I really doubted the SOAD could top their incredible self-titled debut, but they have...and FAR surpassed expectations. This album is such an amazing accomplishment of modern metal that I find myself almost speechless. Serj Tankian is this generation's Jello Biafra. His lyrics are pointed, political, and biting. He does not flich when giving his opinions, whether it be on the state of modern collegiate education (Shimmy) or the overcrowded penitentiary system of the USA (Prison Song). As a whole work, Toxicity succeeds on EVERY level, the music is raw and hits you like a blast of adrenaline. The best thing about Toxicity is that it plays as a WHOLE album, something that is extremely rare in today's watered down metal climate. Every track on this cd is strong, it is UNRELENTING and BRUTAL. Some of my very favorites are Jet Pilot, Prison Song, Forest, Aerials, and Toxicity. The song Toxicity anchors the album and is the absolute best thing that SOAD has done so far. Bringing in Rick Rubin was a great decision because the strengths of SOAD have been maximized(Tankian's ranting, fast and numerous tempo changes, and Dean's heavy riffing) and the weaknesses simply no longer exist. The track placement on Toxicity is to be commended as well and much credit should go to Rubin. I never thought I would say this but this album smokes TOOL's LATERALUS by miles (and I'm a huge TOOL fan). Toxicity will hit you like a scud missile quick and deadly, but the remains will be with you for a lifetime. HiGhLy ReComMeNdEd.

I loved System of a Down's self titled debut, so naturally I was first in line to buy Toxicity the day it came out. After 3 years of delays and anticipation, I have to say I am not the least bit disappointed. Toxicity shows great growth in the band's talent over the past few years, thanks to grueling touring and the union of SOAD with Producer-God Rick Rubin. The guitar parts are much more complicated and add more depth and personality to the songs. Add in Serj's quirky vocals joined by Daron's background vocals and you have a pretty unique album. The opening track "Prison Song" is more a comfort song than anything, telling the listener that System of a Down refuses to disappoint. Then tracks like Deer Dance and X get crazier and show that there is much diversity in this album, which ultimately makes it superior to their last outing. ATWA, a song based about Charles Manson (yes, you heard me) and his views on the environment is easily my favorite song on here. Very angry and very melodic at the same time. Aerials and Toxicity are two softer songs, which could be compared to SOAD's own Spiders. Psycho is probably the most enjoyable song to sing along to and of course, you can't forget the first single, "Chop Suey!" which is a great choice for a first single, and will definetly earn them the fame they deserve. If you loved System of a Down's first album, you will love this even more. A great album, and I must say, it was well worth the wait.

I had high hopes for this album and surprisingly System of a Downs sophmore release, "Toxicity," doesn't disappoint. I have been a fan of SoaD since their self-titled album. Although I loved that album there were some songs I just didn't care for and I found myself skipping 2 or so songs everytime I listened to it. This is not the case with "Toxicity." Every song is awesome. From lead singer Serj Tankian's rants about the U.S. prison system to the get up and dance song "Bounce," in which he sings about a pogo stick. It's interesting the way Serj's voice and guitarist Daron Malakians voice seem to fit together in harmony. It just sounds so perfect. If you like System of a Down then your going to love this album. If you've never heard System of a Down then chances are you'll still love this album. Pick this one up before you pick up Slipknot's "Iowa," you won't regret it!

I have been looking forward to this album every since hearing their new single "Chop Suey", the blend of acoustic and hammering drums and guitar riffs made it an immediate catch in my head. I also had been hearing a lot of buzz concerning this album's release, which also helped to fuel my desire to purchase it as soon as possible. So when I got it I was expecting a lot out of the album. What I got was a remarkable piece of work that blew away my expectations.

The album starts thumping with the heavy hitting, but very odd "Prison Song", in which the vocalist changes voices several times and once sounds like a nasal Fred Durst. Then comes "Needles" and "Deer Dance" which both have thundering guitars and a very fast drum beat. They also both have beautiful if not odd vocals with amusing, but poignant lyrics. "Jet Pilot" starts out fast then slows down slightly, then picks it up again and continues this way until the end of the song. Has beautiful vocals though, probably one of the best tracks vocally. "X" is a heavy song, that starts out slow, then kicks into some super-high gear, with anthemic lyrics. Good song. "Chop Suey" is a very good song, great mix of speedy beats and acoustic sections. A beautiful song, believe it or not. "Bounce" is another fast song, but seems less serious than those before it, similar to "Prison Song." Decent song, one of the weaker tracks. "Forest" does not have the punk beat, the earlier songs have, but is still a good song. Great vocals and lyrics, sounds similar to Tool. "ATWA" starts extremely slow, but kicks in during the "I don't feel it anymore", and repeats the cycle. Another excellent song vocally and lyrically. "Science" is a cool song that slows down in the middle, then the hammering guitars and drums kick back in with Serj's anthemic vocals. The lyrics seem to convey that he believes religion over science. "Shimmy" is another odd song similar to "Prison Song" and "Bounce", better than the latter. Cool lyrics make this a memorable song. "Toxicity" is a poignant song with powerful lyrics and pounding guitars. "Psycho" is melodic song that talks about cocaine adicts. One of the best tracks on the album. "Aerials" is a harmonious blend of stunning vocals and moving guitar work. The best song on the album, incredible lyrics, great way to end this brilliant album. After the song there is some odd tribal music, not really worth the time to listen to, though.

As a band the musicians are top-notch creating beautiful metal riffs and punk beats. The lyrics are affecting and have great meanings, while Serj Tankian sings, rants, and screams beautifully his passions. These guys are similar in message to Rage Against the Machine, but have their own distinct style. Beautifully done, recommended for fans of Staind, Tool, Godsmack, etc.

O.k., I originally wrote System of a Down off as yet another wanna-be corporate Mtv "nu-metal" band. I WAS WRONG. THIS CD IS FANTASTIC! Yes, I do think that SoaD should get down on their knees and worship at the feet of "Faith No More" (this CD brings "King for a Day" and "Album of the Year" to mind), but they really have their own sound that comes out and distinguishes itself from other bands.

I really liked their first CD, and on "Toxicity" the band is even more polished. The only song that doesn't seem to fit on the CD for me is "Chop Suey!". It sound a little out of place compared to the other music, but that's probably because I've heard it on the radio so much. With good reason, it's a great song!

Anyway, the rest of the CD is a little heavier than the radio hit. I really like the lyrics. The lyrics of most of the songs talk about social or political injustices, like Rage. Unlike Rage, SOAD has a sense of humor and don't seem to take up an issue with Everything.

All in all, I think this CD is a safe buy. Metal friends of mine are split on their opinions of this CD. Some love it, some hate it. The odd singing and rapid time changes could definitely throw a listener off. I know this is often said, but I really believe that if you don't like it at first listen, believe it or not "Toxicity" WILL grow on you. So will their first CD. If you like Faith No More, Korn, and Rage; go ahead and experiment with System of a Down. If you can, see them live, too. Their energy could light the planet! (Am I the only person who thinks that the lead singer of System looks like B-Real on a massive ammount of stimulants?)