All exceptional

The peculiarity of lasting rock band is closely linked with the distinctive voice of the charismatic frontman. There are many singers who sound like Chad Kroeger, Brad Arnold and Pierre Bouvier. But who does sound like Freddie Mercury, Axl Rose or - Serj Tankian. As head of the alternative metal band "System Of A Down" succeeds the feat to give a seemingly playing genre a new impetus. The term "experimental" is replaced by a completely new dimension and writes with albums such as the all-devouring "Toxicity" (2001) or the double release "Mezmerize / Hypnotize" (2005) musical history. However, the double blow followed by the separation of time. Serj Tankian continues with the release of his solo debut "Elect the Dead", the first exclamation mark. Content politically and socially critical motivated, you still feel the proximity to his former band project. "Scars on Broadway" musical response of ex-colleagues Daron Malakian and John Dolmayan. The undeniable artistic origins Here too, though when it comes to success a little behind the debut of former Wegbegleiters. The publications of "Elect The Dead Symphony" and "Imperfect Harmonies" (2010) also demonstrate his versatility that he lives out not only as a singer but also as a poet, songwriter, activist and composer. As an American with Lebanese roots of the fusion of cultures, ideas and ideals openly takes this broad understanding of the way in his music.

And while many still hope for a new "System Of A Down" album, Tankian released his third solo album. "Harakiri" - so the coined by the Japanese Samurai culture title. He moves away from artistic Seppuku, but found the almost perfect balance between melody and heaviness. Energy and thoughtfulness. A plate that stylistically often uses the degrees and motives of "System Of A Down", but more intense, partly poetic / philosophical, dealing with corporate / socially critical topics. From capitalism to the environmental devastation it is questionable motives of humanity in the pillory. Parallel to "Harikiri" he brings the paperwork to a jazz, electronic and a purely classical album to an end. A possible indication that he has been restricted almost entirely in besprochenem here invasion of the usual mix of Art / Progressive Rock and Metal. The single "Figure It Out" could come from old band days in terms of style, pace and madness quite. Similarly, the vocal harmony put forward number "Occupied Tears". The oriental-Asia under painted "Ching Chime" is a new "healthy dose of vocal madness" that makes the difference, not least for simple structured singers. And at the latest when the same title track you have to simply love the plate. Earwig? Goose bumps? Addiction it from you. "Deafening Silence" rolls his mood on a carpet of acoustic and electronic elements. Enchanting accompanied at the microphone by Ange. The power of "Weave on" strings are made to the side. Impulsive, punk-oriented than its predecessor. With influences ranging from goth through electro to heavy rock. "Harikiri" makes "System Of A Down" certainly will not forget, but it is far more than damage control.

Playing tips: "Cornucopia", "Harakiri" and "Occupied Tears"