Deftones are an American alternative metal band hailing from Sacramento, California. Formed in 1988, the band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Chino Moreno, guitarist Stephen Carpenter, keyboardist and turntablist Frank Delgado, drummer Abe Cunningham, and bassist Sergio Vega. Over the past three decades, Deftones have become one of the most influential and beloved bands in alternative metal, blending elements of metal, shoegaze, and post-hardcore into a unique and compelling sound.
Deftones’ music is characterized by Moreno’s soaring and emotive vocals, Carpenter’s chugging riffs and heavy distortion, and the band’s ability to seamlessly transition from quiet, atmospheric passages to explosive, heavy sections. This blend of heavy and ethereal sounds is exemplified on the band’s breakthrough album, “White Pony,” released in 2000. The album features some of the band’s most iconic tracks, including “Change (In the House of Flies),” “Digital Bath,” and “Knife Prty.”
While “White Pony” is often considered the band’s creative peak, Deftones have continued to push boundaries and evolve their sound over the years. From the atmospheric and experimental “Saturday Night Wrist” to the more straightforward and heavy “Diamond Eyes,” the band has consistently released critically acclaimed albums that showcase their versatility and willingness to take risks.
In addition to their innovative music, Deftones are also known for their intense and dynamic live shows. Moreno is particularly renowned for his charismatic stage presence and ability to connect with the audience on a deep level. Whether playing to a packed arena or an intimate club, Deftones’ live performances are always a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Despite their success and influence, Deftones have faced their fair share of challenges over the years. In 2008, bassist Chi Cheng was involved in a serious car accident that left him in a coma for several years before his eventual passing in 2013. Cheng’s absence was deeply felt by the band and their fans, but they soldiered on, continuing to release powerful and affecting music in his memory.
Today, Deftones remain one of the most vital and innovative bands in alternative metal. With their upcoming album, “Ohms,” set for release in 2020, fans eagerly anticipate what new sonic adventures the band will take them on. Whether exploring the outer reaches of heavy music or crafting beautiful and haunting melodies, Deftones continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
Deftones’ influence can be heard in a wide range of modern rock and metal bands, with artists like Bring Me the Horizon, Architects, and Code Orange citing the band as a major inspiration. The band’s unique blend of heavy and atmospheric sounds has also paved the way for other innovative bands in the alternative and post-metal genres.
In addition to their music, Deftones are also known for their striking visual art and music videos. The band has collaborated with a number of acclaimed artists and designers, including Shepard Fairey and Frank Maddocks, to create striking album covers and merchandise designs. Their music videos, directed by visionaries like Mark Romanek and Floria Sigismondi, are often surreal and haunting, perfectly complementing the band’s sound.
Deftones’ impact on popular culture extends beyond music and art. The band’s music has been featured in a number of films, television shows, and video games, with tracks like “Change (In the House of Flies)” appearing in the movie “The Matrix Reloaded” and the popular video game “Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock.”
Despite their success and acclaim, Deftones have remained humble and grounded throughout their career. They have always prioritized their artistry over commercial success, and have maintained a loyal fanbase who appreciate their honesty and authenticity.
In conclusion, Deftones are a truly unique and groundbreaking band who have left an indelible mark on the world of alternative metal. Their ability to blend heavy and ethereal sounds, coupled with their powerful live performances and striking visual art, have made them one of the most beloved and influential bands of the past three decades. With each new release, they continue to push boundaries and inspire a new generation of artists and fans alike.