There is actually an animation when it does its "shrouded blink teleports behind you, nothing personnel, kid" thing, meaning they aren't just teleporting the model or just sliding it around, it does indeed just go really fast.
I liked your observation about Malzeno's "needs". If memory serves, the blood parasites flying around Malzeno are part of a feud with another powerful monster. Its voracious appetite is a part of its drive to prevent its rival from becoming stronger. That's why I'm fond of the tinge of nobility in this piece, because in a weird way Malzeno's aggression is keeping something far worse at bay. So I think the team were conveying that this creature is driven by a 'higher' purpose and considers you a footnote in a much larger confrontation, even if it is still largely a self-interested predator trying desperately to preserve its own dominance.
Vampire Dragon, let's go! Once you know it's supposed to be modeled after Dracula, the inclusion of the organ becomes clear. And like a Vampire, Malzeno is devilishly intelligent. It zips around you, striking with its wings, then stabbing with its tail.
So,interesting thing you pointed out about there seeing to be an intelligence. In lore, it’s implied that Elder Dragons are extremely intelligent, seeming to have a higher understanding of the world, people, and other monsters than any other animal. Malzeno himself displays high levels of intelligence, disarming and maiming hunters in a cutscene rather than killing, and leaving after achieving its goal rather than attacking for the sake of violence or food. It’s described to be actively and consciously countering the actions of Sunbreaks final boss, Gaismagorm (another fantastic music piece by the way) . That’s probably the desperation you talked about, Malzeno dying unleashes a far more powerful beast, and Malzeno knows this. so, you and by proxy the music hit the nail on the head, Malzeno is a highly intelligent creature that operates on some level above basic instinct. In fact Fatalis himself is believed to truly hate humanity. He specifically wants to kill us. Elder Dragons are fucking awesome
Yes because low wise basically is the sort of scenario humans try to play God and they massacre dough ends upon thousands of dragons and other beasts not for like food or any just to make this abomination called the equal dragon weapon. Think of like full metal alchemist the anime where they make a homonkey list. So this thing does not need to eat or sleep it heals by killing this was the biggest. Was one of the final nails that turned fatalities into the hate field creature it is it does not forget it does not forgive. So it's when did I kingdom and spare no man woman or child to sit the kingdom of shreg is a dead city and Nothing has the balls to come face it every animal even other black dragons feared fatalis. He is the one above all even if you kill him. If you where is armor it's still alive it will grow it will make you into an architecturalist out of pure spite turning you into a thing you killed. Not to mention his eyes are just these big crystals but yet he somehow see through him. Almost like employed his blind hatred that he could never forget what the ancient civilization did to his brethren. And he will never forgive humans for what they did. Let's mention there's something called a white fatalis it was the fatalist that most likely destroyed the kingdom. It scales from black to a pure white it has grown a beard and a manifesthat's grown up here and I'm made of Fur like that of a Chinese dragon his horns went from dragon horns to that of like Chinese dragon antlers and instead of fire it rains down a combined element of lightning and dragon.
When it comes to his presence you are not facing an animal you're not facing just a beast one to divide you're facing a creature that's very aware of what you your ancestors did. Not mentioned just how you make armor out of them he does it to hunters he will take their broken bodies and melt their bodies while they're either dead or alive to his hide make him even stronger. He has layers upon layers of dead hunters with their abilities like their purpose of melted into his own flesh.
I was always under the impression that Fatalis was the great equalizer. That when humanity becomes too advanced, it threatens the balance of all living things, in turn upsetting Fatalis and causing it to raze humanity. I don't view Fatalis as an enemy, but an avatar of the very ecosystem. The champion hunter of humanity, as humans have champion hunters of monsters.
To me this sounds like the theme of a now evil lord who ruled over a once great and prosperous land. Even though they are now dark, twisted, grotesque, and hungry for something they can never obtain; you can still hear the patina of a once shining city amongst the clouds. A proud man who had to do things they are not proud of.
considering that malzeno's lore is that they used to be peaceful and respecful of people settlements before one had a chance encounter with gaismagorm, resulting in them forming symbiosis with the qurio (which subsequently drove rapid evolution towards hyper-aggressiveness and a constant need to feed to keep the flying leeches in check) You are spot on
2:26 is the perfect example of how Capcom nails the atmosphere of specific fights in the Monster Hunter franchise. The entire time you've been fighting Malzeno it's been this agile, gleaming white elder dragon that almost seems to stalk and toy with you during the fight, as if it's not really giving its all because it doesn't think you're worth the time or effort. And then this part of the theme kicks in with the organ, it steps back and you as the player witness those same gleaming white scales shift into an endless black and watch it vanish from your sight just to appear somewhere else and continue its attack, the orchestra kicks in and all you can think to yourself is "Why does this feel like I'm fighting Dracula in dragon form?!"
"You could play MH music in a symphony hall and noone would be the wiser." I believe Deviljho would disagree. Also I absolutely love the number of hunters and the amount of lore in the comment section
When Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak was announced, the motif became quite apparent for the trio of “headliner” monsters. The theme was “classic horror monsters.” One was modeled after Frankenstein’s Monster. Another for Werewolves. Malzeno was the Vampire. And he is one CLASSY mutherhubbard. From the way he fights, how he behaves and down to the armor you craft from his hide, EVERYTHING exudes elegance and ferocity. Great stuff.
Here is a fun fact to add to that: Dracula was said to have gained his vampiric powers from striking a deal with the devil. The last monster being called "The Archedemon of the Abyss" could be a reference to that, since they both use the Qurios as source of their powers.
@@ryrianupou8263 Exactly right. Malzeno formed a symbiotic relationship with the Quario which are originally from said final boss monster Gaismagorm who has been waiting underground for years, and Malzeno tries to usurp the power the Quario give it by having it's own symbiotic relationship with them...once he's out of the picture the Quario go crazy and head home while absorbing from any nearby monsters like a plague.
Garangolm is not modeled after Frankenstein's Monster but after the mysthic Golem. That's why he has different elements on his arms bc the Golem is closely connected to alchemy. Also GOLM is in his name. I don't get why everyone thinks that he is modeled after Frankenstein's Monster. There is not a single thing hinting at Frankenstein except maybe for the ape shaped form, but a lot of things that hint at the Golem. But I guess people just don't know the myth of the Golem...
@@virgil7471 His appearance is a mix of frankenstein's monster (since its often associated with vampires and werewolves) however its base "monster" it's actually based on is in fact the golem's you're talking about. Which is even cooler that they decided to mix the two together. (It can be seen in it's gentle nature, and the head shape clearly representative of frankenstein's monster.)
Your comment about the "cat and mouse" and the back and forth between Malzeno and the hunters is spot on. There's a new mechanic that came with Malzeno where he can inflict a status called "bloodblight". Every time you get hurt by his attacks and you're inflicted by this, your health will replenish less and less each time you heal. The way to counter this is to rally back and attack Malzeno, encouraging risk-reward play. The devs promoted this as "fighting for your life" when they first showcased his gameplay, and this track really highlights that. They even did a full piano version of the song which is indeed a bop and a half!
canonically, Malzeno is literally feeding off of the Hunter's "red health" (blood) to regain health and grow stronger. i love it when lore and gameplay connect
@@magnabueno5360 They are kind of flagships. Lunagaron, Garangolm and Malzeno are called the "Three Lords". So, similar to the Fated Four, everyone should have their own theme.
Now, at 12:00 when you said "There is even desperation in Malzeno." Well, without spoiling too much, it actually does seem like Malzeno has a mission of its own, to prevent something worse from happening to the land. Its clearly very confident, like you described earlier in the video, but it also has a REASON to fight that you discover in the game.
Your ability to read into every PRECISE detail of these characters through these masterful compositions is ASTOUNDING! I can't recomend monster hunter enough, Rise is amazing. I kid you not when I say the series has some of the BEST enemies ever made for a videogame
Malzeno is also titled the Silver Duke Dragon in addition to Scarlet Feast, so having an air of confidence befitting a vampire duke is definitely hitting the nail on the head! It has a very dramatic shift when it hits its special enraged state where it absolutely feels like it wasn't taking the hunter seriously before, so you were correct on that analysis too!
I had always interpreted Malzeno as a necessary villain. And it knowing that it's transgressions are necessary and noble. It's desperation isn't to fight but to keep us from killing it. Because it knows of the greater threat that it's keeping it bay. I can imagine it saying to us upon its slaying "You fools.. You have no idea what you've done." And indeed by slaying it, we did make things worse.
The use of an Organ and the regal yet savage sound of Malzeno’s theme perfectly match his personality, attacks, and design. He is based on a Vampire after all. Where Velkhana’s attacks and movements are graceful and dancelike, fitting fitting its ‘Ice queen’ theme. Malzeno’s attacks and movements have some grace to them, yet are strong and violent. As if he’s trying to hide his savage nature underneath the elegance. Again, just like a vampire. Velkhana is another Elder Dragon theme I think you should check out too. Make sure you choose the medley with the Arch Tempered theme included whenever you feel like reacting to it.
having played through the end of rise + sunbreak, i’m amazed how much you predicted malzeno’s characterization through the music alone especially the musketeer part, with how primordial malzeno (in this case malzeno before the quiro) acts and fights like a knight, and how much that fight feels like a true duel between swordsmen (in this case sword dragon)
Here's a general rule of thumb when it comes to monster hunter music. If it starts to sound like there are lyrics, things are dangerous, but if it even starts to sound like they are even saying the name of the monster it from the frying pan into the hellfire.
Now it's just more evident that you should listen to Safi'jiiva's theme. Malzeno is very much inspired by vampires and specifically Dracula with all the organs and brass in Malzeno's theme emphasizing that aspect
Love how everything you describe Malzeno from the music alone, is what the fight and lore are. Malzeno is based off 3 Draculas, Castlevania Dracula, occultism Drácula and IRL Vlad Tepes(read the weapons/armor depiction for the two latter). In one of the older MonHun games is implied Elder Dragons are capable of speech but after the war that ended up with Fatalis rebooting civilization they refuse to talk to humans. Malzeno being desperate matches his lore about being the ruling Elder Dragon that became vampiric after fending off a greater treat(just like how irl Vlad became a monster to defend his kingdom from the Ottoman empire). This is why is ferocious, predatory, royal, majestic but also terrifying and depressive.
I always thought of Malzeno being almost a musical concept. Like the whole time we are fighting him, we are hearing it sing its villainous monologue to us. Like a bad guy who is explainging why he must kill you. Not out of regret but out of necessity. Incredible music work
Dang, never expected a Malzeno theme reaction :D The devs really made a meticulous job on Rise music, this theme is so good and majestic ! If you wanna see more i would suggest you Mizutsune, Magnamalo, Ibushi, Narwa (normal and Allmother) and Crimson Glow Valstax themes x) Really happy to ses you enjoying game music as usual. Keep going buddy ! PS: The final boss of Sunbreak has a sang really good theme too
This whole theme just SCREAMS ancient corrupted vampire lord. The music in Rise/Sunbreak is incredible. It's always been good in MonHun and gotten better over time, but this game took it a big step forward.
The "lumbering" part in all these songs signify the thrill of the hunt. After all, these creatures are just trying to live their lives and will aways flee when they are feeling overwhelmed, so the MH soundtrack aways emphasize you chasing the monster on their songs. Also, you should react to Nakarkos' theme, it's a freaking banger
Listening/hearing Malzeno’s track in the Primordial Malzeno fight feels very right in the context of the introductory quest - that unbeknownst initially to us there is a very real three pronged fight happening between us, Malzeno and the Qurios and the track of what could await it if we keep fighting feels almost mournful as it tries and is failing to keep the Qurios off of it while defending itself.
Your ability to pick stuff out of a musical piece thats just DEAD ON for the media it came from never ceases to amaze me. The stuff you've just nailed on the head from this theme and the honkai stuff especially
Another really cool theme to check out would be Chameleos'. His is very different and off kilter, but absolutely one of my favorites (Valstrax, Gore/Shagaru magala and Vaal Hazak also all have great themes)
I was one of the people who recommended this and I am super grateful that you actually did this! Malzeno feels so different to the other monster hunter themes. I specifically wanted to see you explain and react to the "lick" which you explained perfectly and brought the biggest smile on my face. Im so happy you liked it, its a great a theme for a great monster with a great moveset. Thank you so much again, Marco.
Malzeno is the Dragon equivalent of a Vampire, which is why Organs are so prominent in his theme. But what you described as well makes so much sense. This sense of Confidence, Intelligence, but still primal, jumping around, cat and mouse, all qualities that feel very Vampiric
Nice to see you see enthusiastic about this one! Malzeno is such a well designed flagship monster, and its theme truly rounds out the experience when the player fights it. By the way, you correctly guessed the body slam! It teleports in and just absolutely wrecks your life bar.
You’re an analyzing is always on point to with the actual monsters theme is in game, that’s amazing skill I will also keep commenting until I get river in the 1000 voices Destiny 2 space wish dragon
It would be really cool to see you compare a few different versions of “Proof of a Hero” from across the series, they make a new version or two for each game
The words that come to mind when listening to this are "Sinister", "Elegant", and "Predator". Malzeno is a creature of the night, a ruler of the night even. It probably does enjoy its hunts, the thrill of the chase and all that. But it hunts for a reason, not just out of pride or satisfaction, much like we do in the game. In some ways, malzeno is like a lesson: Don't topple that which rules the night, lest something far worse take its place. Tldr: Don't mess with the natural order or things WILL get out of hand.
Another link to the "desperation" and "need to fight you, specifically" others have mentioned, as well as "need to find a worthy adversary to put it down" is that it used to be a noble protector, but in taking up its new role as the host of the Curio (blood parasites) to prevent the return of Gaismagorm, the "Archdemon of the Abyss," it might feel sorrow knowing that it is corrupted into a lesser evil. But then we now also have Primordial Malzeno! The Paladin that Malzeno used to be! And in its fight it does look for someone to put it down... kinda. At least to help free itself from the Curio when they try to take back control. And after the fight the hunter helps it destroy the Curio for good. I think you were INCREDIBLY close to home with your notes, just missing the context, well done and great video~!
Was just listening to this and I thought to check if you had analysed it. Good to see you have! My brother and I think it's one of the best fights and themes in Monster Hunter.
Heeeeyyy!! Another MH song! I absolutely love this OST!! It’s up there with my favorite monsters’ OST, ZINOGRE. Good pick! Also, can’t wait on your take of the national anthem of all of us Hunters, PROOF OF A HERO.
Thank you so much for looking into this one. It's been a while since I commented about this theme but I'm happy you finally had a listen to it. While before release of Sunbreak I was a bit sceptical because there was this view that Malzeno is a red clone of Ice dragon Velkhana from Iceborne, he turned out to be basically one of my favourite flagships and elder dragons ever and I really hope he will stick to this series like a glue because my god, this monster is (at least for me) basically perfect on every level. The music fits perfectly his tempo of the fight, almost being integrated with his moves, his look is both scary, royal and beautiful. You have this shiny, gold, red and silver extrerior but his teeth inside the mouth are really scary looking, long, not in straight line and you know you would not want to be bitten by this guy. His fight is not fast for the sake of being fast, fighting him is always a duel, he Hits you, has a pause for you to hit etc, but because he is very fast, you always need to be on your toes. Compared to Magnamalo that left almost nothing story wise, Malzeno gets like two cutscenes and yet you can feel his inteligence, power, and how imposing he is. He doesnt need anything more than his presence alone to make a good impression. A perfect creature design. Do I need to say that I could basically listen to his music daily? It's both such a banger and a beautiful piece, "pop music in terms of classical music" (?). It gives me shivers every time. Fighting Malzeno is always fun. Sunbreak really outdid themselves at making Rise a better game and nothing symbolises it more than this simple yet extremely good flagship idea and design.
I think the organ really gives a regal yet dark air to Malzeno and considering that they themed him off of a vampire I feel it's the perfect instrument to compliment his theme and makes sense for them to make it take the lead at times rather than just sitting in the background.
12:30 I never really noticed it untill you pointed it out but you're absolutely dead on with that. In a cutscene with Malzeno it ignores everyone around it and turning around to face the player character and takes a battle ready stance before being interrupted which kind of bleeds into the intelligence part you mentioned. Malzeno was right in picking you put of a group of people though so it must have saw something in you it didnt spot in even the head of the Elgado Royal Knights. Very fascinating, reminds me a lot of Nergigante in a way (Another theme you should definitely dive into especially his Arch Tempered Theme known as "World's End"(Arch Tempered being a super powerful version of a monster, the strongest of the species Temperedby the energy of the New World))
I still love your comment about how the monsters are characters. Every time I passed by a Kulu-ya-ku in World carrying an egg away from a nest, I just give it a little nod and greeting of "crime birb" as though I'm passing by a peer. These are characters in their animations and behaviors, and we love them for it. Now, that notion of Malzeno being almost desperate for the hunter to take it down? That's interesting, because it makes me think of monsters like Nergigante and Magnamallo, that have their connections in battling and feasting on other monsters. But where as the two of them were cozy in their place of the food chain and natural balance, you're right, with Malzeno feels like theres deliberateness and intention. The Qurio situation becomes worse when we take down Malzeno, as if it really was holding it back from going out of control. And then it even comes to help us in the Master Rank version of the Allmother fight. Vampires are prone to having sympathetic and tragic narratives. Now I wont look at Malzeno the same away every again. Thank you, Mark.
Extra note on the part where Monster Hunter could be put in a symphony hall, ever since your Fatalis video, I've thought of the story elder dragon themes in Rise and thought you could arrange them well as a Symphony of Wind and Lightning. 1st Movement: The Rampage, call to arms, varied including its other themes 2nd Movement: Narwa, Lady of Lightning, a slow song carrying power 3rd Movement: Ibushi, Breath of Ire, fast again, almost dance like 4th Movement: The Allmother, bombastic, carrying the tone of revenge and finality
Man I love your insight into the music! Really shows insight into specific songs and music theory in general. Would love to see you listen to Kulve Taroths theme from World.
Malzeno's theme is one of the most JoJo part 1 things I've ever heard. You can almost physically taste the drama it exudes. You can also see it in the flamboyant way Malzeno moves. He calls for the spotlight and owns it like none other.
Very happy to see ur reaction and glad you enjoyed it Marc, thank you for covering this one and what im assuming is you refering to my comment on the fatalis video.
Hello! I recently found you when I was looking up Monster Hunter music and I was instantly hooked on your videos! Absolutely loving your reactions and appreciation for video game music in general. Awesome job and looking forward to more content!
mohun music is so fun to watch you listen to you, so much effort is put into conveying a monster through theme music plus it seems to be employing so many musical techniques that you pick up on and bring out that infectious enthusiasm you have in spades
@@MarcoMeatball wonder if theres been any music you've experienced on this channel that you'd want to take and (politely) shove into a associate's face and say "LISTEN TO THIS"
Thank you MarcoMeatball. I knew it would interesting hearing your reaction to this!!! Your breakdown was very accurate to Malzeno and his place in nature, just from the music. You are very talented and I hope you have a nice day!
Malzeno full loop: about 3 minutes React: about 15 minutes Man, i cant wait for safijiiva react (and will be long, because we have many opera thing on that) Say hello to brazil!!!
I recall the first time I faced Malzeno. I could not even concentrate on the battle, the beauty of the monster, the beauty of the song, and the scenario was overwhelming me. A master piece.
Listening to your reaction really makes the monsters more immersive. The way you describe the music really fits the sunbreak theme having to do with knights, and Malzeno's inspiration of vampire's really is sold when you describe the Organ and its part in the music. I'm amazed at the lengths the game devs/music directors go to sell these monsters through lore, music, and overall feel during gameplay. Please continue making more videos for noobs like me that know nothing of music xD
Like few other monster hunter themes I feel like Malzeno's really paints the idea of an intelligent, aware opponent like you said. I just love how hard it goes, how regal it sounds, great to see your thoughts on it!
Malzeno's urgency comes from his presence as a true rival to your hunter. You see, he's not actually after you. He's after taking down the final boss, just as you are. However, naturally his methods are cruel and destructive as an apex predator smart enough to hunt for sport. You and Malzeno have this emotional and epic clash basically to decide who's right, and who should continue to challenge the final foe and become the true apex of the ecosystem. Malzeno perhaps views you as a worthy rival to his goal, and so fights you for a desire to see if you're worthy to fulfill his mission. I recommend Shantien's theme from monster hunter frontier, as many consider it the best theme in the series. The thing is, it's lore and back story is something few know of, though I can help you with that since I compile this info myself. Feel free to ask for any information you need on monster hunter lore!!!
Each time i see one of your videos it's an insta click for me, amazing job once again! One thing that a lot of people have been comenting is the origin of the design of Malzeno and the other 3 monsters added in MH:Rise, following the 3 classic horror monsters. It's clear that the inspiration for Vampiboy came from Dracula and of course that's why we get so many organ as media have been representing Dracula and Vampirers for a long time, as not only those cunning and devilish creatures, but also as proficient and elegant, and Malzeno does represent that. I hope one day we can get a reaction from you to themes like World of Warcraft Arthas my son, its such a beautiful masterpiece used in the cinematic trailer (that btw, game of thrones used as reference for their dragon rising/flying scene). And i would really recommend you to listen to some of Sawano Hiroyuki compositions, mainly one of the last ones called Xi from Gundam Hathaway Flash :D (i know attack on titan but im more of a Gundam guy)
I love how you extract the story telling elements from each note Love your work sir Keep up the good work 🔥🔥🔥 Malzeno is considered a lord and he represents Dracula if he was an elder dragon So the elements in his theme fit his character so well in my opinion
Yessssss the new Three Lords tracks are SO good! Also fun fact (someone probably has already commented on this): Malzeno is part of The Three Lords which are brand new monsters based off of the famous classic horror trio monsters, Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the werewolf! So yes the use of the organs is very deliberate and super refreshing. The first time I heard this while fighting him in the demo, I was so hyped just because MH tracks don't use organs often (if at all). They really went all out with also the euro centric aesthetic with the new expansion which is a complete opposite of the base game that's inspired by Japanese folklore and themes.
Ooohhh I was waiting for this one. I love the choir and the haunting melody. Also, have you considered reacting to Pokemon music? Themes such as Zinnia's and Ultra Necrozma's really feel unique and powerful for many reasons. And there's so much more as well.
Shagaru Magala and Gaismagorm (final boss of sunbreak) are 2 monster themes that you should definitely look forward to, both being highly fanboy'ed on by the community lol. Great reaction to this absolute masterpiece of a track.
in a series full of amazing designs, malzeno is among the best. Its a vampire, its agile and regal and intelligent, it feels dangerous. You don't hunt malzeno, its a duel. Won through cleverness rather than brute force.
i find that the Organ tends to be used during Vampire themed bosses and stuff, look at Grimm from Hollow Knight for example, much like Malzeno he has a lot of Organ in his theme and BloodeBorne has a fair few Organs in it's music if i remember, which fits since BloodBorne has a lot of vampire vibes throughout the entire game
I really like the link you made between the Organ being associated with older (almost ancient to some) styles of music and the fact that Elders are supposed to be these beasts that have lived for millenia, giving them an aged almost aristocratic vibe to them. Never caught that from this, to me it just screamed "church of Dracula" vibes
Would be very interested seing your take on Gore Magala's theme and then following with Shagaru Magala's theme. A very mysterious almost villainous creature hatching into a force of nature.
I must say that monster hunter surprises me precisely in the fact that it gives personality to monsters, without needing anything more than actions (whether during or out of combat) and a soundtrack. malzeno is a monster based on dracula, so this "noble" sense in the music next to the organ strengthens it, in addition to many, MANY of his attacks seem like a vampire. whether swinging your cape (wings in this case) becoming bats to flank you, etc. I really love this franchise so I would love for you to analyze 2 themes: Zinogre's and (mainly) Valstrax (can be from Rise or Generations, it's your choice)
If you liked this, I have to recommend the other 2 Iceborne endbosses Safi’jiiva and Alatreon. I wonder how you’ll react and “characterize” the monsters when hearing their themes. Sunbreak’s final boss Gasomagorm’s theme would also be a good ride. Lastly, Shagaru Magala’s theme would be nice to see (and Gore Magala’s as well if you’re up to it).
Amazing analysis. I like that you pointed out Malzeno's intelligence, as it is one of it's more interesting trait, in that he fights almost like a human would in comparaison to other monsters, notably jumping or teleporting around before using ranged attacks, or just using it's claws like a hand for it's grab attack, and if he misses said attack he even looks at it's empty hand with a disapointed look. For other Monster Hunter themes I'd recommend Magnamalo's theme in particular, and the themes of Wind Serpent Ibushi, Thunder Serpent Narwa and Allmother Narwa are all amazing. For more Non-MH music I'd recommend checking out some of the Punishing Gray Raven ost. Most of it is amazing, the two most well known ones are Narwhal and Hikari, which caused quite a lot of players to start playing just for these OSTs (me included). The most recent ost they added, Exorcism, is also really good.
Malzeno's theme is, above all else, NOBLE. It has class, elegance, pomp and bombastic dignity. This is the theme of an apex predator that not only knows it is, but takes PRIDE in that fact. Malzeno at one point was the BENIGN elder dragon that presided over a region simply known as The Kingdom. It only took what it needed and lived apart from humanity, in what is honestly one of the few examples we have of an elder doing so. And then the kingdom fell. Literally. Its rival, buried deep under the bedrock, created a sinkhole so large it dwarfs Niagra falls, and felled the Kingdom. Malzeno, now aware that its rule was threatened, began to *aggressively* hunt down other intruders, claiming the Kingdom's ruins as its domain, before bonding with a parasitic species that drains the life out of whatever they attach to in order to prevent them from finding their true host, its rival. It is a once proud ruler, trying to hold the devil back in the ruins of what it once protected. Malzeno is, more than any other monster in Rise, the hero of its own story.
My goodness there are sooo many changes in this song, but they all just feel like variations of the melody. They choose to start and stop the organ and choir in such interesting ways. This is a really neat composition.
I am requesting two things Proof of a hero and riven of 1000 voices they’re both songs I get you pumped up when you’re fighting dragons I also like the themes of the sunbreak TLC with the main monsters being Frankenstein werewolf and vampire
The thing about Malzeno being concious about its doings really fitted in there. It may be a monster but its basically a vampir elder dragon. Therefore i believe what you called personallity is more like that typical charisma of a vampir - even more the part about playing cat and mouse. It's a vampir playing with its pray before drinking them try. Also as you said IT WANTS to fight us. The main threat in the expansion is another monster which Malzeno is closely linked through by an multiple decade long feud. Maybe that's the part where the fights purpose was to bring your focus onto the right tracks again. That's kind of a need connection. Thanks for your thoughts on the song. Really appreciate your videos, man. (Y) :)
Love these kind of videos! Please consider analyzing Magnamalos theme next it’s amazing. And when you’re done with that you could do Khezu’s theme it’s one of the most beloved ones among the mh community.
His impression gives me more to appreciate with that those little red things around Malzeno really are from(kind of underworld doom bringer demon maybe like Nosferatu) . And makes it even more vampire than I thought before. It's powerful yes , but it's a curse.
There is in fact a live concert of Monster Hunter music performed every year in Japan. Because of the things going on over the last few years they made it into a live streamed event too, making it finally available for the rest of the world to watch! Very much worth the ticket price! If I may recommend more MH tracks: I really love Alatreon's Iceborne theme, Magnamalo and Gaismagorm from Sunbreak, as well as the Kulve Taroth (arch-tempered) medley! If you listen to that one definitely make sure to have it include the AT "Fury" theme. Also Raging Brachydios' Iceborne theme is great!
Hey I just started watching your content because of these monster hunter videos. Monster Hunter is my favorite game series of all time. And I'd love to see you react and breakdown more from the series it's so interesting to watch. Personally I think my favorite themes in the series are Alatreon's theme and Brachydios theme.(including the variant Raging Brachydios who has an altered version of the music.) Anyway love the content and keep up the good work.
Do you know that with the latest DLC you were totally right in saying that Malzeno was compelled to fight the hunters by the little flying leeches and so he is desperate ! 👏
Happened to stumble across this channel and I gotta say I'm loving this I have a suggestion for you if you don't mind. King Ghidorahs theme from Godzilla king of the monster movie :)
SUNBREAK is largely themed after victorian horror themes, with Malzeno, Garangolm and Lunagaron being Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster and a Lycanthrope, all appearing at the cursed Citadel map, i think the Organ, as an instrument is quite evocative of this time period
For a theme that feels like a “fight,” I’d highly recommend Magnamalo’s theme “Barbarous Beast.” It absolutely nails that kind of feeling. Also, great observation with Malzeno and confidence! It’s the Dracula dragon so it’s very fitting.
After reacting to Fatalis and Malzeno I have two suggestions in mind for you. I first highly suggest reacting Kulve Taroth's Medley next. It perfectly captures the glory and Exploration of the quest itself. A perfect mix of stunning beauty and immense danger unlike nearly any other theme out there. My second suggestion is Safi'jiva's medley. Very reminiscent of Fatalis's but uniquely characterized by its mysterious nature until we hit its second and third phases of truly otherworldliness . Both truly are good examples of the pinnacle of monster hunter music.
Malzeno is the perfect homage to western Monsters imo. Representing a Dracula-esk vampire you can see all the inspirations in his design. The terror of Bram Stoker, the Cunning of Nosferatu, the power and regality of Castlevania and the swordsmanship of Alucard. A beast driven by hunger for blood while being such a proud and regal figure standing atop a throne of flesh and stone. Made even more apparent by his Vlad Tepes counterpart in Primordial Malzeno. Struggling to fight back the Vampiric disease that plagues its body, switching from a regal knight to a bloodthirsty vampire in the blink of an eye. I love Malzeno
Videogame music has always been my favorite "genre" of music and, for the longest time, I was unable to properly put into words why. Videogame music generally lacks lyrics, which more conventional songs use as part of the song itself, using tone, meter and length of syllable to give flavor to the words -in addition to the meaning of the words themselves. Videogame music generally can't do this and instead has to lean more heavily into the instrumental side of things -whatever emotion and implication and character lyrics may have given a song must instead be pulled from the instruments, how they're used and how they harmonize (or clash) with one another. The organ demands your attention, it carries a sense of confidence, authority and even malice, yet it still allows the other instruments to shine through at times, allowing them to flesh out Malzeno in other ways -such as how the strings convey the feeling of energy and elegance and agility, or how the heavier-hitting notes of the drums and brass give the song power and strength, making Malzeno intimidating in the process. And this is just the instruments themselves, nevermind the composition of the notes or the combinations of the instruments, which range from painting mental images of a calm, calculating king with an iron hand and a long shadow to teasing out thoughts of an almost sadistic playfulness and liveliness, as if reveling in the combat, as if Malzeno were toying with its food. Edit: I wrote this before finishing half your video, I hadn't realized you had a little section specifically for Malzeno's personality, ahah. Still though, videogame music, at its best, is some truly beautiful stuff.
"Lots of jumping around, leaping around"
Almost on spot! (He just straight out teleports to your back)
They say he moves really fast, semantics, if you miss it without blinking it's a teleport imo
There is actually an animation when it does its "shrouded blink teleports behind you, nothing personnel, kid" thing, meaning they aren't just teleporting the model or just sliding it around, it does indeed just go really fast.
@@nabuchodonosormcgalapatram6941 yes but calling it teleport is cooler lol
*He FLASH STEPS to your back.
I liked your observation about Malzeno's "needs". If memory serves, the blood parasites flying around Malzeno are part of a feud with another powerful monster. Its voracious appetite is a part of its drive to prevent its rival from becoming stronger. That's why I'm fond of the tinge of nobility in this piece, because in a weird way Malzeno's aggression is keeping something far worse at bay. So I think the team were conveying that this creature is driven by a 'higher' purpose and considers you a footnote in a much larger confrontation, even if it is still largely a self-interested predator trying desperately to preserve its own dominance.
Ya I think that's a really good interpretation of the tone of the fight
As a hunter this is a good take
As Gaismagorm i must say that i absolutely hate that Malzeno guy
Compendium comment
And here months later, we get another Malzeno before it was corrupted by the quiro.
Vampire Dragon, let's go! Once you know it's supposed to be modeled after Dracula, the inclusion of the organ becomes clear. And like a Vampire, Malzeno is devilishly intelligent. It zips around you, striking with its wings, then stabbing with its tail.
Woahhhhh
So,interesting thing you pointed out about there seeing to be an intelligence. In lore, it’s implied that Elder Dragons are extremely intelligent, seeming to have a higher understanding of the world, people, and other monsters than any other animal. Malzeno himself displays high levels of intelligence, disarming and maiming hunters in a cutscene rather than killing, and leaving after achieving its goal rather than attacking for the sake of violence or food. It’s described to be actively and consciously countering the actions of Sunbreaks final boss, Gaismagorm (another fantastic music piece by the way) . That’s probably the desperation you talked about, Malzeno dying unleashes a far more powerful beast, and Malzeno knows this. so, you and by proxy the music hit the nail on the head, Malzeno is a highly intelligent creature that operates on some level above basic instinct.
In fact Fatalis himself is believed to truly hate humanity. He specifically wants to kill us. Elder Dragons are fucking awesome
God this is cool.
Yes because low wise basically is the sort of scenario humans try to play God and they massacre dough ends upon thousands of dragons and other beasts not for like food or any just to make this abomination called the equal dragon weapon. Think of like full metal alchemist the anime where they make a homonkey list. So this thing does not need to eat or sleep it heals by killing this was the biggest. Was one of the final nails that turned fatalities into the hate field creature it is it does not forget it does not forgive. So it's when did I kingdom and spare no man woman or child to sit the kingdom of shreg is a dead city and Nothing has the balls to come face it every animal even other black dragons feared fatalis. He is the one above all even if you kill him. If you where is armor it's still alive it will grow it will make you into an architecturalist out of pure spite turning you into a thing you killed. Not to mention his eyes are just these big crystals but yet he somehow see through him. Almost like employed his blind hatred that he could never forget what the ancient civilization did to his brethren. And he will never forgive humans for what they did. Let's mention there's something called a white fatalis it was the fatalist that most likely destroyed the kingdom. It scales from black to a pure white it has grown a beard and a manifesthat's grown up here and I'm made of Fur like that of a Chinese dragon his horns went from dragon horns to that of like Chinese dragon antlers and instead of fire it rains down a combined element of lightning and dragon.
When it comes to his presence you are not facing an animal you're not facing just a beast one to divide you're facing a creature that's very aware of what you your ancestors did. Not mentioned just how you make armor out of them he does it to hunters he will take their broken bodies and melt their bodies while they're either dead or alive to his hide make him even stronger. He has layers upon layers of dead hunters with their abilities like their purpose of melted into his own flesh.
I was always under the impression that Fatalis was the great equalizer. That when humanity becomes too advanced, it threatens the balance of all living things, in turn upsetting Fatalis and causing it to raze humanity. I don't view Fatalis as an enemy, but an avatar of the very ecosystem. The champion hunter of humanity, as humans have champion hunters of monsters.
@@MarcoMeatballand now we've met another malzeno, who is just as cool in a uniquely different way.
To me this sounds like the theme of a now evil lord who ruled over a once great and prosperous land. Even though they are now dark, twisted, grotesque, and hungry for something they can never obtain; you can still hear the patina of a once shining city amongst the clouds. A proud man who had to do things they are not proud of.
Absolutely it does
The monster is based on Dracula,so it makes sense.
That's actually pretty much exactly what happened with Malzeno and the Kingdom
considering that malzeno's lore is that they used to be peaceful and respecful of people settlements before one had a chance encounter with gaismagorm, resulting in them forming symbiosis with the qurio (which subsequently drove rapid evolution towards hyper-aggressiveness and a constant need to feed to keep the flying leeches in check)
You are spot on
you just got the lore of Malzeno spot on
2:26 is the perfect example of how Capcom nails the atmosphere of specific fights in the Monster Hunter franchise. The entire time you've been fighting Malzeno it's been this agile, gleaming white elder dragon that almost seems to stalk and toy with you during the fight, as if it's not really giving its all because it doesn't think you're worth the time or effort. And then this part of the theme kicks in with the organ, it steps back and you as the player witness those same gleaming white scales shift into an endless black and watch it vanish from your sight just to appear somewhere else and continue its attack, the orchestra kicks in and all you can think to yourself is "Why does this feel like I'm fighting Dracula in dragon form?!"
"You could play MH music in a symphony hall and noone would be the wiser." I believe Deviljho would disagree.
Also I absolutely love the number of hunters and the amount of lore in the comment section
We're here 🍷🗿
Imagine if orchestra played fatalis theme irl, i would pay to listen to that masterpiece of music
@@HaxurDarklizard I would too
When Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak was announced, the motif became quite apparent for the trio of “headliner” monsters. The theme was “classic horror monsters.”
One was modeled after Frankenstein’s Monster. Another for Werewolves.
Malzeno was the Vampire. And he is one CLASSY mutherhubbard. From the way he fights, how he behaves and down to the armor you craft from his hide, EVERYTHING exudes elegance and ferocity.
Great stuff.
Here is a fun fact to add to that:
Dracula was said to have gained his vampiric powers from striking a deal with the devil. The last monster being called "The Archedemon of the Abyss" could be a reference to that, since they both use the Qurios as source of their powers.
@@ryrianupou8263 Exactly right. Malzeno formed a symbiotic relationship with the Quario which are originally from said final boss monster Gaismagorm who has been waiting underground for years, and Malzeno tries to usurp the power the Quario give it by having it's own symbiotic relationship with them...once he's out of the picture the Quario go crazy and head home while absorbing from any nearby monsters like a plague.
Garangolm is not modeled after Frankenstein's Monster but after the mysthic Golem. That's why he has different elements on his arms bc the Golem is closely connected to alchemy. Also GOLM is in his name. I don't get why everyone thinks that he is modeled after Frankenstein's Monster. There is not a single thing hinting at Frankenstein except maybe for the ape shaped form, but a lot of things that hint at the Golem. But I guess people just don't know the myth of the Golem...
@@virgil7471 His appearance is a mix of frankenstein's monster (since its often associated with vampires and werewolves) however its base "monster" it's actually based on is in fact the golem's you're talking about. Which is even cooler that they decided to mix the two together. (It can be seen in it's gentle nature, and the head shape clearly representative of frankenstein's monster.)
@@sevirakalau2171 And the only element Garangolm can be considered weak to is thunder 😉
Your comment about the "cat and mouse" and the back and forth between Malzeno and the hunters is spot on. There's a new mechanic that came with Malzeno where he can inflict a status called "bloodblight". Every time you get hurt by his attacks and you're inflicted by this, your health will replenish less and less each time you heal. The way to counter this is to rally back and attack Malzeno, encouraging risk-reward play. The devs promoted this as "fighting for your life" when they first showcased his gameplay, and this track really highlights that. They even did a full piano version of the song which is indeed a bop and a half!
canonically, Malzeno is literally feeding off of the Hunter's "red health" (blood) to regain health and grow stronger. i love it when lore and gameplay connect
Lunagaron and Garangolm deserve to have their own themes.
Weird how lunagaron has 2 themes that play in its cutscenes
But no theme in battle
Probably because they aren't flagships, or invaders.
@@magnabueno5360 They are kind of flagships. Lunagaron, Garangolm and Malzeno are called the "Three Lords". So, similar to the Fated Four, everyone should have their own theme.
@@YAH93 The Fated Four are all flagships for Generations as an anniversary game but the flagship for Sunbreak is specified to be Malzeno.
Now, at 12:00 when you said "There is even desperation in Malzeno." Well, without spoiling too much, it actually does seem like Malzeno has a mission of its own, to prevent something worse from happening to the land. Its clearly very confident, like you described earlier in the video, but it also has a REASON to fight that you discover in the game.
Your ability to read into every PRECISE detail of these characters through these masterful compositions is ASTOUNDING!
I can't recomend monster hunter enough, Rise is amazing. I kid you not when I say the series has some of the BEST enemies ever made for a videogame
Malzeno is also titled the Silver Duke Dragon in addition to Scarlet Feast, so having an air of confidence befitting a vampire duke is definitely hitting the nail on the head! It has a very dramatic shift when it hits its special enraged state where it absolutely feels like it wasn't taking the hunter seriously before, so you were correct on that analysis too!
Yeah, the first time I saw it start glowing and everything I was yelling because he's SO COOL!
I had always interpreted Malzeno as a necessary villain. And it knowing that it's transgressions are necessary and noble. It's desperation isn't to fight but to keep us from killing it. Because it knows of the greater threat that it's keeping it bay. I can imagine it saying to us upon its slaying "You fools.. You have no idea what you've done."
And indeed by slaying it, we did make things worse.
The use of an Organ and the regal yet savage sound of Malzeno’s theme perfectly match his personality, attacks, and design. He is based on a Vampire after all.
Where Velkhana’s attacks and movements are graceful and dancelike, fitting fitting its ‘Ice queen’ theme. Malzeno’s attacks and movements have some grace to them, yet are strong and violent. As if he’s trying to hide his savage nature underneath the elegance. Again, just like a vampire.
Velkhana is another Elder Dragon theme I think you should check out too. Make sure you choose the medley with the Arch Tempered theme included whenever you feel like reacting to it.
having played through the end of rise + sunbreak, i’m amazed how much you predicted malzeno’s characterization through the music alone
especially the musketeer part, with how primordial malzeno (in this case malzeno before the quiro) acts and fights like a knight, and how much that fight feels like a true duel between swordsmen (in this case sword dragon)
Here's a general rule of thumb when it comes to monster hunter music. If it starts to sound like there are lyrics, things are dangerous, but if it even starts to sound like they are even saying the name of the monster it from the frying pan into the hellfire.
😂
Now it's just more evident that you should listen to Safi'jiiva's theme. Malzeno is very much inspired by vampires and specifically Dracula with all the organs and brass in Malzeno's theme emphasizing that aspect
The Guardian Knight of Peace has returned.
Love how everything you describe Malzeno from the music alone, is what the fight and lore are.
Malzeno is based off 3 Draculas, Castlevania Dracula, occultism Drácula and IRL Vlad Tepes(read the weapons/armor depiction for the two latter).
In one of the older MonHun games is implied Elder Dragons are capable of speech but after the war that ended up with Fatalis rebooting civilization they refuse to talk to humans.
Malzeno being desperate matches his lore about being the ruling Elder Dragon that became vampiric after fending off a greater treat(just like how irl Vlad became a monster to defend his kingdom from the Ottoman empire).
This is why is ferocious, predatory, royal, majestic but also terrifying and depressive.
Can you provide a source for it being implied elder dragons can speak?
minor spoiler alert:
after seeing primordial malzeno, marco calling him a swordsman hits so differently
Never played this, but I've watched others and MAN, is it incredible! Easily one of my favorite MH songs!
I always thought of Malzeno being almost a musical concept. Like the whole time we are fighting him, we are hearing it sing its villainous monologue to us. Like a bad guy who is explainging why he must kill you. Not out of regret but out of necessity. Incredible music work
Dang, never expected a Malzeno theme reaction :D The devs really made a meticulous job on Rise music, this theme is so good and majestic ! If you wanna see more i would suggest you Mizutsune, Magnamalo, Ibushi, Narwa (normal and Allmother) and Crimson Glow Valstax themes x) Really happy to ses you enjoying game music as usual. Keep going buddy !
PS: The final boss of Sunbreak has a sang really good theme too
Thanks Toki!!!
This whole theme just SCREAMS ancient corrupted vampire lord. The music in Rise/Sunbreak is incredible. It's always been good in MonHun and gotten better over time, but this game took it a big step forward.
The "lumbering" part in all these songs signify the thrill of the hunt. After all, these creatures are just trying to live their lives and will aways flee when they are feeling overwhelmed, so the MH soundtrack aways emphasize you chasing the monster on their songs.
Also, you should react to Nakarkos' theme, it's a freaking banger
Listening/hearing Malzeno’s track in the Primordial Malzeno fight feels very right in the context of the introductory quest - that unbeknownst initially to us there is a very real three pronged fight happening between us, Malzeno and the Qurios and the track of what could await it if we keep fighting feels almost mournful as it tries and is failing to keep the Qurios off of it while defending itself.
Your ability to pick stuff out of a musical piece thats just DEAD ON for the media it came from never ceases to amaze me. The stuff you've just nailed on the head from this theme and the honkai stuff especially
Thank you! Just playing with my imagination ❤️❤️
Another really cool theme to check out would be Chameleos'. His is very different and off kilter, but absolutely one of my favorites (Valstrax, Gore/Shagaru magala and Vaal Hazak also all have great themes)
I was one of the people who recommended this and I am super grateful that you actually did this!
Malzeno feels so different to the other monster hunter themes. I specifically wanted to see you explain and react to the "lick" which you explained perfectly and brought the biggest smile on my face. Im so happy you liked it, its a great a theme for a great monster with a great moveset.
Thank you so much again, Marco.
My pleasure! It’s beautiful!
Let's go! Thanks for giving it a shot, I really love this piece!
Malzeno is the Dragon equivalent of a Vampire, which is why Organs are so prominent in his theme. But what you described as well makes so much sense. This sense of Confidence, Intelligence, but still primal, jumping around, cat and mouse, all qualities that feel very Vampiric
Nice to see you see enthusiastic about this one! Malzeno is such a well designed flagship monster, and its theme truly rounds out the experience when the player fights it.
By the way, you correctly guessed the body slam! It teleports in and just absolutely wrecks your life bar.
Crazy 😂 ya! It has been nice exploring this.
You’re an analyzing is always on point to with the actual monsters theme is in game, that’s amazing skill
I will also keep commenting until I get river in the 1000 voices Destiny 2 space wish dragon
It would be really cool to see you compare a few different versions of “Proof of a Hero” from across the series, they make a new version or two for each game
The words that come to mind when listening to this are "Sinister", "Elegant", and "Predator". Malzeno is a creature of the night, a ruler of the night even. It probably does enjoy its hunts, the thrill of the chase and all that. But it hunts for a reason, not just out of pride or satisfaction, much like we do in the game. In some ways, malzeno is like a lesson: Don't topple that which rules the night, lest something far worse take its place. Tldr: Don't mess with the natural order or things WILL get out of hand.
wow wasnt expecting a malzeno reaction
great stuff as always and once again
please, shantien all phase reaction from monster hunter frontier
Oh I fucking love the Shantien themes
Another link to the "desperation" and "need to fight you, specifically" others have mentioned, as well as "need to find a worthy adversary to put it down" is that it used to be a noble protector, but in taking up its new role as the host of the Curio (blood parasites) to prevent the return of Gaismagorm, the "Archdemon of the Abyss," it might feel sorrow knowing that it is corrupted into a lesser evil.
But then we now also have Primordial Malzeno! The Paladin that Malzeno used to be! And in its fight it does look for someone to put it down... kinda. At least to help free itself from the Curio when they try to take back control. And after the fight the hunter helps it destroy the Curio for good.
I think you were INCREDIBLY close to home with your notes, just missing the context, well done and great video~!
Was just listening to this and I thought to check if you had analysed it. Good to see you have! My brother and I think it's one of the best fights and themes in Monster Hunter.
Oh this is by far my favorite theme from this game and best monster design too. Thanks for covering this series!
danger and confidence is exactly what malzeno is, you perfectly described him by its theme alone. which shows how perfect this theme is for malzeno
Heeeeyyy!! Another MH song! I absolutely love this OST!! It’s up there with my favorite monsters’ OST, ZINOGRE. Good pick!
Also, can’t wait on your take of the national anthem of all of us Hunters, PROOF OF A HERO.
Thank you so much for looking into this one. It's been a while since I commented about this theme but I'm happy you finally had a listen to it.
While before release of Sunbreak I was a bit sceptical because there was this view that Malzeno is a red clone of Ice dragon Velkhana from Iceborne, he turned out to be basically one of my favourite flagships and elder dragons ever and I really hope he will stick to this series like a glue because my god, this monster is (at least for me) basically perfect on every level.
The music fits perfectly his tempo of the fight, almost being integrated with his moves, his look is both scary, royal and beautiful. You have this shiny, gold, red and silver extrerior but his teeth inside the mouth are really scary looking, long, not in straight line and you know you would not want to be bitten by this guy.
His fight is not fast for the sake of being fast, fighting him is always a duel, he Hits you, has a pause for you to hit etc, but because he is very fast, you always need to be on your toes.
Compared to Magnamalo that left almost nothing story wise, Malzeno gets like two cutscenes and yet you can feel his inteligence, power, and how imposing he is. He doesnt need anything more than his presence alone to make a good impression. A perfect creature design.
Do I need to say that I could basically listen to his music daily? It's both such a banger and a beautiful piece, "pop music in terms of classical music" (?). It gives me shivers every time. Fighting Malzeno is always fun. Sunbreak really outdid themselves at making Rise a better game and nothing symbolises it more than this simple yet extremely good flagship idea and design.
I think the organ really gives a regal yet dark air to Malzeno and considering that they themed him off of a vampire I feel it's the perfect instrument to compliment his theme and makes sense for them to make it take the lead at times rather than just sitting in the background.
12:30 I never really noticed it untill you pointed it out but you're absolutely dead on with that. In a cutscene with Malzeno it ignores everyone around it and turning around to face the player character and takes a battle ready stance before being interrupted which kind of bleeds into the intelligence part you mentioned. Malzeno was right in picking you put of a group of people though so it must have saw something in you it didnt spot in even the head of the Elgado Royal Knights. Very fascinating, reminds me a lot of Nergigante in a way (Another theme you should definitely dive into especially his Arch Tempered Theme known as "World's End"(Arch Tempered being a super powerful version of a monster, the strongest of the species Temperedby the energy of the New World))
Can't wait for you to hear and review the Shagaru Magala theme in sunbreak 😁
I still love your comment about how the monsters are characters. Every time I passed by a Kulu-ya-ku in World carrying an egg away from a nest, I just give it a little nod and greeting of "crime birb" as though I'm passing by a peer. These are characters in their animations and behaviors, and we love them for it.
Now, that notion of Malzeno being almost desperate for the hunter to take it down? That's interesting, because it makes me think of monsters like Nergigante and Magnamallo, that have their connections in battling and feasting on other monsters. But where as the two of them were cozy in their place of the food chain and natural balance, you're right, with Malzeno feels like theres deliberateness and intention. The Qurio situation becomes worse when we take down Malzeno, as if it really was holding it back from going out of control. And then it even comes to help us in the Master Rank version of the Allmother fight.
Vampires are prone to having sympathetic and tragic narratives. Now I wont look at Malzeno the same away every again. Thank you, Mark.
Extra note on the part where Monster Hunter could be put in a symphony hall, ever since your Fatalis video, I've thought of the story elder dragon themes in Rise and thought you could arrange them well as a Symphony of Wind and Lightning.
1st Movement: The Rampage, call to arms, varied including its other themes
2nd Movement: Narwa, Lady of Lightning, a slow song carrying power
3rd Movement: Ibushi, Breath of Ire, fast again, almost dance like
4th Movement: The Allmother, bombastic, carrying the tone of revenge and finality
from the moment I saw the thumbnail, without seeing the video 1st, I liked it instantly cuz I know dis gon be GUD
Man I love your insight into the music! Really shows insight into specific songs and music theory in general. Would love to see you listen to Kulve Taroths theme from World.
Malzeno's theme is one of the most JoJo part 1 things I've ever heard. You can almost physically taste the drama it exudes. You can also see it in the flamboyant way Malzeno moves. He calls for the spotlight and owns it like none other.
Love how homie feels the music
Thank you homie
Very happy to see ur reaction and glad you enjoyed it Marc, thank you for covering this one and what im assuming is you refering to my comment on the fatalis video.
Hello! I recently found you when I was looking up Monster Hunter music and I was instantly hooked on your videos! Absolutely loving your reactions and appreciation for video game music in general. Awesome job and looking forward to more content!
Never played MH but this theme Is fucking incredibile
I'd love for your to do more Monster Hunter scores! I thoroughly enjoyed the Fatalis one, and this one for sure! Please do more!
I have a few more in the tank! :)
mohun music is so fun to watch you listen to you, so much effort is put into conveying a monster through theme music plus it seems to be employing so many musical techniques that you pick up on and bring out that infectious enthusiasm you have in spades
Thanks for such a kind comment :) it means a lot!
@@MarcoMeatball wonder if theres been any music you've experienced on this channel that you'd want to take and (politely) shove into a associate's face and say "LISTEN TO THIS"
Thank you MarcoMeatball. I knew it would interesting hearing your reaction to this!!! Your breakdown was very accurate to Malzeno and his place in nature, just from the music. You are very talented and I hope you have a nice day!
Also how’d you know I use the bathroom? Lol
Hehehe thank you so much! I loved listening to this!
Malzeno full loop: about 3 minutes
React: about 15 minutes
Man, i cant wait for safijiiva react (and will be long, because we have many opera thing on that)
Say hello to brazil!!!
Hi Brazil! 😂
I recall the first time I faced Malzeno. I could not even concentrate on the battle, the beauty of the monster, the beauty of the song, and the scenario was overwhelming me. A master piece.
Listening to your reaction really makes the monsters more immersive. The way you describe the music really fits the sunbreak theme having to do with knights, and Malzeno's inspiration of vampire's really is sold when you describe the Organ and its part in the music. I'm amazed at the lengths the game devs/music directors go to sell these monsters through lore, music, and overall feel during gameplay. Please continue making more videos for noobs like me that know nothing of music xD
HahH thanks Abel! Means alot! Just playing with musical imagery. You can do it too :)
Like few other monster hunter themes I feel like Malzeno's really paints the idea of an intelligent, aware opponent like you said. I just love how hard it goes, how regal it sounds, great to see your thoughts on it!
❤️❤️❤️
I like how he talks about danger and confidence in the song as it perfectly fits malzeno
Malzeno's urgency comes from his presence as a true rival to your hunter. You see, he's not actually after you.
He's after taking down the final boss, just as you are. However, naturally his methods are cruel and destructive as an apex predator smart enough to hunt for sport.
You and Malzeno have this emotional and epic clash basically to decide who's right, and who should continue to challenge the final foe and become the true apex of the ecosystem.
Malzeno perhaps views you as a worthy rival to his goal, and so fights you for a desire to see if you're worthy to fulfill his mission.
I recommend Shantien's theme from monster hunter frontier, as many consider it the best theme in the series. The thing is, it's lore and back story is something few know of, though I can help you with that since I compile this info myself.
Feel free to ask for any information you need on monster hunter lore!!!
I love how they expanded the story of malzeno, as an individual AND as a species with the final update.
Each time i see one of your videos it's an insta click for me, amazing job once again!
One thing that a lot of people have been comenting is the origin of the design of Malzeno and the other 3 monsters added in MH:Rise, following the 3 classic horror monsters. It's clear that the inspiration for Vampiboy came from Dracula and of course that's why we get so many organ as media have been representing Dracula and Vampirers for a long time, as not only those cunning and devilish creatures, but also as proficient and elegant, and Malzeno does represent that.
I hope one day we can get a reaction from you to themes like World of Warcraft Arthas my son, its such a beautiful masterpiece used in the cinematic trailer (that btw, game of thrones used as reference for their dragon rising/flying scene). And i would really recommend you to listen to some of Sawano Hiroyuki compositions, mainly one of the last ones called Xi from Gundam Hathaway Flash :D (i know attack on titan but im more of a Gundam guy)
I love how you extract the story telling elements from each note
Love your work sir
Keep up the good work 🔥🔥🔥
Malzeno is considered a lord and he represents Dracula if he was an elder dragon
So the elements in his theme fit his character so well in my opinion
Yessssss the new Three Lords tracks are SO good! Also fun fact (someone probably has already commented on this): Malzeno is part of The Three Lords which are brand new monsters based off of the famous classic horror trio monsters, Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the werewolf! So yes the use of the organs is very deliberate and super refreshing. The first time I heard this while fighting him in the demo, I was so hyped just because MH tracks don't use organs often (if at all). They really went all out with also the euro centric aesthetic with the new expansion which is a complete opposite of the base game that's inspired by Japanese folklore and themes.
Incredible video dude. Important bit of context: Malzeno is basically a lizard version of Dracula
Marco: "It sounds like if it could talk, it would"
Malzeno:
Malzeno: *_>_*
Ooohhh I was waiting for this one. I love the choir and the haunting melody. Also, have you considered reacting to Pokemon music? Themes such as Zinnia's and Ultra Necrozma's really feel unique and powerful for many reasons. And there's so much more as well.
GHETHIS and ROSE’S theme are excellent options as well!
Shagaru Magala and Gaismagorm (final boss of sunbreak) are 2 monster themes that you should definitely look forward to, both being highly fanboy'ed on by the community lol.
Great reaction to this absolute masterpiece of a track.
in a series full of amazing designs, malzeno is among the best. Its a vampire, its agile and regal and intelligent, it feels dangerous. You don't hunt malzeno, its a duel. Won through cleverness rather than brute force.
Fellow Opera Singer and a MH enjoyer here! Nice content, all the best!
i find that the Organ tends to be used during Vampire themed bosses and stuff, look at Grimm from Hollow Knight for example, much like Malzeno he has a lot of Organ in his theme
and BloodeBorne has a fair few Organs in it's music if i remember, which fits since BloodBorne has a lot of vampire vibes throughout the entire game
Great video! Would be cool if you could do Gaismagorm or Shagaru Magala (both also from MHR) next.
one of the most beautiful pieces of the entire series.
I really like the link you made between the Organ being associated with older (almost ancient to some) styles of music and the fact that Elders are supposed to be these beasts that have lived for millenia, giving them an aged almost aristocratic vibe to them.
Never caught that from this, to me it just screamed "church of Dracula" vibes
Oh cool! Ya my brain is just like organ = old 😂
Would be very interested seing your take on Gore Magala's theme and then following with Shagaru Magala's theme. A very mysterious almost villainous creature hatching into a force of nature.
I feel like Espinas would be a good theme to review because it hits hard!
"opera singer reacts to a theme that doesn't have vocals on it"
@@athos9293 he’s done that before you know
Basically the theme of running for your god-damned life after waking something you REALLY shouldn't have.
I must say that monster hunter surprises me precisely in the fact that it gives personality to monsters, without needing anything more than actions (whether during or out of combat) and a soundtrack. malzeno is a monster based on dracula, so this "noble" sense in the music next to the organ strengthens it, in addition to many, MANY of his attacks seem like a vampire. whether swinging your cape (wings in this case) becoming bats to flank you, etc. I really love this franchise so I would love for you to analyze 2 themes:
Zinogre's
and (mainly) Valstrax (can be from Rise or Generations, it's your choice)
If you liked this, I have to recommend the other 2 Iceborne endbosses Safi’jiiva and Alatreon. I wonder how you’ll react and “characterize” the monsters when hearing their themes.
Sunbreak’s final boss Gasomagorm’s theme would also be a good ride. Lastly, Shagaru Magala’s theme would be nice to see (and Gore Magala’s as well if you’re up to it).
Amazing analysis. I like that you pointed out Malzeno's intelligence, as it is one of it's more interesting trait, in that he fights almost like a human would in comparaison to other monsters, notably jumping or teleporting around before using ranged attacks, or just using it's claws like a hand for it's grab attack, and if he misses said attack he even looks at it's empty hand with a disapointed look.
For other Monster Hunter themes I'd recommend Magnamalo's theme in particular, and the themes of Wind Serpent Ibushi, Thunder Serpent Narwa and Allmother Narwa are all amazing.
For more Non-MH music I'd recommend checking out some of the Punishing Gray Raven ost. Most of it is amazing, the two most well known ones are Narwhal and Hikari, which caused quite a lot of players to start playing just for these OSTs (me included). The most recent ost they added, Exorcism, is also really good.
Ironically both of those are coming :)
Malzeno's theme is, above all else, NOBLE.
It has class, elegance, pomp and bombastic dignity. This is the theme of an apex predator that not only knows it is, but takes PRIDE in that fact.
Malzeno at one point was the BENIGN elder dragon that presided over a region simply known as The Kingdom. It only took what it needed and lived apart from humanity, in what is honestly one of the few examples we have of an elder doing so.
And then the kingdom fell. Literally. Its rival, buried deep under the bedrock, created a sinkhole so large it dwarfs Niagra falls, and felled the Kingdom. Malzeno, now aware that its rule was threatened, began to *aggressively* hunt down other intruders, claiming the Kingdom's ruins as its domain, before bonding with a parasitic species that drains the life out of whatever they attach to in order to prevent them from finding their true host, its rival. It is a once proud ruler, trying to hold the devil back in the ruins of what it once protected.
Malzeno is, more than any other monster in Rise, the hero of its own story.
My goodness there are sooo many changes in this song, but they all just feel like variations of the melody. They choose to start and stop the organ and choir in such interesting ways. This is a really neat composition.
I am requesting two things
Proof of a hero and riven of 1000 voices they’re both songs I get you pumped up when you’re fighting dragons
I also like the themes of the sunbreak TLC with the main monsters being Frankenstein werewolf and vampire
Crimson glow valstrax is always fun to listen to. I personally love the high energy and almost speed you feel of the monster in the music piece
The thing about Malzeno being concious about its doings really fitted in there. It may be a monster but its basically a vampir elder dragon. Therefore i believe what you called personallity is more like that typical charisma of a vampir - even more the part about playing cat and mouse. It's a vampir playing with its pray before drinking them try.
Also as you said IT WANTS to fight us. The main threat in the expansion is another monster which Malzeno is closely linked through by an multiple decade long feud. Maybe that's the part where the fights purpose was to bring your focus onto the right tracks again. That's kind of a need connection. Thanks for your thoughts on the song. Really appreciate your videos, man. (Y) :)
❤️ thank you!!!
Love these kind of videos! Please consider analyzing Magnamalos theme next it’s amazing. And when you’re done with that you could do Khezu’s theme it’s one of the most beloved ones among the mh community.
Which version?!?
His impression gives me more to appreciate with that those little red things around Malzeno really are from(kind of underworld doom bringer demon maybe like Nosferatu) . And makes it even more vampire than I thought before. It's powerful yes , but it's a curse.
I feel like it would be very interesting to see you react to an area theme. Like the citadel or the frozen island
There is in fact a live concert of Monster Hunter music performed every year in Japan. Because of the things going on over the last few years they made it into a live streamed event too, making it finally available for the rest of the world to watch! Very much worth the ticket price!
If I may recommend more MH tracks: I really love Alatreon's Iceborne theme, Magnamalo and Gaismagorm from Sunbreak, as well as the Kulve Taroth (arch-tempered) medley! If you listen to that one definitely make sure to have it include the AT "Fury" theme. Also Raging Brachydios' Iceborne theme is great!
You really couldn’t have a more fitting theme for the Elder Dragon Lord of Blood. Very haughty and arrogant, but graceful and powerful.
Hey I just started watching your content because of these monster hunter videos. Monster Hunter is my favorite game series of all time. And I'd love to see you react and breakdown more from the series it's so interesting to watch. Personally I think my favorite themes in the series are Alatreon's theme and Brachydios theme.(including the variant Raging Brachydios who has an altered version of the music.) Anyway love the content and keep up the good work.
Thanks Taylor! Glad you enjoy it!
Do you know that with the latest DLC you were totally right in saying that Malzeno was compelled to fight the hunters by the little flying leeches and so he is desperate ! 👏
Happened to stumble across this channel and I gotta say I'm loving this I have a suggestion for you if you don't mind. King Ghidorahs theme from Godzilla king of the monster movie :)
SUNBREAK is largely themed after victorian horror themes, with Malzeno, Garangolm and Lunagaron being Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster and a Lycanthrope, all appearing at the cursed Citadel map, i think the Organ, as an instrument is quite evocative of this time period
Dracula-sized dragon.
Pride and ego mentioned goes to the dracula side, organ in some 'vampire' theme is a must.
For a theme that feels like a “fight,” I’d highly recommend Magnamalo’s theme “Barbarous Beast.” It absolutely nails that kind of feeling.
Also, great observation with Malzeno and confidence! It’s the Dracula dragon so it’s very fitting.
After reacting to Fatalis and Malzeno I have two suggestions in mind for you. I first highly suggest reacting Kulve Taroth's Medley next. It perfectly captures the glory and Exploration of the quest itself. A perfect mix of stunning beauty and immense danger unlike nearly any other theme out there. My second suggestion is Safi'jiva's medley. Very reminiscent of Fatalis's but uniquely characterized by its mysterious nature until we hit its second and third phases of truly otherworldliness . Both truly are good examples of the pinnacle of monster hunter music.
They’re on my list
Malzeno is the perfect homage to western Monsters imo. Representing a Dracula-esk vampire you can see all the inspirations in his design. The terror of Bram Stoker, the Cunning of Nosferatu, the power and regality of Castlevania and the swordsmanship of Alucard. A beast driven by hunger for blood while being such a proud and regal figure standing atop a throne of flesh and stone. Made even more apparent by his Vlad Tepes counterpart in Primordial Malzeno. Struggling to fight back the Vampiric disease that plagues its body, switching from a regal knight to a bloodthirsty vampire in the blink of an eye. I love Malzeno
Videogame music has always been my favorite "genre" of music and, for the longest time, I was unable to properly put into words why.
Videogame music generally lacks lyrics, which more conventional songs use as part of the song itself, using tone, meter and length of syllable to give flavor to the words -in addition to the meaning of the words themselves. Videogame music generally can't do this and instead has to lean more heavily into the instrumental side of things -whatever emotion and implication and character lyrics may have given a song must instead be pulled from the instruments, how they're used and how they harmonize (or clash) with one another.
The organ demands your attention, it carries a sense of confidence, authority and even malice, yet it still allows the other instruments to shine through at times, allowing them to flesh out Malzeno in other ways -such as how the strings convey the feeling of energy and elegance and agility, or how the heavier-hitting notes of the drums and brass give the song power and strength, making Malzeno intimidating in the process. And this is just the instruments themselves, nevermind the composition of the notes or the combinations of the instruments, which range from painting mental images of a calm, calculating king with an iron hand and a long shadow to teasing out thoughts of an almost sadistic playfulness and liveliness, as if reveling in the combat, as if Malzeno were toying with its food.
Edit: I wrote this before finishing half your video, I hadn't realized you had a little section specifically for Malzeno's personality, ahah. Still though, videogame music, at its best, is some truly beautiful stuff.
Loved reading thisb