Exploring DEFTONES’ Music: Soundscapes, Younger Audience, and more
Deftones recently engaged in a discussion with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1 about their upcoming 10th studio album, Private Music, announced just the day before. At the iconic Canter’s Deli in Hollywood, the band members – Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Abe Cunningham, and Frank Delgado, delved into various aspects of their latest work, personal development, and memories of their late bassist, Chi Cheng.
Chino Moreno highlighted the shift in the Deftones audience, notably the younger fans they encountered while touring post-pandemic. Moreno observed a mix of younger fans and loyal older fans during their initial post-pandemic tour, in addition to parents introducing their children to the band’s music and vice versa. The band experienced an interesting blend of generations at meet-and-greets, indicating a shared love for their music across age groups.
Discussing their creative process, Stephen Carpenter and Chino Moreno emphasized the band’s focus on soundscapes rather than conventional song structures. Carpenter expressed a fascination with chords and novel sounds, highlighting his journey in exploring unfamiliar territories in music composition. Moreno noted the band’s inclination towards creating an atmosphere through sound, citing instances from their earlier work where inspiration stemmed from unique sounds rather than distinct lyrics or chord progressions. The band’s emphasis on crafting distinctive sounds remains an integral part of their music-making process.
Reflecting on their late bassist Chi Cheng’s enduring influence, Chino Moreno expressed profound gratitude for the shared memories and music left behind by Cheng. The band continuously reminisces about Cheng’s unconventional bass style, which added a distinct layer to their music composition. Cheng’s departure marked a pivotal moment for the band, revealing the depth of their friendship and the lasting impact of his musical contributions. Cheng’s legacy lives on in the band’s music, serving as a constant source of inspiration and reflection for the members.
Delving into the album’s title, Private Music, Moreno shed light on the significance of the name. Originating from a folder on his desktop where he stored ideas during the album’s creation, the title evokes a sense of exclusivity and intrigue, inviting listeners to explore its hidden connotations and meanings. The title encapsulates the band’s commitment to crafting a unique, intimate musical experience for their audience.
Private Music features a lineup of Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Abe Cunningham, and Frank Delgado, alongside touring bassist Fred Sablan, who contributed to the album. Teaming up with producer Nick Raskulinecz, known for his work on previous successful albums, Private Music promises to deliver an immersive sonic journey for fans. With tracks like “My Mind Is a Mountain,” “I Think About You All the Time,” and “Departing the Body,” the album offers a diverse range of musical experiences that capture the essence of Deftones’ signature sound.
As fans await the album’s release, pre-orders for Private Music are already available. Deftones enthusiasts can also catch the band live at various tour dates, supporting the release of their new record. Don’t miss the chance to experience Deftones’ captivating soundscapes and musical evolution in the highly anticipated Private Music album.