Game Composer Breaks Down MANTIS LORDS from HOLLOW KNIGHT

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.ค. 2024
  • It's time for some more Hollow Knight music! This time we're listening to Mantis Lords theme. I think I didn't metion it in this video but this might be my favorite track in the Hollow Knight OST. Love how hard it commited to the baroque style!
    SUBSCRIBE! I post video game music content every week: / @davivasc
    Video Game Music Reaction Videos: • Game Music Composer Re...
    Video Game Covers to Make You Relax (-_-) zzz... • MILLENNIAL FAIR Cover ...
    Game footage credit to Boss Fighter: • Hollow Knight - Mantis...
  • เพลง

ความคิดเห็น • 577

  • @DaviVasc
    @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +422

    I think I didn't mention this in the video bit this might be my favorite Hollow Knight track yet.
    Btw, make sure to watch my other Hollow Knight music videos: th-cam.com/video/1uTcGHliPoc/w-d-xo.html

    • @Ocelainn
      @Ocelainn ปีที่แล้ว +12

      The best battle on the gamee

    • @Laachen
      @Laachen ปีที่แล้ว +13

      it's also the best boss fight in the game (there is a special mode of the boss called sisters of battle which is even better)

    • @loganbaker007
      @loganbaker007 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @Davi Vasc could you do a breakdown of boots through the undergrowth?

    • @LastTrueScout
      @LastTrueScout ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I really want to see a comparison between “Mantis Lords” and “Sisters of Battle”. The latter is a boss battle that is an intensification of the Mantis Lords battle, with more intense music to match.

    • @Frie_the_sKull
      @Frie_the_sKull ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You should check out broken vessel next

  • @lordofthestrings45
    @lordofthestrings45 ปีที่แล้ว +2947

    The Mantis Lords are a good fight because they aren't attacking you out of madness or cruelty, they're testing you to judge if you're worthy of entering probably the most dangerous area of the underground. And after you beat them, the rest of the mantises in the village leave you alone out of respect.

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +1355

      Oooooooh I ALMOST said it sounded like a test because of how not evil the track sounded, but I thought it was too much of a stretch and didn't say it :(

    • @demonharleygd7884
      @demonharleygd7884 ปีที่แล้ว +425

      @@DaviVasc you’ve been very good at assuming what the song says about whats happening in the game, so nice to listen to you react to these masterpieces

    • @Techhunter_Talon
      @Techhunter_Talon ปีที่แล้ว +151

      Recall that the game did a little trick that most might not notice at first to suggest that there's something different with the Mantises in the Fungal Wastes from the rest of the enemies. An enemy that has succumbed to the corruption in Hollow Knight generally bleed a sickly orange when struck and killed. However, the Mantises don't bleed orange when hit and when killed (or defeated in the case of the Mantis Lords). Their blood is colored just like soul energy in the game, as in white.

    • @0placeholder0
      @0placeholder0 ปีที่แล้ว +56

      @@DaviVasc Christopher Larkin does an AMAZING job communicating through his tracks.

    • @JaggerG
      @JaggerG ปีที่แล้ว +54

      @@DaviVasc Yeah, the lore throughout the game is so perfectly captured in the soundtrack. It’s so deep and intricate, and the graphics make such cute cartoony characters mesh in this dark, morose environment. It does such a great job of making you care about every creature you meet.
      These Mantis Lords are so intimidating and cool. They don’t even just pounce, you have to go up to and formally challenge them, even though their entire village has been fiercely defending entry. They just sit on their thrones patiently, looking at you as if to say, “Take your time, make sure you’re ready first.”

  • @namelessdragon330
    @namelessdragon330 ปีที่แล้ว +975

    "The kind of boss you're meant to respect."
    Fun fact: The achievement you get for beating the Mantis Lords is called "Respect"!

    • @paradoxalpl5666
      @paradoxalpl5666 ปีที่แล้ว +34

      Well. Its rather that they respect you after you win

    • @jblaine6104
      @jblaine6104 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      Mutual understanding and respect.

    • @elvectorneko
      @elvectorneko 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Also, they are one of the 2 bosses that You have to Challenge

  • @ianaguilar7282
    @ianaguilar7282 ปีที่แล้ว +1853

    "Sophisticated", "respect them", "you are suposed to dance with them" Man, you really nail exactly everything about these bosses without seeing the gameplay, just hearing the theme. I love these breakdowns and reactions. Please, keep on with them!!!

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +310

      Thanks man!

    • @kunstlerischeintelligenz471
      @kunstlerischeintelligenz471 ปีที่แล้ว +157

      The fact that he can guess so much about these bosses by the tracks says a lot about both the quality of these themes and Davi's knowledge about music.

    • @ianaguilar7282
      @ianaguilar7282 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      Indeed, cant wait for his take on Nightmare King, Broken Vessel and Truth, Beauty and Hatred.

    • @jeremyholman
      @jeremyholman ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Yeah. Wow. Davi, if you genuinely didn't know much/anything about the story and plot of the game when you made these claims about what the thematic content, that's pretty impressive, because holy cow you *nailed* it.
      Another thing worth about the Mantis Lords is that their culture is kind of... not the dominant culture of the setting, but in part because of their isolationism and their proud martial culture, they have (sort of) survived the disaster that has ruined every other culture ("bugs" especially, but also the moths). So they're like a civilized relic from before the catastrophe that has laid everyone else low. Other cultures achieved greater peaks, but now are ruins, but the Mantises are still doing fine, behind the mountains of corpses that they have been forced to create.

    • @trentsims
      @trentsims ปีที่แล้ว +15

      @@DaviVasc Yeah this is spot on. Unlike many bosses in the game, the Lords aren't actually aggressive. They will only fight you if you issue them a challenge. The fight itself feels very much like a dance, because of the way their attack patterns are structured. Also the achievement you get for clearing them is literally called "Respect" because you will have earned the respect of them and their subjects.

  • @Majoraspersona
    @Majoraspersona ปีที่แล้ว +893

    One thing that's notable about the Mantis Lords fight is something that is only used one other time in the entire game: Before you fight, the character stands before them and draws their sword. You actually have to instigate the fight, instead of you basically walking into a room and a fight starting like all the other ones.

    • @QualityJo_
      @QualityJo_ ปีที่แล้ว +108

      they are used two other times iirc, one for fighting the radiance and one for challenging bosses in pantheons and the hall of gods

    • @LFMG-qu5fq
      @LFMG-qu5fq ปีที่แล้ว +30

      @@QualityJo_ Also the Dream Warriors

    • @shadowstar8619
      @shadowstar8619 ปีที่แล้ว +27

      @@LFMG-qu5fq Yeah, but those guys don't trigger the Challenge action when Ghost draws their nail at them.

    • @LFMG-qu5fq
      @LFMG-qu5fq ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@shadowstar8619 Well, that's true.

    • @timberprospects
      @timberprospects ปีที่แล้ว +15

      @@shadowstar8619 exactly, and honestly i think that those are actually kinda like choosing to walk into the room with them where they immediately attack you, but the mantis lords and radiance thing is specifically a challenge i feel like

  • @Floofafoop
    @Floofafoop ปีที่แล้ว +594

    Mantis Lords was probably the moment I was completely hooked on Hollow Knight. This banger of a track certainly played no small part in that.

    • @demonharleygd7884
      @demonharleygd7884 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      Bro this boss is like the foundation of everyones interest in this game. It’s not unfair, you’re never underleveled bc you’re not supposed to have a strong nail yet, the song is a banger, just amazing. The only way that people hate this boss would be bc the closest bench is 6 rooms away🤣

    • @phntmthf5505
      @phntmthf5505 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      @@demonharleygd7884 it really do be like that. That fucking bench.
      And then a bench opens up in the village once you defeat them, as an extra little “fuck you.”

    • @ThatGuyNamedK
      @ThatGuyNamedK ปีที่แล้ว +7

      "Hooked" is this a Mantis Claw Pun?

    • @ImVeryOriginal
      @ImVeryOriginal ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@phntmthf5505 If I had to point to one flaw in Hollow Knight, it would be that. Trudging all the way back to the boss every goddamn time gets old fast.

    • @Floofafoop
      @Floofafoop ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@ThatGuyNamedK The best puns are the accidental ones

  • @adamchism8697
    @adamchism8697 ปีที่แล้ว +429

    “Nosk” from Hollow Knight is not necessarily a complex piece but it sets the mood so perfectly. It makes the boss fight intense!

    • @Techhunter_Talon
      @Techhunter_Talon ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I love that one.

    • @adamchism8697
      @adamchism8697 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      It gives such instant dread. It’s awesome!

    • @Shadowplay4Cats
      @Shadowplay4Cats ปีที่แล้ว +10

      I love that one! I love deepnest, it’s my favorite area, the atmosphere is so good. I was so tense exploring it for the first time. And the buildup towards Nosk is so creepy.

    • @Marcharound
      @Marcharound ปีที่แล้ว

      Absolutely

    • @veronicawexel1291
      @veronicawexel1291 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      It literally carries the entire battle, without the music it would just a several times more annoying vengefly king.

  • @cinnabonbons
    @cinnabonbons ปีที่แล้ว +617

    There's a variant of this theme called 'Sisters of Battle' that's also really good that you should check out!

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +182

      Oh sounds interesting. I'll check it out!

    • @krieger1969
      @krieger1969 ปีที่แล้ว +119

      @@DaviVasc I don't think it deserves a video of its own (because its the same but a little different), but you can listen to it in your free time.

    • @SamuriLemonX18
      @SamuriLemonX18 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      AKA the BLOODBORNE verion!

    • @ImVeryOriginal
      @ImVeryOriginal ปีที่แล้ว +27

      @@DaviVasc Yeah it's basically the same with a slightly different arrangement and some choirs. It's one of the Godhome tracks and they're all basically that. Maybe except Pure Vessel, the counterpart to Sealed Vessel, which is kinda interesting on its own.

    • @thew00dsman79
      @thew00dsman79 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      It’s literally my favorite fight in the game, followed closely by Nightmare King Grimm; the dances of them are so damn fun to do

  • @pathfindersavant3988
    @pathfindersavant3988 ปีที่แล้ว +110

    "You're kinda supposed to dance with them."
    Prrfect way to describe the boss fight, its a tight and intricate dance of dodges and flourishes, every attack has a set rhythm to it, and you never feel like you're being taken off said rhythm with their attacks.

    • @Petperson17
      @Petperson17 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yeah this fight kinda feels like street fighter in a way to me because in street fighter fighting with your opponent is like a dance

  • @veronicawexel1291
    @veronicawexel1291 ปีที่แล้ว +68

    It still baffles me how you can just listen to these tracks and accurately describe everything without having played the game. The old sophisticated feel to the sound, they were there before the kingdom in the game was even created. You're supposed to be amazed by their skill and respect them, you have to actually initiate the battle by challenging them and defeating them earns you the achievement "Respect" and you get an entire reward that is specifically pointed out was given because the Lords respect you (in addition, they and their underlings bow to you every time you pass by after defeating them). You just nailed everything on the head. I am very impressed. Probably always will be.
    "Hornet" or "Soul Sanctum" would be nice to hear your thoughts on next, but any track from the game will do, of course.

  • @CitruKori
    @CitruKori ปีที่แล้ว +48

    “Hive Knight” is an interesting track because it uses instruments that feel different than the ones used for other tracks, but still manages to feel like it’s still in the same world as the other tracks.

  • @DamburaDioa
    @DamburaDioa ปีที่แล้ว +151

    It’s crazy how accurate your predictions of the bosses are just by listening to the music!

    • @the_furf_of_july4652
      @the_furf_of_july4652 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Props to both the reactor and the composer!
      Cristopher Larkin for making such well-thought-out music that it’s able to be successfully interpreted like this, and Davi for knowing enough about music to pick up on these details and draw these conclusions correctly.

  • @dragonclaw4159
    @dragonclaw4159 ปีที่แล้ว +115

    Two hollow knight tracks I recommend are:
    Pure vessel: sealed vessel is the current final boss, as long as your not going for the radiance, and pure vessel is the vessel in its prime.
    Nightmare king Grimm: Nightmare king Grimm is a much more powerful version of troupe master Grimm.

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +31

      Awesome. Thank you for the suggestions!

    • @dragonclaw4159
      @dragonclaw4159 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@DaviVasc thanks for replying so quickly.

    • @albertilloman
      @albertilloman ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm pretty sure he already covered Nightmare King tho. Have you checked his playlist first?

    • @Oscar97o
      @Oscar97o ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@albertilloman He covered the regular Grimm Troupe music, not Nightmare King.

    • @dragonclaw4159
      @dragonclaw4159 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@albertilloman he has done normal Grimm, not nkg.

  • @Danim3nto
    @Danim3nto ปีที่แล้ว +86

    I love how the fight feels like a dance, the music just makes it even better

    • @annoy4nce648
      @annoy4nce648 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      the feeling of a dance is vastly more noticeable with the sisters of battle fight, but I gotta agree, even the lesser fight feels like a dance.

  • @Antichupius
    @Antichupius ปีที่แล้ว +101

    There’s also the theme “Sisters of Battle” it’s essentially the same but a more “epic” version, as it’s used for a stronger version of the same boss

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +29

      Oh sounds cool, thank you for letting me know

    • @canyakan1295
      @canyakan1295 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Mantis lords on steroids

    • @goddessdeedeebubblesofimag7789
      @goddessdeedeebubblesofimag7789 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      I wouldn't.... say epic is......... the most fitting adjective for sisters of battle? I would rather call it things like dramatic or godly.

  • @daegraith6524
    @daegraith6524 ปีที่แล้ว +62

    I've always struggled to analyze music beyond "I like this" and "I don't like this", so listening to your breakdowns are an absolute joy. I learn a ton with every video!

  • @elmerthiendoesgames9061
    @elmerthiendoesgames9061 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    There's a metallic quality to the harpsichord, as if this elegant dance music was formed from the clatter of weapons.
    _Travellers seaking death, welcome. May you find swift end upon our claws._

    • @solstice_soda701
      @solstice_soda701 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I know right! One of my favorite things is that each species/ group kinda has their own instrument preferences. The Pale King, White Lady, Vessels, and the Pale Court uses piano. Deepnest and Nosk use strings (cause they're spiders hehe.) And Hornet uses both!
      The bees use drum rolls, mantises have the metal on metal sound of the harpsichord, the Grimm troupe uses electric guitar and chords, and tragically the shades (and the hidden baby room in the castle) use music boxes

  • @mrhotsauce3612
    @mrhotsauce3612 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    Aaahhh the mantis lords…
    Thats where the game became a masterpiece for me from a gameplay perspective and music perspective
    It truly is incredible but, for me, haunted foes will always be my top 1

    • @nileprimewastaken
      @nileprimewastaken ปีที่แล้ว

      haunted foes? i think all the godhome tracks are pretty eh, but that might be bc i dont really like choruses. My favorite is nosk

    • @mrhotsauce3612
      @mrhotsauce3612 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@nileprimewastaken yeah i gotta agree with you nosk is pretty dope but i also like really much the chorus songs because i feel like it makes the battle more «epic» in a way

    • @nileprimewastaken
      @nileprimewastaken ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mrhotsauce3612 i get what you mean, i just personally dont like them

  • @maxfenton401
    @maxfenton401 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    7:22 An awesome thing to note here is that, since this is late into the song, you're only going to hear it if you've survived the fight to hear it, and must doing well, aka, you're masterting the dance. It's like the song encorperating your own achievements into it

  • @mcmoonball
    @mcmoonball ปีที่แล้ว +87

    I think the...what's it called? The harpsicord? The metallic sounding instrument? Anyway, I like what it adds to the music. It gives a sense of royalty, while also kind of giving scuttling vibes, like an insect crawling. Great job, Davi!

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +32

      Yep, that is the harpsichord

    • @betochiwas
      @betochiwas ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Is the predecesor of the Piano

    • @Crazy_Diamond_75
      @Crazy_Diamond_75 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@betochiwas Essentially. Piano uses hammers to strike the strings, but the harpsichord would pluck them. It's mechanically a much simpler instrument but they are both keyboards.

  • @charlesweaver3000
    @charlesweaver3000 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    I'd like to hear your take on both "City of Tears" and "Soul Master". (also possibly soul sanctum.) The three themes have incredibly contrasting moods and styles, but are connected by a common motif.

    • @goddessdeedeebubblesofimag7789
      @goddessdeedeebubblesofimag7789 ปีที่แล้ว

      "Soul master" is part of Soul Sanctum

    • @charlesweaver3000
      @charlesweaver3000 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@goddessdeedeebubblesofimag7789 Oh, you're right, I hadn't noticed that SM is just the second half of SS. Makes sense I guess, since it's basically the same song but more epic.

  • @SHiNWiN
    @SHiNWiN ปีที่แล้ว +62

    Underrated channel, keep it up mate!

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Thank you my friend

  • @zer1rgaming657
    @zer1rgaming657 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    5:55 Respect us, dance with us, but remember that we're still trying to kill you.
    That's the vibe I get from this song! xD

  • @Spaze47
    @Spaze47 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I will never get over how Davi, knowing absolutely nothing about the game, manages to almost perfectly describe the history and context behind the associated bosses from their music alone. It really speaks to Christopher Larkin's insane compositional ability, that he's able to communicate these thoughts and feelings so clearly through music.
    Here Davi says the baroque style befits a sophisticated and glorious past, something golden and worthy of respect. Is that not **exactly** the Mantis Lords, clinging to their intelligence while the world falls around them, still doing their duty to repel the beasts of Deepnest?
    "You are kinda supposed to dance with them," he says. I rest my case.

  • @func_e
    @func_e ปีที่แล้ว +11

    this is my personal favorite track from HK. it's awesome to see you do a video on it =D

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Glad to do it! A lot of people requested it :)

    • @func_e
      @func_e ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@DaviVasc I can see why

    • @lastrusomg
      @lastrusomg ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@DaviVasc you should react to hornet theme i know it's late but it's worth it. Or city of tears, is awesome

  • @Northflowo
    @Northflowo ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I think it's amazing how you're able to tell what kind of boss is being fought just from the music :DD Speaks volumes of how fitting the soundtrack is, as well.

  • @batushck
    @batushck ปีที่แล้ว +83

    I recommend the " Soul Sanctum" from Hollow knight , which in my opinion is one of the best soundtracks of the game.
    It's a bit long but you will be surprised when you see the change :)

    • @Piggehh
      @Piggehh ปีที่แล้ว +17

      God the polyrythm drop in the second half, the fight part, is my favourite part of the entire ost. Its SOOOO intense and cool, holy shit its good

    • @maxichiara5115
      @maxichiara5115 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      It also kind of narrates the tragedy of the soul sanctum and it's mages, how they found something really powerful and then it completely ruins them. One of the best tracks of the entire OST

    • @danielc.6769
      @danielc.6769 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I know It's offtopic but i wanted to Say that i like how similiar to the guardia forest theme from Chrono trigger the soul sancturn theme Is, It almost sounds like a more innocent version of soul sancturn

  • @randomfire13
    @randomfire13 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    You should really check out "Lace" from the Hollow Knight: Silksong OST sample, still composes by Christopher Larkin but it takes the music to a whole other level, the fact that the music for it is also played by a real orchestra instead of digitally created is really cool too!

  • @geilergary1232
    @geilergary1232 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    i am scared of how accurate you describe the mantislord fight without even nowing the fight itself. all you say about them is so true!

  • @samwhary5498
    @samwhary5498 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The mantis lords. What a beautiful deadly dance we shared. The regal and refined leaders of a warrior tribe. They absolutely lived up to their station.

  • @UnaPinata
    @UnaPinata ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The note about it feeling like a waltz is very on point, because of all the Hollow Knight bosses the Mantis Lords are the ones whose fight (when done right) feels more like a very sophisticated dance than it is a duel, with Grimm's fight as a runner up.

  • @jtl5952
    @jtl5952 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    Hey there, if you're looking for more indie game music I would strongly recommend either "Clock tower", "fractured shrines", or "Keep off the flowers" from Dead Cells :)

    • @justjames5419
      @justjames5419 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yep, couldn't agree more

    • @sebastianzarek7056
      @sebastianzarek7056 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Clock tower just felt SOOOOO good when I heard it for the first time

    • @mohamednail1707
      @mohamednail1707 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@sebastianzarek7056 I know right the clock ticking and gears moving make the track so memorable to me

  • @nickmorgan3042
    @nickmorgan3042 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    As an aspiring game composer currently obsessed with hollow knight, it brings me so much joy seeing you *absolutely geek out* over these analyzations as much as I do.

  • @VocalDroid
    @VocalDroid ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Guys guys!! Davi put out another Hollow Knight video!
    (Much love you to Davi, I love your analysis on music and your willingness to teach/share why a song sounds the way it does)

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you my friend

  • @Aya_Albion
    @Aya_Albion ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Amazing video as always! Mantis Lords, the fight, the arena and this brilliant theme are really elegant and super cool. I love them. Thank you for this, Davi!

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Oh, elegant is such a good word for it. I wish I had thought of it during the video haha. Thanks Aya!

  • @claytsunami8084
    @claytsunami8084 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Oooooo, this one was great!!
    I also do recommend Hornet from Hollow Knight because that is the first proper boss fight in the game

  • @drawing-with-eva
    @drawing-with-eva ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I was waiting for this one!
    And when i saw the title i felt like Christmas came earlier, thank you so much for your work!

  • @Techhunter_Talon
    @Techhunter_Talon ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Something with the Mantis Lords that I like is the fact that they're one of the few fights where the boss doesn't attack you. Instead you must challenge them. As for why? If you try to walk on past them then they'll just close a door in front of you until you defeat them. Also if you truly want to, or need to, they'll just let you leave and not pursue you.

  • @teacupanimates
    @teacupanimates ปีที่แล้ว +1

    oh, in hollow knight, this soundtrack makes me filled with adrenaline, i love it, its so good, and its so unique to all the other music, this is one of the reasons why hollow knight is the best, also i love how you break down why the song feels the way it does, and understands the entire boss without seeing gameplay

  • @Adrian-tf7zj
    @Adrian-tf7zj ปีที่แล้ว +3

    You literally said 'like you're supposed to dance with them' and I just jawdropped, I'm subscribing you heard the music and described the boss battle as well as some hollow knight experts

  • @dr.JackieBright
    @dr.JackieBright ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I always like to see how the composition of a piece can relate back to the context in which it was used and give away the story of a game for those that know what to listen for, and knowing the story of Hollow Knight, I can say you really nailed it. The Mantis lords are not fighting out of malice, rather it's just a love of battle and a test for the character to pass before winning the respect of the mantis lords and their tribe. For most, this is among the first bosses encountered and until you realize the rhythm and, as you put it, learn to dance their dance, you're going to have a tough time. But it very much is like a dance more than a true battle. It has a tempo and set moves to follow for the best result. And when you make it to the end game, there's a sort of training arena for each boss in the game. Many of them receiving an upgrade and new name along with it. The Mantis Lords become the Sisters of Battle, and the tempo of the battle increases, and their theme takes on a new tone along with the change in the battle tactics. If you want to check it out sometime it really is a fantastic piece for a fantastic boss.

  • @jasonkunstmann327
    @jasonkunstmann327 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Love this track and your breakdown. You're pretty much spot on with how the bosses behave in-game, in regards to them not being something to be disgusted by, but respected. This is basically their entire philosophy: their whole tribe is based around the concept of earning your place there by challenging them in combat. And when you beat them, the first thing they do is bow, and an achievement pops up which is literally called "Respect"

  • @deccy_boi5569
    @deccy_boi5569 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    As much as Christopher's high energy tracks are so epic and exhilarating I would have to say his slower tracks are where he truly shows his mastery.
    Those tracks in order of what I would recommend would have to be:
    City Of Tears - 2:58
    Dirtmouth - 1:55
    Reflection - 1:39
    Greenpath - 3:37
    Godhome - 1:59
    Dreamers - 0:53
    White Palace - 4:18
    Pale Court - 3:52
    The White Lady - 1:19
    Fungal Wastes - 3:04
    Soul Sanctum - 4:30
    Crystal Peak - 4:08
    Resting Grounds - 2:12
    Queen's Gardens - 1:46
    Kingdom's Edge - 2:21
    Crossroads - 2:27
    Dream - 2:01
    Some are quite small so they could be paired together in one video and none of them are bad, all of them were really hard to place, I just settled on the listing using overall popularity, musical substance and in-game importance.

  • @cthulhufhtagn4697
    @cthulhufhtagn4697 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Every main boss in Hollow Knight gives you a spell or something you need to progress in the game, but Mantis Lords is an optional boss and the main reward they give you is respect. After you defeat them, the entire Mantis Village will stop attacking you and when you pass near the village warriors they will bow to you. You are proving that you are stronger than the Lords of the village

  • @tylercoughlin5901
    @tylercoughlin5901 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    One of the best tracks in Hollow Knight, I’m glad you made a video on it! Another track from Hollow Knight that’s like the Pale Court is the emotional and melancholy White Palace. And although it’s not out yet, the track Lace from Hollow Knight: Silksong is awesome, and is performed by a live string quartet!

  • @DaveedRL
    @DaveedRL ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Man Hollow Knight has my favourite video game OST of all time and it's a pleasure to watch you liking it so much aswell! Can't wait to watch more Hollow Knight stuff and on another note, I'm really hoping to see the Journey OST on your channel one day! I think you'd love it.

  • @Awarcats
    @Awarcats ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I really had been waiting for this video for a long time, good video David.

  • @AiLAT
    @AiLAT ปีที่แล้ว +1

    chills all the way through! i love watching these reactions keep it up 😎

  • @BookNook7
    @BookNook7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Watching through all of the videos in the HK playlist has made me want to play it again. For the umpteenth time. 😭
    Your breakdowns are very understandable and interesting, and I'm reeeally a sucker for any HK praise. This OST is so so good and deserves the attention. Thank you for these!

  • @stefb5504
    @stefb5504 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I love hollow knight and I watched all your videos about it! I'm impressed by how you guess so easily the essence of the game/bosses just by listening to the music. Bravo! Please do more! Love your stuff and your energy!

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you!

  • @carsonowens3449
    @carsonowens3449 ปีที่แล้ว

    First time seeing one of your in depth analysis videos for hollow knight. I have never played but after hearing some of their musical pieces I’m definitely considering checking it out. Keep up the fantastic vids this is by far my favorite music channel on TH-cam!

  • @AklyonX
    @AklyonX ปีที่แล้ว

    One of my favorite parts of hollow knight music, nice to hear your take on it

  • @amolmorrow2799
    @amolmorrow2799 ปีที่แล้ว

    omg! i never made the connection to the sealed vessel staccato part! please continue this series its amazing and super insightful!!!

  • @GrandmasGotGraceLW
    @GrandmasGotGraceLW 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    One of the things that hit me pretty quickly, back at about :45, was that if a player was used to 3/4 or 6/8 time, it wouldn't be TOO hard to get into the right swing of the rhythm to anticipate when it would be right to evade, and when it would be right to strike. Due to the baroque feel of the music, it's not just a familiar ONE-two-three, ONE-two-three, ONE-two-three waltz time. It's more like, ONE-two-three, one-TWO-three, ONE-two-three, one-TWO-three, (etc.) with the attacks pretty much landing on the heavy TWO beat. If you were to go into that battle just hearing the usual 3/4 rhythm and expecting the hits to come always on the first beat, you'd lose badly. Once you realize that the hits are going to either slam down or slide through on the 5th beat out of six (which if counted in six might be easier to time against the boss), I think a defeat would be pretty much a snap. You'd also have to pay attention WHICH attack is going to happen on that fateful beat, because you'd need a different defense mechanism kicking in. I would DEFINITELY say it's all about that element of surprise, in perfect, but unexpected rhythm.
    I went looking for music that would be similar (as always). Here it is. It's "Aram Khachaturian - Masquerade Suite - Waltz" (which makes sense, since it's meant to be mysterious and dangerous). th-cam.com/video/fPp3Qh-GRqs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=E1dPzYPUYnT3eTbU ... I ran through a ton of waltzes of different types and settings, but that's the one that seems to be both beautiful and menacing, and really does show off that strange off-beat "attack."
    The whole time I was looking, I kept hearing my mom play her violin--so many memories! This is the type of music she LOVED to play. If she wasn't playing, she and my dad would have been dancing and TOTALLY showing off for either piece of music. I can see them doing it, and at the end, the whole crowd would be clapping and yelling for, "MORE!" They were SO good! 😀

  • @scrappymations1537
    @scrappymations1537 ปีที่แล้ว

    Absolutely love these videos dude! As a fellow musician I don’t really see much music content and it’s awesome understanding what you’re talking about. Plus hollow knight is such an outstanding beautiful looking game and has a banger soundtrack so it’s cool to see you reviewing it! Keep up the great work

  • @rafaelivan1830
    @rafaelivan1830 ปีที่แล้ว

    this is what im waiting forrr :D thanks for doing this Mantis Lord

  • @gasp1424
    @gasp1424 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very on point at 6 minutes in describing the bosses as respectable, its a battle of pride and mutual understanding, rather than some evil boss to beat.

  • @Prototype-357
    @Prototype-357 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much for these videos talking about Hollow Knight, all the music in it is so underrated, it's a great game overall and the music often gets swept under all the other parts of the game when people praise it so I'm glad to see it get the recognition it deserves. If I may recommend the next track, Hornet is one of the most important bosses of the game and her theme music reflects her very well, also City of Tears for a background theme full of sadness just like the name suggests.

  • @benbaker2456
    @benbaker2456 ปีที่แล้ว

    Every time you release another video analyizing hollow knight it makes me realize more and more how good of a job Christopher Larkin did with the soundtrack for this game. There is so much stuff that can be gleamed from just the music, pretty much everything you said is spot on for the mantis lords.

  • @zennvirus7980
    @zennvirus7980 ปีที่แล้ว

    Man! I so can't wait for your break down of "Broken Vessel".
    Together with "Mantis Lords", "Daughter of Hallownest" and "Sealed Vessel" my favorite tracks (and bosses) of the whole game.

  • @chestithink8330
    @chestithink8330 ปีที่แล้ว

    I'm a Hollow Knight geek and this is one of my FAVORITE tracks in the entire game. Seeing you analyze the details of the song made me think quite a bit. Keep up the good work!

  • @VenLapaki
    @VenLapaki ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I love how you describe it as 'needing to respect and dance with them' because that's exactly how the fight feels. Other fights in that game are a struggle for survival. The Mantis Lords fight is a dance where they lead and its on you to learn the steps.

  • @bizarremaybe3307
    @bizarremaybe3307 ปีที่แล้ว

    This boss was pretty enjoyable, especially the OST. Love the videos man, you nailed it.

  • @finna_bean
    @finna_bean ปีที่แล้ว

    These videos are absolutely amazing!! You manage to completely understand the scene and atmosphere of each boss fight with even having to see them, it's so impressive!! Please if you get the chance have a look at 'city of tears' it's not a boss theme, but it's just a beautiful track on its own.

  • @redkoba2671
    @redkoba2671 ปีที่แล้ว

    you nailed it! the entire fight realy does become a lovely dance as you learn how to dodge and parry their attacks.

  • @mattysones
    @mattysones ปีที่แล้ว +2

    When you Said "you're supposed to dance with them" I lost my mind- bc yes, that's exactly it
    It's wild to me how you're able to pick up these nuances in the story, but also, a MASSIVE testament to the composers - thank you for putting into words that everyone else can feel when us laymen can only say "man this track slaps"

  • @paleongames
    @paleongames ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I love how you actually break down the songs and explain what they take influence from. Can't understand why you're not bigger.

  • @earl4466gray
    @earl4466gray ปีที่แล้ว

    These videos keep getting better! I'm so glad to see you react to my favorite track (and probably my favorite boss fight). I came to the game with no skills whatsoever, and this was the first fight that showed me the combat could be fun. It's only gotten better from there. I'm seconding the comments that mention Broken Vessel and Soul Sanctum, as well as Pure Vessel (would be very interested to see what emotional vibes you get from that one.) Keep it up!

  • @phntmthf5505
    @phntmthf5505 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is easily my favorite fight in all of Hollow Knight. Broken Vessel is a close second, mainly because of the music, but the Mantis Lords still top him.
    The setup for a three-stage fight against each Lord one-on-one with different patterns was there, but instead having the second and third attack at the same time with the same patterns as the first? *chef’s kiss* Beautiful.

  • @stephenotterman6236
    @stephenotterman6236 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Truth Beauty and Hatred is an amazing, and also really interesting track from hollow knight, I highly recommend you give it a listen. :)

  • @jesperwillems_
    @jesperwillems_ ปีที่แล้ว

    Oh man i really love these videos! You’ve done one for Troupe Master Grimm already, I’d highly recommend checking out the Nightmare King Grimm track! Its such a menacing track, has some motives from the troupe master (since its a harder version of the fight) and might be my favorite track in the game

  • @brogangh
    @brogangh ปีที่แล้ว

    i have been hoping for this video for months i am so happy right now

    • @DaviVasc
      @DaviVasc  ปีที่แล้ว

      Hope you enjoyed it!

    • @brogangh
      @brogangh ปีที่แล้ว

      @@DaviVasc it was fantastic, thank you for your work

  • @themightyai-5302
    @themightyai-5302 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    We really need more baroque music to be implemented into todays music and game tracks.

  • @airsquid8532
    @airsquid8532 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love your hollow knight content, just wanted to pop in and say have a good day!

  • @leonelrodriguez5602
    @leonelrodriguez5602 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey! I'm new to your channel and watched just a few videos so far, but man, you breakdown the music so good!!!!! And on top of that, the guesses you do here and there are actually really on point.
    I really like your channel, I'm definitely looking forward to keep watching your content!!!!

  • @WindSnake146
    @WindSnake146 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Seeing this... Makes me wanna see you analysis broken vessel and nosk, those two have SO MUCH emotion in them
    Or, hornet
    Also mantis Lords has a remixed version called "Sisters of battle" which you CAN check out too

  • @joshuapatrick682
    @joshuapatrick682 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Furthermore it speaks to your understanding of music “classically trained I’m assuming” as well as the original Composers.

  • @oksanabahrii1736
    @oksanabahrii1736 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your analysis is awesome!

  • @deadhookerproductions1068
    @deadhookerproductions1068 ปีที่แล้ว

    YESSS IVE BEEN WAITING

  • @virow5571
    @virow5571 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It's just wow, you describe their topic so accurately... (well, one person has already painted everything, I won't repeat it) It's really cool. Thank you for this review. We are waiting for even more topics on this game. Oh, and by the way, I would also like to suggest listening to the topic of the Broken Vessel (Lost Fellow), if you have not already done. And so, good luck to you and greetings from Russia 🇷🇺

  • @supier_men7522
    @supier_men7522 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Four recommendations for the next Hollow Knight song:
    1. Dung Defender
    2. Fungal Wastes
    3. Dirmouth
    4. Crossroads
    Dung Defender, Fungal Wastes, and Dirtmouth are my favorite tracks in the game and I would like to see what your interpretation of Crossroads is without having played the game. I have been enjoying your Hollow Knight music interpreting videos and you earned a subscriber after I realized you also like the Shadow of the Colossus music.

  • @HighLanderPonyYT
    @HighLanderPonyYT ปีที่แล้ว

    Thx for covering this one, too!

  • @ryozaki96
    @ryozaki96 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This soundtrack gives me goosebumps, best boss fight ever specially that's it's early game, and definitely best soundtrack it even rhymes with their pattern.

  • @IvoryMadness.
    @IvoryMadness. ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing video as always! And Yes, this song is loved by a lot of people!

  • @perodactyl490
    @perodactyl490 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I saw this and my first thought was "YES. HECKING YES."

  • @milesprower9778
    @milesprower9778 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow. You are Incredibly good at your job, you perfectly described how the song feels and how you feel when listening to it. Keep up the GOOD work.😁😁😁😁

  • @ilccosmolgst
    @ilccosmolgst ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It never occurred to me that it was a Waltz... I guess one unit of time per Mantis ? And the fact that they are three is pretty important for the fight itself and it reflects in the music... That's very smart !

  • @DarkRaven4649
    @DarkRaven4649 ปีที่แล้ว

    Second favourite fight after the first Hornet fight, for me, and you nailed every single beat in the fight through the analysis!

  • @esparto77
    @esparto77 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Te quiero mucho Davi Vasc, me gustan mucho tus reacciones y análisis.

  • @antonioaugustoveras7797
    @antonioaugustoveras7797 ปีที่แล้ว

    Dude I really want to see you playing the game, you already get so immersed only with the ost I can't imagine how you will feel actually playing.

  • @ogorekcyfrowywdupiekota
    @ogorekcyfrowywdupiekota ปีที่แล้ว

    One of the best OSTs from Hollow Knight, thanks for breaking it down!

  • @JKlaiden
    @JKlaiden ปีที่แล้ว

    Maaan! It's always a pleasure to find that your new video is out. I started to appreciate Hollow Knight music even more)
    I also realized that I need to know how many "Baroques" was there.
    The number is 14.
    Maybe some day this information will save my life)
    Love you, dude)

  • @celestialcolosseum
    @celestialcolosseum ปีที่แล้ว

    Would you consider doing a full album reaction for hollow knight ? Because every track is so good at setting the mood it's almost like reading a book when listening to the entire ost, it's so elegant and has both calm and more moving tracks. It would make a great video and i think you would appreciate the overall tone and writing of the entire ost.

  • @literalpidgeon701
    @literalpidgeon701 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love how you always manage to give a spot on description of the bosses by only listening to the music. amazing

  • @christopheraviles6848
    @christopheraviles6848 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The mantis lords fight and subsequently, Sisters of Battle fight are my favorite fights. You get in this rhythm during the fight, and it’s amazing how throughly you describe music. It’s not my favorite track but it definitely fits so well into the gameplay

  • @novissstatic
    @novissstatic ปีที่แล้ว

    Really love your breakdowns as someone who knows nothing about music theory! It's very interesting the subtle themes behind the music. Would love if you did this same breakdown for some of Shadow of the Colossus's music!

  • @rolling-roadkill
    @rolling-roadkill ปีที่แล้ว

    The Mantis lords are one of my favourite fights along with both Grimm fights. Those fights are very much like dancing and are more like tests than fights to the death.
    Most of the boss fights are great but these are in a league of their own and the music really hits home.

  •  ปีที่แล้ว

    I love your videos, thank you!

  • @trist5206
    @trist5206 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I love your hollow knight videos and i've seen every single one! I suggest you listen to "Gods and Glory" which is also a Hollow Knight song. Definitely one of my favorites and other's too!

  • @yuval521
    @yuval521 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Im really interested in seeing you listen to the theme "gods and glory", its a really good theme and it would be very cool to see you try to understand the situation in the game