I don't have a definitive reason as to "why," but despite being a massive fan of the DEFTONES' early works, I have not purchased their last three studio albums (nor have I received digital promos). That places my last proper DEFTONES experience with their 2005 B-sides collection. While I've heard bits and pieces of their more contemporary works, as I said - I don't have a reason for the disconnect, but it certainly feels as if I've been unplugged from a band that I used to dig very much. My reason for deliving into the DEFTONES' rabbit hole tonight comes courtesy of PALMS, and their self-titled debut that is set for release this coming Tuesday via one of my favorite labels for recorded sounds, Ipecac Recordings.Fronted by DEFTONES mainman Chino Moreno, and filled-out by Jeff Caxide, Aaron Harris, and Bryant Clifford Meyer of the late ISIS, PALMS has crafted an extraordinary six-song album (despite being in EP territory numerically) that has for me, rekindled my interest in DEFTONES due to Moreno's unmistakable and charismatic vocal stylings as presented against an atmospheric backdrop of grand proportions. While I love Moreno's vocals, it's the beauty and intricity of the music that serves to elevate the voice. And the ISIS boys 'done good.
While songs like "Patagonia" and "Tropics" sound great on their own, PALMS is best-served not in individual, radio-friendlly slices, but as a whole pie to be consumed in one sitting.
The Rock Father Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Disclosure: A Digital Stream of the new album from PALMS was provided to The Rock Father by Ipecac Recordings for the purpose of review consideration. All opinions are that of James Zahn. \m/ \m/
