Deftones: Around The Fur Cover - A Revolution In Sound And Style

The album was a defining moment for Deftones, showcasing the band's ability to blend aggressive riffs with melodic undertones, creating a unique sound that resonated with a wide audience. As we delve into the significance of the "Around the Fur" cover, we'll explore the artistic choices that made it a visual and auditory masterpiece. The "Around the Fur" cover art, featuring a photograph of a woman in a pool, was both striking and mysterious. The image, captured by photographer Rick Kosick, perfectly encapsulated the themes of isolation, introspection, and yearning present in the album. The choice of imagery was deliberate, reflecting the band's desire to create a visual representation of their evolving sound. Deftones' attention to detail in crafting this cover art demonstrates their commitment to creating a holistic artistic experience for their listeners, engaging them not just through music but through powerful visual storytelling. As we examine the legacy of the "Around the Fur" cover, it's essential to consider its impact on the music industry and pop culture. The album's cover art has become a symbol of the late '90s alternative scene, influencing countless artists and designers. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate new generations of fans, proving that Deftones' visionary approach to music and art transcends time and trends. In this article, we'll dive deep into the elements that make the "Around the Fur" cover a cornerstone of Deftones' legacy, celebrating its enduring influence and significance.

Table of Contents

1. The Birth of Deftones and Their Musical Evolution 2. What Made "Around the Fur" a Landmark Album? 3. The Creative Process Behind the Cover Art 4. The Symbolism of the Pool Imagery 5. How Did Deftones Influence the Alternative Metal Genre? 6. Analyzing the Themes in "Around the Fur" 7. Who Was the Woman on the Cover? 8. The Role of Rick Kosick in Deftones' Visual Identity 9. How Did Fans React to the Album Cover? 10. The Impact of "Around the Fur" on Pop Culture 11. Deftones' Artistic Vision: Beyond Music 12. What are the Key Tracks on "Around the Fur"? 13. How Did Critics Receive the Album? 14. Frequently Asked Questions About "Around the Fur" 15. Conclusion: The Legacy of Deftones' "Around the Fur"

The Birth of Deftones and Their Musical Evolution

Deftones formed in 1988 in Sacramento, California, quickly establishing themselves as a force in the emerging alternative metal scene. With a lineup consisting of Chino Moreno (vocals), Stephen Carpenter (guitar), Abe Cunningham (drums), and Chi Cheng (bass), Deftones began crafting a sound that was both aggressive and atmospheric. Their unique blend of heavy metal, alternative rock, and shoegaze elements set them apart from their contemporaries, earning them a dedicated fan base.

Throughout the early 1990s, Deftones honed their skills and developed their musical identity. Their debut album, "Adrenaline," released in 1995, showcased their potential and hinted at the innovation to come. "Adrenaline" received critical acclaim and laid the groundwork for the band's future success. As they prepared to record their sophomore album, "Around the Fur," Deftones sought to expand their sound further and push creative boundaries.

The release of "Around the Fur" in 1997 marked a turning point in Deftones' career. The album was a bold departure from their previous work, featuring more complex songwriting and a greater emphasis on dynamics. Tracks like "My Own Summer (Shove It)" and "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" demonstrated the band's ability to balance intensity with melody, captivating listeners and critics alike. With "Around the Fur," Deftones cemented their reputation as pioneers in the alternative metal genre.

What Made "Around the Fur" a Landmark Album?

"Around the Fur" was a landmark album for Deftones for several reasons. First and foremost, the album showcased the band's evolution as musicians and songwriters. The songs on "Around the Fur" were more intricate and layered than those on "Adrenaline," reflecting the band's growing confidence and artistic vision. Deftones experimented with new sounds and textures, incorporating elements of shoegaze, post-rock, and ambient music into their heavy metal framework.

The album's production, helmed by Terry Date, played a crucial role in its success. Date's experience working with bands like Pantera and Soundgarden allowed him to capture Deftones' raw energy while enhancing their sonic depth. The result was a polished yet powerful album that resonated with audiences and critics alike. "Around the Fur" received widespread acclaim, with many praising its innovative sound and emotional intensity.

Another factor contributing to the album's success was the band's ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. The lyrics on "Around the Fur," penned by Chino Moreno, explored themes of alienation, introspection, and desire. Moreno's distinctive vocal style, characterized by its blend of aggression and vulnerability, brought these themes to life, creating an emotional resonance that struck a chord with fans.

The Creative Process Behind the Cover Art

The cover art for "Around the Fur" was a collaborative effort between Deftones and photographer Rick Kosick. The band sought to create an image that would capture the essence of the album while intriguing and engaging listeners. The result was a photograph of a woman in a pool, partially submerged and gazing directly at the camera. The image was both alluring and enigmatic, perfectly encapsulating the mood of the album.

Rick Kosick, known for his work with bands like Korn and Limp Bizkit, played a crucial role in bringing Deftones' vision to life. His expertise in capturing raw, authentic moments allowed him to create an image that resonated with the band's artistic intent. Kosick's photograph became an integral part of the "Around the Fur" experience, complementing the album's sonic landscapes and enhancing its emotional impact.

The choice of cover art was deliberate, reflecting Deftones' desire to create a cohesive artistic statement. The band believed that the visual element was just as important as the music, and they strived to create an immersive experience for their listeners. By collaborating with Kosick, Deftones ensured that the "Around the Fur" cover would be a powerful and memorable representation of their evolving sound.

The Symbolism of the Pool Imagery

The pool imagery on the "Around the Fur" cover is rich with symbolism, reflecting the themes and emotions explored in the album. Water is often associated with emotions, introspection, and transformation, making it a fitting symbol for the album's exploration of inner turmoil and self-discovery. The image of a woman partially submerged in water suggests a sense of vulnerability and isolation, themes that are prevalent throughout the album.

The gaze of the woman in the photograph adds another layer of complexity to the imagery. Her direct, unflinching stare challenges the viewer, inviting them to engage with the emotions and themes presented in the album. This sense of confrontation is mirrored in the music, as Deftones' lyrics and soundscapes delve into the complexities of human experience.

Moreover, the use of black and white photography adds a timeless quality to the cover, emphasizing the album's enduring appeal. The stark contrast between light and shadow mirrors the album's dynamic range, from the aggressive riffs of "My Own Summer (Shove It)" to the haunting melodies of "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)." The pool imagery serves as a visual representation of Deftones' ability to navigate the extremes of emotion and sound, creating a cohesive and captivating artistic experience.

How Did Deftones Influence the Alternative Metal Genre?

Deftones have had a profound impact on the alternative metal genre, influencing countless bands and artists with their innovative sound and artistic vision. The release of "Around the Fur" in 1997 marked a pivotal moment in the genre, showcasing Deftones' ability to blend heavy metal with elements of alternative rock, shoegaze, and post-rock. This unique fusion of styles set Deftones apart from their contemporaries and paved the way for a new wave of alternative metal bands.

One of the key aspects of Deftones' influence is their emphasis on dynamics and atmosphere. The band is known for their ability to balance aggression with melody, creating a sound that is both powerful and introspective. This approach has inspired numerous bands to explore new sonic territories and push the boundaries of what alternative metal can be.

Deftones' impact extends beyond their music, as their artistic vision and commitment to creating a cohesive experience have resonated with fans and fellow musicians alike. The band's attention to detail in crafting their album art, music videos, and live performances has set a high standard for creativity and innovation within the genre. As a result, Deftones have become a touchstone for artists seeking to create meaningful and engaging work.

Analyzing the Themes in "Around the Fur"

"Around the Fur" is an album rich with themes of alienation, introspection, and desire. Chino Moreno's lyrics delve into the complexities of human experience, exploring emotions such as longing, frustration, and vulnerability. The music mirrors these themes, with its dynamic range and atmospheric soundscapes creating an immersive and emotionally resonant experience.

One of the central themes of the album is the search for identity and self-understanding. Songs like "Mascara" and "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" explore the tension between the desire for connection and the need for independence. The lyrics are introspective and often ambiguous, inviting listeners to interpret their meaning and find their own resonance within the music.

Another prominent theme in "Around the Fur" is the struggle between control and chaos. Tracks like "Lhabia" and "My Own Summer (Shove It)" capture the intensity of this conflict, with their aggressive riffs and driving rhythms. The album's ability to navigate these extremes reflects Deftones' mastery of dynamics and their commitment to creating a multifaceted artistic experience.

Who Was the Woman on the Cover?

The identity of the woman on the "Around the Fur" cover has been a topic of speculation and intrigue among fans. She is a model named Lisa Hughes, whose enigmatic gaze and presence captured the essence of the album's themes. Hughes was chosen for the cover due to her ability to convey a sense of vulnerability and strength, qualities that resonate with the album's exploration of emotion and introspection.

Her image, captured by photographer Rick Kosick, became synonymous with the "Around the Fur" album and its legacy. The cover art, with its striking imagery and emotional depth, remains an iconic representation of Deftones' artistic vision. Hughes' contribution to the album's visual identity is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of a well-crafted image.

The Role of Rick Kosick in Deftones' Visual Identity

Rick Kosick played a pivotal role in shaping Deftones' visual identity, particularly with his work on the "Around the Fur" cover. As a renowned photographer with experience in the music industry, Kosick brought a unique perspective to the project, capturing the raw energy and emotion that defined the album. His ability to create striking and memorable images made him an ideal collaborator for Deftones, who were seeking to create a cohesive artistic experience for their listeners.

Kosick's work on the "Around the Fur" cover is a testament to the power of visual storytelling. His photograph of Lisa Hughes in a pool became an iconic image, perfectly encapsulating the themes and emotions explored in the album. The collaboration between Kosick and Deftones highlights the importance of visual elements in creating a lasting artistic legacy.

Beyond "Around the Fur," Kosick's influence can be seen in Deftones' continued commitment to visual excellence. The band's attention to detail in their album art, music videos, and live performances is a reflection of their dedication to creating a comprehensive and engaging experience for their audience. Kosick's contribution to Deftones' visual identity is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of a well-crafted image.

How Did Fans React to the Album Cover?

The "Around the Fur" album cover was met with a mix of intrigue and admiration from fans. Its striking imagery and enigmatic quality resonated with listeners, drawing them into the world that Deftones had created. The cover became an iconic representation of the album, symbolizing the band's artistic vision and emotional depth.

Fans appreciated the thoughtfulness and creativity that went into the cover art, recognizing it as an integral part of the "Around the Fur" experience. The image of the woman in the pool, with its rich symbolism and emotional resonance, captured the essence of the album's themes and added a visual dimension to the music.

The cover's impact extended beyond Deftones' fan base, influencing artists and designers in the alternative metal scene and beyond. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate new generations of listeners, proving that Deftones' visionary approach to music and art transcends time and trends.

The Impact of "Around the Fur" on Pop Culture

"Around the Fur" has had a lasting impact on pop culture, influencing not only the alternative metal genre but also a wide range of artists and creators. The album's innovative sound and artistic vision have inspired countless musicians to explore new sonic territories and push the boundaries of their craft. Deftones' ability to blend heavy metal with elements of alternative rock, shoegaze, and post-rock has set a high standard for creativity and innovation in the music industry.

The album's cover art, with its iconic imagery and emotional depth, has also left a mark on pop culture. Its influence can be seen in the work of artists and designers who have drawn inspiration from its striking visuals and rich symbolism. The collaboration between Deftones and Rick Kosick highlights the power of visual storytelling and the importance of creating a cohesive artistic experience.

Deftones' impact on pop culture extends beyond their music and art, as their commitment to authenticity and innovation has resonated with fans and fellow creators alike. The band's enduring appeal and continued influence are a testament to their legacy as pioneers in the alternative metal genre and beyond.

Deftones' Artistic Vision: Beyond Music

Deftones have always been driven by a commitment to creating a comprehensive artistic experience for their listeners. This vision extends beyond their music, encompassing visual elements, live performances, and collaborations with artists and designers. The band's attention to detail and dedication to innovation have set them apart from their contemporaries and established them as leaders in the alternative metal genre.

The "Around the Fur" album and its cover art are prime examples of Deftones' artistic vision in action. The band's collaboration with photographer Rick Kosick and model Lisa Hughes resulted in a striking and memorable image that perfectly encapsulated the themes and emotions explored in the album. This attention to visual storytelling has been a hallmark of Deftones' work, enhancing the impact of their music and creating a lasting legacy.

Deftones' commitment to artistic excellence is also evident in their live performances, which are renowned for their intensity and emotional resonance. The band's ability to connect with audiences and create an immersive experience is a reflection of their dedication to authenticity and creativity. As Deftones continue to evolve and explore new artistic territories, their legacy as pioneers in the alternative metal genre remains firmly established.

What are the Key Tracks on "Around the Fur"?

"Around the Fur" features several key tracks that have become fan favorites and staples of Deftones' live performances. These songs showcase the band's ability to blend heavy metal with melodic and atmospheric elements, creating a unique and captivating sound.

• "My Own Summer (Shove It)": This track is one of Deftones' most recognizable songs, featuring aggressive riffs and haunting melodies. Its themes of isolation and introspection resonate with listeners, making it a standout track on the album.
• "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)": Known for its melodic and emotional depth, this song explores the tension between the desire for connection and the need for independence. Its dynamic range and introspective lyrics have made it a fan favorite.
• "Mascara": This track delves into themes of identity and self-discovery, with its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics creating a powerful emotional resonance.
• "Lhabia": Featuring aggressive riffs and driving rhythms, this song captures the intensity of the struggle between control and chaos, a central theme of the album.

These tracks, along with the rest of the album, demonstrate Deftones' mastery of dynamics and their ability to create a multifaceted artistic experience. The enduring appeal of "Around the Fur" is a testament to the band's innovative sound and artistic vision.

How Did Critics Receive the Album?

"Around the Fur" was met with widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its innovative sound and emotional depth. Critics recognized the album as a significant step forward for Deftones, showcasing their evolution as musicians and songwriters. The album's blend of heavy metal, alternative rock, and atmospheric elements set it apart from its contemporaries and established Deftones as pioneers in the alternative metal genre.

Reviewers highlighted the album's dynamic range and emotional resonance, noting the band's ability to balance aggression with melody. Chino Moreno's distinctive vocal style and introspective lyrics were also praised, adding depth and complexity to the album's themes. The production, helmed by Terry Date, was recognized for its ability to capture the band's raw energy while enhancing their sonic depth.

Overall, "Around the Fur" was hailed as a landmark album, solidifying Deftones' place in the alternative metal scene and paving the way for their continued success. Its enduring appeal and influence are a testament to the band's artistic vision and commitment to innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions About "Around the Fur"

1. What is the significance of the "Around the Fur" album cover?

The "Around the Fur" album cover features a photograph of a woman in a pool, captured by photographer Rick Kosick. The image is rich with symbolism, reflecting the themes of isolation, introspection, and yearning present in the album. Its striking and enigmatic quality has made it an iconic representation of Deftones' artistic vision.

2. Who was the woman on the "Around the Fur" cover?

The woman featured on the cover is a model named Lisa Hughes. Her presence and gaze captured the essence of the album's themes, adding a visual dimension to the music and creating a lasting impact.

3. How did "Around the Fur" influence the alternative metal genre?

"Around the Fur" influenced the alternative metal genre by showcasing Deftones' ability to blend heavy metal with elements of alternative rock, shoegaze, and post-rock. The album set a high standard for creativity and innovation, inspiring countless bands to explore new sonic territories.

4. What themes are explored in "Around the Fur"?

The album explores themes of alienation, introspection, desire, and the struggle between control and chaos. Chino Moreno's lyrics delve into the complexities of human experience, creating an emotional resonance that captivates listeners.

5. What are some key tracks on "Around the Fur"?

Key tracks on the album include "My Own Summer (Shove It)," "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)," "Mascara," and "Lhabia." These songs showcase Deftones' ability to balance aggression with melody, creating a unique and captivating sound.

6. How did critics receive "Around the Fur" upon its release?

The album received widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its innovative sound and emotional depth. Critics recognized it as a significant step forward for Deftones, solidifying their place in the alternative metal scene and paving the way for their continued success.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Deftones' "Around the Fur"

Deftones' "Around the Fur" remains a landmark album in the alternative metal genre, celebrated for its innovative sound and artistic vision. The album's blend of heavy metal, alternative rock, and atmospheric elements set it apart from its contemporaries, influencing countless bands and artists. The iconic album cover, with its striking imagery and emotional depth, is a testament to Deftones' commitment to creating a comprehensive artistic experience.

The enduring appeal of "Around the Fur" is a reflection of the band's ability to connect with listeners on a personal level, exploring themes of alienation, introspection, and desire. Chino Moreno's introspective lyrics and distinctive vocal style, combined with the band's dynamic sound, create an emotional resonance that continues to captivate new generations of fans.

As Deftones continue to evolve and push creative boundaries, their legacy as pioneers in the alternative metal genre remains firmly established. "Around the Fur" stands as a testament to their artistic vision and commitment to innovation, proving that great art transcends time and trends.