Deftones Around The Fur Album My Song Ranking

Hey guys! Let's dive into one of the most iconic albums in alternative metal history: Deftones' Around The Fur. This album is a masterpiece, a blend of raw aggression and ethereal beauty. Ranking these tracks is tough because they're all amazing in their own way, but I’m gonna give it my best shot! This album was a significant leap for Deftones, solidifying their unique sound and paving the way for their future classics. From the bone-crushing riffs to Chino Moreno's haunting vocals, Around The Fur is an experience. So, let's get started, shall we?

Why Around The Fur Still Matters

Before we jump into the ranking, let's talk about why Around The Fur is still so important. Released in 1997, it came at a time when nu-metal was starting to gain traction, but Deftones were doing something different. They weren't just about heavy riffs and angst; they were incorporating melody, atmosphere, and a certain vulnerability that set them apart. This album, Around The Fur, marked a pivotal moment in the band's career, showcasing their evolution from the raw energy of their debut, Adrenaline, to a more refined and experimental sound. The blend of Chino Moreno's introspective lyrics and the band's dynamic instrumentals created a sonic landscape that was both aggressive and beautiful. It's an album that resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level, and its influence can be heard in countless bands that followed. Around The Fur isn't just an album; it's a statement. It's Deftones declaring their identity, pushing boundaries, and crafting a sound that's uniquely their own. The album's themes of alienation, desire, and introspection are timeless, making it as relevant today as it was in the late '90s. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, Around The Fur is an essential listen for anyone interested in alternative metal and the evolution of Deftones' groundbreaking sound.

My Song Ranking

Okay, here we go! This is totally subjective, and your list might look different, and that's cool. But here’s how I see it:

1. "My Own Summer (Shove It)"

Come on, guys, you knew this was gonna be number one, right? This track is the quintessential Deftones song, period. The opening riff is iconic, the chorus is infectious, and the way the song builds and releases tension is just masterful. "My Own Summer (Shove It)" isn't just a song; it's an experience. It perfectly encapsulates the blend of aggression and melody that defines Deftones' sound. The heavy, chugging guitars combined with Chino Moreno's visceral vocals create an atmosphere that's both intense and cathartic. The lyrics, which explore themes of alienation and frustration, resonate with listeners on a deep level. The song's music video, with its stark imagery and chaotic energy, further cemented its place in music history. "My Own Summer (Shove It)" is more than just a hit single; it's a statement of intent. It's Deftones at their most powerful and innovative, pushing the boundaries of alternative metal and creating a sound that's uniquely their own. The song's impact is undeniable, influencing countless bands and solidifying Deftones' place as one of the most important bands of their generation. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, "My Own Summer (Shove It)" is an essential track that captures the essence of Deftones' brilliance.

2. "Around the Fur"

The title track is just ferocious. The raw energy, the driving rhythm, and Chino’s screams – it's pure, unadulterated Deftones. "Around the Fur" is a sonic assault, a whirlwind of aggression and intensity that grabs you from the opening riff and doesn't let go. The song's relentless energy is infectious, making it a staple in Deftones' live performances. The lyrics, which delve into themes of lust and obsession, add a dark and provocative layer to the track. Chino Moreno's vocals are particularly powerful, ranging from guttural screams to haunting whispers, perfectly capturing the song's emotional complexity. The instrumental interplay between the band members is equally impressive, with Stephen Carpenter's heavy guitar riffs, Chi Cheng's driving basslines, and Abe Cunningham's thunderous drumming creating a sonic landscape that's both chaotic and controlled. "Around the Fur" is a testament to Deftones' ability to blend aggression with artistry, creating a sound that's both visceral and nuanced. The song's impact on the alternative metal scene is undeniable, influencing countless bands and solidifying Deftones' reputation as innovators. It's a track that demands attention, a raw and unfiltered expression of the band's creative vision. For fans of heavy music, "Around the Fur" is an essential listen, a reminder of the power and intensity that Deftones bring to their craft.

3. "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)"

This song showcases Deftones' softer side, but it’s still heavy and impactful. The verses are dreamy and atmospheric, while the chorus explodes with emotion. It's a perfect example of their dynamic range. "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" is a masterpiece of dynamics, showcasing Deftones' ability to seamlessly blend ethereal beauty with crushing heaviness. The song's verses are characterized by their dreamy, atmospheric quality, with Chino Moreno's haunting vocals floating over a bed of shimmering guitars. This creates a sense of longing and introspection, drawing the listener into the song's emotional landscape. The chorus, however, is a complete contrast, exploding with raw emotion and energy. The heavy guitars and pounding drums create a wall of sound that's both cathartic and exhilarating. This dynamic interplay between soft and heavy is a hallmark of Deftones' sound, and it's on full display in "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)." The lyrics, which explore themes of escape and isolation, resonate with listeners on a deep level. The song's music video, with its surreal imagery and haunting atmosphere, further enhances its emotional impact. "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" is more than just a song; it's a journey. It's a testament to Deftones' artistry and their ability to create music that's both beautiful and powerful. The song's influence on the alternative metal scene is undeniable, inspiring countless bands and solidifying Deftones' place as one of the most important and innovative bands of their generation.

4. "Lhabia"

This track is just weird and awesome. The odd time signatures, the dissonant chords, and Chino’s unpredictable vocals make it a standout. "Lhabia" is a testament to Deftones' experimental spirit, a track that pushes the boundaries of alternative metal and showcases their willingness to take risks. The song is characterized by its odd time signatures and dissonant chords, creating a sense of unease and tension. This unconventional approach to songwriting is one of the hallmarks of Deftones' sound, and it's on full display in "Lhabia." Chino Moreno's vocals are equally unpredictable, ranging from haunting whispers to guttural screams, perfectly capturing the song's chaotic energy. The lyrics, which are cryptic and ambiguous, add to the song's mystique. "Lhabia" is a track that challenges the listener, demanding attention and rewarding repeated listens. It's a testament to Deftones' artistry and their ability to create music that's both challenging and rewarding. The song's impact on the alternative metal scene is undeniable, inspiring countless bands to experiment with their sound and push the boundaries of the genre. For fans of unconventional and challenging music, "Lhabia" is an essential listen, a reminder of the power and creativity that Deftones bring to their craft. It's a song that defies easy categorization, a true original in the world of alternative metal.

5. "Mascara"

This one’s a slow burner, but it's so beautiful and haunting. Chino’s vocals are especially captivating here. "Mascara" is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases Deftones' softer side, a testament to their ability to create emotionally resonant music that transcends genre boundaries. The song is characterized by its slow tempo and melancholic atmosphere, with Chino Moreno's vocals taking center stage. His voice is particularly captivating here, conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing that's both heartbreaking and beautiful. The lyrics, which explore themes of love and loss, are equally powerful, adding to the song's emotional depth. The instrumentation is understated but effective, with the guitars, bass, and drums creating a subtle but supportive backdrop for Chino's vocals. "Mascara" is a song that builds slowly, drawing the listener in with its delicate beauty and then leaving a lasting impression. It's a reminder that Deftones are more than just a heavy metal band; they're artists who are capable of creating music that's both powerful and poignant. The song's impact on Deftones' fanbase is undeniable, becoming a beloved track that showcases the band's versatility and emotional range. For those who appreciate the softer side of Deftones, "Mascara" is an essential listen, a reminder of the band's ability to create music that touches the heart.

6. "Dai the Flu"

Another high-energy track with a killer riff. This one’s just a straight-up banger. "Dai the Flu" is a high-octane, adrenaline-fueled track that showcases Deftones' raw energy and aggression, a sonic assault that's guaranteed to get your blood pumping. The song is characterized by its driving rhythm, heavy guitars, and Chino Moreno's ferocious vocals. It's a straight-up banger, a no-holds-barred expression of the band's musical power. The lyrics, which are cryptic and suggestive, add to the song's intense atmosphere. "Dai the Flu" is a track that's best experienced live, where its energy can be fully appreciated. It's a staple in Deftones' concert setlists, a crowd-pleaser that always gets the audience moving. The song's impact on Deftones' live performances is undeniable, becoming a fan favorite that showcases the band's ability to connect with their audience on a visceral level. For those who crave heavy, high-energy music, "Dai the Flu" is an essential listen, a reminder of the power and intensity that Deftones bring to their craft. It's a song that's guaranteed to leave you breathless, a testament to the band's ability to create music that's both aggressive and exhilarating.

7. "Headup"

This song, featuring Max Cavalera from Sepultura, is pure aggression. The heavy riffs and dual vocals make it a total headbanger. "Headup," featuring Max Cavalera from Sepultura, is a powerhouse collaboration that showcases the raw aggression and intensity of both bands, a sonic explosion that's sure to get your head banging. The song is characterized by its heavy riffs, dual vocals, and relentless energy. It's a pure expression of musical aggression, a testament to the power of collaboration. The lyrics, which explore themes of anger and frustration, add to the song's intense atmosphere. The interplay between Chino Moreno and Max Cavalera's vocals is particularly effective, creating a dynamic and powerful sonic landscape. "Headup" is a track that's best experienced at high volume, where its full impact can be appreciated. It's a reminder of the shared intensity and passion that both Deftones and Sepultura bring to their music. The song's impact on the alternative metal scene is undeniable, becoming a fan favorite that showcases the power of collaboration. For those who crave heavy, aggressive music, "Headup" is an essential listen, a reminder of the energy and intensity that Deftones and Sepultura are capable of creating.

8. "MX"

This is a hidden gem. It’s a bit more experimental, with a jazzy vibe in the intro that gives way to heavy guitars. "MX" is a hidden gem on Around The Fur, a track that showcases Deftones' experimental side and their willingness to push the boundaries of alternative metal. The song is characterized by its jazzy intro, which creates a mellow and atmospheric mood before giving way to heavy guitars and Chino Moreno's intense vocals. This dynamic interplay between soft and heavy is a hallmark of Deftones' sound, and it's on full display in "MX." The lyrics, which are cryptic and ambiguous, add to the song's mystique. "MX" is a track that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers of complexity with each spin. It's a testament to Deftones' artistry and their ability to create music that's both challenging and rewarding. The song's impact on Deftones' fanbase is undeniable, becoming a beloved track that showcases the band's versatility. For those who appreciate Deftones' experimental side, "MX" is an essential listen, a reminder of the band's ability to create music that defies easy categorization.

9. "Rickets"

This one's short and sweet, but it packs a punch. It’s raw and energetic, a quick burst of Deftones goodness. "Rickets" is a short but powerful burst of Deftones energy, a raw and energetic track that packs a punch in its brief runtime. The song is characterized by its fast tempo, heavy guitars, and Chino Moreno's aggressive vocals. It's a concise expression of Deftones' musical intensity, a quick hit of sonic adrenaline. The lyrics, which are cryptic and suggestive, add to the song's chaotic atmosphere. "Rickets" is a track that's best experienced as part of the album as a whole, adding to the overall intensity and energy of Around The Fur. It's a reminder that Deftones are capable of creating powerful music in any format, whether it's a full-length epic or a short, sharp burst of energy. The song's impact on Deftones' fans is undeniable, becoming a beloved track that showcases the band's raw power. For those who appreciate the aggressive side of Deftones, "Rickets" is an essential listen, a reminder of the band's ability to create music that's both intense and exhilarating.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! My ranking of every song from Around The Fur. Like I said, it’s tough because this album is just so good from start to finish. What do you guys think? How would you rank these tracks? Let me know in the comments!

Around The Fur is more than just an album; it’s a landmark in alternative metal history. It's a testament to Deftones' artistry, their willingness to experiment, and their ability to create music that's both heavy and beautiful. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this album is an essential listen. It's a reminder of the power of music to move us, to challenge us, and to connect us. So, crank it up, guys, and let Around The Fur take you on a journey. You won't regret it!