SOAD's 'Metro': Unearthing The Original Song's Depth

Hey guys, let's dive deep into a track that often sparks conversations among music aficionados and System of a Down fans alike: SOAD's 'Metro'. Many might know System of a Down for their original, politically charged, and incredibly unique sonic assaults, but did you know one of their most beloved live staples and a track that perfectly encapsulates their dynamic range is actually a cover? That's right, we're talking about their phenomenal rendition of 'Metro,' a song originally penned and performed by the new wave band Berlin. It's a fantastic example of how a band can take an existing piece of music, inject it with their own signature style, and transform it into something that feels entirely theirs. This isn't just a simple cover; it's a reimagining, a complete reinterpretation that showcases SOAD's incredible musicality and their knack for finding unexpected angles in familiar tunes. So, settle in as we explore the journey of this particular SOAD Metro original song and uncover why it holds such a special place in the hearts of so many. It's a testament to the power of a great song, regardless of its origin, and how true artistry can transcend genres and eras. We'll peel back the layers, from the '80s synth-pop roots of the original song 'Metro' by Berlin, to the raw, powerful, and unmistakably System of a Down sound that many of us have come to love. Understanding the context of the original track is crucial to truly appreciate the genius behind SOAD's version, and we're going to break it all down for you, highlighting the subtle and not-so-subtle differences that make SOAD's take so compelling. Get ready to have your mind blown by the depth and complexity hidden within this seemingly straightforward cover. We're talking about more than just notes and lyrics here; we're talking about cultural impact, artistic interpretation, and the sheer audacity to make a classic your own. It's a rich tapestry, and we're going to explore every thread, showcasing why SOAD's 'Metro' is far more than just a footnote in their incredible discography.

The Genesis of 'Metro': From Berlin to SOAD's Reimagining

To truly appreciate the brilliance of SOAD's 'Metro', we first need to travel back in time to the early 1980s and understand the context of the original song 'Metro' by the American new wave band Berlin. Released in 1981 on their album Pleasure Victim, 'The Metro' quickly became a cult classic, defining an era with its distinctive synth-pop sound, evocative lyrics, and dramatic atmosphere. Berlin, fronted by the captivating Terri Nunn, crafted a track that was both melancholic and mesmerizing, painting a picture of urban alienation and longing. The song's synth lines were instantly recognizable, weaving a tapestry of sound that felt simultaneously futuristic and introspective. Its lyrical content, which speaks of a fleeting encounter and the haunting memory of a past connection, resonated deeply with listeners who were drawn to its emotional rawness wrapped in a slick, electronic package. The original 'Metro' song wasn't just a hit; it was a cultural touchstone for a generation navigating the complexities of modern romance and identity in a rapidly changing world. Its influence stretched far beyond the charts, solidifying Berlin's place in new wave history and creating a sonic landscape that would inspire countless artists for decades to come. This iconic track, with its pulsing rhythm and ethereal vocals, laid a formidable groundwork, presenting a challenge and an opportunity for any band daring enough to reinterpret it. It's truly fascinating to consider how a song so intrinsically linked to the '80s new wave movement could find new life and relevance in the hands of a band known for an entirely different, far more aggressive, and politically charged genre. This transition is where the magic truly begins.

Fast forward to 2000, and a band known for its genre-bending intensity and outspoken political views — System of a Down — decided to tackle 'The Metro.' This was a bold move, considering SOAD's established sound was a chaotic blend of alternative metal, progressive rock, Armenian folk influences, and experimental absurdity. Their discography up to that point, including System of a Down (1998) and the then-upcoming Toxicity (2001), was characterized by blistering riffs, rapid-fire vocal delivery, and an often confrontational lyrical approach. So, why 'The Metro'? What drew Daron Malakian, Serj Tankian, Shavo Odadjian, and John Dolmayan to this synth-heavy, melancholic '80s anthem? The answer, I think, lies in the sheer quality of the original composition and its underlying emotional depth. Beneath the layers of synthesizers, 'The Metro' possesses a powerful, universal theme of longing and regret that transcends genre. System of a Down has always been adept at channeling raw emotion, whether it's anger, despair, or even subtle melancholy, into their music. They saw in 'The Metro' a foundation that could be stripped down and rebuilt, retaining its emotional core while infusing it with their unmistakable intensity and unique musical identity. It wasn't about mimicking Berlin; it was about internalizing the song's essence and then translating it into the language of SOAD. The decision to cover the song also showcased the band's eclectic tastes and their willingness to step outside the confines of metal, demonstrating a broader musical palette than some might have initially assumed. This boldness, this readiness to embrace the unexpected, is a hallmark of System of a Down's career and a key reason why their version of 'Metro' resonates so strongly. They weren't just playing the notes; they were performing the feeling of the song, filtered through their own unique artistic lens, making the SOAD Metro original song feel both familiar and refreshingly new. It truly is a masterclass in reinterpretation, guys.

SOAD's Distinctive Interpretation: Sound, Style, and Message

When System of a Down decided to cover 'The Metro,' they didn't just play the song; they rebuilt it from the ground up, injecting it with their unmistakable sonic signature. The result is a testament to their incredible talent for musical deconstruction and reconstruction. Where Berlin's original song 'Metro' relied heavily on synthesizers and a sleek '80s production, SOAD stripped away the electronic sheen and replaced it with raw, aggressive guitar riffs, thumping basslines, and pounding drums. Daron Malakian's guitar work on SOAD's 'Metro' is particularly noteworthy; he transforms the iconic synth melodies into powerful, driving guitar hooks that retain the original's haunting quality while adding a layer of grit and urgency. The clean, almost ethereal quality of Berlin's version gives way to a heavier, more visceral sound that is immediately recognizable as System of a Down. This wasn't just a simple note-for-note translation; it was an exercise in recontextualization, taking a pop sensibility and filtering it through a metal lens. The rhythmic foundation laid down by Shavo Odadjian on bass and John Dolmayan on drums is equally crucial, providing a relentless, driving pulse that elevates the song's energy. They take the steady, almost danceable beat of the original and give it a heavier, more dynamic feel, perfectly complementing the intensified guitar work. The entire instrumentation works in concert to create a darker, more introspective mood, without sacrificing the melodic integrity of the original. This is where System of a Down truly shines: their ability to harness their aggressive tendencies and channel them into a powerful, emotive rendition that respects its source material while carving out its own identity. It’s a delicate balance, and they absolutely nail it, showcasing their immense skill not just as performers but as arrangers and interpreters. The sheer musicality involved in this transformation is something to truly marvel at, reflecting a deep understanding of both their own style and the core essence of the original composition.

Then there's Serj Tankian's vocal performance on SOAD's 'Metro'. This is arguably where the most dramatic transformation occurs. Terri Nunn's vocals on the original were cool, detached, and often delivered with a breathy, almost melancholic tone, perfectly suited for the synth-pop landscape. Serj, however, brings his characteristic vocal versatility to the table, oscillating between his signature operatic cleans, strained shouts, and guttural growls. The emotional intensity he injects into the lyrics is palpable, turning the subtle longing of the original into a more desperate, almost anguished plea. His unique phrasing and dynamic range add layers of depth that weren't present in Berlin's version, making the lyrics feel even more poignant and impactful. The line