What makes Masters of the Dark Arts by La Coka Nostra notable?

This album is significant for its unabashed embrace of dark themes, reflecting the group's identity while also contributing to the broader hardcore hip-hop genre. Critics noted its impactful lyricism and production quality, helping it receive recognition in underground circles, although it did not achieve mainstream chart success. In 2012, La Coka Nostra was continuing to carve out their niche in the hardcore hip-hop scene with 'Masters of the Dark Arts,' their second studio album. This release followed their debut, 'A Brand You Can Trust,' which had established their raw style and lyrical intensity. The album solidified their presence following a period of lineup changes and heightened public expectations.

How many songs are on Masters of the Dark Arts?

Masters of the Dark Arts has 14 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Masters of the Dark Arts

La Coka Nostra · 2012

50 min · 14 tracks · hardcore hip-hop

A gritty fusion of hardcore hip-hop and dark narratives wrapped in raw, aggressive beats and incisive lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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My Universe — Opening with an atmospheric buildup, this track sets the tone for the album's exploration of personal and collective struggles through a haunting lens.
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Electronic Funeral — This track stands out for its aggressive delivery and clever wordplay, encapsulating the group's signature style while addressing themes of mortality and existence.
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The Eyes of Santa Muerte — With its vivid imagery and cultural references, this song exemplifies La Coka Nostra's ability to blend storytelling with hard-hitting beats, making it a fan favorite.
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Murder World — The track's relentless pace and stark lyrics provide a commentary on violence and societal issues, showcasing the group's commitment to confronting harsh realities.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album effectively blends aggressive beats with intricate lyricism, showcasing its distinct style within hardcore hip-hop.

What we noticed

The album opens with a heavy, aggressive beat that sets a dark tone, which is maintained throughout the first half.
Tracks often feature rapid-fire verses with layered vocal deliveries, creating a dense lyrical texture.
Several tracks incorporate samples from various genres, adding depth to the production while maintaining a gritty aesthetic.
The last three tracks slow down the tempo slightly, allowing for more introspective themes to emerge.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 My Universe 4:00
2 Creed of the Greeder 3:43
3 המוסד 3:16
4 Mind Your Business 4:35
5 Electronic Funeral 3:33
6 The Story Goes On 3:34
7 Letter to Ouisch 2:37
8 Snow Beach 4:01
9 The Eyes of Santa Muerte 4:31
10 Murder World 2:45
11 Coka Kings 3:48
12 .38 револьвер 3:59
13 Malverde Market 3:11
14 Masters of the Dark Arts 2:44

What to play next

Listen next

To Thine Own Self Be True

2016

Go back to

A Brand You Can Trust

2009

Full La Coka Nostra discography Artists like La Coka Nostra

hardcore hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata