What makes Hole in the Earth by Deftones notable?

The album received positive reviews and debuted at number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, demonstrating the band's enduring appeal in the alternative metal scene. Its lead track, 'Hole in the Earth,' became a significant part of Deftones' live performances and highlighted the band's ability to address personal and collective struggles within their music. Released on September 5, 2006, 'Hole in the Earth' marked Deftones' fifth studio album and their first after the tragic death of bassist Chi Cheng. The band was navigating a transitional phase, aiming to blend their established heavy sound with more melodic and experimental elements, which would continue to evolve in subsequent releases.

How many songs are on Hole in the Earth?

Hole in the Earth has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Hole in the Earth

Deftones · 2006

8 min · 2 tracks · alternative metal

A brooding exploration of existential themes wrapped in atmospheric guitars and Chino Moreno's haunting vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hole in the Earth — This title track encapsulates the album's introspective themes while showcasing a balance between heavy instrumentation and melodic hooks that define Deftones' style.
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Hexagram (live) — The live version of 'Hexagram' captures the raw energy and intensity of Deftones' performances, emphasizing their ability to engage audiences with powerful sound dynamics.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single blends atmospheric elements with heavy instrumentation, showcasing Deftones' signature sound.

What we noticed

The title track features a gradual build-up, starting with atmospheric guitars that lead into a heavier chorus.
Chino Moreno's vocals alternate between soft, haunting melodies and aggressive shouts, reflecting the song's emotional intensity.
The live track 'Hexagram' maintains a similar heavy sound but showcases the band's performance energy, contrasting with the studio recording.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Represents a strong release post-tragedy, showcasing the band's resilience and continued evolution.
Career context: Released on September 5, 2006, 'Hole in the Earth' marked Deftones' fifth studio album and their first after the tragic death of bassist Chi Cheng. The band was navigating a transitional phase, aiming to blend their established heavy sound with more melodic and experimental elements, which would continue to evolve in subsequent releases.
Stylistic neighbors: Glassjaw· System of a Down· A Perfect Circle