Yatagarasu

Onmyouza's song 'Yatagarasu' delves into the eerie and foreboding presence of the mythical three-legged crow, Yatagarasu, which is often seen as a harbinger of death or misfortune in Japanese folklore. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a crow crying in the mountains, its flight leading it to rooftops where it ominously gathers, signaling someone's impending death. This imagery is steeped in traditional Japanese beliefs, where crows are often associated with the supernatural and the afterlife.

The song's dark tone is further emphasized by the description of the crow's black, wet feathers and its shadow devouring corpses. The repeated invitation to return after five more deaths underscores the relentless and cyclical nature of death, as if the crow is an unending harbinger of doom. The 'nehan no nagi kaze,' or the tranquil wind of Nirvana, suggests a paradoxical peace that comes with death, a common theme in Buddhist thought where death is seen as a release from the suffering of life.

The final verse shifts to a more direct address, condemning those who are noisy and forgetful, wandering aimlessly with dirty intentions. It calls for reverence and fear of the divine, suggesting that the crow's cry should be seen as a divine warning. This blend of folklore, religious undertones, and moral admonition creates a rich tapestry that reflects Onmyouza's unique style, which often merges traditional Japanese themes with heavy metal music, creating a powerful and haunting narrative.