Bands Like Deftones: Exploring Similar Artists with Atmospheric and Heavy Sounds
Deftones have long been a unique presence in the alternative metal and nu-metal scenes, blending ethereal melodies, heavy riffs, and emotionally charged vocals. Their sound is an intricate mix of shoegaze, metal, post-hardcore, and experimental rock, making them difficult to categorize under a single genre.
For fans looking to expand their playlists with bands like Deftones, there are plenty of artists that capture a similar atmospheric intensity, dynamic shifts, and emotional depth. Whether you love Deftones for their dreamy soundscapes, aggressive breakdowns, or haunting vocals, this guide will introduce you to bands like Deftones that might become your new favorites.
The Unique Sound of Deftones
Before diving into bands like Deftones, it’s essential to understand what makes their music so distinct:
- Ethereal Atmosphere: Dreamy, reverb-heavy guitar effects that create a cinematic, immersive feel.
- Heavy Riffs: Deep, distorted, and sometimes djent-inspired guitar work.
- Emotional Vocals: Chino Moreno’s ability to switch between soft, whisper-like singing and intense screaming.
- Genre-Bending Approach: Deftones mix metal, shoegaze, post-hardcore, and alternative rock influences.
With these elements in mind, let’s explore bands like Deftones that share similar musical qualities.
1. Korn – Pioneers of Nu-Metal
Though Korn leans more towards the heavier side of nu-metal, they share many elements with Deftones, particularly in their emotional depth and dark atmospheres. Songs like Freak on a Leash and Falling Away from Me feature eerie melodies and Jonathan Davis’s raw, expressive vocals, making them a great fit for Deftones fans who enjoy intense, brooding energy.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- Alone I Break
- Somebody Someone
- Here to Stay
2. Tool – Progressive and Atmospheric Metal
Tool’s music is known for its deep, progressive structures, intricate drumming, and haunting vocals—elements that resonate with Deftones fans. While Tool is more progressive metal-oriented, their songs contain the same hypnotic, immersive quality found in Deftones’ music.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- Schism
- Sober
- The Pot
3. A Perfect Circle – Ethereal and Dark Alternative Rock
A Perfect Circle, a side project of Tool’s Maynard James Keenan, incorporates atmospheric and moody elements similar to it. Their music features soaring melodies, introspective lyrics, and a melancholic but beautiful soundscape.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- Judith
- The Hollow
- Weak and Powerless
4. Glassjaw – Post-Hardcore Intensity
Glassjaw shares Deftones’ raw emotion and intensity, particularly in their ability to balance melodic and heavy elements. With passionate screams and intricate instrumentals, they appeal to fans who appreciate it balance between aggression and beauty.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- Ape Dos Mil
- Siberian Kiss
- Tip Your Bartender
5. Thrice – Dynamic and Emotionally Charged Rock
Thrice blends elements of post-hardcore, alternative rock, and progressive influences, making them a great recommendation for its fans. Their later albums embrace a more atmospheric, moody tone similar to Deftones’ work in White Pony and Koi No Yokan.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- Black Honey
- Red Sky
- The Earth Will Shake
6. Hum – The Shoegaze Influence
Hum is often cited as an inspiration for its dreamier side. Their blend of shoegaze and alternative rock features lush, reverb-soaked guitars that create an immersive sound, much like its more atmospheric tracks.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- Stars
- I Hate It Too
- Green to Me
7. Isis – Post-Metal Excellence
For fans who appreciate the slower, more atmospheric side of Deftones, Isis delivers a mesmerizing blend of post-metal and ambient textures. Their music gradually builds from quiet, ethereal moments to crushingly heavy climaxes, similar to tracks like Rosemary and Digital Bath.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- In Fiction
- Backlit
- Celestial
8. Crosses (†††) – Chino Moreno’s Side Project
If you love Deftones’ softer, electronic-infused sound, Crosses (†††), featuring Chino Moreno, is a perfect fit. This project leans more into electronic and darkwave influences while maintaining the dreamy, moody aesthetic that defines it.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- The Epilogue
- Bitches Brew
- Telepathy
9. Loathe – The Modern Successor to Deftones’ Sound
Loathe is often described as one of the closest modern bands like Deftones due to their perfect fusion of heavy, downtuned riffs and ethereal atmospheres. Their 2020 album I Let It In and It Took Everything is often compared to its classic works.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- Two-Way Mirror
- Aggressive Evolution
- Screaming
10. Spiritbox – A Fresh Take on Heavy and Melodic Metal
Spiritbox has gained a reputation for their ability to seamlessly blend ambient, electronic elements with crushing heaviness, much like it. Vocalist Courtney LaPlante’s ethereal singing contrasts beautifully with powerful screams, reminiscent of Chino Moreno’s vocal range.
Key Songs to Check Out:
- Holy Roller
- Secret Garden
- Circle With Me
Conclusion
Deftones have carved out a distinct place in the world of alternative and metal music, blending dreamy atmospheres with crushing heaviness. If you’re looking for bands like Deftones, the artists mentioned above offer a variety of sounds that capture different aspects of its signature style.
Whether you prefer the ethereal shoegaze elements, heavy breakdowns, or emotional intensity, there’s no shortage of music to explore. From the progressive complexity of Tool to the atmospheric shoegaze of Hum, these bands will help fill the void when you’re craving something new yet familiar.
Are there any other bands like Deftones that you think should be on this list? Let us know your favorites!
