Deftones frontman Chino Moreno recently opened up about the band’s enduring success and what keeps them motivated after decades in the music industry. He shared his insights in an interview with Kerrang.
Moreno reflected on the band’s approach to longevity and the creative dynamics that define Deftones’ sound.
“The longevity thing has always been important to us more than just, ‘How big can we get?’ There’s a lot more people that are expecting things from us now. It does add more pressure, which is a good thing – we can’t become complacent,” Moreno said.
The vocalist emphasized the importance of the band members’ relationships in sustaining their career.
“It feels great to still be here. But I don’t have an explanation of why and how we are. My instinct is to say it’s a lot of luck, but I’ve always gone back to our friendship being the base. I really enjoy making music with them,” he continued.
Moreno also highlighted how the band’s creative unpredictability contributes to their unique sound.
“Stephen doesn’t play like I expect him to play. And that’s what is so awesome. And I’m sure it’s the same for him with me – I don’t play how he would probably want someone to play. He gets mad at Abe sometimes because Abe doesn’t play what he expects over what he writes…Honestly? That’s what makes Deftones what it is,” he explained.
These insights into the band’s creative process and interpersonal dynamics provide context for understanding how Deftones have maintained their relevance and artistic integrity throughout their extensive career.
Wikipedia reported that Deftones formed in Sacramento in 1988 and have been known for their experimental approach. They are often described as “the Radiohead of metal,” blending heavy aggression with atmospheric soundscapes that evolved greatly starting with their acclaimed 2000 album White Pony. This willingness to push boundaries and defy genre conventions has been a hallmark of their nearly four-decade career.
The foundation of friendship that Moreno references has deep roots in the band’s history. Louder Sound documented that Moreno and drummer Abe Cunningham have a friendship that dates back to their school days when they bonded over skateboarding and music. This personal connection has provided a strong foundation for the band through both highs and lows throughout their career.
The band’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Louder Sound revealed that Deftones faced early struggles including creative tensions and personal issues that nearly led to Moreno’s departure during the making of Saturday Night Wrist (2006). However, the band managed to overcome those challenges and continued to innovate musically. This demonstrates the resilience that Moreno attributes to their core friendship.
This combination of personal bonds, creative unpredictability, and shared commitment to pushing artistic boundaries has enabled Deftones to maintain their position as influential figures in alternative metal. They continue to evolve their sound across multiple decades.
