For fans of: System of a Down, music biographies, rock biographies
There are many words you can use to describe System of a Down: cathartic, innovative, aggressive, outspoken. The Armenian-American alt-metal band has been around for 30 years, pushing boundaries, exhibiting angst, and redefining the political agenda. I was too young to be a part of the commotion when they were on the rise in the late 90s and early 00s (I was more interested in watching SpongeBob and playing with my Barbie dolls), but it was clear that they were important – not only because they were making music that was outside the norm, but because we have a shared past of being Armenian.
When it was announced Serj Tankian was releasing a memoir, I wanted to know what he had to say about this band that everyone has either grown to love or hate and to learn more about his roots. As the title of the book bears the colors of the Armenian flag, it was an indication that Tankian would be touching on more than just System of a Down.
Released in May, DOWN WITH THE SYSTEM is an in-depth look at Tankian’s life both inside and out of the band. He walks us through his ancestry, touching on the impact of the Armenian Genocide and his family’s eventual move to the United States. From there, he gets into his young adult life and the formation of System of a Down. Readers will get all those juicy details about System of a Down’s rise to fame, life on the road and the beginnings of notable songs like “Chop Suey!”
Tankian talks about projects outside of the band and why he later chose to distance himself from System of a Down. When he could, Tankian would try his hand at composition for film and orchestra while also experimenting with new genres on solo albums. We find that Tankian’s identity not only lies with System of a Down, and maybe it never really did.
In between commentary on the band, Tankian reflects on the way that System of a Down made an impact with fans in Armenia. He also shares why his history with the country will always have a hold on who he is as an artist and person. Over the years, System of a Down has released music that contains elements of the Armenian-style music he grew up with, along with lyrics that speak to the political turmoil in the country. Tankian also brings to light the facts of the Armenian Genocide, a senseless tragedy that carelessly and viciously took the lives of over 1.5 million Armenians. It occurred over 100 years ago, and while efforts have been made for it to be recognized, there is still denial that it ever happened. Using their platform for good, the members of System of a Down have done what they could to spread awareness, from holding benefit concerts to spreading information about the Genocide out at shows.
Overall, there is a nice balance of history and music in DOWN WITH THE SYSTEM. I can’t totally say that fans of System of a Down would eat this book up, as it is from Tankian’s point-of-view; certain events and memories are one-sided. However, he does succeed in walking us through the band’s history and highlighting key moments. Those who were drawn to this book for Armenian-related reasons will appreciate Tankian’s willingness to share his family’s story, for explaining what the Armenian Genocide was and why it happened, and for doting on the importance of its recognition.
For anyone who picks up this book and is unfamiliar with System of a Down or Armenia, you will still be entertained, as there are moments that can make you laugh, cry, or anything else “between the sacred silence and sleep.”
Purchase your copy of DOWN WITH THE SYSTEM on Tankian’s official website, here.
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