Just hire Cynthia Harrell for the next Bond theme
“What a thrill…” you’re already hearing it in your head! Yes, it’s the Snake Eater song, and it’s currently worming its way into your ear.
PlayingMetal Gear Solid 3for the first time at launch, with no guides or discourse, was an absolute experience. I was completely alone at the time as my wife (then girlfriend) was out of town, and outside of a few minor obligations, I played through it unfettered. Even though I was already on board with Kojima’s antics with two prior mainline entries, I wasn’t ready for love to bloom on the battlefield.
Part of the reason I was completely drawn into this world was the Snake Eater song: written by Norihiko Hibino and performed by the immensely talented Cynthia Harrell. No joke, every time a Bond theme has debuted since 2003, I’m thinking “why isn’t it Snake Eater, and/or why isn’t Cynthia Harrell singing it?”
Sure, there’s pageantry involved in choosing who gets to perform aBondtrack, but the Broccoli estate (the stewards of Bond) have basically been chasing another Shirley Bassey ringer since she stopped contributing to title themes in 1979 (Moonraker, what a one to go out on). Harrell,right at this moment, evokes that exact same emotional sound.
And the way that it’s actually introduced in-game is one of the greatest moments in the medium of action adventures. Snake isclimbing up a giant ladder up to Krasnogorjefor two straight minutes, and then this song just pops off. Kojima has a penchant for making the dullest moments memorable, and he succeeded here in spades.
Oh, and just in case, it’s oniTunesandSpotify! Given it a listen for me.
