So the full singles of the Clannad~After Story opening and ending themes finally came out! They’re both by Lia so they are on the same single. I’ve been dying to hear these things because looping the same one and a half minute track was driving me bonkers, it’s like a big tease! Anyway, go and download these right now, errr order them online I mean.

The Opening song, Toki wo Kizamu Uta, a.k.a. A Song to Pass the Time, is simply put, beautiful. Not only does the song fit the show so perfectly, but it’s got a beat that really gets a hold of you. It’s only occasionally do I add to the list of songs that stir some kind of real emotional response in me and I would say this and the ending song, Torch, are going on that list.

I have to wonder if the only reason I feel so strongly about them is because of what they’re related to? Clannad has been one of the more recent series that is just epic in my opinion and really is probably one of my favorites of all time. I’m dying to see the ending of After Story, and still dodging any hint of spoilers I see out there. Anyway, about the music…Lia’s voice really comes through clean, crisp, and smooth. She has a wonderful sound and the song itself, at least in my amateur opinion has a lot of great attributes. For example, the very end of the song is a music box which was an awesome transition to the ending (complete with the little cranking noise right before that last few seconds). The opening has a great pace that gets your heartbeat going a little faster, and makes you kinda feel that sense of anxiety that can lead you to tears, but not necessarily in a bad way. This is definitely something you have to listen to with headphones on, cranked way up, with your eyes closed to get the full effect. Even listening to the karaoke/instrumental only version, you can really hear the great composition here and some sweet piano work. Here are the TV segments Lyrics, once I find the full version I’ll edit this post to include them! Also, click below to listen to the small segment of the song used on TV for the show.

♫ Toki wo Kizamu Uta – TV Length Sample ♪

Only you might have passed by along the hill,
Many sunny spots have scattered about,
Only I think back upon this kind, warm place.
Only you, only you,
Were the one I liked,
My eyes blur across the skies, going far off,
For as long as I remember, even if everything changes,
There was only one thing, one common place,
Only one thing that showed it’s full brilliance,
Always, always protecting.

This translation is borrowed from the blog Not just any cheese desu~

The ending song, Torch, is a completely different style. It’s much more fun and light hearted and doesn’t invoke quite the same emotional response. Though I’d say its got an impact of its own. The OP makes you feel like you’re on the edge of something, where as the ED is more upbeat and clearly, happy! haha I’m not sure how else to put that. It’s another dango remix with plopping little dango family noises going on in the background occasionally which I think is a cute little touch. This is the kinda song that makes you want to move and sing out loud! Here is the TV version as a little teaser…

♪ Torch – TV Length Sample

Well, I suppose I should stop rambling on about these songs. Music is amazing because it really has the power to get inside of you and stir up some kind of emotional response. I just think these are good examples of that and I’m so happy they’ve come when they did. It’s a bit of the influence I need to vent a little. A happy song and a sad song, how perfect!