Description
System Of A Down – Toxicity – Vinyl Record
Toxicity is the critically acclaimed second studio album by the Armenian-American heavy metal band System of a Down, released on September 4, 2001. This album is often regarded as one of the defining works of the nu-metal and alternative metal genres, blending the band’s unique fusion of thrash metal, punk rock, Armenian folk music, and political themes.
Toxicity showcases System of a Down’s signature eclecticism, with songs that range from frenetic, aggressive metal riffs to melodic, haunting passages. The album incorporates unusual time signatures, rapid tempo changes, and frontman Serj Tankian’s dynamic vocal delivery, which spans from operatic singing to guttural screams.
Notable Tracks
Chop Suey!
One of the band’s most iconic songs, ‘Chop Suey!’ is known for its abrupt shifts between soft, introspective verses and explosive, guitar-driven choruses. The lyrics explore themes of mortality, guilt, and redemption, with Tankian delivering a theatrical performance.
Toxicity
The title track is a complex and dynamic song that features odd time signatures (notably 6/8 in the verses) and a powerful vocal performance. Its lyrics critique modern society’s dysfunction and consumerism, asking profound questions about societal balance.
Aerials
Closing the album, ‘Aerials’ is an anthemic track that combines introspective lyrics about human nature with an atmospheric musical arrangement. The song earned the band a Grammy nomination and became one of their most successful singles.
Prison Song
A politically charged opener with rapid-fire lyrics that examine the U.S. prison system and the war on drugs.
Toxicity was both a commercial and critical success. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and has been certified multi-Platinum in several countries. Its release coincided with the events of September 11, 2001, which led to some controversy surrounding its politically charged content, especially with songs like ‘Chop Suey!’ being temporarily pulled from some radio stations.
The album cemented System of a Down’s status as one of the most innovative and impactful bands of the early 2000s. Its fusion of global influences with metal and its unabashed social commentary have made Toxicity a timeless and influential work in the rock and metal canon.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Prison Song
Needles
Deer Dance
Jet Pilot
X
Chop Suey!
Bounce
Forest
ATWA
Science
Shimmy
Toxicity
Psycho
Aerials
Arto (Hidden Track)
