It’s official. After years of rumors and speculation, System of a Down have confirmed that they are indeed writing a follow-up to 2005’s Mezmerize/Hypnotize double album. The band’s sixth studio record is coming in 2017.
Drummer John Dolmayan told Kerrang,
“We’ve been working on a new album for the last six months and there’s about 15 songs that I think are album-worthy. We don’t know what’s happening in terms of release, it’s still not 100% as far as plans go.
I want everyone on board and feeling good about it, that’s what we’re trying to accomplish right now. There’s a tremendous amount of pressure on us, though, because it’s been 11 years – at least 12 by the time it comes out.
As John says, next year is going to be a busy one for SOAD. In addition to a new record the band have already confirmed a lengthy European festival tour for the summer.
And if you’re curious what their new music will sound like:
“We’re not trying to make ‘Toxicity’ Part II, just because it was by far our biggest album. This needs to be something for a new generation of SOAD fans, so everyone can see we’re not resting on our laurels.”
System of a Down tour dates:
Jun 01 Zurich, CHE @ Hallenstadion
Jun 02 Nürnberg, GER @ Rock Im Park
Jun 04 Mendig, GER @ Rock am Ring
Jun 07 Nancy, FRA @ Open Air Zenith
Jun 09 Derby, UK @ Download Festival UK
Jun 10 Paris, FRA @ Download Festival
Jun 12 Prague, CZE @ O2 arena
Jun 13 Berlin, GER @ Wuhlheide
Jun 14 Hamburg, GER @ Barclaycard Arena
Jun 16 Nickelsdorf, AUT @ Nova Rock
Jun 17 Krakow, POL @ Impact Festival
Jun 20 Nimes, FRA @ Nimes Festival
Jun 22 Copenhagen, DNK @ Copenhell
Jun 23 Madrid, ESP @ Download Festival
Jun 30 Arras, FRA @ Main Square Festival
Jul 01 Werchter, BEL @ Rock Werchter
Jul 02 Hannover, GER @ TUI Arena