The Class of '98-SyStEm Of a DoWN



The deal: Angry LA-based noise merchants,hotly tipped by "those in the know" as one of America's brightest new bands.Falling somewhere between Rage Against the Machine and Coal Chamber, they churn out the kind of ugly racket that first made people get all hot and bothered about Korn.They actually cite their influences as everything from "Mid-Eastern folk to jazz to death metal".Which is nice.

The line-up:Daron Malakian (guitar),Serj Tankian (vocals),John Dolmayan (drums), Shavo Odadjian (bass).Formed three years ago.

The vibe: Early days yet,but the buzz on the band is colossal.After a whopping bidding war,the band have just recently signed to Columbia.

Out now: Not a sausage.We' ve heard their demos,though,and they are enough for us to start dribbling on about them right here.Obviously.You can write to the band c/o Velvet Hammer Management at: 9877 Carmelia Avenue,Beverly Hills,California 90210,USA

Out next: Their first LP is currently being recorded, with legendary Slayer producer Rick Rubin at the helm.

Destined to be: The next big agit-politicos.Which means that this time next year, they won't be doing any interviews,will be living in a kibbutz, and donating all the cash they make to the Third Liberation of Algeria Front.Or something.