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SOAD's New Albums: Fierce Sound, Forgettable Lyrics
12 Aug
Summary
- System of a Down released two companion albums, Mezmerize and Hypnotize.
- The albums showcase the band's signature aggressive sound with eclectic influences.
- Critics highlight lyrical shortcomings despite the unique musical style.
System of a Down recently delivered two companion albums, "Mezmerize" and "Hypnotize," doubling their musical output in a six-month span. "Mezmerize" arrived in May, followed by its counterpart, "Hypnotize," six months later. These releases are designed to be viewed as a cohesive unit, with "Soldier Side Intro" on "Mezmerize" leading into the concluding "Soldier Side" on "Hypnotize."
The band navigates a fine line between thrash metal and more accessible sounds, often eliciting strong reactions from listeners. On these recent albums, System of a Down incorporates more non-Western musical elements than ever before, alongside rapid-fire thrash tracks and slower, heavier pieces. Moments of unadulterated rock, like "Cigaro" and "Question!" from "Mezmerize," are highlighted as particularly strong.
A notable criticism centers on guitarist Daron Malakian's increased vocal presence, sometimes as lead singer, overshadowing Serj Tankian's distinctive vocals. This shift accentuates concerns about the band's lyrical content, which is described as often nonsensical, filled with forced rhymes, or employing juvenile shock tactics.
Despite these criticisms, the band's unique and ferocious voice remains evident. The albums feature strong tracks like "Dreaming" and "Holy Mountain," showcasing dynamic rhythms and cohesive musicianship. However, questions arise about whether the material could have been more effectively presented as a single, more curated release, with certain songs deemed weaker than others.
