September 30, 2005
Mezmerized
I heard the track "B.Y.O.B." by System of a Down on the radio a couple of weeks ago and was intrigued. The chorus was very catchy but the rest of the song was, how to put this...odd. The vocals were reminiscent of Eastern European heavy metal. I took a chance and purchased the entire album off the iTunes Music Store. It was called Mezmerize by System of a Down.
I got a very pleasant surprise. I haven't heard an album this good since "American Idiot" by Green Day. Politically motivated to be sure but this is no "Pop/Punk" Green Day album. It's a bit more hardcore than that.
Before I go any further I have to mention that my musical taste is quite diverse. If you saw my music library you would swear that I was schizophrenic. Many people will not like the style of music this band plays. It is at times VERY VERY aggressive, so don't go buying this album unless you think you're up to it. I, however, found System of a Down's sound amazingly refreshing. They are a truly unique band. Musically gifted, incredibly creative, with a sound that is tight and clean. Rick Rubin has produced many a great album and this ranks up there with his best.
What else can I say? I like it.
*****