Some of you are already aware of System of A Down. The LA experimental Metal outfit. A lot of people have a love-hate relationship with their music. Some critics have called it "schitzophrenic" or "Mr. Bungle Light". Whereas some critics have heralded them as the "Next wave of american heavy metal". I personally have been listening to them since their release "Steal This Record" and have followed their career with admiration, confusion, and delight ever since.
Their newest release "Mesmerize" is quite possibly their greatest musical release, and also their most controversial. It is well known within their fandom that they are not too enamored with the political leadership of their adopted homeland. Tracks such as "BYOB" (stands for Bring Your Own Bombs) are an in your face example of their feelings. This song is 4:15 of sheer rant about the bush white house, and the tradition of the less fortunate in the US joining the military for a shot at a better life, and being shipped off to war in the process. The chorus of "Why do they always send the poor?" is a strong indictment against the powers that be. Wondering aloud why those in power don't send their kids into the meatgrinder.
The track "Sad Statue" is a melodic essay about the divisive nature of the subject of Pre-emptive war.
Another track, "Cigaro" is along similar themes, this time they attack the old men in suits that are corporate america and the powers who support them (Gee, i wonder who that could be?). The opening verse of the song "My cock is so much bigger than yours!" Is a metaphor for political and economic power that is backed by the might of the US military.
My favorite verse is actually the bridge chorus of the song.
"We're the regulators that de-regulate
We're the animators that de-animate
We're the propagators of all genocide
Burning through the world's resources, then we turn and hide"
But, this album is far from only being a political rant. They touch other social issues like homelessness in Hollywood. (which as any of you who have ever been there know is primarily made up of teenage kids). The track "Lost in Hollywood" sums up the situation. Starry eyed kids who come out to become famous, and end up being fodder for pimps, drug dealers, and porno producers. The chorus of "all you maggots smoking fags on Sunset Boulevard" is a dead on portrayal of the predators and the prey alike roaming the streets of Hollywood. They also have a nostalgic tone towards the washed up celebs that also populate the city, as portrayed in the song "Old School Hollywood". "Violent Pornography" is a humorous yet scathing attack on the entertainment industry and their method of constantly pushing the envelope of good taste, yet claiming to uphold family values at the same time.
I think my favorite track hands down is the song "This Cocaine Makes Me Feel Like I'm On This Song". It's a frenetic auratory on the psychosis brought on by cocaine abuse.
I love the line "I hope your stepson doesn't eat the fish". I have no idea what their reference point is here. I hope its not literal.
"Mesmerize" is eleven tracks of sheer fury, and is definately worth buying. It's not just for metal fans. It's not just for those who despise the powers that be either. It's a musical experience worthy of "legendary" status.
BUY IT!
Thanks for reading,
thatoneguyinslc