I Deftones are an American alternative metal band, formed in Sacramento in 1988. They are considered the initiators of the nu metal genre, along with Korn, and are also considered one of the most innovative and influential bands in the genre.

The band began their career performing in concert without yet releasing any official studio work. The songs they played at that time presented a style mostly close to heavy metal. After signing to Maverick, the Deftones began recording in the studio, creating their own style of music, but without much success initially. With the release of the albums 'Around The Fur' e 'White Pony'considered among the best records in the alternative metal scene, the Deftones began to be well received by both critics and the public, thanks also to the elements post-punk e new wave which they incorporated into their own style and the increased use of melody.