Deftones Cover Model Shares 3 Insights on Iconic Photo

Lisa Hughes, the woman featured on the cover of Deftones’ second album, “Around the Fur,” recently shared some intriguing insights into how she ended up being the model for the iconic artwork. Along with photographer Rick Kosick and art director Kevin Reagan, Hughes delved into the story behind the album cover in a video feature with Jenkem.

In the spring of 1997, Deftones traveled to Seattle to record at Studio Litho for their sophomore album. During their stay, they rented a condo near the studio where they resided and explored the local nightlife. It was during one of these nights out that Hughes met the band at an afterparty. Deciding to take a late-night jacuzzi dip, she caught the attention of photographer Rick Kosick, who was there to capture images of the band for a feature in Big Brother magazine.

One interesting detail that Hughes revealed about the album cover is the drink in the photo, which is called “Silk Panties.” It was a concoction of vodka and peach Schnapps that she and a friend enjoyed back then.

Reflecting on her association with the album cover, Hughes clarified that despite the assumption of her being a groupie, she was simply a fun-loving individual from Auburn who enjoyed good times. She downplayed the fame that came with being on the cover, emphasizing that she was just living her best life in her 20s.

The cover art for “Around the Fur” also includes a pair of feet next to Hughes, which were confirmed to be those of photographer Rick Kosick. Art director Kevin Reagan explained that he chose to retain the imperfections in the photo, including leaving a tooth visible in Hughes’ expression, to enhance the authenticity of the image.

Rick Kosick shared his surprise at seeing the photo he took end up as the album cover, expressing his excitement and satisfaction with the final result. Despite not initially expecting it to be chosen, he was pleased with the aesthetic and how it captured the essence of the band.

When Deftones approached Hughes to use her photo for the album cover, she was working in the medical field. Despite not having immediate access to a clear image of the cover, she gave her consent for its use and felt excited about the opportunity. “Around the Fur” was released in October 1997, received positive reviews, and eventually achieved platinum sales certification in the U.S.

The video feature with Lisa Hughes, Rick Kosick, and Kevin Reagan sheds light on the background story of the iconic album cover. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and behind-the-scenes details that contributed to the visual identity of “Around the Fur.”