Chino Moreno (Deftones, Team Sleep, Crosses) has always had a softer, more ambient, side when it comes to music. This was first heard through out the track 'Mascara' off of Deftones' Around The Fur. A whole lot more of Moreno's softer side has come out since then. Deftones' White Pony had a great amount of ambient influence on it, but the hint was not officially there until Moreno released his first side project Team Sleep. The sound was all there with Team Sleep and it was clear that Moreno loved trip-hop and ambient music. He is influenced by bands such as Depeche Mode and The Cure and this can be heard in a lot of Chino's work. In 2010, Chino released the monumental Diamond Eyes with Deftones and toured extensively in support of the album. Currently, he is working hard on a side project named Crosses and this current sound can't get any better. On August 2, 2011, the Crosses EP was independently released. The sound of Crosses is very similar to Team Sleep, but with more of a focus on ambience, eerie sound effects, and atmosphere. The EP begins with the track 'This Is A Trick', which is a very catchy opener filled with crushing beats and synths that develop under Chino's soft, breathy vocals. The track then leads into a heavy hitter, complete with powerful guitar work and very carefully produced beats. The second track 'Option' could be an outtake off of Deftones' White Pony. This track is very euphoric and has positive and passionate vocals. Chino even shows his spiritual side when mentioning swearing on the cross and taking his name to the grave. Next up is 'Bermuda Locket', which is a track that sounds very reminiscent of Depeche Mode and Chino's influence is mostly heard through out this track. The fourth track 'Holy Ghost' sounds like something off of a 90's Portishead album. The eeriness is very present and the chorus brings to mind Deftones. Lastly is the instrumental track 'Cross'. The song is somewhat dark and is a very good way to end the EP. Overall, the EP was a rewarding listening experience. I highly recommend giving Crosses a listen. You will not be disappointed.
Anyone who enjoys Deftones, Team Sleep, trip-hop music, and ambient music should give Crosses a listen. The EP is available for free on the official website: http://www.crossesmusic.com. Or if you want, you can pay $5 and get a link to download a special quality version of the album along with a PDF of the artwork and lyrics.
Check out the first track off of the Crosses EP entitled 'This Is A Trick':
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