The New Animated Series' Introductory Sequence Selected the Incorrect Critical Role Track
The Mighty Nein, the newest animated adventure from Critical Role, unveiled an exciting introductory sequence. It showcases our favorite cast of misfits, outcasts, and rogues kicking ass and making their mark, while teasing at several agonizing backstories for characters including Liam O'Brien's wizard Caleb, and Travis Willingham's warlock orc, the character Fjord.
Overall, the intro appears amazing. But I couldn't help feeling that something was missing in the song choice.
This sequence employs "Welcome to the Continent", a truly stellar composition created by producer and singer the talented musician. This piece from the soundtrack album of the same name, the second one released by Critical Role Productions LLC's music division Scanlan Shorthalt Music. It's a great sentimental choice, and I suspect that devotees of the sequel series will love its presence.
Personally, The Mighty Nein's intro fails to capture the excitement and energy that accompanied the second campaign's live-play sessions. "Your Turn to Roll", composed by musician Jason Charles Miller, was an instant classic for me when it was first revealed in 2015, and it improved further when co-founder Sam Riegel wrote words to the melody for the animated Campaign 2 opening in the later year.
Including singing from one actress, Laura Bailey, Travis Willingham, as well as Riegel himself, the track was memorable and enjoyable. At the time, I hadn't even watched the follow-up series at that point, but this was such an earworm that I kept it on my phone. This track that knows how to get you pumped before you dive into an episode of adventurous fun.
The show's opening with "Welcome to Wildemount" fails to hit the right notes for me. It's a grand composition, but based on my understanding of the group, I feel that its mood is somewhat mismatched.
Naturally, the creators has stated that the series will have some surprises and differences from the original live sessions. An adjusted mood for its opening appears as one of them.
This animated adventure will be available to watch on the streaming service from Nov. 19. If you can't wait until then, or want a head start to get to know the characters of the second series, the original episodes are accessible on Spotify and YouTube.
