I am proud to announce that this year's 2010's Cream of the Crop is none other than Diamond Eyes by the Deftones. This year was challenge due to the amount of spectacular albums released, but in the end it was this particular album that stood out among the rest. Here on Future Phonograph, I will tell you why.
In 2007, after more than a year or two promoting their previous album, Saturday Night Wrist, the Deftones quickly went ahead to record another album. According to the band, Eros which they tentatively named, would be their heaviest and most gruesome work to date. They finished recording the album within year after and release date has yet to be announced. Sadly though, tragedy struck the band.
In November 2008, Deftones bass player, Chi Cheng was involved in a major car accident that left him in a coma state. All plans for Eros and touring were immediately put on hold to support their friend and his family. With the uncertainty of whether Chi will play again due to his condition, the future of the Deftones was bleak. At that point, each of the band members took some time off to gather themselves to think about their future of their band. After a few months, Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Frank Delgado and Abe Cunningham got together and have decided to continue to make music as a unit. In the beginning of 2009, the band slowly began to play a few shows at various festivals. To fill in the void on bass, they asked long time friend and former Quicksand bassist, Sergio Vega to accompany them. When asked if he's a full fledged member of the band, Vega will only answer the same way he did when Chino asked him to fill in, "I'm here as long as you need me". That not only showed how much class Vega has, but it showed that he supports the Deftones in their time of need.
Brother In Arms, Chi Cheng
Despite completing Eros, the Deftones felt that it would not be right to release the record especially with Chi in his current condition. Instead, the band returned to the studio with the intent to record a brand new record with Sergio Vega. Unlike Eros which featured a darker, more heavier tone, the band wanted to record a more positive and uplifting record. In a span of one year, they channeled their energy and rehearsed constantly to perfected their craft. Finally, on May 9, 2010, the fruits of their labor have produced their sixth album, Diamond Eyes. This would mark the first record without their long time friend and bandmate, Chi Cheng. Now, although this record has a more positive vibe, Diamond Eyes is nothing short of heavy and it's simply the loudest record of 2010.
The Deftones' goal in music is to always push themselves musically. From their previous albums, Saturday Night Wrist and Deftones, their sound has gotten bigger and more complex. On Diamond Eyes, their explorative side takes a backseat and the overall sound is more reminiscent to their earlier work, the vicious Around The Fur. It is a straightforward rock record that is equally raw and aggressive. It exhibits the Deftones' in their purest form. Immediately the first two tracks, "Diamond Eyes" and "Royal" kicks off the album with in a merciless fashion with soaring guitar riffs and precision drumming. These set the overall tone of the album. One of the notable tracks on Diamond Eyes is "You've Seen The Butcher", which is a very interesting song because of it's strange time signature. On top of that, Chino Moreno's melodic vocals are amazing as he gives us a voice that is sensuous to the ears. The track "Rocket Skates" is one hell of a song with heavy riffs and excellent drumming. Moreno's vocals once again give the track it's strength as his screaming wails can easily pierce the listener's ears as he screams, "Guns!!! Razors!!! KNIFES!!!" Now, although this is more of a rock record, the band still dabble in a little dream pop with the dreamy and beautiful "Sextape", which would be considered as the ballad of the album. It may have a different tone, but it feels cohesive with the rest of the tracks. Another noteworthy track is "Risk". This track has a very personal connection with the band because the song was named after the board game that the members used to play during recording. This was before Chi's car accident. It's a nice touch and it serves as a simple reminder of their friend and bandmate.
Overall, Diamond Eyes is a larger than life album that channels the Deftone's energy and power to create raw kind of rock that is uplifting and positive. Despite the record not exhibiting any form of musical exploration, it does not mean the band is no longer interesting in challenging themselves. Instead, their purpose was to make a record that not only they would make them proud of, but a record that even Chi would be proud of. Diamond Eyes is more than just a tribute to their long time friend and comrade, but it's serves as a firm conviction that their fellow bandmate will one day join them on stage once again. In essence, Chi has always been with his brothers in spirit. And although, he may not have played a single note during the recording of the record, his presence was felt. That's what makes Diamond Eyes all the more extraordinary.
Following the accident a fundraiser was formed under the name One Love For Chi to raise awareness for his condition and to help provide Chi with the best care possible. If you would like to donate, you can do so at OneLoveForChi.com.
Finally, the last installment of the Cream of the Crop series of 2010. Want to know the best album of 2010? Find out on New Year's Day!
2. The Suburbs by Arcade Fire
Strange noises and keen musicianship by Canada's very own, The Suburbs is an eerie tribute to suburban life and dedicated to Win Butler's fascination of the music of his youth, making this record their best and most innovative to date.
3. Teen Dream by Beach House
A major step forward in their music, the electro-pop duo adds strong and beautiful lyrics to their ambient dream pop making their record their most ambitious and most adventurous work in their catalog.
4. The ArchAndroid by Janelle Monae
Inspired by the classic sci-fi film, Metropolis, The ArchAndroid is a dynamic represenation of the singer's charasmatic personality and unmistakable talent as she tackles everything from soul, afro pop and even indie rock.
5. Go by Jonsi
The Sigur Ros frontman makes his first mark in music as a solo artist and creates an album that with one listen will make you feel the celebration of the wonder of life.
6. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy by Kanye West
Innovating, gripping and as always controversial, many people are already claiming that Kanye's fourth installment in his catalog may be his magnum opus and only solidfies him as being one of the most influential hip-hop artist of all time.
7. Recitation by Envy
Despite the language barrier, Japan's ambient hardcore outfit created a remarkable listening experience by painting beautiful landscapes of sound and incorporating of heavy and melodic that allows it be cohesive and dynamic.
8. Ø (Disambiguation) by Underoath
Despite the loss of their last and founding member, the reigning Florida metalcore act was able to craft their heaviest and most experimental work to date, which features the strongest lyrics that Spencer Chamberlain has ever written.
9. Treats by Sleigh Bells
The former Poison The Well guitarist, Derek Miller incorporates his love for hardcore breakdowns and hip hop production and combines them with Allison Krauss's pop charisma to create one of the most groundbreaking records this year.
10. Odd Blood by Yeasayer
The experimental rock band from New York gives a whole new meaning to the term pop music with their second album which presents their brilliance and inventiveness by combining many different genres in a disorganized but genius way.
The fourth installment of 2010's Cream of the Crop (albums 11-20). One more installment to go before Future Phonograph announces its best album of 2010. Stay tuned!
11. Sigh No More by Mumford & Sons
The UK indie folk band's debut album, Sigh No More is a prime example of honesty and love shown through strong musicianship and genuine lyrics.
12. Foxy Shazam by Foxy Shazam
The diabolical mastermind behind the 70's soul infused rock band from Detroit, brings us his latest creation which could only be described as oddly chaotic, extremly melodic and downright, get-on-the-good-foot groovy.
13. Man On The Moon 2: The Legend of Mr. Rager by Kid Cudi
Unlike his previous work which has elements of pop and conveys a brighter mood, on Mr. Rager brings on a darker tone and tells a story of addiction and sorrow through the hip-hop artist’s poetic wordplay.
14. The Creatures In The Garden of Lady Walton by Clogs
An indie rock band that mainly plays their own version of classical music, The Creatures In The Garden of Lady Walton’s spectacular arrangement of folk and classical elements offer one of the most unique and pleasant listening experiences.
15. Congratulations by MGMT
Turning down the pop aspect made famous from their previous record, Congratulations showcases the band's strengths in progressive rock and psychadelic pop that is reminiscent to their early work.
16. Further by My Chemical Brothers
A magnificent masterpiece by the pioneers of the genre, the dynamic duo crafted an album that allowed them to push it to the limit and build a new standard for electronica.
17. High Violet by The National
Words cannot describe the incredible musicianship and class that this Cincinnati rock band carries and High Violet is a true testament to that.
18. The Lady Killer by Cee Lo Green
On his third solo effort, the other half of Gnarls Barkley displays his romantic side in a collection of songs filled with pop goodness and soul ranging Motown to contemporary R&B.
19. Pickin' Up The Pieces by Fitz & The Tantrums
There are many rock acts now that are incorporating influences from soul and classic pop, but this Los Angeles act stands out among the rest and Pickin’ Up The Pieces is a prime example of that.
20. Tron: Legacy Soundtrack by Daft Punk
Not only did the electronic duo was featured in the movie, their futuristic and incredibly captivating score for Tron: Legacy will not only blow people's mind, but it will forever make the duo synomis with Tron.
The third installment of 2010's Cream of the Crop (albums 21-30). This year's best album will be announced real soon!
21. MAYA by M.I.A.
An album that embraces genres like reggae, hip-hop, electronica and many more, the highly diversed, world music artist expresses her message of information politics through a display of catchy beats and pop hooks.
22. Weathervanes by Freelance Whales
A gorgeous collection of songs based on childhood memories and dreams by lead singer, Judah Dadone, Weathervanes is a brilliant display of joy and wonder through playful lyrics and harmonious indie pop.
23. Contra by Vampire Weekend
The stylings of Contra is pretty consistent with the band's previous work, but what makes this record stand out is the band's abilty to utilize electronic elements to create an eighties aesthetic while maintaining their afro-pop vibe.
24. Future Breeds by Hot Hot Heat
The new record from British Columbia’s very own indie rock act displays a strong mix of punk and new wave while dabbling in electronics, which like the title of the album gives it a futuristic touch.
25. XX by The XX
The indie rock act from London love to experiment with English pub rock, shoegaze and techno which brings an unusual but unique twist to their brand of "dance" music.
26. Crazy For You By Best Coast
Inspired by girl groups of the 50's and the beautiful sunny coast of California, the former child star and her friend (who used to be her babysitter) captured the essence of a fun and carefree summer in every listen.
27. It Was Easy by Title Tracks
The debut record from John Davis, aka Title Tracks (formerly of Georgie James) is a surprise on its own as it features a great list of power pop songs with a retro feel to them.
28. Interpol by Interpol
One of the few remaining post-punk revival acts, the band from New York are continue to remain consistent by bringing a dark tone on their latest work while conveying a message of hope through intriguing and thought-provoking lyrics.
29. House With A Curse by Coliseum House With A Curse may spawn a new kind of hardcore that incorporates elements of artcore and punk that proves that the genre can be thought-provoking and agressive at the same time.
30. False Priest by Of Montreal
Known for playing with a wide array of genres such as indie rock, glam and electronica, with this record they have added R&B and funk to their arsenal making False Priest the most soulful record they ever made.
The second installment of 2010's Cream of the Crop (albums 31-40). Enjoy and Happy Holidays!
31. A Thousand Suns by Linkin Park
Taking on a more experimental and conceptual approach on this record, A Thousand Suns showcases a monumental step in the band's musical evolution and completely irradicates the nu-metal label off their backs.
'32. Perch Patchwork by Maps & Atlas
Despite evolving into a more pop-oriented indie act, they were able to incorporate elements from their early years such as math rock and experimental rock into their debut and the results are absolutely magnificent.
33. Body Talk by Robyn
The Swede pop star is back and more daring than ever with cutting edge beats, catchy melodies and fun lyrics as she completes her stellar Body Talk series.
34.Wake Up by John Legend & The Roots
The combination of smooth R&B grooves of Legend and precision instrumentation and stylings of The Roots makes Wake Up one of the best collaborations of 2010.
35. Of The Blue Colour Of The Sky by OK Go
A conceptual album based on the book of the same title by General A.J. Pleasonton, Of the Blue Colour of the Sky represents the band’s departure of pop music from their earlier works and finds them playing a more focused and well-thought rock.
36. Flamingo by Brandon Flowers
The leader of the Killers invokes his inner Elton John and channels it into his solo debut record, which displays his remarkable lyricism and uncanny ability to make great pop songs.
37. Blue Sky Noise by Circa Survive
After a year of overcoming personal struggles, the dynamic falsetto and his crew returned to the studio to record an album that is a true representation of triumph over adversity.
38. OMNI by Minus The Bear
Other than the fact that the name of the record was taken from a sci-fi magazine in the 60’s, the intricately progressive rock act from Seattle recorded OMNI in a unique “live show” fashion and displays the band’s new found love of retro-futurism.
39. Astro Coast by Surfer Blood
One of the brand new acts coming into the music scene and this album, Astro Coast will be an instant indie classic.
40. Good Old War by Good Old War
There ain't no stopping Keith Goodwin and company as they continue to write great indie folk songs on their latest self titled release.
Ladies and gentleman, I give you albums 41-50 of my 2010's Cream of the Crop. Did you see your favorite? If you not, it may appear later on. Maybe on the top ten. For now, check out these selections.
41. The Boxer by Kele
The Bloc Party frontman steps out on his own and instead of using guitars, utilizes an electronic drum machine and a variety of lo-fi sounds to create a dance record that captures the emotion and heartbreak of a diminished relationship.
42. Mondo Cane by Mike Patton
The former Faith No More vocalist shows off his classical side and his ability to reinvent himself by crafting an amazing collection of cover songs of Italian pop songs from the 50's and 60's.
43. American Slang by The Gaslight Anthem
The Bruce Springsteen inspired alt-rock band crafted an album that is reminiscent to the days of classic rock while retaining the edge and attitude of today's punk music.
44. Crystal Castles II by Crystal Castles
The second album, aka Crystal Castles II, is the group's most refined work which displays a chaotic and cohesive fusion of experimental lo-fi and electro-pop that captures the essence of emotion without sacrificing it.
45. Sever Your Roots by The Felix Culpa
The complexity and intriguing instrumentation behind Sever Your Roots is one of the album's biggest strengths and shows that the band's sound will get bigger and better.
46. Wilco (the album) by Wilco
The alt-country rockers have put a little more pop in their step, creating an album that is upbeat and adds a some fun to their already established Americana sound.
47. Transference by Spoon
Even after seven albums, Transference is an indication that Spoon are still on top of their game and they remain as one of the most consistent indie rock bands in music.
48. My Dinosaur Life by Motion City Soundtrack
Compared to their previous record which had more pop than rock, this time around the Moog rockers from Minnesota were able to find that perfect balance between the two genres giving them Dinosaur that much need punch while maintaining their dynamic pop side.
49. The Way I Fell In by The Morning of
Showing a substantial amount of growth and maturity, The Way I Fell In has really shown that the band from Long Island, New York has really come a long way.
50. Anybody Out There by Rufio
The boys have reunited and are back in full force, the band's latest since 2005 brings back memories of the good old days of pop punk and is a reminder that the genre is still live and well today.
I am proud to announce that this year's 2010's Cream of the Crop is none other than Diamond Eyes by the Deftones. This year was challenge due to the amount of spectacular albums released, but in the end it was this particular album that stood out among the rest. Here on Future Phonograph, I will tell you why.
