If you’ve ever heard a heavy guitar riff paired with an airy vocal line, you’ve probably stumbled on Deftones. Formed in Sacramento in 1988, they’ve become one of the most talked‑about groups in alternative metal. Their sound mixes crushing distortion, dreamy ambience, and lyrics that feel both personal and mysterious. That mix is why they’ve stayed fresh for more than three decades.
Chino Moreno (vocals) and his high‑school buddies Stephen Carpenter (guitar) and Abe Cunningham (drums) started playing gigs in local clubs. Their first record, Adrenaline (1995), gave them a solid fan base with raw, aggressive songs like “Bored.” The breakthrough came with White Pony (2000), a record that showed they could blend heavy riffs with atmospheric keyboards. Tracks like “Change (In the House of Flies)” still get radio play and streaming counts in the millions.
After White Pony, the band released a string of albums—Deftones (2003), Saturday Night Wrist (2006), and Koi No Yokan (2012). Each record explored new sounds while keeping that signature wall of sound. Fans often point to the emotional honesty of Chino’s lyrics and the swirling guitar work of Stephen as the core of the band’s identity.
The latest buzz surrounds their 2024 album Ohms, which topped charts in both the US and UK. The record rolls out slower, moodier tracks but still packs punchy moments that feel like a live show. Songs such as “Genesis” and “Cherry Waves” are already getting heavy rotation on rock radio and streaming playlists.
Touring is back on the agenda, too. Deftones announced a North American leg for early 2025, hitting major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York. They’re also planning a limited European run, with festivals in the UK and Germany on the schedule. Tickets are selling fast, especially for shows that include a special “deep‑cut” set where they play rare tracks from early EPs.
Fans love the band’s willingness to collaborate. Recent projects feature guest spots from artists like Robert Smith of The Cure and experimental producer Jae‑Hoon Kim. Those collaborations show Deftones still push boundaries and stay relevant in a constantly shifting music scene.
Beyond the music, the group is active in giving back. They’ve partnered with several charities that support mental‑health awareness—something Chino has spoken about publicly. Buying merch or streaming their new singles often contributes to those causes, which adds an extra feel‑good factor for listeners.
In a world where many bands disappear after a few records, Deftones keep delivering fresh ideas without losing the sound that made them famous. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just curious about their latest hit, there’s plenty to explore: discographies, live videos, interviews, and fan forums where people dissect every lyric. Dive in, press play, and you’ll quickly see why Deftones remain a staple in the modern rock landscape.
Hayley Williams performed with Deftones on March 26, 2025, in Nashville, delivering a powerful take on 'Minerva' during the band's North American tour. Fans witnessed their second live team-up since 2010, as Deftones prepare for their upcoming tenth album.
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