John Dolmayan shares what must occur for System of a Down to produce…
During a recent appearance on the podcast But That 1% with Sona Oganesyan, renowned drummer John Dolmayan shed light on the potential for System of a Down to create their first studio album in nearly two decades. Dolmayan expressed willingness to record in any of the band members’ personal home studios, highlighting the desire for a creative environment free of constraints. He proposed a collaborative process where each member would contribute their musical ideas in a specific order, with lead vocalist Serj Tankian initiating the songwriting phase, followed by bassist Shavo Odadjian, and finally guitarist Daron Malakian. This sequential approach, according to Dolmayan, would establish a foundation for the band to embark on crafting a fresh record.
System of a Down’s last studio album, “Hypnotize,” dates back to 2005, marking a substantial gap in their discography. Dolmayan emphasized that this proposed method would serve as a symbolic gesture from Malakian, indicating a profound level of respect and prioritization of the collective creative output over individual contributions. By encouraging Malakian to offer his compositions last in the songwriting process, it signifies a gesture of humility and acknowledgment of his bandmates’ artistic vision. This collaborative dynamic illustrates a shift towards a more inclusive and harmonious approach to creating music within the band.
Dolmayan’s vision for a new System of a Down album is rooted in fostering an environment of mutual respect and creative exploration. By encouraging each band member to bring forth their musical ideas without restrictions, it highlights a commitment to collective creativity and open communication. The proposed method not only prioritizes the contributions of each member but also underscores the importance of collaboration and synergy in the songwriting process. Through this approach, System of a Down aims to bridge the gap between individual artistry and collective vision, paving the way for a cohesive and eclectic new record.
The drummer’s insights offer a glimpse into the band’s evolving creative process, signaling a potential shift towards a more collaborative and inclusive approach to music-making. By advocating for a method that values each member’s input and creativity, System of a Down is poised to embark on a new chapter in their musical journey. With a shared commitment to artistic exploration and innovation, the band is poised to break new ground and deliver a record that embodies their collective vision and creative spirit.