Darker than Black: -黒の契約者-
When I first saw the preview to this anime, I felt a resemblance to Cowboy Bebop and Ghost in the Shell: Standalone Complex. It has a kind of futuristic and cyberpunkish edge without being overtly futuristic or cyberpunkish.
Now that I think about it, this series is actually more like Witch Hunter Robin. The story takes place in modern Japan, and because of the appearance of what is called “Hell’s Gate,” beings known as Contractors, who have supernatural abilities, appeared. Based on what we can infer from the first episode, the story focuses on Hei, a Contractor that seems to hunt other Contractors.
The visuals are beautiful, and the use of CG and scenery reminds you of a not-so futuristic Ghost in the Shell. The animation is top-notch, and the art is very well done. This is one series that offers a lot of eye candy to its audience.
I said earlier that this series gave me the impression of a Cowboy Bebop or Ghost in the Shell: Standalone Complex. This series isn’t like that, but I think I know what made me think so. It’s the music. The music is composed by the one and only Yoko Kanno, who blessed us with music from the two aforementioned titles. The OP is also done by abingdon boys school, of which T.M. Revolution is the lead singer in. It’s an upbeat, rock song, and I really like it. The background music is also beautiful. There’s this one bgm with the violin that is very pleasing to listen to. The ED is on the soft side, and it’s sung by Rie Fu, whom you might know from Bleach. Another winner.
With beautiful visuals, outstanding audio, and an interesting storyline, Darker than Black is definitely something I will be watching.
This is an anime for those who like anime of the supernatural variety that takes place in a modern setting. If you liked Witch Hunter Robin, then you will like Darker than Black. If you didn’t like Witch Hunter Robin, watch this anime anyway.
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