Photo from radio.com
By Rebecca Brooks
Staff Writer
On April 8, the 80s alternative metal band, Deftones, released their eighth studio album, “Gore.”
Deftones have been in the music industry since 1988, making their career span nearly three decades.
With a Grammy and their nickname as “the Radiohead of Metal,” it may seem difficult to live up to that.
However while most bands would struggle to remain prominent and to top their previous successes, “Gore” has proven that Deftones’s creativity and authenticity have not been compromised, stifled or lost, but instead, evolved.
“Gore” is a high energy, guitar driven album that grabs your attention right from the first track, “Prayers/Triangles.” It does not hold back on the metal sound in any size, shape or form, but it is not overbearingly heavy.
Deftones are known for fusing various types of metal together, thus, creating a fluid sound throughout their albums, and “Gore” is no different.
While each song has a clear metal influence, some songs are somber and others are fast, heavy and perfect for rocking out to in the concert pit. “Doomed User” is a perfect example of such as it is a classic type of metal that gets your fist pumping and your head banging as you sing along to every word.
Standout tracks on the album that can be potential fan favorites include “Geometric Headdress,” “Phantom Bride,” and the final track on the album “Rubicon,” which has an intense guitar and rhythm driven vibe with an epic guitar fade out at the end.
If you are into bands like Helmet, Papa Roach or Korn, you will definitely enjoy this album. Due to the alternative metal foundation within each, you can hear a lot of similarities.
Overall, “Gore” is an album that can be enjoyed by anybody that even remotely enjoys heavier music genres such as rock, metal or alternative.
The sound quality throughout is exceptional with each instrument ringing out loud and clear, and the engaging lyrical content is easy to relate to.
Deftones may be a late 80s band, but do not let yourself be fooled. They have not lost their edge and still continue to produce great quality music.