Entombed
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The Grief Behind the Sound: Deftones' 'Entombed' Unpacked

About Entombed by Deftones

Facing the Abyss

Deftones have never shied away from exploring the darker corners of human emotion, and their track "Entombed" from the album Ohms (2020) is a resonant example of this. The song's emotional weight is palpable, serving as a stark reminder of the impact of loss. As the band grapples with grief, they transform pain into a visceral sonic experience that is both haunting and cathartic.

Echoes of Grief

In "Entombed," Chino Moreno's voice cuts through layers of heavy instrumentation, embodying the struggle of dealing with loss. The driving guitars and thunderous drums create an atmosphere that feels claustrophobic, mirroring the suffocating nature of mourning. The lines reflect an internal battle:

"I can’t get it out of my head, I can’t get it out of my head"

This repetition illustrates how memories can become inescapable, haunting us in our quietest moments.

The Weight of Memory

The lyrics serve as a raw reminder of how loss can linger, like a shadow that refuses to fade. Deftones don't just capture the grief; they also illustrate the struggle to find strength amidst despair. The track’s heavy instrumentation acts as a backdrop for Moreno's evocative lyrics, highlighting the tension between pain and resilience.

A Shift in Sound

Produced by Matt Hyde, Ohms marked a return to form for Deftones, blending their signature ethereal sound with a heavier edge. The album, including tracks like "Genesis" and the title track, showcases the band's ability to evolve while maintaining their core emotional intensity. "Entombed" stands out for its relentless exploration of grief, a theme that resonates throughout the album.

Sampling Legacy

In July 2025, Nettspend released “That One Song,” sampling “Entombed,” bringing the track's themes of loss to a new audience.

Conclusion: A Sonic Tomb

Ultimately, "Entombed" is more than just a song; it is a sonic representation of the emotional weight of loss. Deftones have crafted a piece that not only honors those we have lost but also serves as a reminder of the struggle to move forward. In the end, the power of this track lies in its ability to encapsulate the rawness of grief while providing a space for listeners to confront their own sorrows.

Entombed
Read the full analysis of Entombed
Verse-by-verse breakdown, themes & meaning