The Deftones: A Journey Through Their Discography from Best to Worst

Formed in Sacramento, California in 1988, the Deftones have been a staple of the alternative metal scene for over three decades. With a unique blend of heavy riffs, atmospheric soundscapes, and Chino Moreno's distinctive vocals, the band has built a loyal following and garnered critical acclaim. But with a discography spanning over 25 years, which albums stand out as their best works, and which ones are less impressive? Let's take a journey through the Deftones' discography from best to worst.

At the top of the list is Diamond Eyes (2010), an album that saw the band refocus after a hiatus following the devastating accident involving bassist Chi Cheng. The album features some of the band's most iconic tracks, including 'Diamond Eyes' and 'You've Seen the Butcher,' showcasing their ability to blend heavy riffs with melodic hooks.

Next up is Koi No Yokan (2012), an album that continued the momentum built by Diamond Eyes. With Sergio Vega now firmly entrenched as the band's bassist, Koi No Yokan features some of the Deftones' most experimental and ambitious work, including the haunting 'Leathers' and the atmospheric 'Tempest.'

The band's self-titled debut (1988) is also a standout, featuring early versions of songs that would later appear on their breakthrough album Adrenaline. The raw energy and intensity of this album showcase the band's ability to craft infectious hooks and heavy riffs from the very beginning.

Adrenaline (1995) is another highlight, with its blend of heavy metal and shoegaze influencing a generation of alternative bands. Tracks like 'Bored' and 'Rapture' demonstrate the band's ability to craft catchy, high-energy songs that resonate with listeners.

While White Pony (2000) received mixed reviews at the time of its release, it has since become a cult classic and features some of the band's most beloved tracks, including 'Passenger' and 'Digital Bath.'

Eros (2006), on the other hand, is often considered one of the band's weaker efforts. Released after a period of turmoil following Chi Cheng's accident, the album features some interesting experiments with electronic and atmospheric textures, but ultimately feels disjointed and lacking in focus.

Up the Bandstand (1994) is another early effort that, while not as polished as their later work, still showcases the band's raw energy and potential. Tracks like '7 Words' and 'Lhabitu' demonstrate the band's ability to craft heavy, aggressive songs with a strong melodic sense.

Finally, at the bottom of the list is Ohms (2020), an album that received mixed reviews upon its release. While it features some interesting experiments with electronic and atmospheric textures, the album ultimately feels disjointed and lacking in focus, with few memorable tracks to speak of.

In conclusion, the Deftones' discography is a complex and varied one, with each album offering something unique and interesting. From their early days as a raw and energetic band to their later efforts, which saw them experimenting with new sounds and textures, the Deftones have consistently pushed the boundaries of what it means to be an alternative metal band.

Deftones albums best to worst