What is what genre is deftones?

Deftones are a band that's notoriously difficult to pin down to a single genre, but they're most often associated with alternative metal. However, they seamlessly blend elements from various other genres.

Here's a breakdown:

  • Nu Metal (Early): They initially gained recognition during the nu metal boom of the late 90s with their album Around the Fur, but quickly distanced themselves from the scene.
  • Dream Pop: Their atmospheric soundscapes and ethereal textures, particularly evident in later albums like White Pony and Koi No Yokan, showcase significant dream pop influences.
  • Shoegaze: Deftones incorporates elements of shoegaze, especially in their guitar effects and wall-of-sound approach, contributing to their atmospheric and textural complexity.
  • Progressive Rock/Metal: Deftones has also been called as progressive rock or progressive metal because of their experimental song structures and diverse soundscapes.
  • Experimental Rock: They consistently experiment with different sounds and textures, pushing the boundaries of traditional rock music, placing them firmly in the realm of experimental rock.

Ultimately, Deftones' sound is a unique and evolving blend of these genres, making them difficult to categorize definitively. Their ability to combine heavy aggression with delicate beauty is a hallmark of their sound.