Deftones have become well-known for their innovative loud/soft dynamic, created by Chino Moreno’s mesmerizing, unique, tranquil yet at times raging vocals; combined with the heavy, thundering guitar riffs of Stephen Carpenter. Gore, their first album since 2013’s Koi No Yokan is no different to their famous avant-garde sound.

The spine tingling ambience that can be found on tracks ‘Prayers/Triangles’ and Hearts/Wires’ give a raw sexiness to the album that is interestingly juxtaposed against the cryptic lyrics. There is still the heaviness you’d come to expect from a band with early nu metal roots, particularly on the title track. Even ‘Acid Hologram’ which has more of a grungey/emo vibe still sounds like Slipknot’s, ‘Duality’. ‘Doomed User’ is classic Deftones and is sure to be welcomed by veteran fans. The fierce guitars and vocals of this track help to balance out the ambience of the album.

Gore proves they have progressed, pushing the boundaries of what’s considered metal to the absolute limits. Having been a band for over 21 years, with seven albums under their belts, you would think it’s hard to do something different without changing their sound completely. They have done this on Gore by making it even more ambient, with elements of synth-pop, shoegaze and sludge rock, alongside their metal sensibilities.

Deftones manage to create music that is happy, yet sad; fast, yet slow; soothing, yet aggressive; loud, yet quiet; melancholy. It is the perfect album for whatever emotion you’re feeling. It proves that no matter how many albums they produce, they can still deliver something different and stand the test of time. 

Words by Chloe Rose Eaton