The Mighty Nein's Opening Sequence Selected the Incorrect Critical Role Song
This latest animated series, the most recent animated adventure from Critical Role, unveiled an exciting opening credits. It showcases our favorite group of outcasts, misfits, and rogues fighting hard and taking names, while also hinting at multiple agonizing backstories for characters including Liam O'Brien's wizard Caleb, and another actor's orc warlock, the character Fjord.
Overall, the opening appears stunning. However, I felt that an element was missing in the music selection.
The intro uses "Welcome to Wildemount", a truly stellar song created by artist the talented musician. It's a track originating from the official score of that title, the second one released by Critical Role Productions LLC's music division Scanlan Shorthalt Music. It's a great sentimental choice, and I believe that fans of the sequel series will love its inclusion.
Personally, The Mighty Nein's opening doesn't quite capture the excitement and energy that was part of the second campaign's actual-play adventure. "It's Your Turn", composed by musician the artist, was an instant classic in my view when it was first revealed in that year, and it improved further when cast member Sam Riegel wrote words to the melody for the animated Campaign 2 opening in the later year.
Including singing from one actress, another performer, Travis Willingham, as well as Riegel himself, the track was catchy and enjoyable. Back then, I hadn't seen the follow-up series yet, but it was so infectious that I still saved it on my phone. This track that excites you before you start an episode of fantasy hijinks.
The Mighty Nein's opening with "the new song" fails to hit the same chords for me. It's an impressive composition, but based on my understanding of the group, I can't help but feel that its mood is a little off.
Of course, the creators has already said that the animated show will have a few changes and variations from the original live sessions. A tonal change for its opening seems to be among these.
The Mighty Nein will be released on the streaming service from November 19. If you can't wait before that, or want a head start to get to know the characters of the second series, the original episodes are available on Spotify and YouTube.
