System of a Down

Toxicity

First released2001

Toxicity, the second studio album by System of a Down, was recorded between 2000 and 2001 at various studios including The Palms and The Mix Room in Los Angeles. The album was produced by Rick Rubin, known for his minimalist production approach, alongside the band members themselves, who took an active role in shaping the sound. The production process emphasized the band's distinctive blend of heavy metal riffs with Armenian folk melodies and unconventional song structures, utilizing both traditional instruments and electronic elements. Rubin's production choices stripped away excess production to highlight the raw intensity of Daron Malakian's guitar work and Serj Tankian's vocal performances. The album was released in September 2001, becoming a major commercial and critical success that established System of a Down as a leading force in alternative metal.