*My pick for what will most likely be the best new series of the Spring ’05 season*

OP:”Silhouette of a Breeze” by Kunihiko Ryo: A combination of both strings and piano. Very memorable piece.

ED:”Menuet for EMMA” by Tokyo Recorder Orchestra: Recorders were used in Victorian times? I don’t believe so…

Description (courtesty of ANN):

“In late 19th century London, William Jounes, a member of the gentry, meets and falls in love with Emma. This chance meeting overturns both their lives – for Emma is a maid, and the barriers of class and wealth stand between them.”

My Review:

Here we see Emma, a maid in Victorian London, who works for a retired governess named Kelly Stoner. As one of Ms. Stoner’s pupils comes to visit, an instant chemistry burst between Emma and William Jones (pupil). Later we see William offering to purchase a new pair of glasses for Emma when he finds out that she has eye problems with her current pair. However, Emma’s old pair happens to have sentimental value. So instead he buys her a lace handkercheif (something that she’s been wanting to own for a long time). The romance develops…

Astonishing background art-style check! Character development check! Victorian-era London that actually feels like London check! The use of “realism” in Anime check! Amazing musical score check! I believe we have a winner!!!

Believe me, I know what’s to come since I’ve checked out some of the early chapters from the manga. This may not appeal to your average “Anime-otaku” because of it’s slow pace, but you should really give it a chance. Don’t let this one pass you by!

Final Grade: A+ (If I can give it a higher score I would)