Viral footage has done it again – electrifying fans across the globe with its unbridled energy! System Of A Down's frenzied crowds have shaken the very foundations of the Stade De France in Paris, leaving little doubt that their return to UK shores will be nothing short of explosive. As the heavy metal behemoths embark on their European tour, a tidal wave of moshing and mayhem has engulfed their live shows – including a particularly raucous gig in São Paulo last year that left guitarist Daron Malakian pining for more.
At the French show, fans weren't just about the chaos; many proudly waved Armenian flags, paying tribute to Serj Tankian's heritage and the band's long-standing commitment to raising awareness about the atrocities suffered by Armenians under Ottoman rule in 1915-16. The gesture is a poignant reminder of their advocacy work – an effort that was given significant momentum when former US President Joe Biden officially recognised the genocide in 2021, prompting System Of A Down to express their gratitude.
The European leg has been underway since Sweden last month and promises even more rambunctious nights ahead, with stops in Italy and Germany set before they storm the UK. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will play host to not one but two headline shows – a long-awaited return for System Of A Down's dedicated British fanbase after over a decade away.
In the lead-up to their live shows, fans can get a taste of what's to come with exclusive merchandise and limited-edition pressings of their iconic 'Toxicity' album up for grabs in pop-up shops. The band has been working on new material since reuniting in 2020, releasing singles 'Protect The Land' and 'Genocidal Humanoidz', but a full-length follow-up to 'Mezmerize' and 'Hypnotize' remains elusive – despite Daron Malakian hinting at the root of their creative differences.
Joining System Of A Down on all upcoming shows are Queens Of The Stone Age and Acid Bath, with the latter making their triumphant return to the live stage after a 17-year hiatus. As support slot in Stockholm showcased, even Queens Of The Stone Age's deeper cuts can get a rapturous reception – 'Run, Pig, Run' being one such example, played live for the first time since 2008.