Mezmerize
by System Of A Down
  • Record Label: Columbia
  • Release Date: May 17, 2005
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 484 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 423 out of 484
  2. Mixed: 22 out of 484
  3. Negative: 39 out of 484

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  1. ChiIIaoi
    Jul 19, 2023
    8
    Review só pra lembrar a nota que eu dei pro album:
    album mt bom, agora só escrever pra passar dos 75 caracteres.
  2. DonldTrump_45Th
    Jan 26, 2023
    10
    Hello, this is a default review because i'm forced to use 75 characters. I'll edit this review in the future talking about the game, don't worry ;)

    My final rate is: 10
  3. dminyard92
    Oct 22, 2022
    10
    One of my favorite albums ever. This album is perfection from beginning to end, starting with the gentle picking of "Soldier Side (Intro)"and ending on the poignant notes of "Lost in Hollywood". It's a roller coaster ride of thrash metal and operatic vocals in between. The guitar tuning and production are stellar. It is so crisp and clear. Rick Rubin is a generally safe bet for a producer,One of my favorite albums ever. This album is perfection from beginning to end, starting with the gentle picking of "Soldier Side (Intro)"and ending on the poignant notes of "Lost in Hollywood". It's a roller coaster ride of thrash metal and operatic vocals in between. The guitar tuning and production are stellar. It is so crisp and clear. Rick Rubin is a generally safe bet for a producer, most of the time. He hits the mark big league here. Every song on the album is great with no weak links. I wish there was a couple more songs on there because I enjoyed it so much. 5 Notable songs: Revenga, Cigaro, Violent Pornography, Old School Hollywood, and Lost in Hollywood. If you enjoyed this album, Hypnotize (the counterpart album released later that year in 2005) is a great album as well, albeit not as strong.… Expand
  4. Frankxyni
    Mar 17, 2022
    10
    Album stupendo,forse un pochino ripetitivo,ma merita,lo ascolto sempre, ormai le tracce le so a memoria!
  5. cvnefedmn
    Feb 9, 2022
    9
    I think this is System of a Down's worst album, but it's still an extremely good album.
  6. t_stvntman
    Dec 7, 2021
    5
    both toxicity and steal this album are among the greatest albums of all time in my opinion. in these two albums, SOAD shows us their own music style tht was created by themselves by adding eastern european influences to metal. but this album simply destroys everything they built in the previous two recordings by being just a generic metal album. this album was made by SOAD, but in myboth toxicity and steal this album are among the greatest albums of all time in my opinion. in these two albums, SOAD shows us their own music style tht was created by themselves by adding eastern european influences to metal. but this album simply destroys everything they built in the previous two recordings by being just a generic metal album. this album was made by SOAD, but in my sincere opinion, it doesn't represent them.… Expand
  7. TOOLfan
    Oct 7, 2021
    8
    Very good, but not the best SOAD album. BYOB and Radio/Video are pure genius.
  8. patrigshefa
    Sep 4, 2021
    10
    En mi opinión y tantos años de escuchar a SOAD, es el mejor álbum que tienen hasta el día de hoy. Una de las mejores bandas que existió en los 2000, con tantos problemas políticos y sociales en el mundo, SOAD fue una de las pocas bandas en dar visibilidad a las problemáticas, mientras otros artistas solo iban tirando dinero. SOAD en este álbum intenta despertar a la gente de las idiotecesEn mi opinión y tantos años de escuchar a SOAD, es el mejor álbum que tienen hasta el día de hoy. Una de las mejores bandas que existió en los 2000, con tantos problemas políticos y sociales en el mundo, SOAD fue una de las pocas bandas en dar visibilidad a las problemáticas, mientras otros artistas solo iban tirando dinero. SOAD en este álbum intenta despertar a la gente de las idioteces cotidianas de una sociedad plagada de imbecilidad, con letras muy directas, poco profundas pero metafóricas. En cuanto al sonido, los matices son dinámicos, varían mucho, podemos notarlo en Radio/Video. La intensidad es cambiante en todas las canciones de la lista. Sin duda uno de los mejores álbumes de la época de los 2000.… Expand
  9. MrIslamic
    Apr 28, 2021
    9
    This is only my second album from System, and I am surprised that it is nearly as good as the last one. I think Toxicity is better just because it has Chop Suey and Toxicity but this album still surprised me with how much I liked it.
  10. Lanxturn
    Apr 8, 2021
    9
    Besides my bias on this album for the fact that this is my favorite album of all time, I do genuinely think that this album is almost near perfection. Serj and Daron's smooth and sexy vocals can woo you in or the rapid fire guitar blasts and rhythms can rope you in as well. The message and artstyle of this album is beauty and flows spectacularly. Of course, this is not their best album andBesides my bias on this album for the fact that this is my favorite album of all time, I do genuinely think that this album is almost near perfection. Serj and Daron's smooth and sexy vocals can woo you in or the rapid fire guitar blasts and rhythms can rope you in as well. The message and artstyle of this album is beauty and flows spectacularly. Of course, this is not their best album and this album does have some flaws. It is a new sort of branching away from how system usually did their songs in their slef titled album and Toxicity, so it's understandable if you were a hardcore fan of those two albums and hard some trouble adjusting to Mezmerize. I'm also a stickler for my least favorite song in the album; This cocaine makes me feel like I'm on this song, as it's trying to recapture some of the old style of the crude and heavy rock from toxicity and their self titled album, however it feels quite odd compared to the other songs in this album. Some of the placement of the songs is not particularly my cup of tea but as long as it works, which it does, then that satisfies me. Overall, I'm a massive fan of SOAD and this album especially, however I understand their are far more toxicity fans then there are Mezmerize fans, and that's ok. If you're a new fan into SOAD or you'd like to check it out, it's best to start on toxicity then move to Mezmerize.… Expand
  11. clem666
    Jan 21, 2021
    9
    Definitely as short as intense. You don't have to wait more than 1 minute 30 seconds to realize what you are listening to. I am not really a great fan of metal but I have to recognize that System of a Down has a powerful sense of rhythm. They always manage to get diversified even if they remain faithful to themselves. The number of genres they approach in 'Mezmerize' is really staggering.Definitely as short as intense. You don't have to wait more than 1 minute 30 seconds to realize what you are listening to. I am not really a great fan of metal but I have to recognize that System of a Down has a powerful sense of rhythm. They always manage to get diversified even if they remain faithful to themselves. The number of genres they approach in 'Mezmerize' is really staggering. Riffs are changing and electrifying, drums are varied and strong. Silences are perfect because they always announce that another musical and lyrical storm is on its way.
    This project is obviously violent but that doesn't mean at all it is not clever. On eleven tracks we can see only three of them do contain explicit lyrics. But eleven do contain ingenious sparks.    … Expand
  12. FilmGuyDude
    Nov 1, 2020
    10
    Hands down my favorite album. Every song is a pulse pounding work of art, silly as can be too with that "Cigaro" track. I jam to it every road trip!
  13. ricelord
    Mar 4, 2019
    10
    Honestly not a single bad song on this record. SOAD's best record which easily can't be beaten. Good use of humour within a metal album. They truly are kings of their genre.
  14. King-Leonidas
    Oct 14, 2018
    10
    Coming back over a decade after this album was released, nothing has changed at all. This album is an absolute timeless classic. Whatever it is that the band is saying about why they haven't released another album, I can come up with my own guess as to why; I honestly think they feel like they can't top this album. This is their true pinnacle and no other album comes close to touchingComing back over a decade after this album was released, nothing has changed at all. This album is an absolute timeless classic. Whatever it is that the band is saying about why they haven't released another album, I can come up with my own guess as to why; I honestly think they feel like they can't top this album. This is their true pinnacle and no other album comes close to touching this, not even Toxicity (which is also stellar). However, if they do decide to come back and release another album, then I truly hope they can at least come close to this gem. 10/10… Expand
  15. Andremax
    Aug 9, 2018
    9
    Mezmerize contains Toxicity's weight and insanity and Steal this album's ecleticism and melodic sense, that even more expanded with Malakian's vocals. All of this in only 36 minutes of listening.
  16. Lukeduke19
    Jun 14, 2017
    10
    Definitely they're best album. SOAD again proves why they are one of the best Nu metal bands of all time! You wont waste time listening to this, especially "Lost in Hollywood" and "Radio/Video".
  17. MentalMetalGuy
    Nov 17, 2016
    8
    Mesmerise is so good. It’s not as hard and heavy as their debut, nor as melodic and dark as Toxicity, but it has a very quirky, and niche charm, mixing comedic and electronic elements. The album, like every SOAD album is extremely re-listenable, but this one in particular comes closer to the success of Toxicity because of the non-stop attack of solid songs, each very distinctive from oneMesmerise is so good. It’s not as hard and heavy as their debut, nor as melodic and dark as Toxicity, but it has a very quirky, and niche charm, mixing comedic and electronic elements. The album, like every SOAD album is extremely re-listenable, but this one in particular comes closer to the success of Toxicity because of the non-stop attack of solid songs, each very distinctive from one another.

    Soldier Side:
    I love it when SOAD take the time to set the mood, or even just slow it down for a bit, making it easier to listen to, and better paced than a constant barrage of hard hitting and manic songs. This is melancholy sounding intro, and I believe a full version of this song can be found on Hypnotise, which is a nice touch, really drawing those two albums closer together.

    BYOB:
    Edgy and fast, just like something off of their earlier albums. This song is a huger hit, and works on a few levels. Firstly the writing is lively, and the delivery of the lyrics is manic and exciting, especially at the ending “why do you always send the poor?”. Instrumentally the riffs are very similar to the title track of Toxicity (especially the ending of that song, compared to the intro of this one) just play Toxicity, and the BYOB back to back, and it would sound like the same song, in a good way.

    Revenga:
    The eastern-inspired sound of the vocals reminds me of why I love Serj’s voice so much. There is a lack of good lyricism in this song however, and makes the classic mistake SOAD make, where they repeat the same few phrases over and over again. This song despite this is a real head-banger, and is just a joy to listen to.

    Cigaro:
    Besides being hilarious, this song has so much raw and catchy instrumental work. The riffs are off the charts when it comes to the chorus, with the high notes spiralling down make the song just so “bouncy” in nature, and easy to listen to. Strangley, the lyrics being stupid as they are, do sound like they carry some social commentary (possibly in the vapid nature of our consumerist society, maybe?).

    Radio/Video:
    Just like Revenga, there is so much eastern sounding singing and instrumental work on this song. Lyrically it does the thing of shouting a chorus over and over, but has a softer, more melodic segment, like anything off of Toxicity. Really it works in its own strange way, and actually sounds like it could get radioplay, because of how accessible it is.

    This Cocaine Makes Me Feel Like I’m on this Song:
    Besides the stupid name this song ROCKS, like really is a heavy piece of headbanging. Reminds me so much of their debut, and is a classic example of not needing to be complex to make a re-listenable song. Sure anybody can write a 10 minute epic with multiple solos, but most SOAD songs have so much impact in only a fifth of that time.

    Violent Pornography:
    Lyrically I actual relate to this song. So much messed up stuff is available especially nowadays online, that people are becoming less profound, and more desensitised to very stupid and strange things, like bizarre pornography involving torture, and bestiality. Ugh. The song also has a nice melody, and keeps the average song quality on the album high.

    Question and Sad Statute:
    The two weaker songs on the album essentially just fill a gap. The riffs are usual SOAD, and the lyrics especially for Question are super, but they don’t have too much impact through either a melodic edge or even that hard hitting guitar. Can’t really say too much on this topic.

    Old School Hollywood:
    This is such an uncharacteristic song for SOAD. Daron has a lot of the vocal work on this song, which I personally do not like, but he does do his best lines here (“Tony Manza cuts in line” I think the words were). There is a very cheesy robotic voice going “old school Hollywood” is just a pointless touch, which you either love of hate. I mean this is like SOAD’s D’yer Maker, strange, but isn’t downright terrible, and has a lot of actual value to the song. The story behind the song isn’t too bad either.

    Lost In Hollywood:
    I really cannot get over Daron’s voice. I just don’t see why they would use him over Serj. The song itself is pretty great. Reminds you of a less emotional version of Spiders (minus the good vocals). I do however like the lyrics here. Touching on the same things Aenima did, this song talks about the pricks who live in Hollywood, and the false and sinister nature of the eccentric larger than life characters that inhabit the streets. The lyrics are well written and can easily be interpreted, and are a nice long song to finish the album on. I do recommend this, even if I do see missed potential in the vocals.

    Overall I do like this album (very slightly more than Hypnotise), but I do fear that they lost most of their political and social edge in the lyricism, besides the songs I named. The instrumentals don’t at all work as well as their early stuff. The drumming does not even come close to their early stuff, and there are fewer, less interesting hooks in this. The guitar still has the edge visible in BYOB, but is lost towards the end.    … Expand
  18. TheQuietGamer
    Oct 12, 2016
    10
    System Of A Down at their most focused, energetic, and craziest. Everything you love (or hate) about the band is amplified in every way. The result is an incredible album that doesn't let up for a second.

    The lyrical themes, the constant barrage of punk flavored metal, and nonstop insanity of their sound and messages elevate the band into territory few others will ever reach. System Of    System Of A Down at their most focused, energetic, and craziest. Everything you love (or hate) about the band is amplified in every way. The result is an incredible album that doesn't let up for a second.

    The lyrical themes, the constant barrage of punk flavored metal, and nonstop insanity of their sound and messages elevate the band into territory few others will ever reach. System Of A Down knows what makes them System Of A Down. The refinement and focus they've put into their sound needs to be heard to be believed.

    They bring a personality to their music that's so very unique. The tracks come at you with such potency and ferocity that it's hard not to get hooked. The sarcastic sense of humor and smart social commentary the band is known for still meld together perfectly. When it comes to Mezmerize, there simply isn't anything else like it out there. That's because most band's just don't have the talent to pull something like this off.    … Expand
  19. Michalis
    Mar 15, 2016
    5
    The worst System Of A Down album! Songs like This Cocaine Makes Me Feel Like I'm On This Song are just awful! Hypnotize was very good and I can't belive it is the second half of Mezmerize... The best song here is Lost In Hollywood.
  20. RyFox
    Mar 10, 2016
    10
    And this is what is known as a 10/10 album. Every song is good despite a few of them being a little...odd (looking straight at Cigaro and This Cocaine Makes Me Feel Like I'm On This Song).If you only have a bit of money to buy songs, I recommend getting either B.Y.O.B., Cigaro, Violent Pornography, Question, and Old School Hollywood first.
  21. skyminster
    Jan 6, 2016
    6
    Mezmerize is hugely inconsistent. There's a handful of great songs, a handful of decent songs and a handful of bad songs. Thanks to the great songs, though, it stays decent-ish; but still underwhelming, mostly because of there being too much Daron Malakian.

    65/100.
  22. AadityaW65
    Jul 11, 2015
    6
    Some people this isn't heavy enough, and not as good as their other previous albums (my personal favourite is "Steal This Album!"). While that stands true, Mezmerize definitely provides a good listen, however not as original or awesome as its predecessors. One of the worst parts of this album is Daron Malakian's singing, which he does on almost all tracks. His voice is nothing compared toSome people this isn't heavy enough, and not as good as their other previous albums (my personal favourite is "Steal This Album!"). While that stands true, Mezmerize definitely provides a good listen, however not as original or awesome as its predecessors. One of the worst parts of this album is Daron Malakian's singing, which he does on almost all tracks. His voice is nothing compared to Tankian's, whose voice shifts and changes from growling to extremely theatrical vocals, whereas Malakian's sounds like someone whining. Overall, SOAD seems to have changed their musical direction more towards hard rock and poppish kind of rock than metal.

    Best song(s): Question! (most original, anyway, what with the million time changes), B.Y.O.B

    Worst song: Old School Hollywood (needs no explanation, absolute crap)    … Expand
  23. AOTfan123
    Mar 25, 2015
    10
    This album is just perfect. All the songs are really catchy and awesome to hear, the highlight of this album was B.Y.O.B which was a great way to start the album after the Soldier Side Intro. considering this album came out almost 10 years old this album is still awesome and I highly recommend this album if you're just getting into SOAD.
  24. dylanlp
    May 10, 2013
    10
    I am unsure whether I could call this my favorite SOAD album that is a really tough question they are all good but this one was great. I don't really have a negative view of any songs on this album they are all really good. The songs range from soft (Lost in Hollywood) to loud (This Cocaine Makes Me Feel on Top of This Song) and they are all perfectly done. If you love SOAD you will loveI am unsure whether I could call this my favorite SOAD album that is a really tough question they are all good but this one was great. I don't really have a negative view of any songs on this album they are all really good. The songs range from soft (Lost in Hollywood) to loud (This Cocaine Makes Me Feel on Top of This Song) and they are all perfectly done. If you love SOAD you will love this I would encourage anyone else to listen too.… Expand
  25. TheWalrus2000
    Mar 11, 2013
    7
    System of a Down suceeds in this album but drifts away from their meaningful songs and sing mostly about cruel sex and ruthless partying and drugs. It also lacks any songs that would be potential hits. Still its a fun album to listen to depending on who you are.
  26. jfrotylpe532
    Dec 22, 2012
    7
    Same as Hypnotize, BYOB,violent you know what,and This you know what makes me feel like I'm on this song are main reasons why I like this album.
  27. AnikM
    Apr 21, 2012
    9
    Very diverse album with an anti-establishment theme to it. Every song tells a great story and melody-wise, it's the best metal album I've ever heard. Daron's shrilling vocals mixed with Serj's power deep vocals creates an amazing sound. You have to pick this album up. Highlights of this album include "B.Y.O.B.", "Radio/Video" and "Lost in Hollywood" and the low point of this album isVery diverse album with an anti-establishment theme to it. Every song tells a great story and melody-wise, it's the best metal album I've ever heard. Daron's shrilling vocals mixed with Serj's power deep vocals creates an amazing sound. You have to pick this album up. Highlights of this album include "B.Y.O.B.", "Radio/Video" and "Lost in Hollywood" and the low point of this album is probably "Old School Hollywood", but that song's not even bad. It's experimental, much like the rest of the album but it's still great.… Expand
  28. ImUnavailable
    Apr 1, 2012
    9
    Mezmerize features System Of a Down at its craziest but also its smartest. Every track is something very different from the last, a sign that the band has lost none of its creativity.
  29. gamerscorhunta
    Jan 31, 2012
    10
    To a surprising degree, Tankien and the crew prove that they still have yet the skill to craft another great album. The album starts with punches and lyrically-brilliant introduction songs, and as the album progresses, the band delved into more of an emotional, looming atmosphere. From the insanity from Cigaro to the emotional and thick atmospherical songs like Sad Statue and Lost inTo a surprising degree, Tankien and the crew prove that they still have yet the skill to craft another great album. The album starts with punches and lyrically-brilliant introduction songs, and as the album progresses, the band delved into more of an emotional, looming atmosphere. From the insanity from Cigaro to the emotional and thick atmospherical songs like Sad Statue and Lost in Hollywood, this is without a doubt the best offering from System, this is a must-buy for those looking for the different kind of music we can only expect out of System of a Down. If you're a fan of the series, you need not look any further that the purchase button on your iTunes store; this is a masterpieces of a rock album. Reccomended Songs:
    1) Sad Statue
    2) Question!
    3) Lost in Hollywood
    4) B.Y.O.B.
    5) Cigaro    … Expand
  30. spadenx
    Dec 9, 2011
    6
    I just didnt like this album. Its nothing like the System of old and IMO they changed for the worst. They are far too mainstream now and this is just a generic album.
  31. asylumspadez
    Nov 24, 2011
    7
    Mezmerize is pretty good, No denying it. I enjoyed most of the tracks off it but the tracks dont really have the originality that the songs from previous albums did and they sounded too much alike.
  32. helloworld1066
    Nov 22, 2011
    9
    This is by far, SOADS best album. Every single track up until the hollwood section is a metal fans heaven. Of course the without the inclusion of B.Y.O.B and Cigaro this album would not have reached as far as it did, but as its stands this is pure brilliance
  33. Spielberg00
    Sep 10, 2011
    7
    Behind TOXICITY, this is System of a Down's best album. A lot of the songs, as with the band's other work, are really, really cool, but the only ones truly worth listening to are "B.Y.O.B" and "Question!".
  34. manurock
    Aug 22, 2011
    8
    A more melodic compared to previous album with some great songs like "lost in hollywood", "question" or "soldier side" which are more molodic sort-of prog.rock/alt.metal. Other good hard-rocking songs are "violent pornography" and "old-school hollywood". You will also find a few "stupid" tracks (in my opinion) like BYOB or the cocaine one but they have to please their all-time fans so no problem.
  35. MooziikMaster
    May 8, 2011
    10
    It is very hard to find people that work that well together to create one of the greatest bands in the world. Mezmerize is one high point of System of A Down. Most of their previous work is phenomenal. This album is flawless throughout every chord, beat, and word. This album has a bit of a new sound to it compared to Toxicity and Steal This Album!. From the beginning of the album with theIt is very hard to find people that work that well together to create one of the greatest bands in the world. Mezmerize is one high point of System of A Down. Most of their previous work is phenomenal. This album is flawless throughout every chord, beat, and word. This album has a bit of a new sound to it compared to Toxicity and Steal This Album!. From the beginning of the album with the calm "Soldier Side - Intro" leading into the intense, heavy "B.Y.O.B.", to the end with the depressing "Lost In Hollywood", and just about everything in between, this album is one of the many amazing albums this band has to offer. The best tracks are "B.Y.O.B.", "Revenga", "Cigaro", "Radio/Video", Violent Pornography", "Question!", and "Lost In Hollywood". Buy it now!!!… Expand
  36. ZeTsUbOuBi11y
    Nov 11, 2010
    7
    Average album overall. Not SOAD's best album but still a heavy album. B.Y.O.B, Cigaro, Radio/Video and Violent Pornography really make the album worth listening to.
  37. ViviO.
    Apr 5, 2008
    10
    OMG, the words are easy so it's easy to scream along to and YOU WILL want to scream a long to this!
  38. Deanna
    Mar 5, 2008
    10
    Possibly SOAD's best album. It is pretty much perfect. Some people say it is too political. 2 of the songs are Violent Pornography and This Cocaine Makes Me Feel Like I'm On This Song. Political? Not so much. It really has something fror everyone. If you like fast, in-your-face songs, then B.Y.O.B. might be the song for you. If you like slow, depressing, skip to Lost In Possibly SOAD's best album. It is pretty much perfect. Some people say it is too political. 2 of the songs are Violent Pornography and This Cocaine Makes Me Feel Like I'm On This Song. Political? Not so much. It really has something fror everyone. If you like fast, in-your-face songs, then B.Y.O.B. might be the song for you. If you like slow, depressing, skip to Lost In Hollywood. And there is everything inbetween.… Expand
  39. KraigB.
    Mar 5, 2008
    10
    In my opinion, SOAD's best album to date. If you gave this album anything less than a 6 regardless of not being a metal fan, you can't say you truely like music.
  40. Mislav
    Dec 6, 2007
    9
    Awesome album. That is the most accurate (and only slightly biased) way to describe it.
  41. JoelC.
    Oct 31, 2007
    8
    Getting a little too political lyric.ally, but that is forgiven as this album is near flawless otherwise.
  42. SidL.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    SOAD's best album to date if you ask me. Their dynamic, creative, and simply awesome metal sound...that's a given. But they manage to put a large percentage of the world's problems into perspective, war. War's a party, they say sarcastically, a party that will just shoo away all the world's evil...when really it creates evil, increasing death and decay, achieving little.
  43. TeodoraK.
    Sep 25, 2007
    10
    This album deserves a 10 hands down.
  44. StephenL.
    Jul 9, 2007
    1
    System of a Down should never, and I repeat, NEVER be compared in any way with Frank Zappa. It's a disgrace to MR. Zappa. And do you really buy the "We have a political opinion and we ain't happy" rhetoric? My dog is more politically active than System of a Down. I gave this album a 1 because, if you're looking for typical mainstream music to tide you over until the System of a Down should never, and I repeat, NEVER be compared in any way with Frank Zappa. It's a disgrace to MR. Zappa. And do you really buy the "We have a political opinion and we ain't happy" rhetoric? My dog is more politically active than System of a Down. I gave this album a 1 because, if you're looking for typical mainstream music to tide you over until the corporate media tell you to like something else, this is it.… Collapse
  45. SimonB
    Jun 3, 2007
    8
    I wasn't impressed after so many listens to this album. But man those guys sure can make good music. You can't go and compare a hill with a mountain. SOAD's far from being the best band ever. But their lyricism is definitely top-notch. I'd like to see them sing with Bustah Rhymes one of these days. They did make a song with Wu-Tang Clan in the past and it worked well. I wasn't impressed after so many listens to this album. But man those guys sure can make good music. You can't go and compare a hill with a mountain. SOAD's far from being the best band ever. But their lyricism is definitely top-notch. I'd like to see them sing with Bustah Rhymes one of these days. They did make a song with Wu-Tang Clan in the past and it worked well. Okay, so this album is full of what-have-you's. SOAD like to turn the volume up and give it their all. And why not? It's a great way to make an evening's entertainment- even though anyone that is used to listening to SOAD knows their songs are very pre-mature in their endings. They shoot bullets at tons of people and it's fun to see that some of those that review this album have no idea what is said. Maybe just having ears ain't enough pal. You need culture, too. Culture helps liking SOAD more.… Expand
  46. ForsakenMemory
    Mar 9, 2007
    8
    Not their best album but still wicked! i wont givew this a 10 as being a musician just finishing my own first album myself im just highly critical of all bands. i still laugh at people who dont get their lyrics or lyrical style though! and think that they are educated in music because they say that system of a down sounds pop! the simple fact is that system of a downs lyrics are highly Not their best album but still wicked! i wont givew this a 10 as being a musician just finishing my own first album myself im just highly critical of all bands. i still laugh at people who dont get their lyrics or lyrical style though! and think that they are educated in music because they say that system of a down sounds pop! the simple fact is that system of a downs lyrics are highly influenced by that of frank zappa and if youve ever listened to him you will her the connection instantly. system of a down create their popularity by being political and serious about their issues but at the same time not arrogent enough to take them selves too seriously. Forsaken memory is highly influenced by system of a downs music and their live preformances rock! its great to see systems drummer now using a double kick pedal too! rock on system!… Expand
  47. SergeS
    Dec 27, 2006
    10
    Don't you forget System Of A Down
  48. ALAL
    Nov 3, 2006
    10
    I thought this was a completely creative album as all of their others have been. Old School Hollywood brought a new element and new potential for SOAD. The instrumental on this album is new and shows how versitle they can be. Most important they sing a message we can all learn from. Instead of just making an album on how great it is to be a musican or how u party they focus on political I thought this was a completely creative album as all of their others have been. Old School Hollywood brought a new element and new potential for SOAD. The instrumental on this album is new and shows how versitle they can be. Most important they sing a message we can all learn from. Instead of just making an album on how great it is to be a musican or how u party they focus on political and social issuses, we need more bands like that.… Expand
  49. KyleS
    Sep 22, 2006
    10
    I love this albumn...LOVE!!I don't care if people say they don't like this albumn.But I f***** hate it whaen f***ers say this is bad or is crap and so on.shout your f***** mouth!
  50. Myles#13
    Sep 6, 2006
    10
    Simply phenomenal album, well worth the long wait after 'Steal This Album!'. 'Mesmerize' is a fantastic CD that is so political and FUN at the same time. Do buy this... you will be pleasantly rewarded.
  51. Rusty
    Aug 7, 2006
    2
    I am a HUGE fan of System of a Down, and couldent wait to get my hands on this cd when it came out.....i was very disapointed, I am giving this album a 2 comparing to the other albums, there were a few good songs on this album, but i think the people who really like this album are more into alternative/popish music, because this is what i thought of the album, probaly some of their worst I am a HUGE fan of System of a Down, and couldent wait to get my hands on this cd when it came out.....i was very disapointed, I am giving this album a 2 comparing to the other albums, there were a few good songs on this album, but i think the people who really like this album are more into alternative/popish music, because this is what i thought of the album, probaly some of their worst songs ever......… Expand
  52. Peterf
    Aug 4, 2006
    5
    whats happened to these guys?! i mean y have they change so awkwardly. Old school hollywood would ha to be the wrost song ive ever heard. Old school hollywood baseball? what a load of crap! Darron has now stuffed the band completely, can't believe this got a higher mark than toxicity and their first album. This is their worse album and it hursts to say that being a big S.O.A.D fan.
  53. beny
    Jul 5, 2006
    10
    This is hands-down the best cd i have ever heard. That is not an exaggeration. The musical genius of System of a Down is easily apparent in each and every song. Most albums have only a few real quality songs, but this one has 11 (all of them)! The only reason that people say they don't like this disc is because they can't handle the strong opinions that SOAD expresses. This is This is hands-down the best cd i have ever heard. That is not an exaggeration. The musical genius of System of a Down is easily apparent in each and every song. Most albums have only a few real quality songs, but this one has 11 (all of them)! The only reason that people say they don't like this disc is because they can't handle the strong opinions that SOAD expresses. This is truly a must-have!… Expand
  54. EdwardS
    Jun 13, 2006
    9
    Love this CD. Favorites are Radio Video, Violent pornography, BYOB, Old School Hollywood, and Lost in Hollywood
  55. ChrisJ
    Jun 12, 2006
    5
    This is System of a Down's worst album to date, by far. The songs are not creative, and little musical talent is shown. Lyrics to many of the songs are pointless and contrived.
  56. Loesv
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    Great CD! Creative, melodic.. it's breathteaking and it never fails to surprise you. I recommend this greatly
  57. OdessaS
    May 26, 2006
    10
    I love this album. Very experimental and creative. Serj is an artist. So is everybody else in the band. 20 years from now they will still be talked about.
  58. jj
    May 18, 2006
    1
    This was one of the worst ever and I collect music- this was like a buzzsaw droning in my head. I sold it the next day and got something I could stand to listen to- Alice in Chains, and Saliva. Save your money!
  59. I.Lynch
    Mar 26, 2006
    5
    Its not a bad album, but i think they try to force their opinions on people a bit too much. Toxcicity is much better.
  60. TiagoM
    Mar 24, 2006
    10
    i have only one feeling about SOAD.. i´m greatfull for the day, back in 98, that i bought SOAD´s first album.. i´m addicted to them ever since. i think mesmerize/hipnotyze album are truely SOAD´s masterpiece. this guys know what they are doing and they are doing it perfectly well. a fresh new sight on metal.i dont know what they will do next.."more of the same" as i have only one feeling about SOAD.. i´m greatfull for the day, back in 98, that i bought SOAD´s first album.. i´m addicted to them ever since. i think mesmerize/hipnotyze album are truely SOAD´s masterpiece. this guys know what they are doing and they are doing it perfectly well. a fresh new sight on metal.i dont know what they will do next.."more of the same" as some critics call? great!!! i will be here to listen and listen and listen and..........… Expand
  61. NateC
    Mar 21, 2006
    10
    I hadnt heard any system of a down before this CD, borrowed it, listened to the songs, and now i have Toxicity and Steal this album as well... SOAD is to uniquely awesome for words!
  62. stevenn
    Mar 21, 2006
    7
    ok i admit, this was my first SOAD album, but surely not my last, when i first heard Mezmerize, i was stunned, i couldnt get the echoes of "my **** is much bigger than yours* out of my head. but after a while, i realized that the music may be good, as an album it is really disjointed, or really random in other words, if you have not heard this album, pick it up, its good, just a little to ok i admit, this was my first SOAD album, but surely not my last, when i first heard Mezmerize, i was stunned, i couldnt get the echoes of "my **** is much bigger than yours* out of my head. but after a while, i realized that the music may be good, as an album it is really disjointed, or really random in other words, if you have not heard this album, pick it up, its good, just a little to disjointed for me, but Hypnotize remains my favorite SOAD album… Expand
  63. JakubJ
    Mar 8, 2006
    10
    I am from Czech Republic and SOAD is best music on the world. Sorry for bad english.
  64. HaZe303
    Mar 1, 2006
    10
    I love this album... one of the best modern rock albums... best mix of melody and old plain headbanging rock.... I love it... Watch out... you could get whipplashed... :)
  65. SeamusS
    Feb 16, 2006
    3
    It's a tried peice of pretentious crap that smells long after you've experienced it.
  66. ryanw
    Feb 8, 2006
    10
    the best music........EVER!!!!!
  67. AlexFR
    Jan 17, 2006
    0
    Horrible new age bullcrap. They jump the liberal bandwagon, and write bad lyrics to go with it. The repetitive power chords tend to hurt my ears.
  68. benjid
    Jan 16, 2006
    0
    different doesnt mean good......and this album is wierd (in a bad way) and is so far from good i am shocked
  69. AlecS
    Jan 8, 2006
    10
    this disc changed my views on music forever. The constant throb of rock spewed from the pulpit of systems sound led me to new levels of musical aprecaation. The only thing i iwould say is that this cd really could have done without "old school hollywood" it was not a strong additon to the musical flavor of the album. However the essentials of the disc include: "B.Y.O.B" , "This Cocane this disc changed my views on music forever. The constant throb of rock spewed from the pulpit of systems sound led me to new levels of musical aprecaation. The only thing i iwould say is that this cd really could have done without "old school hollywood" it was not a strong additon to the musical flavor of the album. However the essentials of the disc include: "B.Y.O.B" , "This Cocane makes me feel like im on this song" what? as well as the astounding "violant pornography" over all fantastic. p.s. Hypnotize rules. if we fall we all fall and we fall alone… Expand
  70. ConorTheLeprechaun
    Jan 7, 2006
    9
    This was a bloody good achievement for the SOAD boys, being reviewed well by almost all magazines and articles that I have come across. This album in particular, shines over Hypnotize and, in my opinion, Toxicity. The tracks on this album are different to those in toxicity because of the varying in styles. This has been noticed by Rolling Stone and other magazines. When told that his This was a bloody good achievement for the SOAD boys, being reviewed well by almost all magazines and articles that I have come across. This album in particular, shines over Hypnotize and, in my opinion, Toxicity. The tracks on this album are different to those in toxicity because of the varying in styles. This has been noticed by Rolling Stone and other magazines. When told that his album was voted the best of 2005, Kanye West stated that he thought SOAD would give him a run for his money and would be in the top 5 (Rolling Stone, Yearbook 05/06). This varying in styles can be seen throughout the albums tracks, these are: -"Soldier Side - Intro" this track was a lead up to the fantastic full length song on the Hypnotize album -"B.Y.O.B." was an anger fuelled track mixed in with a pop-like chorus, delivering a spectacle of music that had to be heard to be believed -"Revenga" was an opera influenced track varying in speed with a catchy chorus that could have you singing instantly but once you actually read the lyrics you can see the demeaning nature of the track and the sharp point that it delivers -"Cigaro" was like "Revenga" in its layout but hits us with a strange argument "My cock is much bigger than yours, my cock walks right through the door" that perplexes the listener and then the chorus hits, totally different in style. -"Radio/Video" was a track that I emmensly enjoyed, being catchy from start to finish and as used throughout the album, a variation between the guitar driven "hey man look at me rockin out" to the pop finish of that line, mirrored throughout the song -"This Cocaine Makes Me Feel Like I'm On This Song" was a strange addition to the album with a collection of screaming lines and a great guitar change in tune -"Violent Pornography". Don't look perplexed at the sight of the title, this so happens to be one of the best tracks on the album, delivering to us three sections, the reccuring "everybody...", the speed of the lyrics finished with a woo hoo and the chorus which states the crap put on our TV screens. This line up of changes was exactly why many listeners tuned in to this album because of its originality. -"Question!" was one of the more mellow songs on the album and ended up more like a soft rock song than the metal we are used to hearing -"Sad Statue" was an amazing track which I bonded to instantly because of the excellent songwriting and lyrics swept up into your brains that will have you either reciting or humming the tune for days -"Old School Hollywood" was one of the fun tracks on the album that provided us with a pop style sound and catchy lyrics different to SOAD's normal style. This is why many reviewers have panned this song because they don't feel that it's right for SOAD, i though think that it's an enjoyable tune -"Lost In Hollywood" was the track I bonded to the least because of its mellow nature without the spark that the other songs had Overall SOAD's album is a keeper, something to shove on your ipod, in your stereo and ultimately in your collection because this album is a fine example that protest albums can sound good and prove a point.… Expand
  71. GregH
    Dec 28, 2005
    9
    The album could have done without "Old School Hollywood." Also, the person who mixed the album needs to use a consistent volume setting-let the band do the adjusting.
  72. AS
    Dec 26, 2005
    9
    My Review: Some of the best SoaD songs are in this album without a doubt. Even the chaotic Vicinity of Obscenity is compelling to listen to and extremely catchy. Hypnotize (song) has a very powerful tune, living up to the band's capabilities. Tentative starts off slightly awkwardly, and what isn't the chorus is a little too tuneless for my tastes. The chorus itself has My Review: Some of the best SoaD songs are in this album without a doubt. Even the chaotic Vicinity of Obscenity is compelling to listen to and extremely catchy. Hypnotize (song) has a very powerful tune, living up to the band's capabilities. Tentative starts off slightly awkwardly, and what isn't the chorus is a little too tuneless for my tastes. The chorus itself has SoaD's classic consistancy that I see as unique beauty. Dreaming has a compelling tune and insightful lyrics, and the same goes for /most/ of U-fig. Particularily the ending bits, where the tempo slows down a bit. Holy Mountains is one of their songs that has a calm tempo, but is far more powerful than most fast songs can accomplish- that goes for SoaD in general. The track "Lonely Day" has a touching tune, but the lyrcis, particularily "the most loniest day of my life" are a bit of an embarrasment rather than touching or serious in any way. With those, and Attack, which is mediocre, SoaD is still going strong, with uniquely deep, striking tunes and songs that will keep fans very, very occupied. -14,Can.… Expand
  73. gdoggH
    Dec 11, 2005
    8
    great album
  74. wendyb
    Dec 10, 2005
    10
    it's great!!
  75. AustinP.
    Dec 6, 2005
    10
    brilliant!
  76. gaetanor
    Dec 5, 2005
    10
    after hearing this, i became obsessed with SOAD. I just can stop listening to them. ive learned every song.
  77. AlexC
    Dec 4, 2005
    9
    Last two tracks are my only complaints.
  78. EhabA
    Nov 27, 2005
    10
    this is one of the great albums
  79. BrianP
    Nov 23, 2005
    10
    Without a doubt, THE rock album of 2005! Furious riffing combined with SOADs staple caustic political statements combine to form on hell of an amazing piece of work!
  80. CalebA
    Nov 22, 2005
    10
    Absolutely fantastic CD. It's not always the most sensible, but it's energy is amazing as well as it's originality. I love it.
  81. PeterM
    Nov 22, 2005
    1
    There is no questioning this is their best work!
  82. OctavioO
    Nov 21, 2005
    10
    Love it. Electrifying music that soothes and liberates the soul. This band has has surpassed its expectations making this album one of their top albums.
  83. tzubazao
    Nov 21, 2005
    10
    amazing,... best album in 2005, love the lead singer(s)
  84. BenS
    Nov 21, 2005
    9
    No, i'm not going to be some overenthusiastic fan who puts 10, 'revenga' is crap and 'old school hollywood' and 'sad statue' are slightly dull but the other 7 more than make up for it. 'BYOB is a classic, classic track, thrilling and original it carves through the minds of wimpy indie or poppy kids in a searing delight. 'Cigaro''s No, i'm not going to be some overenthusiastic fan who puts 10, 'revenga' is crap and 'old school hollywood' and 'sad statue' are slightly dull but the other 7 more than make up for it. 'BYOB is a classic, classic track, thrilling and original it carves through the minds of wimpy indie or poppy kids in a searing delight. 'Cigaro''s bizareness pays off in a hurtling stunner of rapid tempo changes and tumbling wordplay. 'this cocaine makes me..' and 'violent pornography' are alt metal riffing classics, (although admittadly the end of vp does turn a tad stale. 'Radio/video' is a mass of electicness in one superb song. 'lost in hollywood' however is argualbly the greatest track, gentler, sinister and slightly disturbing the mix of voices works to a t. All this with a serious political message. Rarely if ever have albums been this thrillingly original.… Expand
  85. AustinP.
    Nov 20, 2005
    10
    brilliant!
  86. JimmyB
    Nov 16, 2005
    9
    Albeit ever so slightly short, nothing in this album could be described as filler. A diverse, inventive and suprising album, Meserize is, like many S.O.A.D. album, one whose wide ranging musical techniques prove just how varied metal can be. A must-buy.
  87. MarcoM
    Nov 15, 2005
    3
    I love system of a down;
  88. JasperB
    Nov 13, 2005
    9
    Beyond a shadow of a doubt, this is System of a Down's best work.
  89. MarkoS
    Nov 8, 2005
    10
    Kicks ass. Best metal band of this generation, hands down.
  90. LukeM
    Nov 1, 2005
    10
    absolutely awesome!!! my 1st SOAD album-the one that hooked me in... I now own all of them and think this is one of the best along side their 1st
  91. AL.AL.ck
    Oct 28, 2005
    9
    This album is up there with toxicity eventhough it sounded more pop than the other SOAD album.One of the best album of the year.Period.
  92. CristianT
    Oct 27, 2005
    10
    Cant believe how great this album is. And now the new track Hypnotize is even better.
  93. GabC
    Oct 21, 2005
    9
    Awesome!!
  94. daniels
    Oct 14, 2005
    10
    this is the second best album after toxicity cant wait for Hypnotize
  95. nickc
    Oct 13, 2005
    10
    this rules
  96. GaryG
    Oct 12, 2005
    10
    This is definately their best album (apologies to "Toxicity" fans) and it will kick your butt. Those on the fence, give it a chance, you'll be glad you did.
  97. BillyR
    Oct 12, 2005
    10
    Absolutely great!!!! The 34 minutes are demential.
  98. serjisthebest
    Oct 11, 2005
    10
    definatly there most accomplished work 2 date
  99. JoshM
    Oct 7, 2005
    10
    Awesome album by an awesome band, if you haven't bought it yet, you're missing outt, go out and buy it, best album I have ever heard, still waiting on Hypnotize, I can't wait until November 22.
  100. DarrenL
    Oct 6, 2005
    9
    This album is absolutely brillant! Great work, can't wait for Hypnotize.
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Awards & Rankings

19
#19 Best Album of 2005
5
#5 Most Discussed Album of 2005
12
#12 Most Shared Album of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. E! Online
    91
    You'll be left wondering why other bands aren't so daring.
    Read full review
  2. AllMusic
    90
    Mezmerize doesn't fail to be unique.
    Read full review
  3. Entertainment Weekly
    91
    It's heavy and hooky. [20 May 2005, p.73]
See all critic reviews »