Down with the System: A Memoir (of Sorts)

Down With the System: A Memoir (Of Sorts) by Serj Tankian — wow. This one hits hard. Not just a band memoir. It’s a raw, eye-opening look at the Armenian Genocide and how it shaped Serj, his family, and so many others. Heavy, important, and impossible to ignore. The behind-the-songs stories were a highlight. You don’t need to be a SOAD fan to feel this book, but if you are? It hits even deeper. The honesty, the emotion behind the music, the fight to be heard — it made me love the band even more. I laughed. I got angry. I cried. Powerful. Necessary. Worth the read.

Great story and great quality book.

Great read, very informative politically in interesting ways. The story of system is not the focal point of the book like I assumed it would be, but I like that it’s just shown as a part of Serj’s life and not the focal point. He comes across as emotionally intelligent, caring, and there are a few nods to a sense of humor as well. Would definitely recommend.

As an autobiography, it's fantastic. As a fan of S.O.A.D. it is informative. As a student of history it is informative especially as regards the Armenian Genocide. Highly recommend

Regardless if you’re a System of a Down fan or not, this book is fantastic. It touches over the real world travesty of the Armenian Genocide, the inception of his foray into music and that journey, the journey of his family to where he is now as an adult, and the storytelling as a whole weaves a rich tapestry that keeps one hooked. I even got the audiobook version which was a true delight as hearing the story in his voice was like sitting in a room with him and having an enrapturing conversation you never wanted to end. With his laughter, singing in some spots, and joy you can hear in his voice as he reads…you can’t ask for anything more from an author.

so, I'm only on about.. 16 pages in? but, honestly, the book is really interesting so far and really makes me wanna read more. i got this book since i have almost a "fixation" on system of a down and since i really like serj as a person and yknow, how he thinks. its interesting to know more about him and his childhood (and obviously other things). i think this book is a must-need/read for any system of a down fan or people who are fans of serj. this book also brings light to the the armenian genocide (which is bound to make you upset). the armenian genocide is often forgotten, so i really appreciate serj (obv) bringing this to people's attention and how passionate he is about it. i think it's a really beautiful thing. im now just waiting for darons memoir next.. maybe shavos. (plz make one daron and shavo 😞😞) (btw, shoutout to stepan for being a king and cranking 20 push ups!!)

Recently got into SOAD so curious to learn more I had purchased this book. Serj’s writing style is so enjoyable and almost feels like you’re having a good conversation with a friend. 10/10 absolutely would recommend.

Well written and very enjoyable. Love it!

Beautiful memoir from a brilliant artist. Couldn't stop reading from the moment I started.

Easy to read, I really liked Serge's style of writing and thoroughly enjoyed his memoir - his early years growing up in Lebanon, then the USA; how he got into music and the formation of SOAD; his Armenian roots and political views; his family life; his wide-ranging interests and achievements. I would think this book would be of equal interest to SOAD fans and non-fans, it's a fascinating read - Serge is a fascinating person.

Really loved this book! Great author and very interesting.

Really interesting and entertaining read

Great!