Steal This Album
by System Of A Down
  • Record Label: Sony
  • Release Date: Nov 26, 2002
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 193 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 177 out of 193
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 193
  3. Negative: 3 out of 193

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  1. mjthadw
    Mar 5, 2012
    10
    The best system of a down album
  2. Saturia666
    Apr 10, 2003
    10
    PERFECT!!!
  3. Andremax
    Aug 9, 2018
    9
    It's musical potential makes you forget that this album are just Toxicity's studio's leftovers. This one trips in many elements like the already-known Armenian influences, progressive chords, acoustic acts, punk and speed metal influences. Steal this album is more complete than Toxicity because it is so stuffed, as by track numbers as the eclecticism and sometimes gives the impressionIt's musical potential makes you forget that this album are just Toxicity's studio's leftovers. This one trips in many elements like the already-known Armenian influences, progressive chords, acoustic acts, punk and speed metal influences. Steal this album is more complete than Toxicity because it is so stuffed, as by track numbers as the eclecticism and sometimes gives the impression that being even better than its predecessor.… Expand
  4. TheQuietGamer
    Sep 30, 2016
    9
    Comprised of tracks that didn't make the final cut of Toxicity, these 16 tracks admittedly don't stand out as among the band's best work. That's not to say the album isn't worth listening to. System Of A Down still rocks and delivers another fantastic album.

    It's not hard to see that the reason these most of the tracks weren't included on Toxicity is because they are softer than most of    Comprised of tracks that didn't make the final cut of Toxicity, these 16 tracks admittedly don't stand out as among the band's best work. That's not to say the album isn't worth listening to. System Of A Down still rocks and delivers another fantastic album.

    It's not hard to see that the reason these most of the tracks weren't included on Toxicity is because they are softer than most of the band's previous material. Guitarist/vocalist Daron Malakian once said that lead singer Serj Tankian "wanted to sing more" and that he "wanted to do all that, yet not lose the heaviness of the band." These are the tracks where Tankian really got to do that.

    While the majority of the tracks carry a more melodic and perhaps softer styles, there's still plenty of that hard sound and punk mentality fans expect. There is a track called F*ck the System after all. The hyperactive tone and brilliantly out there lyrics is also in place.

    These are some high quality outtakes. One's that make for another high quality album. Fans will get to appreciate more SOAD, and those still unfamiliar with the band can pick this up knowing they are going to get some fantastic music. It's also an interesting look into what the group's thought process was like when coming up with Toxicity. It's a release that stands on it's own and makes the band's previous work all the more impressive.    … Expand
  5. MattiasL
    Oct 6, 2003
    10
    Great! It's even a little bit better than "Toxicity"...
  6. MichaelB
    Aug 20, 2003
    10
    Brilliant, got it the day it came out but they left out a few tracks like Johny, Temper and Metro
  7. Anon
    Oct 9, 2005
    9
    It's nuttier than their self-titled debut and heavier than Toxicity. Possibly their best all-round album.
  8. Rusty
    Aug 7, 2006
    8
    I think the System of a Down albums go from best to worst by their first to last, with the exception of Hypnotize, it was a better album than Mezmerize. This is probaly one of their most political albums they put, this album isnt as metal as their first 2, but very good.
  9. sambeezyudothknowthadeezy
    Dec 3, 2002
    7
    I had the original tracks before they were released, and this, as a whole, stays true to the original idea. There are quite a few tweaks here, some of which are counter-productive. I was especially dissapointed by "Thetawaves" which was originally titled "waiting [for you]." The remixed/remastered version is a tragedy to the great original. Get "waiting" off of Kazaa as soon as you can I had the original tracks before they were released, and this, as a whole, stays true to the original idea. There are quite a few tweaks here, some of which are counter-productive. I was especially dissapointed by "Thetawaves" which was originally titled "waiting [for you]." The remixed/remastered version is a tragedy to the great original. Get "waiting" off of Kazaa as soon as you can and compare it to the crappy "thetwaves" and you'll see why this album did not live upto its potential.… Expand
  10. JonY
    Dec 4, 2002
    10
    Like playlouder said, this could be one of the most important albums of the upcoming year. Although I am still having a bit of trouble getting all the lyrics because of Serj Tankian's dynamic vocals, this album seems to be a mix of political, emotional and fun. Great album, I love these guys. Definitely the best rock band out now by far.
  11. jimbobjones
    Dec 4, 2002
    10
    fuking rules
  12. tiffanyd
    Jan 4, 2003
    10
    The best album of the last 100 years. SOAD is in FIRE. Listen this music is Féerique.
  13. DJ_ice
    Jan 7, 2003
    10
    this is my fav system cd ever man but what about your song metro that song is like the shit man thats a great song anyways you guys are great at what you do rock hard man hey surje is the man and oddajian your realy cool to man hey all you guys are hardcore man well thats all i gota say geep pumpin you those sic rimes man.
  14. michaelc
    Mar 29, 2003
    10
    This album rulzzzz and so does toxicity. They're both great.
  15. SoadRocks
    Apr 13, 2003
    10
    awesome as usual...
  16. kombuchamushroompeoplesystemofadownero
    Jun 3, 2003
    9
    GREAT ALBUM!!!!gran albun!!!!...But i like more the first and toxicity...but iam very happy ...with this band..!!!!!!
  17. ChristianC
    Oct 7, 2005
    10
    This band is the best because they got kick ass music.
  18. SeiyenaD
    Apr 6, 2006
    10
    Best Album made by SOAD, it's a real good step up from Toxicity, extremely catchy!
  19. Myles#13
    Sep 6, 2006
    8
    Although it's not their best album, 'Steal This Album!' still rocks unbelievably hard! The only thing that keeps this album out of the class of Toxicity, Mesmerize and Hypnotize is that it doesn't quite... blend as well as the band's other albums. That said, this is still fantastic stuff!
  20. timd
    Dec 24, 2002
    9
    an outstanding collection of b-sides- far better than what most bands would call their A-material. this album is more experimental and has a lot more depth than toxicity in my opinion, and its lyrics are able to explore many more avenues than toxicty. I dont think anything comes close to the raw, frenetic anger of their self-titled album, but this album, with its creative infusion oF an outstanding collection of b-sides- far better than what most bands would call their A-material. this album is more experimental and has a lot more depth than toxicity in my opinion, and its lyrics are able to explore many more avenues than toxicty. I dont think anything comes close to the raw, frenetic anger of their self-titled album, but this album, with its creative infusion oF heavy riffs, progressive style and inspired vocals, does do great justice to the band. top stuff!… Expand
  21. MetalInc.
    Dec 30, 2002
    8
    Not quite as good as the last album...but amazing none the less.
  22. chrisd
    Dec 5, 2002
    10
    System is always true to their style of music, they may be wierd, but true fans can appreciate the hard, but melodic songs that they put out. The songs not only display talent, but they put out messages that the band wants to put out without conforming. They are a great band and I hope to see them in a smaller show again like maybe at Roseland where true fans can show up, go f'in System is always true to their style of music, they may be wierd, but true fans can appreciate the hard, but melodic songs that they put out. The songs not only display talent, but they put out messages that the band wants to put out without conforming. They are a great band and I hope to see them in a smaller show again like maybe at Roseland where true fans can show up, go f'in crazy, and show true appreciation to the band unlike New Jersey did at ozzfest.… Expand
  23. wojtekaaa
    Dec 5, 2002
    10
    The best album I've never seen!!!
  24. DavidE
    Dec 7, 2002
    10
    Rock on dudes!
  25. zacharya
    Dec 7, 2002
    10
    this album by far is the best
  26. JPitt
    Jan 13, 2003
    8
    Tracks 1-9 are fantastic (with the exception of Mr Jack) and then it all goes downhill (except fuck the system)
  27. pk
    Mar 19, 2003
    10
    its as good as everyone of their albums
  28. TeyadS
    Apr 19, 2004
    8
    So is Blender's review positive or negative?
  29. SkoobaSteve
    Apr 21, 2004
    7
    This Albulm showed system's ageing. They sounded like they ran out of ideas, like singing about food (they must have been hungry), but i really enjoyed their medelic songs like streamline and mr. jack. so they should chill out with the screamn' and the yelling because serj has a great voice for melodies.
  30. ??????
    Apr 2, 2004
    10
    This is the latest and greatest yet!! Can't wait until their next album!!
  31. IGnaXo
    Sep 19, 2004
    10
    This is System's best album!
  32. IanC
    Jul 25, 2006
    10
    This is my favorite System album. The songs are crazy as ever in this album. Very fun to listen to.
  33. JoelC
    Oct 31, 2007
    8
    System of a Down are so good... bottom line.
  34. Mithyus
    Apr 16, 2007
    10
    Not as deep, but strong. Really strong.
  35. MichaelP
    Apr 28, 2009
    10
    System of a Down are definitely the greatest band of all time. Each album brings something new to the table, and what they do bring is always amazing. "Steal This Album!" does not fail to impress, and always leaves you wanting to start the CD over again. Each song is memorable, and you cannot listen to a song, and not hum the tune of the next one when it is finished.
  36. EmilS
    Dec 15, 2002
    10
    Steal This Album hold the same high standard as Toxicity.
  37. tommie
    Dec 22, 2002
    10
    System of a Down rules. And the new cd is as good as the last one.
  38. NickW
    Dec 26, 2002
    10
    This album is the shiznit son. I heard S.o.a.d made 3 c.ds and released them at the same time they released steal this album. System of a Down is by far the best c.d. iv'e listened to in a long time.
  39. JasonD
    Dec 4, 2002
    10
    This Album ROCKS!!!
  40. MunkyWrench
    Dec 6, 2002
    10
    I Fling Poo & System plays good s#!t
  41. JesseB
    Dec 6, 2002
    10
    this album, outtakes or not, is as good if not better than both of the other system of a down cd's. it is amazing.
  42. TorieB
    Dec 7, 2002
    10
    This cd rocks. Its about time they have a new one. I dont like the fact how the cd doesnt have a cover or anything, and i want the lyrics but i dont understand how ur soposed to get them.
  43. BrandonM
    Dec 7, 2002
    10
    This is A Kickass Follow Up Cd For S.O.A.D... All you critics Suck! Buh Buh Buh Buhhhh
  44. GeorgeD
    Feb 24, 2003
    10
    This album is awesome!
  45. NickDelV
    Mar 23, 2003
    10
    i love this CD! i listen to it before i go to sleep! and like... i mean i rarrilly listen to secular music, but this i listen to! wow! i love it!
  46. LuisB
    Mar 28, 2003
    10
    This CD Kicks ass. S.O.A.D rocks!!
  47. AndyL
    Oct 21, 2004
    9
    Amazing! Kicks Toxicity in the back side really hard but is unfortunatly left behind from a 10 because it has no real AAA songs like Chop Suey or Toxicity
  48. Rambo
    Nov 17, 2005
    10
    whoever says that this is not a true follow up to the great toxicity is a fool! By far system's best album
  49. JimJ
    Dec 4, 2005
    8
    Good, but not their best.
  50. spongeee
    May 12, 2006
    10
    Maybe their best album...
  51. StephenH
    Dec 14, 2002
    10
    It's an awesome cd and my favourite album of the year. I saw them before in concert and I hope to see them again ,but this time performing all songs off of "Steal This Album!" Another great album by this band. Go System!!!!!
  52. EmilyM
    Dec 31, 2002
    10
    Its really cool and exciting.The first song i find pretty funny.
  53. MarcoM
    Nov 15, 2005
    7
    Very addictive, by far systems
  54. Knyteguy
    May 14, 2014
    10
    I didn't care for this album much when it was released. I think I expected something a little more along the lines of Toxicity. Going back and listening to it without any positive nostalgia has definitely changed my opinion. The whole album is absolutely solid and a joy to listen to. Favorites include A.D.D., Boom, and Mr. Jack.
  55. asylumspadez
    Nov 24, 2011
    7
    I didnt like it as much as I did as their previous album but it shows how much System has come into their own sound and how much they have changed as well.
  56. AWarGuy
    Dec 30, 2010
    9
    This album is amazing, it has some really good stuff in it but it's not my favourite, regardless this album is great and a must for metal-heads alike.
  57. jAbMaN
    Jan 20, 2011
    8
    This is one of my favorite SOAD records. This record is much better than their two recent albums. Toxicity is better but this one is great also.
  58. ImUnavailable
    Jun 27, 2011
    9
    Possible the best SOAD album, combining their criticisms of society (Boom!, A.D.D.) with the unusual, unorthodox style that makes them hard to properly categorize (36, Bubbles). Each song is criminally catchy and covers a wide range of themes; from paranoia to global atrocities to just about everything in between. A crazy but confident album.
  59. AadityaW65
    Jul 11, 2015
    9
    Undoubtedly SOAD's best album, being a perfect blend of their softer side and their kick-ass heavy metal originality. Extremely underrated. As a fan, this is their best.
  60. ElectroHouse
    Feb 29, 2020
    10
    The best album in the world! So, "STA" is second "Toxicity", but better, much better. Best track - "Sreamline", only "Streamline". It looks like first album raped second album, bravo! I advice
  61. cvnefedmn
    Feb 8, 2022
    9
    This album seems a bit rushed. With a little more effort, it could be a masterpiece like toxicity.
  62. MrIslamic
    May 18, 2021
    9
    It’s just more Toxicity, and I love it. Or in other words “ What a splendid pie - Pizza-pizza pie”
  63. ChiIIaoi
    Jul 19, 2023
    9
    Review só pra lembrar a nota que eu dei pro album:
    album mt bom, agora só escrever pra passar dos 75 caracteres.

Awards & Rankings

76
#76 Best Album of 2002
13
#13 Most Discussed Album of 2002
86
#86 Most Shared Album of 2002

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. Playlouder
    90
    This could be one of the most important records of the year.
    Read full review
  2. Ink 19
    80
    Steal This Album is still not the perfect SOAD album, but it's by far their most realized yet.
    Read full review
  3. Entertainment Weekly
    83
    Many of ''Album's'' tunes work as vibrant stand-alone compositions, which not only makes this an impressive disc but also makes ''Toxicity'' seem all the more masterful: Even the rejects sound pretty damn great.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »