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THE REVIEW
A group considered one of the most original and creative on the Metal scene. A group much loved and much criticized (perhaps) for the last two albums with which they have become quite a bit commercialized... I'm talking about System Of A Down. A phenomenal quartet for those who adore Metal in general. In many ways, they are compared to Nu Metal, due to the structure of their songs, but they simply define themselves as a band in continuous evolution in sound.
Their debut album was released in '98, at the same time when the Nu Metal genre, founded by Korn, was emerging. For this reason, SOAD was categorized in this genre. Having said this, I begin to present their debut Album, which is, "System Of A Down".
The first single released from the Album is "Sugar", followed by "Spiders" and "War". Songs that immediately let the listener know that they are not (actually, they were not) a commercial band. Most of the songs are structured with powerful riffs, growls, and strong rhythm changes. It is by no means a monotonous album; on the contrary, each song has its own "soul" that entices you to listen to them more and more. In the track "Spiders", Serj Tankian (vocalist) manages to give his best by changing pitch in an absolutely FANTASTIC manner!!! Perhaps not the whole album will be liked at first listen, but by listening to it at least 3 times, every single song will be appreciated and considered truly noteworthy.
The 16 tracks that make up the album generally talk about politics, the "decay" that the human mind is undergoing, and the Armenian genocide that occurred in 1915. The lyrics, which at first read may seem monotonous and meaningless, are anything but: they are full of meaning. With this album, SOAD immediately becomes a great star on the Metal scene. In the following years, they will release "Toxicity," which will confirm them as a great band, then "Steal This Album," "Mezmerize," and "Hypnotize" will follow, the latter two definitely different from the previous ones but still meeting great success (even if more in the commercial sphere).
The group is currently on a break. Serj Tankian is about to release his solo CD ("Elect The Dead" to be released on October 22-23), while Shavo is directing Wu-Tang and, together with Daron Malakian, is working on his project, forming a band together with the System Of A Down drummer, named Scars On Broadway.
I recommend all Metal listeners, (and NU in particular) to listen to this group.
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Summary by Bot
System of a Down's debut album is a landmark in metal for its originality and powerful songwriting. The album's raw energy, varied song structures, and meaningful political lyrics set it apart. Despite some initial commercial categorization as Nu Metal, SOAD carved their own evolving sound. Standout tracks like 'Sugar,' 'Spiders,' and 'War' highlight their distinctive style. The review recommends the album especially to metal and Nu Metal fans.Tracklist Lyrics
System of a Down
System Of A Down is an Armenian-American rock/metal band formed in Los Angeles. Core members are Serj Tankian, Daron Malakian, Shavo Odadjian and John Dolmayan. They are known for blending heavy/alternative metal with Middle Eastern influences and politically charged lyrics.49 Reviews
Other reviews
By Darksoul
Serj Tankian is a stunning vocalist, possessing excellent vocal technique that he adapts to the compositions with a schizophrenic and obsessive attitude.
The thirteenth and final track, 'P.L.U.C.K.,' vents all the anger of its exterminated people through truly furious instrumental attacks, leaving at the end a sense of profound sadness.
By alCOOL
This work, ... is the most PURELY SOAD thing the guys have ever created; a 'green lung' of which now... only a barely surviving flowerbed remains.
The album ends with the passionate and heartfelt "P.L.U.C.K.", ... a true scream of anger against the massacres perpetrated by the Turkish government in 1915 against the Armenian people.
