Bands we listen to: System of a Down
Supernova Earth #49: April 27, 2022
In this episode we discuss System of a Down, the millennial California band that manages to align within the larger Hard Rock movement, while maintaining a very unique sound from their contemporaries. SoaD’s music is inflected with serious social and political criticism in while maintaining mainstream appeal through progressive, marketable music.
The influence of a band like SoaD can still be seen in today’s music, though they have not released a studio album in nearly two decades. SoaD continues to be highly regarded within the world of Hard Rock, which is undoubtedly tied to their ability to appeal to a mass audience, while directly attacking society’s ills and the dangers of political manipulation. Sadly, the band’s indeterminate hiatus has left a hole in Hard Rock, with no other bands stepping forward to assume their role as “movement music”. While this reality is lamentable, it reflects the highly materialized, narcissistic, nature of our society.
Also, the music just plain rocks.
Songs Played in this episode:
“P.L.U.C.K” - from System of a Down
“Prison Song” - from Toxicity
“Boom!” - from Steal this Album
“BYOB”- from Mesmerize
(Bonus) The Dead South - “Chop Suey” (cover)
Beds utilized in this episode:
King Dubby - “Stalag Riddim” (segment)
The Clash - “Armagideon Time (Dubplate)” (segment)
Production Elements used in this episode (no samples cleared)
Victor Allen (voice)
Stacy Duffy (voice)
Downhillbattle.org “GDub Music Downloading” (PSA)