What is Hymmnos?
Hymmnos is an "emotional language" used in the world of the game Ar tonelico. The singer's thoughts and emotions are directly embedded into the grammar itself.
What's remarkable is that this language was created from scratch specifically for this game. Vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation rules—everything was meticulously designed. I was honestly amazed that they would go this far for a game.
This level of dedication to perfecting the worldview is, I believe, what also shines through in the music.
From Akiko Shikata to Hymmnos
I first discovered Akiko Shikata through the PC game Umineko no Naku Koro ni. Captivated by her voice, I followed her work to other projects, which is how I encountered Hymmnos.
My particular favorite is "METHOD_METAFALICA." I listened to this song obsessively.
Music First, Game Later
Actually, I discovered the music before playing the game. While following Akiko Shikata's vocal work, I came across the Hymmnos songs from the Ar tonelico series.
Later, when I played Ar tonelico, I thought, "Ah, so these songs were performed within this kind of world." But honestly, even without knowing the game, I thoroughly enjoyed the music on its own.
A Mystical Musical Experience
METHOD_METAFALICA is utterly mystical.
It begins quietly and gradually builds. The layered vocals create a fantastical world. Akiko Shikata's singing is truly magnificent.
While Hymmnos is a fictional language, translations are available. The lyrics express feelings and prayers for a loved one. But even before knowing the translation, the emotions of "wishing for something" and "praying" came through clearly in the music alone.
Of Course I Love "EXEC_LINCA" Too
When it comes to Hymmnos, "EXEC_LINCA" (Singing Hill) is famous. Of course, I love this song as well.
As the representative song from Ar tonelico 1, it's grand and beautiful, and I never tire of listening to it.
Perfection as Music
Hymmnos songs transcend the framework of game music.
Folk music elements, classical elements, and modern arrangements fuse together to create a truly unique worldview.
The combination of Akiko Shikata's voice with this distinctive world is sublime.
Recommended For
- People who love fantastical music
- Fans of ethnic music and world music
By the way, Hymmnos songs aren't sung only by Akiko Shikata—other wonderful singers like Haruka Shimotsuki, Noriko Mitose, and KOKIA have performed them as well. Each voice enriches the world of Hymmnos even further.