Anonymous Noise

In 2017, Anime Strike gave viewers yet another compelling musical romance anime in the form of "Anonymous Noise." Based on the manga created by Ryoko Fukuyama, the series is an amalgamation of rock 'n' roll, youthful zeal, and intense drama that revolves around star-crossed lovers and friendships shaped by music. The show is a whirlpool of driven characters, unrequited love, and strategically embedded melodic segments that resonate with the overall plot development.

At the center of the narrative is Nino Arisugawa, a high school girl who has been profoundly marked by two heart-wrenching separations from her childhood. Nino has a distinctive singing voice that's raw, captivating and emotionally charged. As a child, she forms a close bond with her first lover, Momo, a boy who appreciates Nino's extraordinary singing talent. The two share a powerful connection, especially through their mutual love for music. However, destiny has other plans and their paths abruptly diverge, leaving Nino heartbroken. This event creates in her an intense longing and a peculiar habit. She visits the beach every day, hoping her singing will reach Momo, wherever he is.

Not long after Momo's departure, Nino encounters Yuzu, a young musician grappling with his inability to sing. His passionate compositions have been looking for a voice and they find an uncanny match in Nino’s irreplaceable singing talent. As time goes by, Yuzu grows fond of Nino, adding a new layer of complexity to the existing sentimental triangle. Nino, however, remains oblivious to Yuzu's feelings and continues to sing with the aim of reconnecting with her lost childhood love, Momo.

As Nino, Momo, and Yuzu grow up, they are reunited in high school, and with this, dormant emotions awaken, old wounds are reopened, and music becomes a poignant means for expressing unresolved feelings. The trio gets entangled in a tale of love and friendship that revolves largely around music and unfulfilled dreams.

"Anonymous Noise" isn’t only about a beautifully complicated love triangle; it also touches on the power of music and its profound ability to articulate emotions that words often fall short of expressing. Thus, music becomes an inherent element of the show, with many performances and tunes driving the narrative forward.

The anime showcases considerable character development. Apart from the leads, the supporting cast also plays essential roles. They come with their own unique histories, diverse personalities, and battles to win. From band practices to heated competitions, each interaction contributes to the story's progression.

In terms of visuals, the anime delivers aesthetically pleasing artwork. The character designs are distinct and true to their manga counterparts. The animation during the musical episodes is especially noteworthy, capturing the energy and zeal successfully.

Music plays an integral role in "Anonymous Noise," significantly enriching the viewing experience. The original soundtracks infuse the viewers with raw energy, the same that runs rampant in a real-life rock concert. Both the opening and ending themes set the tone right for the series, and the musical performances within the episodes are full of vigor and emotion, effectively filling the viewers with euphoria, sadness, and the rush of adrenaline that comes with high-stakes performances.

"Anonymous Noise" takes viewers on a dramatic, emotional, and musical journey that manifests the trials and tribulations, joys and sorrows, of adolescence. It explores themes of love, music, ambition, and friendship, carefully blending them to form a melodious storyline. Each episode reveals more layers to each character and uncovers their struggles and aspirations.

In brief, "Anonymous Noise" is an emotionally charged anime that beautifully demonstrates the power of music as not only a form of art but also as a means of revealing deepest feelings and overcoming personal insecurities. The melodies serve as a medium for Nino, Momo, and Yuzu to express their complexities, unrequited love, and their determination to use music as a means of reaching out, connecting, and fulfilling their dreams. The show will appeal to anyone fond of music-inspired dramas, nuanced romance, and complex character relationships.