Sound: Once again they pack multi-part, mini Metal operas into 2-4 minute, super-catchy hits. Songs can sharply but seamlessly turn from frenetic thrash to Eastern European or Reggae-flavored, harmonized sing-alongs to anthemic, theatrical rock. It’s a bit lighter and more melodic than their
previous albums.
Look For: Anti-Bush/war rants and anti-Hollywood/fame statements
Note: Guitarist and co-producer Daron Malakian has taken on much more of the vocal and lyrical duties…with occasionally cringe-worthy results
Also note: Mezmerize is part 1 of double album; Part 2 – Hypnotize - is expected to be released this fall
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Revenga“; “B.Y.O.B.“; “Cigaro“
Medium Rotation tracks: “Violent Pornography“; “Sad
Statue“
Recommended: Half of the album is excellent, must-have System of A Down, but the other half is average to embarrassing. Their bold wackiness has always been one of their greatest traits; at times it goes too far here. Clocking in at a lean, 36 minutes and intended as the first half of a double album, it makes you wonder if they should have trimmed some of the fat and combined the two discs into one great album.
Grade: B+ (Slight chance of being one of my Top 20 Albums of 2005)

(As posted 5/30/05 on davepowersmusic.com)
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