System Of A Down drummer John Dolmayan has voiced uncertainty about recording new music with the band, citing ongoing internal conflicts and drama as major deterrents.
In a recent interview with Lilian Tahmasian, Dolmayan expressed his reservations about returning to the studio. "I don't know if I want it at this point. There's just too much drama involved," the drummer stated, adding that any future recording would require "very strict guidelines."
The band has not released a full album since their 2005 records "Mezmerize" and "Hypnotize." While they did release two singles in 2018 to support humanitarian efforts in Armenia, these tracks were not entirely new compositions.
The creative stalemate stems from various factors, including disagreements over creative input and financial arrangements. Vocalist Serj Tankian has pushed for more equal creative participation and profit sharing, proposals that haven't gained full support from other members.
Political differences have also created tension within the band. While Tankian is known for his liberal activism, Dolmayan leans conservative. Though the drummer acknowledges their political disagreements, he emphasizes that justice and other themes are equally important to the band's identity.
"We don't just sing about politics. We sing about love, death, hate, stupid things, inane things, artistic things, insane things. It's all these things that make System Of A Down so unique," Dolmayan explained.
Despite these challenges, the band continues to perform live shows. Their 2025 tour schedule includes performances across South America and North America, featuring appearances with notable acts like Korn, Avenged Sevenfold, and Deftones.
The band's guitarist, Daron Malakian, has similarly expressed diminished interest in creating new material. In an earlier interview with producer Rick Rubin, Malakian admitted he's "not at the same place" he was a decade ago regarding new System Of A Down music.