Deftones have carved out a unique niche in the music world by blending heavy metal with shoegaze, alternative rock, and atmospheric elements, creating a sound that is both aggressive and ethereal. Their ability to seamlessly combine these diverse influences has earned them a dedicated fanbase and influenced countless other bands.
In this article, we explore bands that share similar qualities with Deftones, from those that blend heaviness with melody to others that experiment with atmospheric soundscapes.
Whether you’re a long-time Deftones fan or new to their music, these bands offer a rich and diverse listening experience that echoes the innovative spirit of Deftones.
22 Genre Mixing Bands Similar to Deftones to Add to Your Rock Playlist
Contents
- 1 22 Genre Mixing Bands Similar to Deftones to Add to Your Rock Playlist
- 2 #1 Tool
- 3 #2 Korn
- 4 #3 Slipknot
- 5 #4 Alice in Chains
- 6 #5 A Perfect Circle
- 7 #6 Glassjaw
- 8 #7 Thrice
- 9 #8 Incubus
- 10 #9 Chevelle
- 11 #10 Far
- 12 #11 Taproot
- 13 #12 Team Sleep
- 14 #13 Cave In
- 15 #14 Poison the Well
- 16 #15 Mastodon
- 17 #16 Helmet
- 18 #17 My Bloody Valentine
- 19 #18 Norma Jean
- 20 #19 Deafheaven
- 21 #20 Crosses (†††)
- 22 #21 Isis
- 23 #22 Silver Snakes
- 24 Frequently Asked Questions
These bands share Deftones’ affinity for blending heavy, aggressive music with atmospheric and melodic elements.
Here’s a list of 22 bands that share similarities with Deftones, known for their blend of alternative metal, shoegaze, and post-hardcore elements:
#1 Tool
Tool, formed in 1990 in Los Angeles, California, is a band known for their complex rhythms, heavy sound, and deep, introspective lyrics. The band, consisting of Maynard James Keenan (vocals), Adam Jones (guitar), Justin Chancellor (bass), and Danny Carey (drums), gained a cult following with their debut album Undertow (1993) and solidified their place in the progressive metal genre with Ænima (1996) and Lateralus (2001). Tool’s music is characterized by its intricate time signatures, extended song lengths, and philosophical themes, making them a unique force in rock music.
Tool’s influence extends beyond metal, attracting fans of progressive rock and alternative music. Their ability to create immersive, concept-driven albums with a focus on musicianship and atmosphere draws comparisons to Deftones’ blend of heaviness and melody. Tool’s critically acclaimed albums and powerful live performances have earned them a dedicated and passionate fanbase, making them one of the most respected bands in modern rock.
#2 Korn
Korn, formed in 1993 in Bakersfield, California, is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the nu-metal genre, blending elements of metal, hip-hop, and alternative rock into a distinctive sound. Their self-titled debut album in 1994 introduced their raw, downtuned guitar riffs, heavy bass lines, and Jonathan Davis’s emotionally charged vocals, creating a sound that resonated with a generation of disaffected youth. Korn’s follow-up albums, such as Life Is Peachy (1996) and Follow the Leader (1998), solidified their status as leaders of the nu-metal movement, with hits like “Freak on a Leash” and “Got the Life.”
Korn’s music often explores themes of personal pain, alienation, and societal dysfunction, similar to Deftones. Their influence on the metal genre is profound, shaping the sound of many bands that followed, including Deftones, who toured with Korn in their early days. Korn’s ability to evolve their sound while maintaining their core intensity has kept them relevant in the rock and metal scenes for over two decades.
#3 Slipknot
Slipknot, formed in 1995 in Des Moines, Iowa, is a heavy metal band known for their aggressive music, chaotic live shows, and distinctive masked image. The band quickly rose to fame with their self-titled debut album in 1999, featuring hits like “Wait and Bleed” and “Spit It Out.” Slipknot’s music blends brutal metal with complex rhythms and dark lyrical themes, which resonated with a wide audience and established them as one of the leading bands in the nu-metal and alternative metal scenes.
Slipknot’s follow-up albums, including Iowa (2001) and Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses) (2004), further solidified their place in the metal world, combining raw aggression with intricate musicianship. Like Deftones, Slipknot has been able to push the boundaries of their genre, blending intensity with atmosphere. Their ability to connect with fans through both their music and their dramatic stage presence has earned them a massive, dedicated following, making them one of the most influential metal bands of their time.
#4 Alice in Chains
Alice in Chains, formed in 1987 in Seattle, Washington, is a band that played a pivotal role in the grunge movement of the early 1990s. Known for their dark, melodic sound and harmonized vocals, the band gained widespread recognition with their album Facelift (1990), which included the hit “Man in the Box.” Their follow-up album, Dirt (1992), solidified their status as one of the leading bands of the era, with tracks like “Rooster” and “Would?” showcasing their ability to blend heavy riffs with haunting melodies.
Alice in Chains’ music often explores themes of addiction, despair, and inner turmoil, which resonates with the emotional intensity found in Deftones’ work. Despite the tragic death of original lead singer Layne Staley, the band has continued to produce music with a sound that balances heavy, riff-driven rock with introspective lyrics. Alice in Chains’ influence on alternative rock and metal is significant, and their ability to create music that is both powerful and emotionally resonant draws strong parallels to Deftones.
#5 A Perfect Circle
A Perfect Circle, formed in 1999 by guitarist Billy Howerdel and Tool’s vocalist Maynard James Keenan, is a band that blends alternative rock with atmospheric and progressive elements. Their debut album, Mer de Noms (2000), was a commercial and critical success, featuring hits like “Judith” and “3 Libras.” A Perfect Circle’s music is characterized by its dark, melodic sound, complex arrangements, and introspective lyrics, drawing comparisons to both Tool and Deftones.
The band’s follow-up albums, including Thirteenth Step (2003) and Eat the Elephant (2018), further showcased their ability to create music that is both emotionally and sonically powerful. A Perfect Circle’s sound, which combines heavy, driving rock with lush, atmospheric textures, has made them a favorite among fans of Deftones. Their ability to explore deep, personal themes within a broad sonic palette has earned them a lasting place in the alternative and progressive rock scenes.
#6 Glassjaw
Glassjaw, formed in 1993 in Hempstead, New York, is a post-hardcore band known for their raw emotional intensity and innovative approach to heavy music. Led by vocalist Daryl Palumbo, Glassjaw gained a dedicated following with their debut album Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Silence (2000), which showcased a blend of aggressive, cathartic energy and melodic, introspective moments. Their second album, Worship and Tribute (2002), further solidified their reputation as one of the most influential bands in the post-hardcore genre.
Glassjaw’s music often explores themes of personal struggle, mental health, and emotional pain, delivered through Palumbo’s dynamic and visceral vocal style. The band’s ability to combine intensity with vulnerability has drawn comparisons to Deftones, particularly in their use of contrast between heavy and melodic elements. Despite a relatively limited discography due to health issues and lineup changes, Glassjaw’s influence on the post-hardcore and alternative metal scenes is undeniable, and they remain a beloved band among fans of emotionally charged, innovative rock music.
#7 Thrice
Thrice, formed in 1998 in Irvine, California, is a post-hardcore band known for their evolving sound and willingness to experiment with different musical styles. The band gained prominence with their early albums, such as The Illusion of Safety (2002) and The Artist in the Ambulance (2003), which blended aggressive, high-energy punk with melodic and emotional elements. As their career progressed, Thrice began to incorporate more diverse influences, including electronic music, post-rock, and shoegaze, leading to critically acclaimed albums like Vheissu (2005) and Beggars (2009).
Thrice’s ability to seamlessly blend heavy, aggressive music with more atmospheric and introspective moments has drawn comparisons to Deftones. Their commitment to pushing their creative boundaries while maintaining a strong connection with their fans has earned them a dedicated following. Thrice continues to release innovative music, exploring new sonic territories while staying true to the emotional depth and intensity that has defined their career.
#8 Incubus
Incubus, formed in 1991 in Calabasas, California, is an alternative rock band that rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s with their unique blend of rock, funk, metal, and electronic elements. Their breakthrough album, Make Yourself (1999), featured hits like “Drive” and “Pardon Me,” which showcased their ability to craft radio-friendly rock songs with a distinctive, genre-blending sound. Incubus continued their success with albums like Morning View (2001) and A Crow Left of the Murder… (2004), which further explored their eclectic musical influences.
Incubus’s music is characterized by its dynamic range, shifting from heavy, riff-driven rock to softer, more melodic and introspective passages, much like Deftones. The band’s willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds has kept their music fresh and relevant over the years. Despite lineup changes and shifts in their musical direction, Incubus remains a popular and influential band, known for their innovative approach to alternative rock.
#9 Chevelle
Chevelle, formed in 1995 in Grayslake, Illinois, is a rock band known for their heavy, brooding sound and introspective lyrics. The band, consisting of brothers Pete Loeffler (vocals/guitar), Sam Loeffler (drums), and originally Joe Loeffler (bass), gained mainstream success with their 2002 album Wonder What’s Next, which included the hit singles “The Red” and “Send the Pain Below.” Chevelle’s music often explores themes of personal struggle, inner turmoil, and existential questions, delivered through a combination of heavy riffs and melodic hooks.
Chevelle’s ability to create a powerful sound with a minimal lineup and their focus on emotional intensity draws comparisons to Deftones. Over the years, the band has continued to release successful albums, such as This Type of Thinking (Could Do Us In) (2004) and La Gárgola (2014), solidifying their place in the alternative and hard rock scenes. Known for their consistent output and dedicated fanbase, Chevelle remains a significant force in modern rock.
#10 Far
Far, formed in 1991 in Sacramento, California, is a post-hardcore band known for their emotionally charged music and influential role in the alternative rock scene. Led by vocalist Jonah Matranga, Far gained a cult following with their albums Tin Cans with Strings to You (1996) and Water & Solutions (1998), the latter of which featured the hit single “Mother Mary.” Far’s music is characterized by its blend of aggressive post-hardcore energy with melodic, introspective lyrics, often exploring themes of love, loss, and personal growth.
Far’s connection to Deftones runs deep, as the two bands emerged from the same Sacramento music scene and often toured together. Their shared influences and mutual admiration have led to collaborations and a strong fanbase overlap. Despite disbanding in 1999 and reuniting briefly in 2008, Far’s influence on the post-hardcore and emo scenes remains significant, with many artists citing them as an inspiration for their emotionally resonant and genre-blending approach to music.
#11 Taproot
Taproot, formed in 1997 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a nu-metal band known for their melodic yet heavy sound and introspective lyrics. The band gained mainstream attention with their debut album Gift (2000), which included the hit single “Again & Again.” Taproot’s music often combines aggressive guitar riffs with melodic vocals, creating a sound that is both powerful and accessible, appealing to fans of both nu-metal and alternative rock.
Their follow-up album, Welcome (2002), featured the successful single “Poem,” which further established Taproot as a significant player in the early 2000s rock scene. The band’s ability to balance intensity with melody, much like Deftones, has earned them a loyal fanbase. Despite the challenges of the shifting music industry, Taproot has continued to release new music and tour, maintaining their relevance in the rock and metal communities.
#12 Team Sleep
Team Sleep, formed in 2000 as a side project of Deftones’ frontman Chino Moreno, is a band that explores a more atmospheric and experimental sound compared to Deftones’ heavier material. The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 2005, features a blend of dreamy, shoegaze-inspired soundscapes, electronic beats, and alternative rock elements. Team Sleep’s music is characterized by its emphasis on mood and texture, with Moreno’s ethereal vocals floating over lush, ambient instrumentals.
The project allowed Moreno to explore different musical avenues, incorporating influences from trip-hop, dream pop, and post-rock, creating a sound that is both distinct from and complementary to his work with Deftones. Although Team Sleep has been relatively quiet since their debut, their music remains a cult favorite among fans of atmospheric and experimental rock. The band’s ability to create immersive, emotionally resonant music draws strong parallels to Deftones’ more introspective moments.
#13 Cave In
Cave In, formed in 1995 in Methuen, Massachusetts, is a band known for their blend of metalcore, space rock, and alternative metal. The band gained early recognition in the hardcore scene with their debut album Until Your Heart Stops (1998), which showcased their heavy, aggressive sound. However, Cave In made a dramatic shift with their follow-up album, Jupiter (2000), embracing a more melodic, space rock-influenced style that drew comparisons to bands like Radiohead and Deftones.
Cave In’s willingness to experiment with different genres and their ability to create music that is both heavy and atmospheric has earned them a loyal following in the underground rock scene. Albums like Antenna (2003) and White Silence (2011) further demonstrated the band’s versatility and commitment to pushing their creative boundaries. Despite lineup changes and hiatuses, Cave In remains a respected and influential band, known for their innovative approach to heavy music.
#14 Poison the Well
Poison the Well, formed in 1997 in Miami, Florida, is a post-hardcore band known for their dynamic sound, blending aggressive metalcore with melodic and emotional elements. The band’s breakthrough album, The Opposite of December… A Season of Separation (1999), is considered a seminal release in the metalcore genre, influencing countless bands with its mix of intensity and melody. Poison the Well continued to evolve their sound with albums like Tear from the Red (2002) and You Come Before You (2003), incorporating more atmospheric and experimental elements into their music.
The band’s ability to seamlessly blend heavy, chaotic passages with softer, introspective moments draws comparisons to Deftones’ approach to songwriting. Despite going on hiatus in 2010, Poison the Well’s influence on the post-hardcore and metalcore scenes remains strong, and their music continues to resonate with fans who appreciate the emotional depth and intensity of their sound.
#15 Mastodon
Mastodon, formed in 2000 in Atlanta, Georgia, is a progressive metal band known for their complex compositions, heavy riffs, and unique blend of metal subgenres. The band gained attention with their debut album Remission (2002) and solidified their place in the metal world with Leviathan (2004), a concept album inspired by Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick. Mastodon’s music is characterized by its intricate guitar work, dynamic song structures, and a willingness to experiment with different musical styles, from sludge metal to progressive rock.
Mastodon’s ability to create heavy, technically proficient music with a strong sense of melody and atmosphere draws comparisons to Deftones’ approach. Albums like Crack the Skye (2009) and The Hunter (2011) further showcased Mastodon’s versatility and innovation, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Known for their powerful live performances and genre-defying sound, Mastodon remains one of the most respected and influential bands in modern metal.
#16 Helmet
Helmet, formed in 1989 in New York City by guitarist and vocalist Page Hamilton, is an alternative metal band known for their raw, riff-heavy sound and minimalist approach. Their debut album, Strap It On (1990), introduced their distinctive style, which combined elements of hardcore punk and heavy metal with a focus on tight, staccato rhythms and dissonant guitar work. Helmet gained mainstream recognition with their second album, Meantime (1992), which featured the hit single “Unsung” and became a defining album of the early 1990s alternative metal scene.
Helmet’s influence on bands like Deftones is evident in their emphasis on rhythm, heaviness, and an uncompromising approach to songwriting. Their ability to create intense, groove-oriented music with a stripped-down aesthetic has earned them a lasting legacy in the rock and metal communities. Despite various lineup changes and periods of inactivity, Helmet has continued to release new music and tour, maintaining their reputation as pioneers of the alternative metal genre.
#17 My Bloody Valentine
My Bloody Valentine, formed in 1983 in Dublin, Ireland, is a band that is widely credited with pioneering the shoegaze genre, known for their dense, atmospheric soundscapes and ethereal vocals. Led by guitarist and vocalist Kevin Shields, the band’s 1991 album Loveless is often regarded as a masterpiece, featuring swirling layers of guitar, hypnotic rhythms, and a dreamlike quality that influenced countless bands across multiple genres. My Bloody Valentine’s sound is characterized by its use of effects-heavy guitars, creating a “wall of sound” that is both powerful and immersive.
The band’s influence on Deftones is particularly evident in the atmospheric and textural elements of their music. Deftones have often cited My Bloody Valentine as an inspiration, particularly in their use of guitar effects and the blending of heavy and melodic elements. While My Bloody Valentine’s output has been sporadic, with long gaps between releases, their impact on modern rock and alternative music remains profound, and their music continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.
#18 Norma Jean
Norma Jean, formed in 1997 in Douglasville, Georgia, is a metalcore band known for their chaotic sound, intense live performances, and willingness to push the boundaries of heavy music. The band gained attention with their debut album Bless the Martyr and Kiss the Child (2002), which featured raw, aggressive vocals, dissonant guitar riffs, and complex song structures. Over the years, Norma Jean has evolved their sound, incorporating more melodic elements while retaining their signature intensity, as heard in albums like Redeemer (2006) and Meridional (2010).
Norma Jean’s ability to blend heavy, abrasive music with moments of melody and atmosphere draws comparisons to Deftones’ dynamic range. The band’s commitment to experimentation and their refusal to be confined by genre conventions have earned them a loyal following in the metalcore and hardcore scenes. Despite numerous lineup changes, Norma Jean has remained a vital and influential band, continuing to release new music and tour extensively.
#19 Deafheaven
Deafheaven, formed in 2010 in San Francisco, California, is a band that has garnered critical acclaim for their innovative blend of black metal, shoegaze, and post-rock. Their breakthrough album, Sunbather (2013), was a game-changer in the metal world, featuring expansive, atmospheric compositions that combined the intensity of black metal with lush, melodic soundscapes. Deafheaven’s music is characterized by its emotional depth, dynamic shifts, and a willingness to challenge traditional genre boundaries.
Deafheaven’s ability to create music that is both heavy and beautiful, blending aggression with melody, has drawn comparisons to Deftones. The band’s willingness to experiment with different textures and moods has earned them a diverse fanbase, including listeners who may not typically gravitate towards metal. Albums like New Bermuda (2015) and Ordinary Corrupt Human Love (2018) have further solidified Deafheaven’s reputation as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking bands in modern metal.
#20 Crosses (†††)
Crosses (†††), formed in 2011, is a side project of Deftones frontman Chino Moreno, along with Shaun Lopez of Far and Chuck Doom. The band’s music is a departure from Deftones’ heavier sound, instead exploring a more atmospheric and electronic-influenced style. Crosses’ self-titled debut album, released in 2014, features a blend of dark, moody synths, ethereal vocals, and haunting melodies, creating a sound that is both introspective and cinematic.
The project allows Moreno to delve into different musical influences, including darkwave, synthpop, and ambient music, while still retaining the emotional intensity that fans of Deftones appreciate. Crosses’ ability to create immersive, mood-driven music draws strong parallels to Deftones’ more experimental work, and the project has been well-received by fans and critics alike. Although Crosses has remained relatively low-key compared to Moreno’s main band, their music continues to resonate with listeners who appreciate atmospheric and emotionally charged music.
#21 Isis
Isis, formed in 1997 in Boston, Massachusetts, is a post-metal band known for their expansive soundscapes, crushing riffs, and progressive approach to heavy music. The band’s early work, such as Celestial (2000), was rooted in sludge metal, but they quickly began to incorporate elements of post-rock and ambient music, leading to the release of Oceanic (2002), a landmark album that redefined the possibilities of metal. Isis’s music is characterized by its slow-building structures, dynamic contrasts, and a focus on atmosphere and mood.
Isis’s influence on Deftones can be seen in their shared emphasis on creating music that is both heavy and textured, with a strong sense of atmosphere. The band’s ability to craft long, immersive compositions that blend aggression with beauty has earned them a devoted following and critical acclaim. Although Isis disbanded in 2010, their legacy as pioneers of the post-metal genre continues to inspire a wide range of artists, including Deftones.
#22 Silver Snakes
Silver Snakes, formed in 2011 in Los Angeles, California, is an alternative rock band that blends elements of post-hardcore, shoegaze, and industrial music. The band gained attention with their sophomore album, Year of the Snake (2014), which showcased their ability to combine heavy, riff-driven rock with atmospheric and melodic elements. Silver Snakes’ music often explores dark, introspective themes, delivered through a mix of intense instrumentation and haunting vocals.
The band’s ability to create a sound that is both powerful and atmospheric draws comparisons to Deftones’ approach to music. Silver Snakes have continued to evolve their sound with subsequent releases, such as Saboteur (2016), which incorporated more electronic and industrial influences while maintaining the emotional intensity that has become their trademark. Their willingness to experiment with different genres and textures has earned them a dedicated following in the alternative and post-hardcore scenes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What musical elements do bands like Deftones typically incorporate?
Bands like Deftones often blend heavy, downtuned guitar riffs with atmospheric soundscapes and melodic vocals. They also explore a wide range of emotions, from aggression to introspection, creating a dynamic and immersive listening experience.
Bands like Tool, Thrice, and Chevelle share Deftones’ ability to combine heavy, aggressive music with melodic and atmospheric elements. These bands are known for their dynamic sound and emotional depth, similar to Deftones’ approach.
Are there bands influenced by both shoegaze and metal like Deftones?
Yes, bands like My Bloody Valentine and Deafheaven blend elements of shoegaze with metal, creating a sound that is both heavy and ethereal. This combination of genres results in a textured, immersive sound that resonates with Deftones fans.
How do Deftones’ side projects compare to their main band’s sound?
Deftones’ side projects, such as Crosses (†††), explore more electronic and atmospheric sounds compared to the heavier, guitar-driven style of Deftones. These projects allow the band members to experiment with different musical influences while maintaining the emotional intensity that defines their main work.
