Deftones

Enter the ethereal yet crushing soundscape of Deftones, the critically acclaimed American band that has defied easy categorisation since their formation in Sacramento, California, in 1988. Often hailed as the “Radiohead of metal” for their experimental spirit, Deftones has forged a unique path in alternative metal, blending heavy riffs with atmospheric textures, soaring melodies, and deeply personal lyrics.

The band’s core lineup has remained remarkably consistent over the decades: Chino Moreno on lead vocals and occasional guitar, Stephen Carpenter on guitar, Abe Cunningham on drums, and Frank Delgado on turntables and keyboards (who became a full member in 1999). This enduring chemistry is a significant reason for their consistent evolution and distinctive sound. The tragic passing of their original bassist, Chi Cheng, in 2013 after years in a coma due to a car accident, was a profound loss, but the band continued with Sergio Vega on bass for over a decade, and more recently, Fred Sablan has been filling the bass duties live.

Deftones’ early sound, exemplified by their 1995 debut album Adrenaline and 1997’s Around the Fur, was often associated with the burgeoning nu-metal movement. However, even then, they showcased a more nuanced and artful approach than many of their peers. Tracks like “My Own Summer (Shove It)” and “Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)” hinted at the atmospheric depths they would later explore. A fascinating anecdote from their early days is that Stephen Carpenter, after being hit by a car while skateboarding at 15, used his settlement money to buy guitar equipment, directly contributing to the band’s formation.

Their pivotal moment arrived with “White Pony” in 2000, an album widely regarded as a masterpiece. This record saw Deftones fully embrace their experimental side, incorporating elements of dream pop, shoegaze, electronic music, and even post-punk, while retaining their inherent heaviness. Songs like “Change (In the House of Flies)” and “Digital Bath” showcased Chino Moreno’s incredible vocal versatility, shifting effortlessly between raw screams and haunting clean melodies. “Elite” even earned them a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance, marking a significant milestone. “White Pony” not only garnered critical acclaim but also achieved platinum certification, broadening their appeal far beyond the confines of the traditional metal scene.

Deftones have always been praised for their ability to create an immersive atmosphere. Stephen Carpenter’s heavily downtuned, often eight-string guitar riffs provide a thick, almost monolithic foundation, while Frank Delgado’s contributions on turntables and samples add layers of textural complexity. Chino Moreno’s evocative and often abstract lyrics, influenced by artists like The Cure and Depeche Mode, invite multiple interpretations, further enhancing the band’s artistic depth.

Their discography is a rich tapestry of sound, with subsequent albums like Diamond Eyes (2010), Koi No Yokan (2012), and Ohms (2020) demonstrating a continuous refinement of their unique blend of aggression and melody. Each release offers a distinct flavour while remaining unmistakably Deftones. Their dedication to staying true to their artistic vision rather than chasing trends has cemented their status as one of the most respected and influential bands in alternative music.

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