Chino Moreno is widely recognized as the lead vocalist of Deftones, yet his involvement spans multiple musical projects and collaborations. Many fans and industry observers ask how many bands Chino Moreno is in, given the blend of core groups and side endeavors that share his creative direction.
This overview organizes key details about Chino Moreno’s primary bands, timelines, and roles into a concise summary for quick reference.
| Band Name | Primary Role | Status | Active Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deftones | Lead Vocals | Core | 1988–present |
| Team Sleep | Vocals, Lyrics | Core | 2000–present (intermittent) |
| Crosses | Vocals | Side Project | 2011–present (periodic activity) |
| Palms | Vocals | Side Project | 2012–present (periodic activity) |
| Far | Vocals | Historic | 1991–1997 |
Deftones as the Central Band
Formation and Role
Deftones formed in Sacramento in the late 1980s and evolved into one of the most influential alternative metal bands of the 1990s and 2000s. Chino Moreno serves as the primary vocalist, contributing lyrics and defining much of the band’s atmospheric direction.
Key Albums and Impact
Landmark records such as "Around the Fur," "White Pony," and "Saturday Night Wrist" showcase his evolving vocal delivery and thematic depth. These releases cemented Deftones’ status and continue to drive interest in how many bands Chino Moreno is in beyond this flagship group.
Team Sleep and Experimental Work
Origins and Collaborators
Team Sleep emerged from late-night studio sessions involving members of Deftones, Long Beach Dub Allstars, and other collaborators. The project allowed Chino Moreno to explore atmospheric, electronic, and hip hop-influenced textures outside the Deftones framework.
Notable Releases and Lineup Stability
The debut album "Team Sleep" in 2005 and later "New White Trash" in 2015 highlight his willingness to shift rhythm, mood, and structure. Despite on-again, off-again activity, the band remains a core outlet alongside the main Deftones catalog.
Side Projects: Crosses and Palms
Crosses with Chuck Doom and Jeffree Star
Crosses blends gothic rock, dream pop, and industrial influences, with Chino Moreno providing melodic but heavily processed vocals. The visual identity and moody songwriting distinguish this project from the Deftones’ heavier sound.
Palms with Mike Patton and Friends
Palms brings together musicians from diverse scenes, including members of Isis and Mastodon. Here his voice occupies a more abrasive, urgent space, demonstrating range in how many bands Chino Moreno actively contributes to outside his primary work.
Earlier and Historical Involvement
Far and Early Bands
Before Deftones gained momentum, Chino Moreno performed in Far, a hardcore and post-hardcore group that helped shape his aggressive delivery and lyrical perspective. These earlier projects are important for understanding his full musical trajectory.
Guest Appearances and Collaborations
He has also appeared on tracks with artists like Health, Methodic Doubt, and various electronic producers. While not always formal band memberships, these partnerships illustrate the breadth of his ongoing creative engagement.
Summary of Current Band Involvement
- Core group: Deftones, lead vocals since the late 1980s
- Core side project: Team Sleep, periodic recordings and shows
- Periodic projects: Crosses and Palms, focused releases and tours
- Historic foundation: Far and early work shaping his style
- Ongoing collaborations: Guest features that extend his reach beyond named bands
FAQ
Reader questions
Is Chino Moreno only in Deftones, or does he actively participate in other bands today?
He remains primarily in Deftones, while Team Sleep, Crosses, and Palms represent active, ongoing side projects that frequently release new material and tour on a periodic schedule.
Which of his bands has produced the most recognizable songs overall?
Deftones has delivered the most widely recognized songs, though Team Sleep and Crosses have cultivated strong niche followings through distinct sounds and consistent output.
How does he balance time between these multiple bands creatively and logistically? Scheduling, shared touring cycles, and collaborative chemistry allow him to rotate focus, prioritizing Deftones while reserving weekends and specific blocks for side projects throughout the year. Are there any plans for new bands or major collaborations in the near future?
He periodically explores new partnerships and recording experiments, so fans can expect occasional surprise releases or short-term groupings beyond the established bands.