DEFTONES’ Chino Moreno Opens Up On Stephen Carpenter’s Touring Reluctance

Deftones guitarist Stephen Carpenter has largely remained absent from the band’s international tours over the past few years, a decision that has left fans curious. Carpenter first announced in 2022 that he would sit out non-domestic shows, explaining at the time, “With everything going on in the world, I’m just not ready to leave home and leave the country yet.”

While some speculated that Carpenter’s reluctance might stem from conspiracy-related beliefs, his Sol Invicto bandmate Richie Londres clarified that this wasn’t the case. In fact, Carpenter revealed in 2024 that anxiety and discomfort with air travel were the primary reasons behind his decision. Deftones have since adapted, bringing in guitarist Lance Jackman as a fill-in when needed.

In a recent interview with Metal Hammer, vocalist/guitarist Chino Moreno addressed Carpenter’s absence and his own understanding of it. He stated:

“I don’t want to speak for him. And even if I could, I still don’t have an answer. Really, I don’t. It’s still something I think he is figuring out. And if he does have an answer, I think it’d be great if one day he would share it. But yeah, we support him. We have to. He’s our friend. His health, be it physically or mentally, always takes the forefront of anything. It’s sad — I want him onstage with us at every show. But it literally comes down to two ways to deal with it: we accept what he can and will do, or we just don’t play. And we want to play.”

Carpenter has also recently learned he has type II diabetes, a condition that had been affecting his energy levels without proper management. Despite these challenges, he is expected to join Deftones for the next leg of their North American tour in support of their highly anticipated 10th studio album, private music, set for release on August 22nd.

With Phantogram & The Barbarians Of California:
08/22 Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena
08/24 Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place
08/25 Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome
08/27 Winnipeg, MB – Canada Life Centre
08/29 Minneapolis, MN – Target Center
08/30 Milwaukee, WI – Fiserv Forum
09/01 Buffalo, NY – Key Bank Center
09/07 Quebec City, QC – Centre Videotron

With IDLES & The Barbarians Of California:
09/08 Montreal, QC – Bell Centre
09/10 Cleveland, OH – Rocket Arena
09/11 Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena
09/13 St. Louis, MO – Enterprise Center
09/15 Denver, CO – Ball Arena
09/17 Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center

With System Of A Down, Polyphia & Wisp:
09/03 Toronto, ON – Rogers Stadium
09/05 Toronto, ON – Rogers Stadium

Deftones Headline:
09/19 Atlanta, GA – Shaky Knees
09/20 Louisville, KY – Louder Than Life
10/03 Sacramento, CA – Aftershock
11/16 Mexico City, MEX – Corona Capital

Moreno’s comments offer fans insight into Carpenter’s challenges while reaffirming the band’s commitment to continue performing and touring together, even when adjustments are needed.

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