Deftones’ nostalgic music: A ’90s Kid Now Adult
I have been a fan of Deftones since I was a teenager, a time when there were only a few strains of weed available and video games mostly consisted of side-scrollers and RPGs. Discovering new music back then was often through word of mouth or stumbling upon bands while browsing through records at the local shop—ah, the good old days. My first introduction to Deftones was in the mid-90s, a period that also saw the rise of Korn, Limp Bizkit, Coal Chamber, and the nu-metal movement. It might have been MTV that first brought their music to my attention back when MTV actually played music videos. I vividly remember watching them perform “Back to School” at the MTV Sports and Music Festival in 2000, where their unique blend of melody and chaos captured my interest.
The evolution of bands from that era has been intriguing to witness. While groups like Korn, Limp Bizkit, and System of a Down continue to tour and maintain their raw energy, Deftones have taken a different path, creating a more artistic and enduring sound. Each of their albums shows progression while staying true to their core identity, unlike other bands that tend to stick to a formula. With their latest release, “private music,” their tenth studio album, Deftones have circled back to the atmospheric and heavy vibes of the 90s, showcasing their growth and maturity over the years.
“private music” was released on August 22, 2025, marking their first full-length studio album since “Ohms” in 2020. Produced by Nick Raskulinecz, known for his work on “Diamond Eyes” and “Koi No Yokan,” the album features eleven tracks with a concise runtime and is available on Reprise/Warner. The singles “My Mind Is a Mountain” and “Milk of the Madonna” set the tone for the album, blending foggy melodies with seismic grooves, a fusion of their signature sound with refined sensibilities acquired over 25 years.
Deftones’ ability to collaborate with unexpected artists was highlighted during the White Pony 20th-anniversary project, where they enlisted musicians like Mike Shinoda, DJ Shadow, and Robert Smith for a remix album called “Black Stallion.” This venture showcased their adaptability across genres and their capacity to stay relevant through innovative partnerships. “private music” feels like a natural progression from this project, embodying a band aware of their legacy but committed to pushing boundaries and staying current.
The album delivers a potent mix of heavy and dreamy elements that define Deftones’ unique sonic landscape. Tracks like “Milk of the Madonna” seamlessly transition into “Cut Hands,” capturing the raw intensity reminiscent of their debut album “Adrenaline,” but with the maturity and confidence that comes with years of experience. The production by Raskulinecz, known for his work on “Diamond Eyes,” elevates the album with its clarity and weight, creating a balance between power and ethereal ambiance that resonates throughout “private music.”
Listening to “private music” on the exclusive metallic gold vinyl enhances the experience, magnifying the robust riffs, gritty rhythms, and haunting atmospherics. Despite missing out on the deluxe gatefold iridescent edition, the standard vinyl edition is still impressive and accentuates the album’s energy and evolution. Seeing Deftones live earlier this year was a privilege, and I look forward to attending their future shows in the NY/NJ area. “private music” exemplifies why Deftones continue to be relevant—a band that has matured and evolved over three decades without losing their essence. Their ability to consistently produce quality music after all these years is a testament to their enduring legacy and musical prowess.