Album Review: Deftones - Gore
By Sam Tornow, Editorial Director
[Reprise; 2016]
Rating: 8/10
Key Tracks: “Prayers / Triangles,” “Geometric Headdress,” “Gore”
There aren’t many bands around these days like Deftones. The art of guitar-centered pieces, coupled with hammering bass lines and thunderous drums seems to have gone out of style. Luckily though, the band has been on a hot streak these past few years and their newest release, Gore, is here to carry the torch.
The Deftones charm comes not only from their heavy instrumentals, but from the the subtle, moving pieces that make each song feel monumental. The first track of the album, “Prayers / Triangles,” makes use of this staple. Hearing vocalist Chino Moreno, wail overtop of multiple layers of guitars is almost nostalgic of past releases and with that feeling of familiarity comes an anticipation for the rest of the album.
The momentum follows through the first few songs of the album until the fourth track, “Geometric Headdress”. With almost Tool-like precision (except less cringey) the band’s rhythm section lays down a polyrhythmic, unshakable foundation, which gives a sense of urgency, pushing the already fast pace of the album.
In terms of sheer power, the album’s title track “Gore” easily takes the cake. By contrasting a near guitar-less verse with a monstrously low chorus, the drop becomes much more intense and memorable.
Throughout the rest of the album Deftones continue to do what they do best: Shredding through nearly an hour of material that feels familiar but welcomed. If you’re looking for a genre-defining album, Gore may be a disappointment. However, if a solid Deftones release is good enough, then look no further.
