I’m sure I’m not only one that has been a Deftones fan for over 30 years. What’s even crazier is seeing all these young kids now getting into the band all these years into their career. The resurgence of Deftones has been quite interesting to watch. While their past couple albums have seemed pretty lackluster and clearly not very inspired, their new album Private Music is the band we all know and love firing on all cylinders again. Everyone in the band really seems into the new album and feeling that fire again.

Private Music is the album we’ve been waiting to be the follow up to Koi No Yokan. Deftones when they are focused like this are unstoppable. The ethereal and ambient sounds mixed with the heavy and more spacey, delicate riffs, along with the always pulsating and driving rhythmic nature are at peak performance on this album. From the moment “My Mind Is A Mountain” begins you can feel the energy simmering to a boil and from there it’s an absolute trip. the ride you go on through this record is uplifting, optimistic and directly channelled. Songs like “Ecdysis,” “Infinite Source,” “Souvenir,” make up one hell of a part of the trip! These 3 songs back to back to back is otherworldly. Listening you’ll hear what I mean. “Milk Of The Madonna” should have been the first single released but, that’s a topic for a whole other time. This track has this really cool Saturday NightWrist vibe to it, giving a nice little nod to that album. Side note, Saturday Night Wrist, while it was a divided time for the band, it’s their most underrated album. There’s plenty of other throwback elements like on “Cut Hands” and “Metal Dream.” The one track though that really has me is the final song “Departing The Body.” When you listen to this song it really sinks its teeth in and gently breaks the skin and the emotion pour out is beautiful. Working with Nick Raskulinecz again really helped make this album truly complete.

Private Music is one of those albums that makes you want to put it on repeat. Deftones have been able to connect with people for years and this album is another example of how truly artistic and meaningful their music is. Chino sounds crisp, rejuvenated and roaring. Stephen Carpenter’s playing on this album is back to what we know he can do. Abe Cunningham is still one of the best drummers in all of rock not to mention, he still brings in fresh tasty beats. Frank Delgado has really come into his own over the year with his soundscapes and here it’s truly on display. Fred Sablan brings in a very full tone and uses the space to his advantage. All the best elements of Deftones are here for you to listen to! 

Overall Rating: 9/10

Deftones- Private Music: