Story and characters: 9
I;ve gone over a bit of the story already, as it's a reverse Isekai of Zhuge Liang, but there is more to it then that. Finding himself in modern Japan, thinking he's winded up in hell, only to hear the sweet rocking melody inside a bar from Eiko, whom she works at also. It's sounds and songs he's not heared before, and they just bring out a new life out of him. So much so, that he ends up living at her home through Eiko taking him in, and just being curious and interesting in everything. How they bond is just sweet, and they're a great combo that really bounce off each other really well.
He even becomes her manager, as she's an inspiring singer, even if she's been really struggling, but thanks to Zhuge, using his own tactics that he was using during the war of his time, it makes for some pretty iconic moments in order to get her dream realized.
I could go on about how many characters are just great and entertaining, but the three that really shine, are Zhuge, Eiko, and the manager themselves. Zhuge is charming, confident, but one thing extra, is that he's a very great talker. Eiko, bless her, you'll honestly be cheering her on through out, while her manageris supportive in is own right, and it's only fitting that he's a ThreeKingdoms nerd too. Just all round perfect, and there is more to come for sure, but one thing is for certain. The overal balance, and connections, it all blends together so nicely.
Art and sound: 9
God. Where do I even start with this one? If you wanna talk about such an OP that is going to be played for hours on end, and never seemingly get boring at all, then you've got this OP theme here. But it's not just the theme, the songs that our protag Eiko sings are just a treat as well. It's brilliant on both ends.
The art style is very good too. It's flashy, it's fitting for each and every scene it is in, and it's great to look at. They really capture te atmosphere of any scene or enviroment that they are in. Wonderful stuff all round, and both of tese are real highlights of the series in general.
This has certainly been a surprise. But Paripi Koumei will be one to remember from this season, and from this year in general. When you think of great animes of 2022, you'll think of this. So start watching now!
