Deftones

Biography

Deftones is an American alternative metal band formed in Sacramento, California, in 1988. The founding members were high school friends Chino Moreno (vocals, guitar), Stephen Carpenter (guitar), and Abe Cunningham (drums). Bassist Chi Cheng joined in 1990, solidifying the early lineup. After several years of playing local shows and honing their sound, the band signed with Maverick Records in 1994.

Musical Style and Evolution

Initially part of the burgeoning nu-metal scene, Deftones distinguished themselves by blending aggressive, heavy guitar riffs with more melodic and atmospheric elements. Their sound is characterized by Moreno's dynamic vocal style, which shifts between aggressive screams and ethereal, melodic singing, and Carpenter's use of down-tuned guitars. Over their career, the band has incorporated a wide range of influences, including post-hardcore, shoegaze, dream pop, and electronic music, leading critics to praise their innovative and genre-defying approach. They are often credited with transcending the nu-metal label and creating a unique space within alternative music.

Debut and Rise to Prominence

Deftones released their debut album, Adrenaline, in 1995. Through relentless touring and word-of-mouth, the album built a dedicated fanbase. Their second album, Around the Fur (1997), was a commercial breakthrough, featuring popular singles like "My Own Summer (Shove It)" and "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)". During this period, Frank Delgado joined the band, initially as a featured artist, adding turntables and keyboards to their sound and becoming a full-time member by their next album.

Mainstream Success and Critical Acclaim

The release of White Pony in 2000 marked a significant artistic evolution for the band, incorporating more experimental and atmospheric sounds. The album was a critical and commercial success, achieving platinum status and earning the band a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance for the song "Elite". The single "Change (In the House of Flies)" became one of their most successful tracks. They followed up with a self-titled album in 2003, which continued to explore a heavier and more diverse sonic palette.

Tragedy and Perseverance

In November 2008, bassist Chi Cheng was seriously injured in a car accident, leaving him in a minimally conscious state. The band halted production on their planned album, Eros, indefinitely. Quicksand bassist Sergio Vega stepped in to fill Cheng's place, initially as a temporary replacement and later as a full member until his departure in 2021. Tragically, Chi Cheng passed away in April 2013 from cardiac arrest.

Later Career and Current Status

Despite the tragedy, Deftones continued to release critically acclaimed albums. Diamond Eyes (2010) was seen as a powerful and optimistic return. They followed with Koi No Yokan (2012), Gore (2016), and Ohms (2020), each album further pushing their musical boundaries. The band, currently consisting of Moreno, Carpenter, Cunningham, and Delgado, continues to tour and has reportedly been working on a new album. Their influence is widespread, having inspired numerous bands and maintaining a dedicated, multi-generational fanbase.

Discography

Studio Albums

• Adrenaline (1995)
• Around the Fur (1997)
• White Pony (2000)
• Deftones (2003)
• Saturday Night Wrist (2006)
• Diamond Eyes (2010)
• Koi No Yokan (2012)
• Gore (2016)
• Ohms (2020)