In the late 90s, anime was still finding its footing in the Western market and struggled to find the niche it needed to take off. There were many attempts to adapt the medium. Some attempted to stay more faithful to the source material and others looked to Westernize the shows completely, even replacing thesoundtrack with an American-madeone.
It wasn’t untilDragon Ball ZandSailor Moonfound success on Cartoon Network’s newaction block Toonami, that anime finally started to take off in the US. It wasn’t just thatDragon Ball Zwas like nothing else on Western TV at the time. Another big factor in its success was the stand-out soundtrack created by the talented Bruce Faulconer.
10Android 16
Many recall the Bruce Faulconer score as a very loud, boisterous, rock-focused soundtrack. However, there are also more subdued tracks to complement the less intense scenes. “Android 16’s Theme” is exactly that, featuring a calm vibe utilizing hums and synth beats.
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The song is used subtly in the show and beautifully reflects the character of Android 16. It is also unfortunately one of the least used tracks of the score. However, this worked to its benefit, as it was reserved mainly for scenes that carried moreemotional weight, such as the speechbefore the characters' death.
While the Faulconer score does feature many grandiose tracks that fit well into the most memorable scenes, few tracks accomplish the subtle effectiveness of “Road to the Chamber.” This excellent track was introduced in the somewhat divisive Buu Arc.
In one scene, the track is used to help convey a sense of urgency; in another, it will be used as a fade-in to complement another intense track. While its short length may seem to hinder it, it’s effective and memorable for all the right reasons.
8Ginyu Transformation
Of all the tracks in the Bruce Faulconer score, no one track is misnamed more than “Ginyu Transformation.” While its initial use for the character Capitan Ginyu was effective, its later use as the memorable “villain death track” is when it solidified itself as one of the best.
While the track might be incorrectly named in hindsight, its usage and effectiveness are unmistakable. The haunting tone leads into a more subdued pitch, giving off a sense of finality to each scene, which explains why it was used the way it was. While it lacks the versatility of others tracks on the list, it provides a huge impact to the scenes, amplifying them further.
7Perfect Cell Theme
For many fans of the series, Cell is the best villain inDragon Ball Z.The theme created for thecharacter’s final formcouldn’t be more fitting. With a more techno vibe to fit the sci-fi themes of the arc, it perfectly illustrates how Cell’s evolution has brought the character from a bug-like monster to a more humanoid being that retains its intimidating attributes.
The track reminds the viewer of how truly terrifying this foe is for the heroes. It gives off an imposing feeling that the harder beats in the song amplify. While it is on the shorter side, this works to the track’s favor, as it’s easy to remember and easy to insert in any scene the character takes part in.
6Vegeta’s Theme
“Vegeta’s Theme” couldn’t be more fitting for the character it was made for. The track is played so frequently, it has gained a somewhat notorious reputation. It’s a nuisance to some fans and a delightful treat to others. It is also one of the few themes in the score that has an alternate name, “Hell’s Bells.”
The theme perfectly mixes the power of the electric guitar and the intimidating tune of a loud bell to great effect. It perfectly fits the character of Vegeta, who personifies these traits and commands all his scenes. Many will recall how effectively it was used during the Buu Arc to illustrate the anger and frustration Vegeta faced during that time.
5Gohan Angers 1 & 2
Similarly to how Vegeta’s Theme encapsulates the character, “Gohan Angers 1 & 2” do the same. As most fans know,anger has always been a major part of Gohan’s characterand so it only made sense to create a track that best represents what that meant to the character. Since both tracks are nearly identical, it made sense to include both in the list.
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Despite not being the character’s official theme, the track reflects the character so well that it is almost universally accepted as such. The use of the piano represents Gohan’s softer side, the heavy guitar reflects the turmoil the character struggles with, and the guitar riff signifies the explosion of anger the character was known for.
4SSJ3 Power Up
One of the biggest criticisms of the Bruce Faulconer score is the excessive use of electric guitars, which make the soundtrack more rock focused. For those that embrace this and can appreciate it, though, the “Super Saiyan 3 Power Up” theme is all the better.
This track brings a wonderful mix of anticipation as it starts, growing in intensity as it continues, before finally reaching its pinnacle and perfectly mirroringGoku’s reveal of the transformationin the show. The electric guitar is utilized to perfection.
3Vegeta - Super Saiyan
While Vegeta’s Theme is the perfect theme for the character, the Super Saiyan theme takes that and elevates it to a whole new level. As one of the supreme examples of the piano used in the soundtrack, the track provides a great balance as it rises to show how significant Vegeta’s ascension to Super Saiyan is before coming back down and maintaining a strong melody representing his unwavering pride.
Some may argue that this track is an overplayed theme throughout the series. However, when it is played, it is masterfully utilized to emphasize the character and scene. The iconic piano that plays in the track will forever be remembered by American audiences, as it was also used during the iconic Final Flash scene.
2The Dragon Theme
If there was one theme that fans could point to as the definitive theme forDragon Ball Zfrom the Bruce Faulconer score, it would have to be “Dragon Theme.” It isn’t just because it was marketed as such; it’s also because it combines all the best parts of every song in the soundtrack.
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With a mix of drum, bass, electric guitar, and even techno, the track blends all these instruments and more flawlessly. It also helps that it is easily the most versatile track, being able to fit into any dramatic scene. Lastly, nobody can forget how it was used to great effect when expertly mixed with" Vegeta’s Theme" and “Vegeta - Super Saiyan” to complete theiconic Final Flashscene.
1SSJ Transformation
Goku’s first transformation into a Super Saiyan was a monumental moment for the series, and Bruce Faulconer understood this. Fans were treated to a theme that respected the significance of the scene. It didn’t tell viewers how to feel, but instead amplified what was already being felt.
As the track starts, low instruments evoke the uncertainty the characters and viewers, anticipating what is to come of Goku’s anger. From there, the drums and beat continue to get higher, reflecting the change in the demeanor of the Saiyan. Finally, the electric guitar comes in as the transformation completes, showing that Goku has composed himself, but is not quite the peaceful warrior fans once knew. What was constructed isn’t just some rock song, but a beautifully composed track that complements the visuals for viewers to enjoy.
