Deftones vocalist Chino Moreno recently shared his perspective on the band's 1997 sophomore album, "Around The Fur," calling it one of his favorites. Moreno's comments came during a new interview where he discussed the album's creation and lasting impact.
Key Takeaways
- Chino Moreno considers "Around The Fur" one of Deftones' best albums.
- The album was recorded quickly in Seattle, capturing a unique energy.
- Moreno appreciates the spontaneous nature of its creation.
- He also discussed challenges with album titles, including for their self-titled 2003 release.
The Enduring Appeal of 'Around The Fur'
Moreno revealed his strong connection to "Around The Fur" in a recent online interview. He emphasized the album's unique creation process, highlighting the speed and location as key factors.
The album was recorded at Studio Litho in Seattle, Washington. This studio is owned by Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam. The band completed the recording process very quickly, a pace Moreno attributes to the album's distinct sound.
"With ‘Around The Fur,’ that was written and recorded in Seattle at Studio Litho... We did that really quick. There was something about catching lightning in a bottle with that record. Still to this day, it’s one of my favorites — if not my favorite record — of ours. It’s this unbridled energy that we captured in that moment."
Moreno believes this rapid production schedule helped capture a raw, unbridled energy. He feels this energy is a major reason why the album has endured. Many fans also consider "Around The Fur" a cornerstone of the alternative metal genre.
Album Fact
"Around The Fur" was released on October 28, 1997. It features popular tracks like "My Own Summer (Shove It)" and "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)."
Modern Recording Contrasts and Creative Inspiration
Moreno contrasted the fast-paced creation of "Around The Fur" with the band's more recent recording methods. He explained that Deftones now prefer a more relaxed schedule, often working in multiple cities.
Their latest album, "private music," for example, involved sessions in various locations over an extended period. This approach allows for different inspirations to emerge. Moreno shared an example of this creative freedom.
He recounted how a morning swim at Zuma Beach in Malibu directly inspired a song. "I came back from swimming and sat down with my guitar and came up with the song ‘i think about you all the time’," he explained. This type of spontaneous creation might not happen if the band were confined to a single studio for months.
The Joshua Tree sessions also provided a unique atmosphere. Moreno noted that the songs recorded there capture the intense heat of the desert in July. These varying environments contribute to the dynamic feel of their newer work.
Band History
Deftones formed in Sacramento, California, in 1988. They are known for their experimental approach to alternative metal, blending various musical styles.
Challenges with Album Art and Titles
While Moreno holds "Around The Fur" in high regard musically, he has had mixed feelings about the album's iconic cover art. He did not elaborate on these specific reservations during the interview, but it suggests a deeper thought process behind the band's visual identity.
Moreno also touched upon the difficulties of naming albums. He expressed his discomfort with unilaterally choosing titles. He recalled a specific instance where his suggestion for their fourth studio album, released in 2003, was rejected.
He wanted to title the album "Lovers." However, bandmate Stephen Carpenter strongly disagreed. Moreno quoted Carpenter saying, "No way. That’s the dumbest name I ever heard."
With a deadline approaching and no other suitable options, the album ultimately became self-titled. Despite the rejection, Moreno did manage to use the title "Lovers" for a b-side track that later appeared on the "Hexagram" single.
The Evolution of Deftones' Sound and Approach
Deftones has consistently evolved their sound over decades. From the raw energy of "Around The Fur" to the diverse inspirations of "private music," the band continues to experiment. Their willingness to change recording environments and schedules reflects a commitment to artistic growth.
Moreno also mentioned the band's current touring philosophy. They now aim to tour for no more than a month at a time before taking a break. This approach reflects their current age and desire for comfort, a stark contrast to the intense, quick sessions of their earlier career.
The band's ability to maintain relevance, even experiencing a resurgence driven by platforms like TikTok, speaks to their enduring appeal. Their catalog, praised by Moreno himself, continues to resonate with both long-time fans and new listeners.
The conversation provides a rare glimpse into the creative mind of a musician who has helped shape a genre. Moreno's reflections on specific albums offer valuable insight into the moments that define a band's legacy.