System of a Down turns it up at benefit

The refusal of the American government to officially recognize the Armenian genocide of 1915 continues to be a source of outrage among Armenian Americans, the largest concentration of whom live in Los Angeles. It’s something manic metal band System of a Down, whose members are all of Armenian descent, has been addressing for years, and on Saturday at the Greek Theatre, on the 89th anniversary of the beginning of the controversial episode, the band took its fight a step further with “Souls 2004,” a benefit concert to raise awareness and money for the issue.

“You’re here for the music,” remarked poet Saul Williams, whose passionate orations preceded System of a Down’s pulverizing performance. “But there’s a message too.”

A news clip related to the genocide, projected on giant monitors before the quartet took the stage, started System’s set off on a somber note. But it also allowed their music to steadily surge, beginning with a pitch-perfect rendition of its hypnotic hit “Aerials” and building with other songs from its breakthrough release “Toxicity” and the more recent “Steal This Album.” Singer Serj Tankian’s rapid-fire rants, while impressive, would have been grating without the balance of his other more soothing vocal guise, an operatic croon that swelled with emotional reflection.

Guitarist Daron Malakian’s intricate instrumental work truly danced with and enhanced Tankian’s singing.

System’s quirky mash of chaotic riffs and majestic, Middle Eastern-flavored melodies manages to be boisterous and beauteous, frantic yet languid and lush. It’s a signature style that’s even more powerful live, and it’s one that should give the band a forum to express its views, political or otherwise, for a long time.