Blackfield V cover

Blackfield V

Blackfield · 2017

44 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

Melodic and introspective, the album weaves atmospheric soundscapes with poignant lyrics exploring themes of longing and connection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Family Man — This track stands out for its compelling narrative about personal responsibility and familial obligations, delivered with haunting melodies that encapsulate the album's emotional core.
  • →
    We’ll Never Be Apart — With its intimate vocal harmonies and lush instrumentation, this song beautifully captures the essence of longing, making it a highlight of the album's reflective themes.
  • →
    October — The melancholic tone and evocative lyrics create a poignant atmosphere that underscores the passage of time, representing the album's introspective nature effectively.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album blends melodic introspection with cohesive themes, though it doesn't break new ground in its genre.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
  • Several tracks employ layered vocal harmonies that create a rich, atmospheric soundscape.
  • The lyrics often reflect personal themes of longing and connection, with recurring motifs that tie the songs together.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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 reflective moments
  • ethereal soundscapes for introspection
  • melodic flow during quiet evenings
  • consistent mood throughout listening
  • short tracks for focused sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy anthems
  • prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on February 10, 2017, Blackfield V is the fifth studio album by Blackfield, marking their return after a seven-year hiatus since their last release, Blackfield IV. This album showcases the duo's continued evolution in sound while maintaining their signature blend of alternative and art rock elements.
Stylistic neighbors
Porcupine Tree· Anathema· Riverside

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 A Drop in the Ocean 1:23
  • 2 Family Man 3:37
  • 3 How Was Your Ride? 3:58
  • 4 We’ll Never Be Apart 2:54
  • 5 Sorrys 2:58
  • 6 Life Is an Ocean 3:26
  • 7 Lately 3:24
  • 8 October 3:31
  • 9 The Jackal 3:56
  • 10 Salt Water 2:39
  • 11 Undercover Heart 4:02
  • 12 Lonely Soul 3:42
  • 13 From 44 to 48 4:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata