living was snuffed out.
Thank you so much for this wonderful video. It helps me to understand, what im hearing and feeling. It gives me a wider horizon of this emotional composition. ❤
I really love your recent videos about the Nier OST! The Soundtrack and Story will always bring me to tears and that is especially true for song of the ancients, which has never really left my mind since I played Nier the first time. I thank you so much for this
At the risk of echoing other comments on the video, I really like the explanation behind what makes the 'Song of the Ancients' work. Admittedly I don't have a firm grasp of music theory, but the explanation of the context behind certain choices in the music made me appreciate the piece even more. Great job!
If I knew I'd get this emotional and invested into a video today.... Just discovered your channel and it already became one of my absolute favorites.... Good job man, really.
Despite knowing almost nothing about music and composing, I can tell you managed to deliver an excellent analysis accompanied with great storytelling! I was almost brought to tears again by watching the vid. I didn’t buy v1.22 because I know how lengthy the original was, I might give it a try sometime later. As for you, sir, you definitely got yourself a new sub.
Out of all the Nier soundtracks Song of the Ancients is my fave so I’m so happy I came across this video. I couldn’t help but sing along when you’re telling us to listen though, because I love it so much I HAVE to sing along 😂
man, I've been waiting for someone to dissect this one and my god did you ever do it justice, especially for the original. I definitely prefer the original soundtrack in general because, like you said yourself, it's more grounding and focuses more on what the story makes us feel. The remastered soundtrack is great music, but it doesn't fit the game as well. Song of the Ancients is one of those that hit harder than most songs, specifically because it's one of the most heard songs in the game, being in the village, where things are peaceful. The use of it during the fight against the sisters is both heartbreaking and beautiful. Your analysis of it perfectly tells how effective it is and why it hits us so hard. Thank you for sharing this with us
Song Of The Ancients is near the top of my favorite NieR songs list, I started with Automata, when Atonement started playing and Devola and Popola were fighting I fell in love with the song, and just continued to fight the machine lifeforms just to hear it. The when I went back and played Gestalt & walked over to Devola and first heard her playing it, I just stopped playing for a few moments and just listened to how beautiful it was, and learning the story behind song, and hearing the different version through out the game, adding more emotion to the scenes, made me love the song more and more.
I'm not a fan of the gameplay, so I never played them, but I've been listening to the soundtracks for years. Learning the context of these songs has been mind-blowing, and listening to them now feels so fresh and different, despite still being the same songs. Amazing videos dude.
*NieR* for me Really is a very rich story told in very rich ways ,Characters, plot, Messages ,and Music especially and you my friend just showed me a deeper level of that richness to my Favorite game, thank you for this video truly from bottom of my heart
Gosh. Your videos seem like my Ranking of Kings series but structurally but just impact so much more effectively and harder. I even here a similar texture added to your voice that I do when giving the last line or two of the video.
It is always a treat to watch your videos and just hear how much you enjoy breaking down this music. I'm glad you're getting the support you need to do this full time and make a good living for yourself. You even got sponsor number two. :) None of that is a surprise to me. I knew from the Snow in Summer video that this was going to be a great channel and it's been wonderful to watch it grow. You're doing a fantastic job, Jonathan. God bless you.💜 Also, Just Monaca. I see what you did there...and I get the strangest feeling you might cover that game sometime. Now I'm probably going to play Automata again, because just that small bit of Atonement made me think, "I haven't played this in almost a year. I need to play Automata as soon as possible!" Great video! I look forward to seeing what you do next. :)
Lilly you are so sweet, thank you! Hmm... a Doki Doki Lit Club video... interesting thoughts. The soundtrack certainly does some messed up things. Automata is SO good! Next video is probably "Fleeting Words," unless a HUGE upset hits the Patreon poll in the next *checks watch* 27 hours.
Jonathan, always there to bring back the suffering huh? I can understand how you can think of it as a "hopeful" song but my heart can't help but ache whenever I hear this melody I guess that's what NieR music in general does for a lot of us.. Anyway great video as always! I'll try to show up in your streams again when I find the time 🐙💜
Ohhh yeah, there's always heartache with NieR! I hinted at it in this video, but for me personally, almost every track in both OSTs is filled with yearning and loss for me; those two emotions specifically. Maybe even fear. Ugh, it's so good. We're all busy, but we'll always be happy to have you!
A comment for the algorithm. I can’t really add much to the conversation that hasn’t already been said. Great work Lord Barouch! I very much enjoy listening to you talk music things 😊
I love this song so much that I've memorized the lyrics even they aren't real. This song just has so much weight that I couldn't put into words before, but you've nailed it. I can't wait for more deep dives from this series.
I absolutely adore this video, when the Fate version starts with war drums and you expect a combat song to play you pace yourself for a fight, and then the vocals hit you like a truck and you're left in the same predicament as NieR I hope you can do Kainé and Fleeting Worlds soon. the later is my new favorite in the remastered soundtrack
Can i just say, your voices sounds as if youre from the game itself, its very pleasing to the ear just like 9s' voice. Also great content, ill be sure to look out for future videos
Whenever I hear this song or a lot of the songs from Nier games it puts tears in my eyes and idk why. Also, I never bothered to look into the remaster too much since I have the original already, but I didn't realize they actually remixed the music so much. I guess I''m buying the remaster to see the differences. Anyway, great analysis, you got a new sub
I've never heard the Atonement version of Song of The Ancient and im glad im able to listen to it today. The piece is so hype and epic, thanks for including it on this video otherwise i would've spent my life not knowing that it exist XD. I hope more people will recognize and come to this channel and enjoy this "Music Theory Class" XD Keep up the good work on the vids😁👍
Nier songs bring tear to my eyes and the music explainations makes me teary eyed because it shows all the relations and significance that was hidden from me until now.
I can't even count the times I spent idling around in an area, back in nier from 2010, just so I can finish listening to the song that was playing at the location. Good old times.
Very good video, I enjoyed it a lot and may have a shed a tear seeing Popola crying about Devola while the latter's Song of the Ancients starts playing T_T
19:46 "For many viewers this may be the most of 'song of the ancients /fate' you've ever heard" haha no been listening to it on the daily for years. It's my favorite version and possibly my top music out of the nier universe. Second is the piano collections version of "Grandma" and from 3rd on it's too difficult to decide.
"maybe the point of hope isint to make dreams come true, maybe its the just the blanket that keeps us warm while whe chase them" i have never heard something deep like this. damn.
Great video man like really it’s just amazing. It’s been a while since I finished this game but it’s always beautiful to see new videos on it popping on my homepage like there’s so much bout nier which could be analyzed and this game will probably forever have a special place in my heart and only watching this video hearing the song of the ancients again awoke really special emotions in me. Great work man ‼️
In regards to the chaos language and the lyrics in songs - I think that it's not meant to be understood, in any comprehensive level, like this word means flower, this means grimoire, this means moon, this means sun. It's more... hmm... if you listen to the lyrics, to the melody, what it makes you feel at any given moment? That is the meaning. Despair, hope, love, warmth, relief, the want to protect, the want to love, the want to explore. The desire to live.
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Waltz on over to Atlas VPN to grab it for $1.83/mo:
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You do know because you dropped Emil's theme for the sponsor, you have to analyze Emil's theme now right?
You really, really, really should do ashes of dreams. This version: ruclips.net/video/oGYmfC4sWi0/видео.html
@@Kev376 Noted! It's still a ways out but it's one of the more requested tracks so it's only a matter of time.
"Maybe the point of hope isn't to make dreams come true. Maybe it's just the blanket that keeps us warm while we chase them" WOW WHAT A QUOTE
The way that blindsided me while listening to this video I started tearing up like O OF
That sounds like pure hopelessness
Definitely going to use that quote one day
I didn't mean it in a depressing way! I think hope itself is rewarding. Doing something with hope will be more enjoyable than doing something without it, and more likely to succeed, regardless of whether you actually do succeed in the end.
@@JonathanBarouch I definitely took it that way! It was very moving
Putting Emil's shop theme behind the ad is a master stroke
I completely agree, I was laughing!
I had to go back and actually listen to the ad and, oh my god, it's so funny
Never before I listened to an ad, except now
I thought exactly the same. Wrote and posted the same comment before I actually saw this.
I was about to pretty much say the same thing. That really got me
"No matter what happens in this room, this family will be smaller" got me chills
I guess the twins knew at that point they fucked up as well as NieR and they tried to correct the mistake.
Imagine being thousands of years old and undefeated by most threats thrown at you - they overestimated their powers and underestimated the strength on NieR's side. I doubt they directly tried t ostop them if the Twins were aware how powerful NieR, Kaine, Emil and Weiss really are.
@@astrisperspecto4130 couldn't imagine how tiring it is for them ( well they're androids but still ).Their whole plan are coming to an end and yet they failed their mission at the very last phase, resulting in the extinction of humanity and getting themselves humiliated till nier automata. A very unfortunate ending for both of them.
@@callisto55 not only. Humiliated - hunted down. Prior to the first second machine war, other androids were ordered to destroy any Popola and Devola type they come across. It's very likely that the ones in Automata are the last of their kind.
I also bet, that the entire project Gestalt was doomed to fail to begin with: the shades were inherently flawed by being too weak to withstand UV light and since they're pure emotion and thought, they had zero chance to block those out and had to give in.
And the replicants? Similar issue, linking both together was a huge mistake.
The parameters to reintroduce the soul and body again should also have been different but: we can talk with the knowledge of future past.
@@astrisperspecto4130the Replicants became people in their own right. How could you put someone else’s soul into another living being? And yeah that’s kind of the whole Shadowlord/Yonah situation you learn about in-game but man. Thinking about it hurts.
The despair and anger in Popola's "NO ONE STOOOOPS" is heart wrenching
The delivery is great, but undercut slightly by Nier begging them to stop throughout the fight.
@@MalzraAirwynn I think she just realized she lost the most precious thing she had. And going by what Devola said about the world being too lonely, Popola even chooses to self-destruct trying to perform her duty. Maybe that was intentional? Because "no one stops" means she needs a reason to fight and not exist.
@@faizandilawar4491 I get what's going on in the scene. It's just a bit hard to feel sorry for her when Nier is begging them to stop throughout the fight and really doesn't want to fight them. Devola and Popola both knew it would only end with their deaths or his.
@@MalzraAirwynn they had no other choice. Both had a chance to avoid all of that once Nier came to them with Grimoire Weiss for the first time - taking it from him or shifting the tale that they need to study the book and notes he collected. They knew the real deal about the spellbooks.
But they grew too attached to the Replicants. They also grew too distached from their original purpose, to watch and secure Replicants *and* shades.
In the original, japanese voice, its a masterpiece...
In engrish dub, its an insult...
My wife and I have been slowly going through your videos on the NieR OST. She's a classically trained musician, and I'm a huge fan of NieR, so it's really refreshing to watch someone who is not only analyzing the music, but relating it heavily to the game and its storytelling.
Thank you so much! I genuinely love making these, so they won't be stopping anytime soon.
Yeah, love the story inclusion part.
I saw a headcanon/theory on tumblr that Song of the Ancients is a sort of lullaby used to guide the Gestalt souls into the body of the Replicants and the twins would sing the song during the ritual.
When I was seventeen, I considered myself a far better driver than I rationally should have. I incurred a reality check one night when I took a turn too wide and too wild, crashed through a fence, down a ravine, and into a lake. I don't care for Popola's evil laugh either, but I could make the argument that it is born of lunacy. Because in that moment when I found myself in such an absurd circumstance, all I could do while my car sunk was laugh, after finding myself in such an unfavorable position. One could argue, why does she sound malicious? And maybe she has a hatred towards her fate, which has bound her to live her life in such unfavorable circumstances.
I love your videos. Nier music is special. Even with no context, it can bring me to tears. Hearing smart analysis from someone who is so much more knowledgeable about the complexity of music than I am makes me appreciate the genius at play in the songs all the more. Thank you for enriching my experiences with these songs. Thank you for the videos. 🎉
I wish I'd seen this sooner! Thank you for sharing your story. I'm so glad it continues today!
Best part of the Devola and Popola boss fight is Popola doing her dance while Devola is fighting for her life...
And then she blamed us for killing Devola 😂 omg fr Popola?
"NOW you want to stop?" No Popola, Nier begged you to stop throughout the whole fight, you just ignored him.
Popola's a little unhinged
Actually you see them switching places many times throughout the fight
Devola dies, and Popola dances.
[People die, and Yuna dances.]
Popola's performing a sending.
The Devola version makes me so calm. Whenever I'm going through some chaotic moments, I simply turn this on, which makes my thought process very clear 😊
You're right! I totally agree with that read, they're very plaintive. More of that Ab-into-G business. Thank you so much for your support! That will be a bittersweet day indeed.
I was having hard anxiety attack, normally I tank it and just take it but it was so strong and so consistent that i imagined the boss fight scene and instead of the scream of, nobody stops, internally i screamed make it stop and the song came into my mind and I was able to calm
Same
"Query: Why do the androids Devola and Popola seem to prefer death over surviving alone? There was a very high probability that at least one could have escaped."
"I..."
"..."
"I hope you never have to understand."
I will never forgive Yoko Taro for this. The twins did nothing wrong.
I've cried most of the game, but I actually sobbed when the original Song of the Ancients played in the final battle with Popola. I could barely see, it hurt too much even after playing through it 4 times. It's like you said; after this, the song will never mean the same again.
Love your videos!!
i was on the verge of tearing up on the 2nd playthrough just after Popola and Devola's fight with one of Emil's memories...
like...holy sh*t, a game must be damn special to make me cry.
Yes, both songs give me an instant knot in my throat
There are not a lot of songs that make me feel literal goosebumps, but the "Fate" version of this just does that. It's incredible, one of the best songs in the industry, but if you play the game, the then thing just hit you like a emotional train.
Great analysis, especially the mix between music theory, and usage in the context of the game.
The fact that I've been ugly crying for the entire duration of this video because that just how much I love this song and the story behind it. Thank you once again Jonathan for delivering great content.
I'm not very musically nor literarily trained so I can't articulate well enough the amount of joy these analysis videos bring me. Thank you so much for the detailed work you put into not only the music analysis but also the animations and scripts for these videos; each time I come away from them having learned something new and valuable.
I think you articulated it very well! I'm really happy these videos can have that effect for you
The best task reward in the game is when Popola and Devola sing together at the Tavern. I ended up putting the controller down because I was listening to them for so long; the song is just so beautiful.
12:50 Thatnks to that I noticed a neat parallel between the two games. While Gestalt/Replicant's story is really personal, but has big global consequences, Automata's has its big stakes pushed in the front, but ulimately ends up being emotional and about the people in it.
I found this while looking for the cover of all Nier's songs. It is rare to see someone professionally comment and create a video specifically for this. I really like it how you elaborate all the nier song. Thank you.. now.. let me just cry in the corner
I have to admit. This is the first i haven't skipped an ad. Dat music just making me chuckle lol
I love how this is not only a look at the song but also an analysis on the twins themselves- both of which I love. Incredible video, thank you!
I think I speak for everyone when I say that the first time I played the game and walked near Devola singing, I stopped and listened all throughout the performance.
It really captivates your attention as if you were hypnotized. And knowing the background and meaning/weight of the song, it is very fitting. Either way you see it, if you are Nier (a replicant) or a human playing the game, being captivated by such song could be seen as a lost connection with the old world and the fate of it, involving of humanity and replicants. As if our soul recognizes something familiar. A song that captivates you as an instinctive reaction that was hidden deep within each and every individual. A song that represents the hope, sadness, and despair of the World from past, present to Future. A song that resonates with everyone that listens to it.
Great video. Love how you add music theory as well as philosophical concepts, it really ties very well with understanding and analyzing the song. Thank you for yet another excellent video.
Note: 22:03 such a good Quote!
Oooh "as if our soul recognizes something familiar," that really resonates with me somehow. I think that applies so well to a lot of the soundtrack, but yes, especially "Song of the Ancients." I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Yeah I totally listened to the whole thing the first time.
20:28 the swap from Fate to Devola just never fails to double my goosebumps (that were already triggered a dozen time through Fate) and to make me feel like I've been stabbed in the chest.
So like, I found your channel yesterday, watched Snow in Summer, Shadowlord and Grandma and said to myself “okay then, that’s enough suffering for a morning or day… or week or month” just for you to upload more NieR the very next day ahhh
I'm happy to have you, and very sorry. Don't worry, the next vid is probably a month out. But yes it will be NieR again. Suffering!
Despair, but that’s what we want after all
One of the best soundtracks for any game. Between this and the Celeste videos idk what could make your channel any better
This theme and Kainé’s have become some of my go-to lullabies. It’s weird to think how much more peaceful life was when I played this game for the first time - that I had enough energy to volunteer myself to this level of tragedy.
You have quite a way with words. Everything you said about the fight at the end shook me to my core.
God, that final, wretched scream. “No one _STOOOOOOPS!!”_ Absolutely disemboweling.
i love the new part they added to devola's version in-game, too bad it's not in the official version as well. used to spend hours next to devola to hear her sing
It is in the v.1.22... soundtrack! It's just that soundtrack isn't on Spotify for some reason. I agree, it's so simple but so pure
Man, you don't know how long I've been waiting for you to drop this video about my favorite song in the series. Thank you so much! This song saved me.
It's amazing to think I could provide something related to something so dearly important to you. Thank you!
21:15 "I consider Song of the Ancients to be a hopeful song." Honestly, I would be hard-pressed to think of a less hopeful song in literally any form of media ever. Somehow, that's why it's beautiful
Congrats on the sponsor!! The Emil shop theme was a good touch. (': Thanks as always for videos that are both interesting, informative...and also make me tear up a bit.
Everything I could ask for and more!
I hope this channel blows up because the effort and level of analysis here is incredible. It's helped me appreciate music which was already so incredibly moving and important even more and takes me through all the emotions all over again. I also spied the music of Kingdom Hearts on your channel too. Good stuff, man and looking forward to more of your content.
Thank you so much, that means a lot!
My hypothesis is that they changed it for v1.22 to more closely match the versions we hear in Nier:Automata.
A channel properly analyzing some of the most incredible gaming music to exist? You get a hefty like and subscribe. Also I gotta say...the goosebumps I felt hearing the main vocals of Song of the Ancients play towards the end in Nier:Automata when the twins save you. That was legitimately one of the most powerful hits of nostalgia and realizations I've had in a game, and both Niers were already full of moments that took my breathe away. This series and its music are truly special
YES YES YESSSS!!! first of all CONGRATS FOR THE SPONSOR!!
I highly anticipated this video and as always you didn't disappoint! It's beautifully structured and edited so nicely- you're really awesome.
I got chills at 13:13 : even without the context of nier replicant, I always felt that SOTA: Atonement sounds disjointed, with the instrumental base hammering a sense of danger, frenzy and immediate action while the vocal duo peacefully sings together. It's almost as if they were ignoring the context they're in, as if the rest of world was just not as important. They are the only thing that matters, and they harmonize beautifully one with another as if they existed in a peaceful bubble, careless of the noise and chaos outside. While it's in smaller scale, I feel that this duality of the track is found in Fate as well (I prefer the original track for that, but the 1.22 version sounds really REALLY great on its own. I just felt it was a bit too flourished for the occasion, unlike the raw og tracks)
Also the analysis that starts at 17:56 is just brilliant. I love when you deconstruct a musical track, explain why stuff works and then put it back piece by piece because everything just makes much more sense, but this segment feels like a good tl;dr! it goes straight to the point and you have enough time to read everything and understand, albeit more roughly, everything that you're simultaneously hearing. I think it's an awesome escamotage you found to deliver the info you wanted to discuss while not investing too much time on it. Love it
Overall this is another amazing video, mr Barouch!! Thank you so much for all the love and care you put into these, it really shows in the final product. Can't wait for your next upload!
Thank you Elena! I like that reflection on (Atonement). It feels similar to how Devola & Popola are out of place and off to the side in Automata.
I'm glad the text analysis worked! I feel like every track has asked me to try something new, and that's definitely what was new this time. It's definitely not perfect, but like you said I think it was a good balance since I didn't want to go back to the classroom that late in the video. Aaaand you just taught me a word that is technically in my native tongue, so thanks for that!
Thanks so much for your continuing and thorough support!
Song of the ancients is such a special song for me, it (Atonement) is the reason i even learnt about nier and eventually chose to play it.
Hearing they're theme from the beginning was wholesome, but when you hear it in the last fight.
*the pain* id cried cause i didn't wanna fight them.
Devola's theme playing after the midpoint of the fight absolutely broke me. And every subsequent route after, whenever I'd return to the village and hear it playing, I'd still hear Popola shouting in my mind.
🥺
I found these last night and have been absolutely bingeing them since. I just recently finished Replicant and loved the music but this gave me such a deeper level of adoration for it. Plus these essays all end in such a strong fashion that they truly leave an impression. I can't wait for more of your work!
I'm classical musician and a huuuuuge fan of Nier Replicant . I was very surprised that someone analyzed ost of Nier replicant like professional music theorist and grateful to you for your work! Im looking forward to your next videos!😊
Just found your channel after learning the entire history of Nier/Drakengaurd and holy hell what a ride it has been. It’s great to see more music oriented RUclipsrs take a crack at game soundtracks. Keep at it
RUclips randomly recommended me this video and I never seen any of your other videos but let me say that this was just perfect.
I played through both games and I was just addicted to the music ever since. You explained the emotions in these pieces very well.
Thanks, that's a sub from me.
I know you were focusing more on the original songs and not the 1.22 versions, but it’s worth pointing out that the 1.22 Devola version and Popola Version have extra lyrics that aren’t in the original. The first time I actually sat down and listened to the new versions I had to stop and rewind so I could hear the new lyrics again as I wasn’t expecting them. I think the new lyrics add a bit of longing to the feel of the song. Love your content and it will be cool to see your channel become so big that it will be hard to keep up with the comments.
I replied to this, but RUclips yeeted it into the ether, so sorry if this is a repeat. I agree with your take on the extension at the end! Simple yet effective - more of that Ab-into-G goodness. Thank you for your support! That will indeed be a bittersweet day.
@@JonathanBarouch It looks like you accidentally replied to another comment with this originally.
ohp
Oh my god yes! I have been hoping and waiting for you to do a video on my favorite song in all of gaming. It's amazing how many different emotions this song can evoke just by changing the style/tempo/instrumentation.
Thank you!
Why I didn't discover this channel before? The words choosed for describe and explain were so good with all of this splendid music in background that I almost cry. I wanna see EVERY video of this channel now.
My god... that transition to the VPN add
And by the end of the video… i am crying softly while riding the metro
16:52 THANK YOU for mentioning this
I get sooo emotional every time I hear that part. My initial understanding of this part was a sense of hesitation from Nier and the party,
maybe that what they're doing is wrong, maybe that they should stop, maybe that this is all crazy and they're trying to make sense of it
and seeing the faces of devola and popola at that instance, singing, halts their fight. But then the rest of the instruments resume.. and they don't stop
edit: it's actually an entire minute worth of that
go to the original Replicant/Gestalt ver, it goes from 2:46 to 3:46 , an absolutely beautiful, tragic, moment
Congrats on the sponsorship.
I won't lie about not having watched every video, but when I get the chance to watch them they're always a pleasant departure from the usual for me, and though I'm already familiar with the story of the games, it's still nice to hear it through the filter you provide. Besides, some of the subtle jokes you make... "In NieR:Automata, we're meant to feel the Weight of the World" (this one was really good, even if it wasn't intentional)... would be funny in any case. I hope you get to make many more, for games both familiar and unfamiliar.
Thank you so much! Even if you had only watched this one, that's more than enough. I don't even know if I would call that one in particular a joke, it just felt like wording it any other way would be almost disrespectful lol
Ah, joke or not, it's very fitting and well done, so again, good job.
Regarding Devola’s evil laugh, perhaps she, as the more empathic of the twins, does care for Nier and hope he might defeat them, despite that being against her directives. Thus, she tries to play the role of antagonist, to lessen the pain of her and her sister’s deaths as much as she can. If they win, they accomplish their directives. If nier wins, one of their sons gets to move onwards. Either way, they gain something and lose something. In contrast, popular is the more pragmatic of the twins, and only cares about Devola and her directives, hence truly taking her gloves off when half of her reason for living was snuffed out.
Thank you so much for this wonderful video. It helps me to understand, what im hearing and feeling. It gives me a wider horizon of this emotional composition. ❤
I really love your recent videos about the Nier OST! The Soundtrack and Story will always bring me to tears and that is especially true for song of the ancients, which has never really left my mind since I played Nier the first time. I thank you so much for this
At the risk of echoing other comments on the video, I really like the explanation behind what makes the 'Song of the Ancients' work. Admittedly I don't have a firm grasp of music theory, but the explanation of the context behind certain choices in the music made me appreciate the piece even more. Great job!
No risk there, I love comments like this! Thank you
When I clicked this video, I knew I wouldn't be able to stop. No one stops.
I swear with each Nier video you make, you put into words what the music makes me feel but can’t quite explain ❤
i love the "just monica" joke in the 10:28, seriously your channel is the best thing i found this week .
That's high praise! Thank you
Wow what an amazing ending to a such an amazing video! That has to be one of the most beautiful quotes ive ever heard
If I knew I'd get this emotional and invested into a video today.... Just discovered your channel and it already became one of my absolute favorites.... Good job man, really.
Despite knowing almost nothing about music and composing, I can tell you managed to deliver an excellent analysis accompanied with great storytelling! I was almost brought to tears again by watching the vid.
I didn’t buy v1.22 because I know how lengthy the original was, I might give it a try sometime later.
As for you, sir, you definitely got yourself a new sub.
I absolutely love the library version of this song and I couldn't tell you why. It just gives be the best melancholy vibe ever.
Out of all the Nier soundtracks Song of the Ancients is my fave so I’m so happy I came across this video. I couldn’t help but sing along when you’re telling us to listen though, because I love it so much I HAVE to sing along 😂
man, I've been waiting for someone to dissect this one and my god did you ever do it justice, especially for the original. I definitely prefer the original soundtrack in general because, like you said yourself, it's more grounding and focuses more on what the story makes us feel. The remastered soundtrack is great music, but it doesn't fit the game as well.
Song of the Ancients is one of those that hit harder than most songs, specifically because it's one of the most heard songs in the game, being in the village, where things are peaceful. The use of it during the fight against the sisters is both heartbreaking and beautiful. Your analysis of it perfectly tells how effective it is and why it hits us so hard. Thank you for sharing this with us
I'm so glad you liked it!! I was a little nervous tackling this one because I know how beloved it is, so that is wonderful to hear. Thank you.
Song Of The Ancients is near the top of my favorite NieR songs list, I started with Automata, when Atonement started playing and Devola and Popola were fighting I fell in love with the song, and just continued to fight the machine lifeforms just to hear it. The when I went back and played Gestalt & walked over to Devola and first heard her playing it, I just stopped playing for a few moments and just listened to how beautiful it was, and learning the story behind song, and hearing the different version through out the game, adding more emotion to the scenes, made me love the song more and more.
I'm not a fan of the gameplay, so I never played them, but I've been listening to the soundtracks for years. Learning the context of these songs has been mind-blowing, and listening to them now feels so fresh and different, despite still being the same songs. Amazing videos dude.
*NieR* for me Really is a very rich story told in very rich ways ,Characters, plot, Messages ,and Music especially and you my friend just showed me a deeper level of that richness to my Favorite game, thank you for this video truly from bottom of my heart
Gosh. Your videos seem like my Ranking of Kings series but structurally but just impact so much more effectively and harder.
I even here a similar texture added to your voice that I do when giving the last line or two of the video.
(😣 I really need to finish making that video series. The second season is about to start for crying out loud!!)
No need to put yourself down like that! We figure out what works and what doesn't as we go. I'm happy my style resonates with you :)
Watching this analysis absolutely crushed me on the inside. God I love Nier
Man thanks for this video , I really needed I can not be more agree with your perspective about the song, hope keep us on the way...
It is always a treat to watch your videos and just hear how much you enjoy breaking down this music. I'm glad you're getting the support you need to do this full time and make a good living for yourself. You even got sponsor number two. :)
None of that is a surprise to me. I knew from the Snow in Summer video that this was going to be a great channel and it's been wonderful to watch it grow. You're doing a fantastic job, Jonathan. God bless you.💜
Also, Just Monaca. I see what you did there...and I get the strangest feeling you might cover that game sometime.
Now I'm probably going to play Automata again, because just that small bit of Atonement made me think, "I haven't played this in almost a year. I need to play Automata as soon as possible!"
Great video! I look forward to seeing what you do next. :)
Lilly you are so sweet, thank you! Hmm... a Doki Doki Lit Club video... interesting thoughts. The soundtrack certainly does some messed up things. Automata is SO good! Next video is probably "Fleeting Words," unless a HUGE upset hits the Patreon poll in the next *checks watch* 27 hours.
@@JonathanBarouch Fleeting Words is a fantastic track! :) That'll be a breakdown to remember for sure. :)
Jonathan, always there to bring back the suffering huh? I can understand how you can think of it as a "hopeful" song but my heart can't help but ache whenever I hear this melody
I guess that's what NieR music in general does for a lot of us..
Anyway great video as always!
I'll try to show up in your streams again when I find the time 🐙💜
Ohhh yeah, there's always heartache with NieR! I hinted at it in this video, but for me personally, almost every track in both OSTs is filled with yearning and loss for me; those two emotions specifically. Maybe even fear. Ugh, it's so good. We're all busy, but we'll always be happy to have you!
this isn't even my favourite track from the game but ya still made me cry like a baby, man
I never liked music classes in School, but years later, here I am, being completely interested in the explanations of the melodies of Nier´s songs
A comment for the algorithm. I can’t really add much to the conversation that hasn’t already been said. Great work Lord Barouch! I very much enjoy listening to you talk music things 😊
"The 'Something-Sad-is-Happening" theme. 😂 LOL entirely valid, yes, this.
I love this song so much that I've memorized the lyrics even they aren't real. This song just has so much weight that I couldn't put into words before, but you've nailed it. I can't wait for more deep dives from this series.
Thank you so much! More to come for sure
I absolutely adore this video, when the Fate version starts with war drums and you expect a combat song to play you pace yourself for a fight, and then the vocals hit you like a truck and you're left in the same predicament as NieR
I hope you can do Kainé and Fleeting Worlds soon. the later is my new favorite in the remastered soundtrack
Fleeting Words coming in a few weeks! I'm noting Kaine as well.
Шедевр. Витратив на це майже 23 хвилини, але не пошкодував, що зміг знову послухати цю прекрасну пісню. Дякую.
Your videos are so awesome, keep up the amazing work.
EDIT: btw i cried a few times during the vid. Makes me wanna replay Replicant
Can i just say, your voices sounds as if youre from the game itself, its very pleasing to the ear just like 9s' voice. Also great content, ill be sure to look out for future videos
🥹 thank you so much!
Whenever I hear this song or a lot of the songs from Nier games it puts tears in my eyes and idk why. Also, I never bothered to look into the remaster too much since I have the original already, but I didn't realize they actually remixed the music so much. I guess I''m buying the remaster to see the differences. Anyway, great analysis, you got a new sub
I've never heard the Atonement version of Song of The Ancient and im glad im able to listen to it today. The piece is so hype and epic, thanks for including it on this video otherwise i would've spent my life not knowing that it exist XD.
I hope more people will recognize and come to this channel and enjoy this "Music Theory Class" XD
Keep up the good work on the vids😁👍
Nier songs bring tear to my eyes and the music explainations makes me teary eyed because it shows all the relations and significance that was hidden from me until now.
You deserve more subscribers. you just earned one more. Amazing content, amazing video!
That last line though…. gave me goosebumps! 😮💨😭
I can't even count the times I spent idling around in an area, back in nier from 2010, just so I can finish listening to the song that was playing at the location.
Good old times.
Very good video, I enjoyed it a lot and may have a shed a tear seeing Popola crying about Devola while the latter's Song of the Ancients starts playing T_T
19:46 "For many viewers this may be the most of 'song of the ancients /fate' you've ever heard"
haha
no
been listening to it on the daily for years. It's my favorite version and possibly my top music out of the nier universe. Second is the piano collections version of "Grandma" and from 3rd on it's too difficult to decide.
As a musician and also a gamer, i need more of your video mate ! Support you ❤
Beautiful video all throughout and beautiful ending.
Another great video, I love how you explained the connection between the piece and the characters. Can't wait for more!
YESSS I’M SO HAPPY!! I was waiting for a new video from you and it covers my favorite song from the series!!! I can’t wait to watch this video
you deserve more subs man, these vids are great.
"maybe the point of hope isint to make dreams come true, maybe its the just the blanket that keeps us warm while whe chase them" i have never heard something deep like this. damn.
YESS IVE BEEN WAITING FOR YOU TO DO A VIDEO ON THIS THANK YOU
Great video man like really it’s just amazing. It’s been a while since I finished this game but it’s always beautiful to see new videos on it popping on my homepage like there’s so much bout nier which could be analyzed and this game will probably forever have a special place in my heart and only watching this video hearing the song of the ancients again awoke really special emotions in me.
Great work man ‼️
I love your videos so so much. Thank you for going in depth about one of my absolute favorite soundtracks in videogame history.
Amazing video. Instantly subbed
I am so thankful for your videos. Never stop Jonathan
Favorite song in media. Appreciate the love you showed it
With all due respect, you covering Song of the Ancients has made you my favorite channel.
In regards to the chaos language and the lyrics in songs - I think that it's not meant to be understood, in any comprehensive level, like this word means flower, this means grimoire, this means moon, this means sun. It's more... hmm... if you listen to the lyrics, to the melody, what it makes you feel at any given moment? That is the meaning. Despair, hope, love, warmth, relief, the want to protect, the want to love, the want to explore. The desire to live.
Yes! Emi Evans has explicitly stated that the lyrics don't have any real meaning, but I still see people trying to "translate" them and I'm like
ok
Song of the ancients might be one of my favorite tracks ever. Great video
one of the best pieces of music and my all time favorite 😭😭 finally a breakdown. thank you so much