Ed Goldfarb

Dub music composer for Pokémon anime.

Why Ed Goldfarb’s score is bad

Pokémon is a beloved franchise that has captured the hearts of people all around the world. One of the key components that makes this series so iconic is the music, which sets the tone for the show’s adventures and battles. However, in the English dub of the Pokémon anime, the original Japanese score was replaced with music composed by Ed Goldfarb. Unfortunately, many fans have criticized Goldfarb’s work, arguing that it is a poor replacement for the original score.

To understand why Goldfarb’s music falls short, it’s important to look at the original Japanese score. Composed by Shinji Miyazaki and Yuki Hayashi, the music in the Pokémon anime perfectly captures the energy and excitement of the show. The soundtrack is packed with catchy tunes that reflect the diverse range of environments and characters found in the Pokémon world. From the adrenaline-fueled battle themes to the serene and peaceful background music, the Japanese score is a masterpiece in its own right.

In contrast, Goldfarb’s work on the English dub feels lackluster and uninspired. While some of the music is passable, much of it feels like a watered-down version of the original score. The catchy hooks and memorable melodies that defined the Japanese soundtrack are replaced with generic and forgettable tunes that do little to enhance the viewing experience. In some cases, Goldfarb’s music even feels out of place, disrupting the flow of the show and detracting from the overall quality.

Another issue with Goldfarb’s work is that it can feel dated and cheesy. Many of the tracks rely heavily on outdated synth sounds and drum machines, giving the music a stale and artificial feel. This is particularly evident in the battle themes, which lack the impact and intensity of the original Japanese score. As a result, the battles in the English dub can feel flat and unexciting, failing to capture the thrill of the Pokémon battles that fans love.

In conclusion, while Ed Goldfarb’s music for the English dub of Pokémon may have been well-intentioned, it falls short of the mark set by the original Japanese score. Fans of the series who are familiar with the Japanese soundtrack are likely to find Goldfarb’s music a poor substitute that fails to capture the excitement and energy of the show. As the Pokémon franchise continues to grow and evolve, it’s important that future adaptations stay true to the original score and continue to build on the legacy of Shinji Miyazaki and Yuki Hayashi.