Deftones Live

I had never seen the Deftones live before. The only thing close to watching them live was watching footage of their concerts on Youtube. But that all changed last night as I watched the Sacramento metal band live for the first time.

The moment that Stephen Carpenter came one and took a picture a crowd with his camera, we all knew we are in for one hell of a night. As the rest of the band members walk on stage, the crowd screams grew louder. The moment they played the first song, the crowd went absolutely wild as the band kicked off the show in strong fashion.

In this concert, there was no room for disappointment. The superb musicianship from the band was clearly obvious. There was no distinction between their live presence that night from the six records they have recorded. Every note and every word was rendered perfectly that brought thrill and excitement everyone in the crowd. On top of that, they played a solid set which features fan favorites such as “Change (In The House of Flies)”, “My Own Summer (Shove It)”, “Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)”, “Minerva”, “Hole In The Earth” and including “Rocket Skates” from their latest release Diamond Eyes (this was Future Phonograph’s Cream of the Crop 2010; read it here). Again, there was no room for disappointment. It was certain that every fan left with a smile on their face because more likely they have heard one of the favorite songs played live that night

One of the high points of the entire concert was when vocalist Chino Moreno stepped off the stage and into the crowd. As the crowd savagely rushed toward where he was standing at, my girlfriend and I was standing front and center as she grabbed his leg while I held on to his long sleeve. Between furious screams and melodic singing, everybody pushed and shoved all wanting a piece of the Deftones frontman. However, Chino showed great composure in the midst of all the chaos and broke free of the demonic release of the crowd to get back on stage. To add to that, Chino Moreno was extremely dynamic on stage. He was never idle for even a second as he ran around on stage like a madman. For someone that has been performing for 10 years, it’s great to see that he has not lost his touch.

The only sad note especially those who have followed the Deftones their entire musical careers (including myself) was the absence of their bandmate and dear friend Chi Cheng. For those that don’t know, Chi Cheng was in car accident in 2006 that left in a coma. His condition resulted in the band having to enroll in the duties of former Quicksand bass player Sergio Vega. Keep in mind though, he is not Chi’s replacement. Sergio is merely helping out his friend in their time of need. Although, Chi was not physically there on stage, in our hearts his was presence was felt. As we and the rest of the Deftones family miss him dearly, our prayers go out to him and family in hopes that he will one day return back on stage with his comrades. For more info on how you can help, visit oneloveforchi.com.

Overall, the concert exceeded beyond my expectations. It is clear that Deftones is truly a sight to see live and I look forward to seeing them live again. Hopefully their return the island won’t be too long of a wait this time around.

All photos were taken by Melissa Kumano of Bamp Project. You can follow her Twitter and look up more of her work here.

A Time To Evolve

In honor of the Deftones coming down to Hawaii this Friday, I decided to write about one of their records. It took me awhile to think about it since every record in their catalog is extraordinary. But in the end, I would have to say that White Pony is probably my favorite album.

The Deftones were known for their brash metal sound, but it was not until Frank Delgado became a full-fledged member prior to the recording of White Pony that things have started to change. By incorporating elements of electronica, ambient and trip-hop, the band’s raw sound began to evolve and diversify. It was a moment when their love for experimentation began to unfold. Combined with Moreno’s poetic lyricism and the band’s keen musicianship, White Pony has become their most innovative and most groundbreaking work to date. From then on, the Deftones make to a point to always push themselves musically on every album.

As the band continues to evolve, White Pony will always be known as the record that not only raises the bar in rock music, but also serves as a reminder for many bands out there to not be afraid to push their music to the next level.

Deftones In Hawaii

I'm proud (and extremely happy) to announce that Sacramento's finest, the Deftones will be playing a show here on the island of Oahu! The annoucement was made via Facebook by BAMP Project the day after my birthday! What a nice birthday present! BAMP Project has really outdid themselves on this one. The show will be on February 18th at 8pm (Doors open at 7pm) at the Aloha Tower Waterfront and tickets are already on sale. Go to BAMP Project to buy your ticket today (but not before I do!) and for all other concert information. February is already packed with shows. Time to save your money so you don't miss out!


Deftones' album Diamond Eyes is Future Phonograph's 2010 Cream of the Crop! You can read the entry here.

2010's Cream of the Crop

I am proud to announce that this year's 2010's Cream of the Crop is none other than Diamond Eyes by the Deftones. This year was challenge due to the amount of spectacular albums released, but in the end it was this particular album that stood out among the rest. Here on Future Phonograph, I will tell you why.

In 2007, after more than a year or two promoting their previous album, Saturday Night Wrist, the Deftones quickly went ahead to record another album. According to the band, Eros which they tentatively named, would be their heaviest and most gruesome work to date. They finished recording the album within year after and release date has yet to be announced. Sadly though, tragedy struck the band.

In November 2008, Deftones bass player, Chi Cheng was involved in a major car accident that left him in a coma state. All plans for Eros and touring were immediately put on hold to support their friend and his family. With the uncertainty of whether Chi will play again due to his condition, the future of the Deftones was bleak. At that point, each of the band members took some time off to gather themselves to think about their future of their band. After a few months, Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Frank Delgado and Abe Cunningham got together and have decided to continue to make music as a unit. In the beginning of 2009, the band slowly began to play a few shows at various festivals. To fill in the void on bass, they asked long time friend and former Quicksand bassist, Sergio Vega to accompany them. When asked if he's a full fledged member of the band, Vega will only answer the same way he did when Chino asked him to fill in, "I'm here as long as you need me". That not only showed how much class Vega has, but it showed that he supports the Deftones in their time of need.

Brother In Arms, Chi Cheng

Despite completing Eros, the Deftones felt that it would not be right to release the record especially with Chi in his current condition. Instead, the band returned to the studio with the intent to record a brand new record with Sergio Vega. Unlike Eros which featured a darker, more heavier tone, the band wanted to record a more positive and uplifting record. In a span of one year, they channeled their energy and rehearsed constantly to perfected their craft. Finally, on May 9, 2010, the fruits of their labor have produced their sixth album, Diamond Eyes. This would mark the first record without their long time friend and bandmate, Chi Cheng. Now, although this record has a more positive vibe, Diamond Eyes is nothing short of heavy and it's simply the loudest record of 2010.

The Deftones' goal in music is to always push themselves musically. From their previous albums, Saturday Night Wrist and Deftones, their sound has gotten bigger and more complex. On Diamond Eyes, their explorative side takes a backseat and the overall sound is more reminiscent to their earlier work, the vicious Around The Fur. It is a straightforward rock record that is equally raw and aggressive. It exhibits the Deftones' in their purest form. Immediately the first two tracks, "Diamond Eyes" and "Royal" kicks off the album with in a merciless fashion with soaring guitar riffs and precision drumming. These set the overall tone of the album. One of the notable tracks on Diamond Eyes is "You've Seen The Butcher", which is a very interesting song because of it's strange time signature. On top of that, Chino Moreno's melodic vocals are amazing as he gives us a voice that is sensuous to the ears. The track "Rocket Skates" is one hell of a song with heavy riffs and excellent drumming. Moreno's vocals once again give the track it's strength as his screaming wails can easily pierce the listener's ears as he screams, "Guns!!! Razors!!! KNIFES!!!" Now, although this is more of a rock record, the band still dabble in a little dream pop with the dreamy and beautiful "Sextape", which would be considered as the ballad of the album. It may have a different tone, but it feels cohesive with the rest of the tracks. Another noteworthy track is "Risk". This track has a very personal connection with the band because the song was named after the board game that the members used to play during recording. This was before Chi's car accident. It's a nice touch and it serves as a simple reminder of their friend and bandmate.

Overall, Diamond Eyes is a larger than life album that channels the Deftone's energy and power to create raw kind of rock that is uplifting and positive. Despite the record not exhibiting any form of musical exploration, it does not mean the band is no longer interesting in challenging themselves. Instead, their purpose was to make a record that not only they would make them proud of, but a record that even Chi would be proud of. Diamond Eyes is more than just a tribute to their long time friend and comrade, but it's serves as a firm conviction that their fellow bandmate will one day join them on stage once again. In essence, Chi has always been with his brothers in spirit. And although, he may not have played a single note during the recording of the record, his presence was felt. That's what makes Diamond Eyes all the more extraordinary.

Following the accident a fundraiser was formed under the name One Love For Chi to raise awareness for his condition and to help provide Chi with the best care possible. If you would like to donate, you can do so at OneLoveForChi.com.

A Softer Side

Metal bands follow simple formula: the heavier, the better. These bands have a reputation for making very heavy music. Melodic parts are usually sacrificed for heavy riffs and gruesome breakdowns. So what makes the Deftones standout out among all the other metal acts is that they are not afraid to embrace their softer side. Unlike their metal counterparts, the Deftones are known for using intricate song structures and complex melodies. At the same time, strong experimentation and exploration is conducted to expand their sound. Some of the genres that the Deftones incorporate into their sound are dream pop, electronica and new wave. In doing this, the band has successfully merged massive and grace into one completely unique sound. A great example of this would be their latest video, "Sextape" off their record Diamond Eyes. The video was directed by ZFCL (Zak Forrest and Chad Liebenguth). The directors were able to capture Deftone's vision of dream world full of color and wonder.


So word of advice to metal bands out there. Take a page from Deftones' book and don't be afraid to show your softer side.

Diamond Eyes

I was so busy that past few weeks (listening to music, everyday life, etc.) that I overlooked the release date for the Deftones long-awaited album, Diamond Eyes. I knew it was sometime in April or May that it was going to be released I checked their official site to find out. It turns out (I was totally jumping for joy for this) that Diamond Eyes, will be released this Tuesday May 4th. Although I have not heard any other track on the album besides Rocket Skates and Diamond Eyes, I'm anticipating that this will be one of the best albums of the year. Even Drew Beringer from Absolutepunk.net is absolutely raving about it. You can read his impressive review HERE. The album art and tracklisting is featured below. Don't miss out on this album this Tuesday. On one final note, I was stoked to find out that one of the tracks on the album is named after me (see track 6). Not literally, but you know what I mean.

1. Diamond Eyes

2. Royal

3. CMND/CTRL

4. You've Seen The Butcher

5. Beauty School

6. Prince

7. Rocket Skates

8. Sextape

9. Risk

10. 976-EVIL

11. This Place Is Death

13th Witness

With the release of Deftone's latest single, "Rocket Skates" off of their highly anticipated album, Diamond Eyes, I am happy to announce that the Deftone's has officially released a video for that single. The video was directed by 13thWitness aka Timothy McGurr who is a videographer/photographer from New York. I'm not sure what the conceptual idea behind it is, but the cinematography and editing is amazing. Plus, I love the shots of the band performing because it really captures the raw energy and emotion of their live show. Overall, 13thWitness did an amazing job. You can watch the video below. Also, I'm not that familiar with his work, but if you want to know more about 13thWitness and the work that he does click HERE. You can also follow his twitter by clicking HERE.

Listen To Rocket Skates

The song "Rocket Skates" by the Deftones is now available for download on their website. The song is off their long awaited album, Diamond Eyes which will be released on May 18, 2010. Also, sign up for their email list to find out more news on the band and the new album. You can hear the brand new song below and the video has lyrics to the song as well. Pretty awesome, huh? Check it out. I'm already anticipating that this will be one of the best albums of 2010.

Rocket Skates For Free

Hey everyone. It has been almost four years since the release of Saturday Night Wrist and the Deftones have been hard at work on their sixth album. But ever since the tragic accident of their bassist and founding member Chi Cheng who has went into a coma, the recording process was put on hold indefinitely. Finally, after years of waiting, Chino & Co. have come out of the ashes and have announced that their new album entitled Diamond Eyes (previously called Eros) will be released this year on May 18, 2010. Their first single off the highly anticipated album, is called "Rocket Skates" and will be available as a free download on their website on February 23. Sign up for their email list to receive access to download the song as well as receive upcoming news about the band and their new album. In the meantime, watch below to hear a little snippet of the brand new song.

Also, to help increase awareness of Chi Cheng's condition, a website/fundraiser was started called One Love For Chi. If you are willing to making a donation for the fundraiser, click HERE to find out more information on how to do so. Any donation no matter how big or small can truly help the Cheng family in providing the best possible care for Chi. Our best wishes goes him and his family. We miss you, Chi. Hope you feel better soon.