Iconic cinema franchise The Matrix features pulse-pounding stories and moments inspired by cyberpunk influences. With 5 movies since 1999, each film is replete with soundtracks consisting of electronic, drums n bass, rock, and classical genres that beautifully accompany every big moment from Neo dodging bullets to Trinity’s first float. While dozens of amazing tracks make up the world of the Matrix, we’ve chosen the most heartpounding, entertaining tracks for a list of the best music moments in the Matrix franchise.

A heavy and sultry DnB jam with forceful baselines, this tune plays immediately after “Dragula” by Rob Zombie, 10 minutes into the film. It’s a great form of 90s big beat with a vibe fit for the nightclub where Neo and Trinity first meet. Mindfields helps set the mood for the gritty and underground feel of the Matrix and makes the encounter all the more memorable.

This instrumental was first released in 1995, though it soared in popularity after the premiere of the first Matrix film in 1999. The track appears early in the movie as the audience meets the main character Neo, played by Keanu Reeves. Used as NBA introduction music to this day, this track combines neo-classical and trip-hop elements for an atmospheric soundscape that gives you goosebumps with each viewing. The song’s intensity encapsulates the thrill and confusion of Neo realizing the true nature of reality.

“Prime Audio Soup” - Meat Beat Manifesto

Compared to “Clubbed to Death’s” pinpoint intensity, “Prime Audio Soup” by Meat Beat Manifesto injects a dose of frenetic energy. This music plays as the Nebuchadnezzar enters the Matrix along with Neo. Pulsating basslines, distorted samples, and electronic textures make up this catchy DnB track, and the “set me free” vocals are just the icing on a very 2000s techno cake.

A captivating track from the Matrix sequel, this piece blends modern beats beautifully with classical instrumentals to create a suspenseful piece fit for a fight against Agent Smith clones as Neo discovers his “upgrades”. Considered a souped-up version of “Clubbed to Death”, it’s an integral piece to one of the most memorable fight scenes of the 2000s. While the scene itself was brief, the piece would become the titular track of Dougan’s lone studio album in 2002.

Dougan’s original score is utilized again with “Chateau,” a fast, jazzy, and riveting romp inside a golden yellow locale. This instrumental creation beautifully ties together a chaotic fight involving Neo where weapons, artifacts, and bodies fly across the marble lobby. Some even go as far to call this scene the greatest in the history of film”, with this theme being a big part of that discussion.

“The Trainman Cometh” - Juno Reactor and Don Davis

The Matrix: Revolutions takes the soundtrack in a different direction from the first two films, featuring nearly an all-original and classical score that’s equally as pulse-pounding and impactful. Juno Reactor’s signature electronic sound blends in beautifully with Davis’ orchestral direction for a truly unique track. This plays while Seraph, Morpheus, and Trinity are searching for Neo and chasing the Trainman, setting the tone for a can’t-look-away pursuit filled with drama and suspense.

“The Road To Sourceville” - Don Davis

Strings are out in full force with this dramatic piece that plays when Trinity surprises Neo at the train station. Reminiscent of DC superhero film scores, the track delivers a good helping of epic drama while expressing hope and heroism. This piece gives viewers a breather from all the action and a helping of what’s to come in the movie’s third act, foreshadowing another showdown with Agent Smith.

The climax theme of the Matrix: Revolutions. This plays as the “final boss” music as Neo squares off with Agent Smith, dubbed by fans as the “Super Burly Brawl”. Powerful, intense, and hard-hitting, the orchestra plays in full force to highlight every moment in this wet and wild scuffle. Rightfully so, too, as the stakes have never been higher for Neo to try to stop the Matrix from being overrun by the ever-growing and evolving virus Mr. Smith.

“I Fly Or I Fall” - Johnny Klimek & Tom Tykwer

“I Fly Or I Fall” plays while Neo meets Bugs for the first time on the rooftop. An atmospheric and classical piece that exudes wonder and curiosity, it’s masterfully arranged when Bugs is explaining how Neo didn’t fall off the building. The violins get ever louder and more prominent as Neo approaches the bright light leading to enter the Matrix. A solid way to open the movie and leave viewers craving more.

“Simulatte Brawl” - Johnny Klimek & Tom Tykwer

Playing towards the end of “Resurrections”, this track culminates all the struggles and shortcomings to get to the point where Neo finally reunites with Trinity among the swarm of SWAT members. Suspenseful, yet uplifting, the orchestra sets the tone to drive the point home of how the two protagonists succeed when they’re together. While the scene itself wasn’t edited that well, the track helps the scene encapsulate the unrelenting relationship that helps them leave the Matrix one more time.

The Best Music Moments from the Matrix Franchise

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