The Making of Toxicity by System of a Down

Introduction

Released on 4 September 2001, Toxicity by System of a Down remains a cornerstone in the world of alternative metal. This album, known for its powerful themes and innovative sound, solidified the band’s place in music history. With a blend of alternative metal and nu-metal, it transcended genre boundaries, leaving a lasting impact.

In this article, we’ll explore the album’s creation, recording process, commercial success, and more. We aim to provide a comprehensive look at what makes Toxicity a standout record.

Described as “one of 2001’s top metal releases” by Eduardo Rivadavia of AllMusic, Toxicity was praised for its innovation and impact. As Daron Malakian stated, “We wanted to add a bit more harmony,” showcasing the band’s evolution from their debut album.

The Genesis of “Toxicity”

The early 2000s were a transformative period for metal music. System of a Down emerged from this era with a unique sound, blending heavy metal with Armenian folk influences. Their self-titled debut in 1998 set the stage for what was to come.

Prior to Toxicity, the band had already made waves with their aggressive style and politically charged lyrics. Their debut album was well-received, establishing a dedicated fan base. This momentum carried them into the creation of Toxicity.

The primary creative forces behind the album were band members Serj Tankian and Daron Malakian, alongside producer Rick Rubin. Their collaboration brought forth a refined yet powerful sound that defined the album.

The recording of Toxicity was financed by American and Columbia Records, with a substantial budget reflecting the label’s confidence in the band’s potential. The album’s title, Toxicity, reflects its themes of societal and environmental issues, encapsulated in its iconic artwork by Shavo Odadjian and Mark Wakefield.

Recording Process

Recording at Cello Studios in Hollywood, Toxicity took shape between March and July 2001. The studio’s rich history and top-tier equipment provided an ideal environment for creativity. However, the sessions were not without challenges.

Rick Rubin, known for his stripped-down production style, played a pivotal role. His experience with artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Metallica brought valuable insight. Engineers like David Schiffman and Greg Collins ensured high-quality sound.

The album’s recording was marked by creative disagreements and breakthroughs. The band often engaged in heated debates over lyrics and melodies, reflecting their passion and commitment to the project.

Other Albums Produced by Rick Rubin

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon release, Toxicity quickly climbed the charts, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200. Its commercial success was a testament to its widespread appeal and the band’s growing fan base.

In its first week, the album sold 220,000 copies in the United States. It has since achieved sextuple platinum status, with over six million copies sold domestically and 12 million worldwide.

Toxicity garnered numerous awards, including a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance for “Chop Suey!” Its influence is evident in its inclusion in several “best of” lists, such as Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time.”

Albums Released in 2001 by Similar Artists

• Iowa by Slipknot
• Lateralus by Tool
• Down to Earth by Ozzy Osbourne

In 2001, heavy music saw significant releases, with Toxicity leading the charge. Its awards and recognitions further cemented its place in music history.

Track Analysis

Toxicity featured several singles that became iconic. “Chop Suey!”, “Toxicity”, and “Aerials” each contributed to the album’s success, showcasing the band’s range and lyrical depth.

Note: Songs marked with * were singles. “Chop Suey!” peaked at number 76 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Toxicity” at number 70, and “Aerials” at number 55.

Song Meaning and Lyrics

The lyrics of Toxicity delve into themes of societal chaos and personal struggle. Singles like “Chop Suey!”, “Toxicity”, and “Aerials” offer profound insights into these themes.

“Chop Suey!” explores themes of self-perception and judgment after death. The line “I cry when angels deserve to die” reflects societal views on substance abuse. For more on its meaning, visit Song Meanings and Facts.

“Toxicity” critiques societal disorder, questioning how one can own chaos. Its environmental undertones highlight humanity’s impact on nature. The song’s lyrics can be further explored at Song Meanings.

“Aerials” discusses themes of freedom and perspective, urging listeners to look beyond superficial concerns. While specific chart data for “Aerials” is unavailable, it remains a fan favourite.

Touring and Promotion of Toxicity

To promote Toxicity, System of a Down employed various strategies, including music videos and live performances. The band toured extensively, playing shows across the United States and Mexico.

Their tour included a notable performance at the Grand Rapids, Michigan’s Van Andel Arena in October 2001. This tour, despite challenges, helped solidify the album’s success.

System of a Down shared the stage with Slipknot during 2001, creating memorable performances for fans. These collaborations highlighted the band’s prominence in the heavy music scene.

Influences and Legacy

The musical influences behind Toxicity are diverse, drawing from genres like folk, progressive rock, and Middle Eastern music. These elements combined to create a unique sound.

Released in 2001, Toxicity emerged during a year marked by significant global events. The September 11 attacks, for instance, influenced the album’s reception. That year also saw the release of films like Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, marking a cultural shift.

Five Things about Toxicity

Here are five intriguing facts about Toxicity that you might not know:

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Toxicity received widespread acclaim upon release. Critics praised its innovation and thematic depth, solidifying its place in music history.

After Toxicity

Following Toxicity, System of a Down released Steal This Album! in 2002, featuring tracks recorded during the Toxicity sessions. The band’s popularity soared, leading to successful albums like Mezmerize and Hypnotize in 2005.

Despite a hiatus starting in 2006, the band reunited for tours and released new music in 2020. As of December 2024, System of a Down remains active, with members pursuing solo projects alongside band activities.

Conclusion

Toxicity continues to resonate with listeners today, thanks to its powerful themes and innovative sound. Its influence on the music industry is undeniable, inspiring countless artists and fans alike.

Further Reading

• Our blog article on Anthrax’s “Sound of White Noise”
• Our blog article on Slipknot’s “Iowa”
• Our blog article on Korn’s “Follow the Leader”
• Wikipedia page for “Toxicity”
• Official System of a Down website
• Columbia Records website

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Toxicity by System of a Down. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!