A Small Victory cover

A Small Victory

Faith No More · 1992

31 min · 6 tracks · alternative rock

A sonic exploration where gritty alternative metal meets experimental rock in a tapestry of eclectic rhythms and layered vocals.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    A Small Victory Start here — As the lead single, this track encapsulates the band's fusion of hard rock and melodic sensibilities, making it a staple in their live performances.
  • →
    Malpractice — This song showcases Faith No More's heavier side with aggressive instrumentation and introspective lyrics, highlighting their versatility within the alternative metal genre.
  • →
    A Small Victory (R‐Evolution 23 (Full Moon) mix) — This extended remix adds layers of electronic elements to the original, reflecting the band's willingness to experiment with different soundscapes and production techniques.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

57 /100
Foothills
Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong songwriting and production but lacks cohesion due to multiple remixes diluting its focus.

What we noticed

  • The title track features a dynamic shift between quiet verses and explosive choruses, creating a contrast that drives the song's energy.
  • The instrumental version strips away vocals, allowing the layered instrumentation to take center stage, highlighting the band's complex arrangements.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
4/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing for focused listening
  • introspective themes for deep reflection
  • kaleidoscopic soundscapes to explore
  • varied mixes enhance auditory experience

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • want standalone singles only

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — Solid entry in the catalog that showcases their eclectic sound without being a standout.
Career context
Released in 1992, A Small Victory marked Faith No More's fourth studio album, following the success of their breakthrough album Angel Dust. At this point, the band was solidifying its position in the alternative metal scene while experimenting with a broader sound palette that included elements of funk, jazz, and progressive rock.
Stylistic neighbors
Mr. Bungle· System of a Down· Tool

Tracklist

  • 1 A Small Victory Start here 4:58
  • 2 A Small Victory (R‐Evolution 23 (Full Moon) mix) 7:21
  • 3 Malpractice 4:02
  • 4 A Small Victory (Sundown mix) 5:27
  • 5 A Small Victory (Sundown instrumental) 6:00
  • 6 A Small Victory (R‐Evolution 23 edit) 3:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata