The Good,
the Bad, and the Simply Weird
Deftones frontman Chino Moreno must have the most bizarre taste in music, or he may simply just enjoy thoroughly puzzling his fans. While the heavily excited sold-out crowd waited for Team Sleep to take the Paradise stage, fans were treated to a wide selection of music that encompassed such hits as “Candy Girl” (yes, that song by New Edition) and “Little Red Corvette” – in short, Mr. Moreno & co. picked out the soundtrack to an 11 year-old’s slumber party circa 1984 for the pre-show music.
Finally, the very entertaining song selection gave way to the reason why the people were there in the first place, and Team Sleep took the stage to the deafening roar of “CHINO! CHIIIIIIINO!!!” that issued from the legions of frantic fans.
Team Sleep’s self-titled album is a much calmer affair than, say, Around the Fur, but the band’s live show is hugely reminiscent of the ear-searing, bone-shaking, otherworldly sound of the Deftones. Interestingly enough, the live performance did an admirable job of capturing the subtle nuances of Team Sleep while still making the legs of my jeans vibrate with bass.
The show featured all of the best songs from the debut
album, including “Ever” and the hypnotizing fade-in/out drumbeats of album
opener “Ataraxia.” Chino was typically intense all night, and he sounded
great on all the songs, especially a fiery “Your Skull is Red.” He
clearly appreciated the crowd’s excitement, and looked like he was
seriously enjoying himself during the spiky vocal refrains of “King
Diamond.” The lack of a female vocalist didn’t hinder the song’s
effectiveness at all, as it allowed for more crowd interaction and a sort
of call-and-answer chorus.
I’ve heard some intimidating stories about Deftones concerts (nearly broken ribs, etc.), and judging by some of the knuckleheads at the Team Sleep show, I can see how this type of situation could arise. However, the heavily Cure-influenced music of Team Sleep must have calmed the savage beast of these fans, and Chino et al put on a kick-ass show that was enjoyed by all.
-- Jessica Netishen,06/04/05
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