Cover image via Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO)
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The other day, I went to the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra's (MPO) Demon Slayer Live Concert, and yes, it was just as breathtaking as the anime itself
Demon Slayer aka Kimetsu no Yaiba isn't just another shonen title. It became the most-watched anime on streaming platforms in the first half of 2023, winning multiple awards while pulling us into the journey of Tanjiro Kamado, a boy who loses his family to demons and vows to protect his sister, Nezuko, after she is turned into one herself.
Under conductor Emily Marshall, the MPO promised to bring the Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc to life, complete with a cinema-sized screen showing unforgettable moments from the series.
When the lights dimmed and the first notes played, I got goosebumps
Sitting in Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, I felt the familiar anticipation of starting Demon Slayer episode one all over again. As the orchestra began, goosebumps crept up my arms and I knew I was about to relive the story in a whole new way.
The big screen played highlights from the first season, while the orchestra on stage filled the hall with powerful sound. Even without dialogue, the music and visuals alone captured every emotion, from heartbreak to hope to raw determination.
Two songs in particular hit me straight in the feels
My personal favourites were Nezuko – Aratana Kibou and Kamado Tanjiro no Uta. The opening notes of both pieces gave me chills, instantly taking me back through Tanjiro and Nezuko's growth across the arcs. The music was so clear and vivid that it truly felt like I had been transported inside the anime itself.
Whether you have been with Demon Slayer since day one or are just starting out, the concert's energy was unforgettable.
Here's the full 90-minute setlist, with a 20-minute intermission in between:
First half:
- Kisatsutai
- Hajimari
- Kazoku
- Akumu
- Boukan
- To Destroy The Evil
- The Main Theme of Demon Slayer
- Sabito
- Makomo
- Jou
- Senbetsu no Hajimari
- Mizu no Kokyu-Teoni
- Fuji no Hana-Akatsuki
- Nazuki-Saikai
- Kibutsuji no Niol
- Mizu no Kokyu Hatsudou-Kanzenban
- Nezuko-Aratana Kibou
- Nezuko-Zutta Issho
- Kamado Tanjiro-Tsugi no Chi e
- Taisho Kosokoso Uwasabanashi
Second half:
- Agatsuma Zenitsu-Kanzenban
- Hashibira Inosuke-Sono Ichi
- Hashibira Inosuke-Sono San
- Mizu no Kokyu-Kyougai Yashikisen
- Mizu no Kokyu-Todoke
- Mizu no Kokyu Hatsudou-Sono Ni
- Yasasii Oto
- Juni Kiduki Taiji
- Seisei Ruten
- Kamado Tanjiro no Uta
- Oni Taiji-Nezuko wo Se ni
- From The Edge
- Gurenge
- "Mugen Resshahen" Aban Gekiban M01
- Homura
Cosplay made the night even more fun
One of the best things about the event was that fans were encouraged to dress up as their favourite characters. I went with my colleague, Laila, who came as Tanjiro and even brought a Nezuko plushie, while I went as Zenitsu! To my surprise, one of the performers on stage even wore Tanjiro's green and black checkered haori, which was impossible to miss.
This was by far my favourite MPO concert and I cannot wait for more
I have been to a few MPO concerts before, but this one tops the list. It captured the essence of Demon Slayer beautifully, letting the soundtrack shine while immersing us in its world.
And if MPO ever decides to do a One Piece concert, please count me in immediately.
For more information on upcoming shows, visit MPO's website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
