Marking their tenth studio album and a significant 30 years since the launch of their groundbreaking debut ‘Adrenaline,’ ‘Private Music’ serves as a refreshing revival for Deftones, even for a band that consistently performs at a high level. Despite the cancellation of Glastonbury, the band has been electrifying stages globally in the months leading up to the album's announcement at a triumphant headline show at Crystal Palace and the unveiling of the opening track ‘my mind is a mountain’; a brisk, nearly three-minute track that balances the intensity of their earlier work with the experimental tunes found in their underrated ‘Saturday Night Wrist.’ While 2020’s ‘Ohms’ saw the return of ‘Adrenaline’ producer Terry Date, this time they collaborate with Nick Raskulinecz, known for the richly melodic ‘Diamond Eyes’ and ‘Koi No Yokan.’ The outcome is a sound that builds seamlessly on their diverse foundational elements, exploring dark claustrophobia and expansive soundscapes, both beautiful in composition and execution. ‘Private Music’ relies on its softer moments to enhance the heavier parts, particularly as the gentle end of ‘Souvenir’ transitions into Chino Moreno’s signature screams in ‘cXz.’ ‘Metal Dream’ epitomizes this ebb and flow, pulling the frontman back to the edge of nu-metal rap with impressive accuracy, avoiding cliché or pastiche, and coupled with an entrancing chorus. The standout track ‘Milk of the Madonna’ erupts with driving guitars leading to some of his most moving vocals to date. It's evident that he spent over a year crafting the lyrics and recording his voice after the music was finished—resulting in what feels like their most intricate yet straightforward work to date. Few bands endure for 30 years, and even fewer do so with such clarity and vision. With 10 albums and three decades behind them, ‘Private Music’ emphasizes a band that remains at their peak while still holding promise for the future.
Somewhat cautious in certain areas, but still a gratifying outcome.
Omar+ has experienced a remarkable year. The DJ, vocalist, and producer has risen through the ranks and collaborated with some of the most esteemed figures in electronic music.
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Navigating through dark claustrophobia and expansive soundscapes, both the composition and delivery are strikingly beautiful.