Full Breakdown
Deftones Announce 2026 Australia and New Zealand Tour with Interpol
11/17/2025, 5:55:19 AM
Tour Overview and Dates
Deftones, the acclaimed alternative metal band from Sacramento, California, have announced their highly anticipated tour of Australia and New Zealand in May 2026. This marks their first headline arena tour in nearly a decade, following their last headlining performance in 2016. The tour will feature special guests Interpol and Australian artist Ecca Vandal.
The tour will kick off with two shows at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney on May 2 and 3, followed by a performance at Brisbane's Entertainment Centre on May 6. Deftones will then perform two nights at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on May 9 and 10, concluding with a show at Spark Arena in Auckland, New Zealand, on May 13.
Ticket sales will commence with presales starting on November 18, 2025, at 1 PM local time, followed by general sales on November 21, 2025, at 2 PM local time.
Background and Context
Formed in 1988, Deftones have established themselves as a cornerstone of alternative rock, blending heavy guitar textures with atmospheric soundscapes. The band has sold over 10 million records globally and amassed more than 10 billion streams. Their influential discography includes the Grammy Award-winning album "White Pony" and their latest release, "Private Music," which debuted in 2025.
The upcoming tour follows Deftones' participation in the 2022 Good Things Festival, marking their return to Australia after a significant hiatus from headline shows.
Special Guests and Support Acts
Joining Deftones on this tour are Interpol, known for their influential post-punk sound, and Ecca Vandal, an Australian artist recognized for her genre-defying music. Chino Moreno, Deftones' frontman, has expressed admiration for Interpol, particularly praising their debut album "Turn On The Bright Lights."
Official Statements & Responses
Deftones have emphasized their excitement about returning to Australia and New Zealand, stating that these shows will be a chance for fans to experience their immersive live performances. The band aims to deliver a setlist that spans their extensive career, showcasing material from their ten studio albums.
Criticism & Opposition
While the tour has been met with enthusiasm from fans, some critics have noted the unusual pairing of Deftones and Interpol, suggesting that their musical styles may not align perfectly. However, both bands have a shared history of mutual respect, which may enhance the concert experience.
What's Next
Following the Australia and New Zealand tour, Deftones will embark on a UK and European tour in early 2026, with additional festival appearances planned, including the inaugural Texas edition of the Sick New World festival.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Every great band has that one time in their career where everything lines up and everything's firing on all pistons,” — Chino Moreno, Frontman of Deftones
- “ It added: “‘Private Music’ once again finds the band as masters of beauty and brutality rolling over the horizon in one stunning but powerful storm.” — NME Review
This tour promises to be a significant event for fans of Deftones and alternative rock, showcasing the band's evolution and enduring appeal in the music industry.
