System of a Down frontman Serj Tankian has opened up about his experience recording the band’s last two albums, Mezmerize and Hypnotize, revealing that he felt emotionally distant during the creative process.
In a recent interview with Metal Hammer, Tankian admitted he had “emotionally checked out” while working on the 2005 releases, a period that ultimately led to the band’s extended hiatus from 2006 to 2011.
“I had a very unique relationship with the last few records because I had, to a certain degree, emotionally checked out of the band while making them,” he explained. “Because of the push and pull, I became very passive. There was music I wanted to bring in that I felt like I couldn’t… I was in a weird place. I contributed creatively, but I didn’t… I don’t know. I needed oxygen – I felt like there was too much going on.”
Despite his detachment at the time, Tankian still recognizes the quality of the work. “I still think those songs are great,” he added. “But when I think back on it, I also remember that it was a weird phase of my life, and that’s something I have to be aware of as well.”
This isn’t the first time the singer has spoken about his struggles during this era. In past interviews and his autobiography Down With The System, Tankian has been candid about losing interest in the band’s dynamics during those years.
While System of a Down hasn’t released a new album since 2005, their legacy endures, and Tankian’s reflections offer insight into the challenges behind their creative process during that time.
Photo: Clemente Ruiz
