Dark Crow cover

Released 7 years ago this October

Dark Crow

Man with a Mission · 2019

16 min · 4 tracks · alternative metal

A fusion of heavy riffs and melodic hooks, blending alternative metal with hints of electronic elements for an energizing experience.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Dark Crow — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic essence, combining powerful instrumentation with poignant lyrics that explore personal struggles and resilience.
  • →
    86 Missed Calls — This track stands out for its infectious chorus and driving beat, addressing themes of communication breakdowns in modern relationships.
  • →
    Reiwa — Reiwa serves as a cultural commentary on contemporary Japan, blending traditional influences with modern sounds that resonate with both domestic and international listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a blend of heavy riffs and melodic hooks but maintains a consistent sound across its tracks.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a heavy guitar riff that is immediately followed by melodic vocals, establishing a contrast between aggression and melody.
  • The second track features a prominent electronic beat that drives the rhythm, while the guitars provide a layered texture throughout.
  • The third track incorporates a slower tempo and atmospheric elements, creating a shift in mood before returning to heavier instrumentation in the final track.
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
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and innovation in their sound during a later phase.
Themes
personal struggle· communication breakdown· contemporary Japan
Career context
Released on October 23, 2019, Dark Crow marks Man with a Mission's fifth studio album, following their successful 2018 release, Chasing the Horizon. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their unique sound and fanbase, showcasing a blend of energetic rock and thought-provoking themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Crossfaith· Enter Shikari· The Word Alive

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Dark Crow

    The song shifts from introspective verses to an anthemic chorus that challenges listeners to confront their fears head-on.

    This structural choice elevates the emotional impact, contrasting vulnerability with a rallying call for strength.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Dark Crow 4:38
  • 2 86 Missed Calls 3:26
  • 3 Reiwa 4:45
  • 4 My Hero [Slushii Remix] 3:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata