Finding the Peace in the Chaos: A Guide to the Cleanest System of a Down Songs

When you think of System of a Down (SOAD), serenity is probably the last word that comes to mind. The legendary Armenian-American alternative metal band is world-famous for frantic tempo shifts, chaotic screaming, bizarre vocal trade-offs between Serj Tankian and Daron Malakian, and blistering political fury.

Yet, beneath the layers of avant-garde metal madness lies a band with an extraordinary knack for breathtaking melody, lush vocal harmonies, and haunting introspection. For those moments when you want the brilliant songwriting, gorgeous acoustic textures, and soaring vocals of SOAD without the abrasive screaming—or if you’re looking for tracks appropriate for a more relaxed setting—there is a surprisingly rich catalog of “clean” or melodically driven songs to explore.