The Deftones, pioneers of alternative metal, delivered a captivating performance, blending their signature blend of aggression and melody into a setlist spanning their prolific career. From the raw energy of their early work to the more nuanced soundscapes of their later albums, the band showcased their musical evolution and cemented their status as one of the most dynamic live acts in the genre. This review delves into the highlights of the evening, exploring the setlist, the band’s performance, and the overall concert experience. Experiencing the Deftones live is more than just attending a concert; it’s an immersion into a world of sonic textures, emotional depth, and unforgettable moments. This Deftones concert review will take you on a journey through the night, reliving the power and artistry that make them such a compelling force in music.
After the opening notes faded, the band launched into “Headup” from their seminal album, Around the Fur. The energy in the venue was palpable as the crowd roared their approval. Following this nostalgic trip back to their sophomore release, the band seamlessly transitioned into another fan favorite, “My Own Summer,” further igniting the audience’s enthusiasm. These two opening tracks set the tone for the night, showcasing the band’s ability to blend raw aggression with infectious melodies. Soon after these classic hits, the Deftones brought the house down with “Swerve City,” the opening track from their critically acclaimed album Koi No Yokan. The sonic assault of this track was a testament to the band’s ability to create a wall of sound that is both heavy and hypnotic. This was only a prelude to what was to come, as the Deftones then delved into two tracks from their iconic album White Pony: “Digital Bath” and “Elite.” “Digital Bath” washed over the audience with its ethereal soundscapes and Chino Moreno’s haunting vocals, while “Elite” provided a crushing display of the band’s raw power and intensity. Although the vocoder effect on “Elite” was a slight distraction, it did little to diminish the overall impact of the performance.
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Surprisingly, the band only played one song from their then-new album, Gore. “The Phantom Bride,” with its haunting melody and melancholic undertones, provided a moment of introspection amidst the high-energy set. While the inclusion of more tracks from Gore would have been appreciated, the performance of “The Phantom Bride” was a standout moment of the evening. Following this, the Deftones slowed things down with “You’ve Seen the Butcher,” a heavy, almost jazzy track from Diamond Eyes. The song’s brooding atmosphere and Chino’s dynamic vocals created a captivating experience. The next song, “Rocket Skates,” also from Diamond Eyes, injected a dose of adrenaline into the set. The explosive chorus, punctuated by the words “GUNS! RAZORS! KNIVES! FUCK WITH ME!” displayed on LED panels behind the band, was a highlight of the night. The crowd’s enthusiastic sing-along added to the electric atmosphere. “Rosemary,” from Koi No Yokan, followed, its slow-building intensity and soaring chorus captivating the audience. The song’s devastating breakdown at the end left a lasting impression.
One of the most anticipated moments of the night was the performance of “Change (In the House of Flies)” from White Pony. This classic track, with its iconic screamed vocals, sent shivers down the spines of the audience. The sheer intensity of Chino’s performance was breathtaking, showcasing his vocal prowess and emotional depth.
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The Deftones then surprised the audience with a unique rendition of “Rivière” from Saturday Night Wrist. Playing only the first verse before transitioning into the heavier outro, the band teased the audience with a glimpse of the song’s full potential. While the full version of “Rivière” or perhaps “Hole in the Earth” would have been preferred, this unexpected twist kept the audience on their toes. Following this, the band returned to White Pony with two more classics: “Change (In the House of Flies)” and “Back to School (Mini Maggit).” Although these tracks have become somewhat overplayed over the years, the band’s energetic performance breathed new life into them.
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The main set concluded with two fan favorites: “Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)” and “Minerva.” The former, a staple of the Deftones’ live shows, elicited a massive sing-along from the crowd. The latter, a personal favorite of many, was a poignant and powerful way to end the main set. As Chino dropped his guitar and the stage went dark, the anticipation for an encore was palpable. The crowd’s roar of approval when the band returned to the stage was deafening. The encore performance of “Teething” from the Crow 2 soundtrack was an unexpected treat, showcasing the band’s versatility and their ability to deliver a powerful performance even with a lesser-known track. The intensity and raw emotion of the song left the audience breathless, providing a perfect culmination to an unforgettable night.
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While the setlist was undeniably strong, the absence of the title track “Diamond Eyes” and more material from Gore was a slight disappointment. However, the band’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing their musical prowess and their ability to connect with their audience on a deeply emotional level. The Deftones delivered a night of sonic intensity and emotional depth that will resonate with fans for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Deftones Concerts
Q: What is a typical Deftones setlist like?
A: Deftones setlists are known for their variety, spanning the band’s entire discography. They often mix popular hits with deeper cuts and occasionally include covers or surprises.
Q: How long is a Deftones concert?
A: Deftones concerts typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours, including an encore.
Q: What is the best way to get tickets to a Deftones concert?
A: The best way to secure tickets is to sign up for pre-sale alerts and purchase tickets through official ticketing platforms as soon as they go on sale.
Q: What is the Deftones’ stage presence like?
A: The Deftones are renowned for their captivating stage presence. Chino Moreno’s dynamic vocals and stage movements, combined with the band’s tight musicianship, create an immersive and energetic experience.
We encourage you to share your own Deftones concert experiences and questions in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the music and the memories together!
