Daron Malakian: I'm "Not Expecting" More New System Of A Down Anytime Soon

While it's clear that System Of A Down’s Daron Malakian is disappointed that the band can't seem to make a new record just yet after comments earlier this week stating that their situation is a "shame", the guitarist hasn't entirely ruled out a new album – but it doesn't sound like it'll be anytime soon.

Speaking to Guitar World, Daron says "Never say never" when it comes to a follow-up to 2005's Hypnotize, but the timeline is pretty unclear. For now, it seems, he's just happy that fans are enjoying their two new songs, Protect The Land and Genocidal Humanoidz.

"We didn’t even know this was going to happen," he explains of the new material. "I was on my way to releasing these songs with my other band Scars On Broadway. Then the situation in Armenia happened and put our differences aside. And our differences are only within the band.

"Personally and outside of the band, everybody gets along reasonably well. There is no hate for each other in SOAD. We’re like a family. A lot of people think, ‘Oh, Serj and Daron don’t get along!’ and no, that’s not true. Serj and Daron get along just fine. But Serj and Daron, or Shavo and Serj, different people in the band will have a different idea of how they want the band to move forward. That’s kinda where our disagreements are at."

When it's put to Daron that "there’s definitely a chance it could happen", then, he responds: "I never say never but at the same time I’m not expecting to do any more with SOAD right away or immediately after this. It really does seem like our fans like these new songs. That’s important to me.

"That’s what it’s all about – inspiring people and future generations to continue the art, the spirit and the evolution of rock'n'roll. We’ve added two new songs to the System catalog that are on the level with everything else that we’ve put out and our fans have accepted it that way, which means a lot to me.

"That’s kinda where we’re gonna leave it for now. If more happens later on, then we’ll talk about that, but for now I will continue doing what I’m doing and everyone else will just continue what they’re doing. It’s all cool though, I’m really pleased with the response we got."

System Of A Down will headline next year’s Download Festival alongside KISS and Biffy Clyro. Get your tickets now.

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