What makes Rocket Skates by Deftones notable?

Rocket Skates received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and was recognized on various year-end lists, solidifying Deftones' place within the alternative metal scene. The track also charted on the Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks, indicating its impact in mainstream circles. Released in 2010, Rocket Skates marked a shift for Deftones as they embraced a more experimental approach following their acclaimed album Diamond Eyes. This single set the tone for their next phase, showcasing their evolution in sound and production techniques.

How many songs are on Rocket Skates?

Rocket Skates has 2 tracks, running approximately 10 minutes.

Rocket Skates

Deftones · 2010

10 min · 2 tracks · alternative metal

A frenetic blend of heavy riffs and atmospheric textures, encapsulating Deftones' signature sound while pushing boundaries into new sonic territories.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Rocket Skates — The title track showcases a relentless energy, combining aggressive instrumentation with ethereal vocals that embody the album's experimental nature.
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Rocket Skates (M83 remix) — This remix reinterprets the original's intense soundscape with an electronic twist, reflecting Deftones' willingness to explore outside their typical genre boundaries.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The single showcases Deftones' evolution with complex structures and a blend of heavy and atmospheric sounds.

What we noticed

Layered guitar riffs intertwine with atmospheric synths, creating a dense soundscape that contrasts heavy and melodic elements.
The song structure includes dynamic shifts, moving from aggressive verses to more subdued choruses, enhancing the emotional impact.

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: 8/10
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: Experimental — The single showcases a shift to a more experimental sound for the band.
Themes: post-hardcore evolution· ethereal soundscapes· personal resurgence
Career context: Released in 2010, Rocket Skates marked a shift for Deftones as they embraced a more experimental approach following their acclaimed album Diamond Eyes. This single set the tone for their next phase, showcasing their evolution in sound and production techniques.
Stylistic neighbors: Glassjaw· System of a Down· A Perfect Circle