The air in Edinburgh is about to crackle with a sound not heard within the city limits for over two decades. Deftones, the architects of a uniquely haunting alternative metal sound, are returning to the stage, poised to ignite the Royal Highland Showgrounds next summer.
Joining them will be the raw energy of IDLES, the Bristol-based punk band known for their visceral performances. This pairing promises a night of sonic intensity, a collision of atmospheric depth and unapologetic aggression.
Deftones emerged from the fertile musical landscape of Sacramento, California, in the late 1980s. Childhood friends Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Abe Cunningham, and Chi Cheng began crafting a sound that defied easy categorization, blending melody and dissonance with breathtaking skill.
Their 1995 debut, *Adrenaline*, hinted at the power to come, but it was *Around the Fur* (1997) and *White Pony* (2000) that truly cemented their status as innovators. These albums weren’t just collections of songs; they were immersive experiences, pushing the boundaries of alternative music.
The band’s journey hasn’t been without its shadows. The tragic loss of bassist Chi Cheng in 2013 deeply impacted the group and their fans. Yet, they persevered, channeling their grief and resilience into a continued stream of critically acclaimed albums.
Even through profound loss, Deftones continued to evolve, releasing six albums throughout the 2000s and 2010s. Their latest offering, *Private Music*, released this year, demonstrates a band still at the peak of their creative powers, earning praise as one of their strongest works yet.
Their influence resonates through generations of musicians, and their devoted fanbase remains fiercely loyal, drawn to the band’s willingness to experiment and their unwavering commitment to artistic integrity. They’ve sold over 10 million records and amassed over 10 billion streams worldwide.
This Edinburgh performance marks Deftones’ first return to the city since a memorable show at The Corn Exchange in 2000. It’s a long-awaited homecoming for a band that has consistently captivated audiences with their mesmerizing live shows.
The Summer Sessions lineup is already brimming with talent, featuring The Cure, The Prodigy, and Florence and the Machine. Deftones’ addition elevates the festival to another level, promising an unforgettable summer for music lovers.
Doors are set to open on Thursday, August 27th, at 5pm. The anticipation is already building, and tickets are moving quickly for what promises to be a landmark event in Edinburgh’s musical history.
