The Making of Adrenaline by Deftones

Introduction

Released on 3rd October 1995, “Adrenaline” marked the powerful debut of the American alternative metal band, Deftones. The album stands as a pivotal release in the history of music, heralding the arrival of a band that would come to define and expand the boundaries of the nu-metal genre. With its raw energy and innovative sound, “Adrenaline” continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, solidifying its place in the history of alternative metal.

In this article, we will delve into the creation, recording process, commercial performance, and legacy of “Adrenaline”. We’ll explore the tracks and themes, as well as the promotional strategies that propelled the album to success. Additionally, we’ll examine its enduring influence on the music industry and the bands it inspired.

The album’s impact is best summarised by Chino Moreno, who stated, “We were young and hungry, and I think you can hear that in the record.” This sentiment is echoed by critics who have praised the album’s fresh sound and emotional intensity.

The Genesis of “Adrenaline”

Deftones’ journey to “Adrenaline” began in the vibrant music scene of Sacramento, California. During the late 1980s, high school friends Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, and Abe Cunningham started jamming together, driven by their shared love for music. Their diverse influences, ranging from heavy metal to punk, laid the groundwork for their distinctive sound.

Before “Adrenaline”, Deftones had already made a name for themselves with a four-track demo. This early work showcased their potential and helped them secure a deal with Maverick Records. The band consisted of key members who played crucial roles in shaping the album.

The recording costs for “Adrenaline” were covered by Maverick Records, with a budget that allowed the band to work with producers Terry Date and Ross Robinson. The album’s title reflects the raw energy and intensity that the band aimed to capture. The cover art, featuring a pastel pink bulb syringe, was designed to complement the album’s edgy aesthetic.

Recording Process

The recording of “Adrenaline” took place at Bad Animals in Seattle and Sound City in Van Nuys. These studios were renowned for their exceptional acoustics and state-of-the-art equipment. The sessions, led by producers Terry Date and Ross Robinson, were characterised by a blend of discipline and spontaneity.

Key personnel included engineers Ulrich Wild and Tom Smurdy, who played vital roles in capturing the band’s sound. They utilised a range of equipment typical of the time, which we can assume included high-quality microphones like the Neumann U87 and dynamic Shure SM58s.

Throughout the recording, the band faced various challenges, including tight schedules and the pressure to deliver a debut album that would stand out. Despite these hurdles, the sessions were filled with creativity and experimentation, resulting in a unique sound that defined the album.

Both Terry Date and Ross Robinson brought their expertise to the table, having worked on notable albums such as Pantera’s Cowboys from Hell and Korn’s Korn. Their influence is evident in the album’s polished yet raw sound.

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, “Adrenaline” initially struggled to make a commercial impact. However, extensive touring and word-of-mouth promotion gradually built a dedicated fanbase. The album eventually peaked at number 23 on the US Heatseekers Albums chart and was certified platinum in the United States.

Deftones’ discography showcases their evolution as a band. Let’s explore their studio albums and how “Adrenaline” fits within their body of work.

Critically, “Adrenaline” was praised for its innovative sound and emotional depth. Publications like Kerrang! and Drowned in Sound lauded the album’s production and the band’s ability to blend aggression with melody.

In 1995, several other notable albums were released, contributing to the vibrant music scene of the time. These include:

• Ballbreaker by AC/DC
• Slaughter of the Soul by At the Gates
• Symbolic by Death
• Ozzmosis by Ozzy Osbourne
• Astro-Creep: 2000 by White Zombie

Overall, “Adrenaline” received several awards and recognitions, including platinum certification in the US. Its success paved the way for Deftones’ future releases and solidified their place in the alternative metal scene.

Track Analysis

The singles released from “Adrenaline” played a crucial role in the album’s success. Let’s examine these tracks and their impact.

The following table lists the songs on “Adrenaline” along with their details:

*Singles from the album include “Bored” and “7 Words”. Both tracks contributed significantly to the album’s visibility and are still performed live today.

Song Meaning and Lyrics

The lyrics of “Adrenaline” delve into themes of angst, rebellion, and personal struggle. Let’s explore the meaning behind the album’s singles, “7 Words”, “Bored”, and “Root”.

“7 Words” is a powerful anthem of defiance, addressing issues of oppression and societal pressures. Its raw energy and aggressive lyrics resonate with listeners who feel misunderstood or marginalised. The song’s refrain, “Suck, suck, suck”, encapsulates the frustration and anger of a generation.

In “Bored”, the band explores themes of ennui and the search for authenticity. The repetitive chorus highlights the monotony of modern life, while the lyrics express a yearning for genuine experiences and connections. The track’s introspective nature and emotional depth make it a standout on the album.

“Root” delves into existential despair and the quest for self-discovery. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of personal struggle and defiance, with lines like “I and me we go with Jesus in a bowl of dirt” reflecting themes of humility and mortality.

Touring and Promotion of Adrenaline

The promotion of “Adrenaline” was a crucial factor in its success. Deftones embarked on an extensive tour, performing alongside bands like Korn, White Zombie, and Kiss. Their high-energy performances and dedication to their craft helped build a loyal fanbase.

The tour included numerous shows across North America, with notable performances at venues like the Viper Room in Los Angeles. These live shows allowed the band to connect with audiences and showcase their dynamic sound.

During 1995, Deftones toured with several prominent acts, including Ozzy Osbourne, Anthrax, and Bad Brains. These collaborations and the band’s relentless touring schedule contributed to the growing popularity of “Adrenaline”.

Influences and Legacy

“Adrenaline” was shaped by a variety of musical influences, from heavy metal to punk and post-hardcore. These diverse elements are evident in the album’s unique sound and innovative approach to the nu-metal genre.

The following table highlights some of the influences on “Adrenaline” and the artists it has subsequently inspired:

Released in 1995, “Adrenaline” arrived during a time of significant cultural and global events. The year saw the establishment of the World Trade Organization, the tragic Oklahoma City bombing, and the release of films like “Die Hard with a Vengeance” and “Toy Story”. These events and releases provide a backdrop to the album’s themes of defiance and introspection.

Five Things about Adrenaline

To fully appreciate the impact of “Adrenaline”, here are five fascinating facts about the album:

Media and Television Usage

Despite the album’s influence, we were unable to find any uses of songs from “Adrenaline” in media such as movies or TV shows.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Upon its release, “Adrenaline” received mixed reviews, but its innovative sound and emotional intensity have since been recognised as groundbreaking. Let’s explore some of the critical responses to the album.

The following table highlights notable reviews and scores:

After Adrenaline

Following the release of “Adrenaline”, Deftones continued to evolve their sound and expand their fanbase. Their subsequent albums, such as “Around the Fur” and “White Pony”, further cemented their status as pioneers in the alternative metal genre.

The band’s popularity grew, and they became known for their experimental approach to music. Despite facing challenges, including the tragic loss of bassist Chi Cheng, Deftones have remained a formidable presence in the music industry.

As of 30th October 2024, Deftones are preparing for the release of their tenth studio album and have announced an upcoming US tour. Their enduring influence and commitment to their craft continue to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike.

Conclusion

“Adrenaline” remains a significant album in the landscape of alternative metal, showcasing Deftones’ innovative sound and emotional depth. Its impact on music and culture is undeniable, influencing countless artists and resonating with fans worldwide.

For those interested in exploring more about Deftones and similar genres, consider checking out our articles on Sepultura’s Roots and Rage Against the Machine’s Evil Empire. These articles provide further insights into the evolution of heavy music and its cultural significance.

Further Reading

• The Making of Korn by Korn (Our Blog)
• The Making of Superunknown by Soundgarden (Our Blog)
• The Making of Slipknot by Slipknot (Our Blog)
• Wikipedia page for “Adrenaline”
• Official Deftones website
• Record label’s website

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Adrenaline by Deftones. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!