Note: This is Part 2 of the Mezmerize/Hypnotize double album – Mezmerize was released back in May
Sound: More of the same schizophrenic mishmash where blistering thrash and sing-along metal are packed into mini-epics with an operatic flair. Like Mezmerize, this shows a mellower and more melodic side than their previous albums and features many vocal and lyrical contributions from guitarist and co-producer Daron Malakian.
Heavy Rotation tracks: none
Medium Rotation tracks: “She’s Like Heroin“; “Attack“; “Kill Rock ‘n’ Roll“; “Vicinity of Obscenity”
Recommended: This is System of a Down’s least essential album to date. Some signature ideas are revisited in less impressive fashion and it has no standout tracks. Plus, the lack of gaps between tracks can make the songs blend into one ongoing composition. But it’s consistently bold and free of any weak filler. It’s just too bad they didn’t take the best parts of Mezmerize and Hypnotize and combine them into one great album.
Grade: B