Toxicity, System of a Own's second studio album, saw the band solidify their unique sound and achieve significant commercial success. It features a blend of heavy riffs, complex arrangements, and the band's signature vocal interplay, making it a landmark record in 2000s alternative metal.
- The album was recorded at Cello Studios and Sound City Studios in Los Angeles, California. It was produced by Rick Rubin and the band, with mixing handled by Andy Wallace. Titled "Toxicity," the album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, selling over 220,000 copies in its first week.
- "Chop Suey!" and "Toxicity" were released as singles from the album, with both receiving considerable airplay on rock radio and MTV. The album's critical and commercial success cemented System of a Down's status as one of the most prominent bands in the alternative metal scene.
- Despite its commercial success, Toxicity was notable for its lack of traditional song structures and its challenging lyrical themes, which explored political and social issues without compromise. The album has since been certified multiplatinum by the RIAA.
System of a Down is a hard rock band formed in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles in 1994. They are best known for their distinctive vocal harmonies, rapid-fire vocal delivery, and politically charged lyrics. At the time of Toxicity's release, the band was riding a wave of mainstream success, building on the momentum of their 1998 self-titled debut and their growing reputation for intense live shows.
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