What makes Leathers by Deftones notable?

The album received widespread acclaim, debuting at number 10 on the Billboard 200 and further solidifying Deftones' status in the alternative metal scene. Critics noted its sonic depth and emotional resonance, contributing to a resurgence of interest in the band as they navigated their post-Cheng era. The single 'Leathers' was particularly praised for its dynamic range, receiving heavy radio play. Released in 2012, 'Leathers' marked Deftones' sixth studio album, following their critically acclaimed 'Diamond Eyes' from 2010. At this stage, the band was solidifying their sound after a turbulent period, including lineup changes and the near-fatal accident of bassist Chi Cheng. This album showcases their continued evolution, integrating ambient textures with their signature heavy style.

How many songs are on Leathers?

Leathers has 1 track, running approximately 4 minutes.

Leathers

Deftones · 2012

4 min · 1 track · alternative metal

A swirling blend of heavy riffs and ethereal melodies that captures the tension between aggression and vulnerability.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Leathers — The title track exemplifies the balance of heavy instrumentation and atmospheric elements, showcasing Chino Moreno's haunting vocals against a backdrop of powerful guitar work.
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Tempest — This track blends intricate rhythms with a soaring chorus, illustrating the band's ability to create emotionally charged music that still feels aggressive and raw.
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Swerve City — With its driving beat and frenetic energy, 'Swerve City' stands out as a high-octane anthem that captures the urgency of the album's themes.

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 track combines heavy and ethereal elements effectively, showcasing strong dynamics and emotional range.

What we noticed

The track features a dynamic interplay between heavy guitar riffs and atmospheric synths, creating a layered soundscape.
Vocals alternate between aggressive shouts and melodic singing, emphasizing the emotional tension throughout the song.
The structure includes a gradual build-up leading to an explosive chorus, followed by a return to quieter verses.

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: Deep Cut — A solid entry that showcases their evolving sound but isn't a primary highlight.
Themes: emotional rawness· heavy guitar landscapes
Career context: Released in 2012, 'Leathers' marked Deftones' sixth studio album, following their critically acclaimed 'Diamond Eyes' from 2010. At this stage, the band was solidifying their sound after a turbulent period, including lineup changes and the near-fatal accident of bassist Chi Cheng. This album showcases their continued evolution, integrating ambient textures with their signature heavy style.
Stylistic neighbors: Glassjaw· System of a Down· A Perfect Circle