Deftones’ 1997 Album ‘Around the Fur’ lands on Billboard Charts 29 years later

Alternative metal group Deftones’ second album, “Around the Fur,” released in 1997, has recently made a surprising appearance on the Billboard charts 29 years after its initial release. The album has secured the 43rd position on the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart during the week of May 23, 2026.

In a revealing interview conducted in 2018 by Revolver, Chino Moreno, the band’s lead vocalist, and Stephen Carpenter, the guitarist, delved into the creation of their 1997 album. Moreno expressed his deep affection for “Around the Fur,” dubbing it his favorite record. Following the unexpected success of their debut album, “Adrenaline,” released in 1995, the band had the opportunity to produce a second album, “Around the Fur,” under a major label. Moreno emphasized the band’s deliberate efforts to distinguish themselves from other artists in the genre, making “Around the Fur” a groundbreaking album for the new metal scene.

Reflecting on the album’s creation process, Moreno shared that it had been a profoundly emotional experience for him, with intense feelings seeping into every aspect of the record. At the time of producing the album, Moreno found himself grappling with varying emotions, from unbridled anger to sheer happiness, resulting in a dynamic and multifaceted collection of tracks. He underscored the raw authenticity of the album, where each emotional nuance, whether sadness or anger, was vividly captured in their music.

Discussing the band’s chemistry, Moreno emphasized the irreplaceable dynamic among the band members, including Abe Cunningham, Frank Delgado, and the late Chi Cheng, who tragically passed away in 2013 at the age of 42. He asserted that the unique blend of individual talents and collective camaraderie within Deftones was unmatched by any other group. Carpenter echoed Moreno’s sentiments, describing their musical collaborations as a natural extension of their friendships, filled with genuine moments of creativity and occasional spirited debates.

Summarizing the band’s synergy, Carpenter highlighted that their music was a byproduct of their enduring friendships. He detailed their creative process, which often involved hanging out, sharing musical ideas, engaging in friendly arguments, and enjoying each other’s company. From impromptu jam sessions to moments of musical inspiration, Deftones’ music was a seamless fusion of personal connections and artistic expression.

The enduring popularity of “Around the Fur” and its surprise appearance on the Billboard charts after nearly three decades reaffirms its status as a timeless and influential album that continues to resonate with fans. Deftones’ unique blend of emotional depth, musical innovation, and genuine camaraderie continues to captivate audiences, cementing their legacy in the alternative metal genre.