Chino Moreno, the frontman of Deftones, opened up about the creative tension within the band and why he believes it’s essential to their signature sound, according to Revolver.
Deftones’ singer talked about the ‘necessary’ tension with his bandmates, which actually helped them create their unique sound.
“There’s always a little bit of tension there. I don’t want to say that it dictates what we do musically, but it definitely takes some part of it. That’s kind of what makes our music what it is,” Moreno said.
The singer detailed how differences between band members contribute to the unique dynamic of their music.
“We all tug in different directions at times, but that’s what makes the balance of what comes out in the end product. A lot of times, Stephen will get angry at Abe. He’ll write something that’s very derivative of what he likes to listen to, which is heavy, and guitar riffs. He really wants Abe to lean into that double bass [drumming], and match every kind of rhythm that he’s playing for that precise technical metal stuff, which is great. But Abe has never played like that,” Moreno explained.
He continued, highlighting how the band’s individual styles create their distinct sound.
“And I think the fact that Abe plays how he plays over what Stephen plays, that makes us sound like us, you know? And that happens with the way I sing over what Stephen plays. We don’t always agree on things, but in the long term, that balance is what makes us work.”
Moreno also emphasized the importance of friendship and respect within the band.
“That’s respect of each other’s craft, but our friendship’s very important. I’ve known Stephen since I was 10 years old, and he’s always been very stubborn. It’s part of his personality and it’s part of why I love him. We all do little things that drive each other crazy, but we’ve been friends this long already, so if we really didn’t like each other, we would’ve stopped many decades ago.”
Deftones, known for blending heavy riffs with atmospheric textures, have long credited their creative differences as a driving force behind their sound. Moreno’s comments offer insight into the balance of tension and collaboration that continues to define the band’s approach to music.
The band’s latest album, Private Music, showcases this dynamic in full, with each member contributing their unique style while navigating creative friction. Revolver notes that the album explores new sonic territories while staying true to the signature Deftones sound.
