Deftones is an American alternative metal band formed in Sacramento, California, in 1988. Known for blending heavy metal, shoegaze, post-rock, and alternative rock elements, Deftones has become one of the most innovative and influential bands in modern heavy music. The band’s core members are Chino Moreno (vocals, guitar), Stephen Carpenter (guitar), Abe Cunningham (drums), Sergio Vega (bass, joining in 2009), and Frank Delgado (turntables, keyboards).

Emerging from the late-1980s Sacramento metal scene, Deftones initially gained attention with their debut album Adrenaline (1995), which combined aggressive guitar riffs with dynamic vocals and atmospheric elements. Their 1997 follow-up, Around the Fur, solidified their reputation for intense, emotionally charged music, while 2000’s White Pony marked a significant evolution, incorporating experimental textures, electronic layers, and more melodic vocal approaches. White Pony received critical acclaim and won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance, highlighting the band’s ability to push the boundaries of heavy music.

Deftones’ music is characterized by its dynamic contrasts, blending heavy, downtuned riffs with ethereal atmospheres and introspective lyrics. Chino Moreno’s expressive vocal range, from whispered passages to intense screams, adds depth to their emotionally rich soundscapes. Subsequent albums, including Deftones (2003), Diamond Eyes (2010), and Ohms (2020), continued to explore the balance between aggression and melody, establishing Deftones as a band capable of both sonic brutality and atmospheric beauty.

Known for their immersive and powerful live performances, Deftones has built a dedicated global fanbase while maintaining a reputation for artistic innovation. Through decades of experimentation and evolving sound, the band has influenced countless artists across metal, alternative, and experimental rock, cementing their place as one of the most inventive and enduring acts in contemporary heavy music.