Overview

• Daron Malakian told the Ultimate Guitar On The Record podcast he never wanted to replace Serj Tankian and opposed the idea of carrying on without him.
• He rejected Serj Tankian’s claim that a singer was dismissed for lacking growl ability and said the band only briefly tried out candidates.
• Malakian stressed that System of a Down is defined by its original four-member formation and that no replacement talks progressed under his watch.
• The guitarist’s remarks highlight the ongoing creative deadlock that has prevented the band from releasing a full-length album since 2005.
• Though no new studio material is planned, the band maintains sporadic live performances and recent tours have fostered renewed friendship among members.