The album feels refreshing (I think that's the word I'm looking for) for them. I'm in love with Gore.
These guys have been my favorite band for 20 years now (I know), and it makes me incredibly happy to see how they wholeheartedly refuse to settle with every record. Listening to the songs as they were released was definitely a bit perplexing, but I should've known that while they had to promote the record somehow, those tracks were never meant to be listened to without their accompaniments. I would love to one day sit in on a writing session to see how much input Frank has into the arrangement process. I used to assume he probably just added to whatever was already there (definitely the case on Adrenaline and ATF), but with these last few records, I'm pretty sure he actually spearheads the process on a few songs, and the results are astounding. I love this band so damn much.
Frank is brilliant on this record actually. I keep mentioning Rubicon but he really adds an extra layer of depth to that track, especially on the outro.
I love the Failure and Smashing Pumpkins influences on this album. I've always known of Chino's affinity for space rock like Failure and Hum, but it was just a dream for him to actually implement those influences in Deftones and have it work so well.
It's the transition between Gore and Phantom Bride that gets me. One of the best moments on the record.
Fantastic Planet. One of my favorite albums. The new one, The Heart Is a Monster, is also really good and accessible. Their early records are ok but they sound more like Nirvana than themselves because of the muddy production on them. If you want some tracks to check out to get a feel for them, just let me know
Their comeback album last year was very good indeed. I seem to recall it was in my top five for the year.
Fantastic Planet, and then The Heart Is a Monster. Man, I envy anyone who gets to discover Failure for the first time. FP is simply an opus, and a timeless classic.
Finally listened to Gore in its entirety. While Diamond Eyes and KNY were more immediate records, this one is definitely going to be one that takes several listens to digest. There's so much going on, so many new styles explored. You guys weren't lying about the Pumpkins influence, and I'm loving the flavor that it adds to some of these songs. Early favorites: Hearts/Wires, (L)mirl, Gore, Phantom Bride, and, of course, Rubicon. Doomed User also works so much better in the context of the album. I love this band.
Looks like Deftones' discography is being re-released on HQ vinyl-digital Apparently there are changes, too. Pink Maggit and Hole In The Earth have noticeable differences. I need to hear all of these. Now.
On a side note: a Terry Date produced, Ken Andrews mixed, Deftones album would be my dream come true.
They are simply the best. How did you manage to go so long without listening to them. All that matters is you now have seen the light.
Okay so I'm just gonna jot some thoughts down after my first listen. This is not an immediate record, for sure. I actually miss the heavier moments of their signature sound, but that's not to say what's happening in this album is bad. I really enjoy that they're implementing more of their alternative/dream pop influences on this album. I'm really glad they didn't continue going in the same direction as DE and KNY, as I've grown to love DE more over time while KNY hasn't held up as well for me (still a good album though). As far as the production goes, it's gonna take some getting used to. I felt like the drums, especially the snare, were getting drowned out at times. Overall, I like it upon my first listen. Not ready to say I love it, but I can see it getting there for me. Early favorites are Hearts/Wires, (L)MIRL, and Phantom Bride.