Deftones - ohms

New. Sealed. Repress. 

Ohms, released on September 25, 2020, is the Deftones's white-knuckled return to the kind of atmospheric yet heavy music that has long defined them. It's their ninth studio album and was produced by Terry Date, who worked on some of their most iconic records (like Around the Fur and White Pony).

The album is a rich blend of their signature alternative metal sound, with elements of shoegaze, post-hardcore, and industrial coming through. It feels both nostalgic and modern, tapping into the band's core influences while still evolving with fresh sonic textures.

Key Themes & Sounds:

• Heavier, tighter riffs: The album carries a more polished production compared to their previous records, but still retains that signature "Deftones" heaviness, driven by Stephen Carpenter's guitar riffs. It’s a thicker, punchier sound, with plenty of intricate layering and dynamic shifts.

• Atmospheric vocals: Chino Moreno's vocals are as haunting and versatile as ever. On tracks like "Genesis" and "Radiant City," his voice fluctuates from delicate, dreamlike melodies to violent screams. His ability to balance beauty and chaos is what keeps the listener on edge.

• Groovy, hypnotic rhythms: The rhythm section, courtesy of Abe Cunningham (drums) and Sergio Vega (bass), is tight and fluid, keeping the grooves infectious but complex, creating a great contrast with the intensity of the guitars.

• Experimental but accessible: Ohms blends big, anthemic choruses (like on "Ohms") with atmospheric, textural layers that make tracks like "Error" feel like an immersive journey.

Notable Tracks:

1. "Ohms" – The title track has a big, driving riff and really highlights the band’s ability to make heaviness feel beautiful.

2. "Genesis" – An opener that builds with a mix of ethereal and heavy, with a trippy vibe leading into an intense finale.

3. "Radiant City" – A dynamic track with swirling guitar textures and a dark, almost dystopian feel.

4. "Ceremony" – One of the more aggressive tracks on the album, featuring punishing guitars and a tense, oppressive atmosphere.

The album overall feels like a balance between their heavier and more ambient sides. It’s a breathtaking fusion of sound that’s aggressive yet meditative, making Ohms a standout entry in their discography. Some fans even consider it a return to form, reminiscent of their peak albums like White Pony and Around the Fur, while others praise it for being a more refined, emotionally resonant take on their ever-evolving sound.