Home / Arts and Entertainment / Deftones' Surging Influence: A 90s Band Redefined
Deftones' Surging Influence: A 90s Band Redefined
28 Sep
Summary
- Deftones achieved elite status, influencing Gen Z and modern rock.
- Their 10th album showcases mastery of their unique sound.
- The band has evolved from nu-metal B-listers to respected avant-rock heroes.
Deftones has achieved elite status in the music world, solidifying their influential position 25 years after their best-selling album. Their 10th studio release, 'private music,' demonstrates their complete control over their distinctive heavy and menacing sound. This latest album, released in 2026, follows their well-received 2020 album 'Ohms.'
The band's reputation has dramatically shifted from nu-metal outsiders to avant-rock icons. This evolution reflects broader changes in how heaviness, romance, and emotional depth are perceived in rock music. Deftones now stand in a category with artists like Radiohead and Björk, who also continue to produce high-level work.
'private music' is unlikely to convert new listeners but showcases the band's ability to manipulate their sound. Tracks like 'cXz,' featuring a dreamy chorus from Chino Moreno, incorporate dynamic shifts driven by drummer Abe Cunningham, creating a compelling tension that balances beauty with an urgent, forward-pushing energy.
