This was actually revealed two days ago but according to the Umineko no Naku Koro ni anime website, sound talent from the original games will be used for the anime adaptation of Umineko. Shikata Akiko, singer of the theme song for the sound novels, will also lend her voice to the anime’s theme song. The single will go on sale August 19 for 1260 yen though the title has yet to be decided. In addition dai, the music director for the original works, will also be participating in the musical score. The anime will use tracks from the novels as well as new arrangements and new songs.
In related news an Anthology Drama CD for Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai will be released May 27 retailing for 2940 yen. Of greatest interest are the crossover tracks between the seiyuu of Higurashi and Umineko. The results are quite entertaining and give a nice preview as to what to expect from some of the main characters of Umineko. Below are some sample tracks illustrating what happens when lead characters Maebara Keiichi and Ushiromiya Battler meet.
It is somewhat difficult to differentiate between Hanyuu and Maria since they share Horie Yui’s voice.
Before the Umineko anime airs a joke drama CD will also be released June 24th that will recreate famous scenes from the games. Another will follow July 23rd and both are set at 2940 yen.
I haven’t anticipated an anime as much as Umineko in a while and the news that Studio DEEN will be using the wonderful original musical talent makes me even more excited. Of course this does not guarantee a great adaptation but if Studio DEEN continues the routine of better animation established with each iteration of Higurashi and stays true to the original like Higurashi Kai, then the anime will turn out just fine.
