The Asian Connection: In Memories Kotowari

Original video located here. Accessed 18th August 2018

Song title: In Memories Kotowari

Artist: Taku Iwasaki

Year: 1999

Why I like this song:

I am a big fan of Rurouni Kenshin, like a lot of other people, and I regard the OVAs, Trust and Betrayal, very highly. And this, it's theme, fits in very well with it, being moody and tragic.
Iwasaki may not reach the level of distinction reserved for Yoko Kanno and Joe Hisashi but he can certainly deliver the goods.

The Asian Connection: Read or Die theme

Original video located here. Accessed 4th October 2017

Song title: Read or Die theme

Artist: Taku Iwasaki

Year: 2001

Why I like this song:

Yes it may be a pastiche of the James Bond theme, but damn it does it so well. So well one would think it transcends it's intent and becomes a theme that the James Bond movies would be envious of.
And much like it's parent anime, it has enough clout to make any nerd feel like a badass.