SYSTEM OF A DOWN

TOXICITY

System of a Down don't have to worry about having any second release butterflies. The foursome have stayed true to their feelings and convictions to create a solid follow up with earth-shattering, pounding metal.

“Toxicity“ is not far from their '8 self-titled debut which took the heavy music scene by surprise. Serj Tankian continued to voice his inner-thoughts with his eye opening, thought provoking honest lyrics. Touching on social/political matters involving the flaws of incarceration, the availability of drugs to youth, taxes and drug money being used to rig elections and train brutal, corporate-sponsored dictators around the world, as well as the brutality of authorities etc.. Serj has his bases covered. But there are some more entertaining and less serious songs like “Psycho“, dealing with a psychotic, coke-addicted groupie and “Bounce“ which involves a pogo stick. Along with Serj there's Daron Malakian's punding riffs that bruise your eardrums throughout the album while throwing in some of middle-eastern tunes.

Bassist, Shavo Odadjian's twisted, throbbing style ignites the tracks with a violent display of sonic force, drums are excellent cortesy of John Dolmayan.

My only complaint is are that songs are bit short. Some tracks fall under the three minute mark, some under two. But no serious matter, System of a Down are very unique and talented and have made their presence known in the heavy metal scene.