System Of A Down formed in 1994 in California with members Serj Tankian, Daron Malakian, Shavo Odadjian, and John Dolmayan. They gained popularity with their self-titled debut album in 1998, followed by Toxicity in 2001 and Steal This Album! in 2002. Known for their unique blend of heavy metal, punk rock, and Armenian folk music, the band tackled socio-political issues in their lyrics. They went on hiatus in 2006 but reunited in 2010 for a series of live shows and the release of two new albums, Mezmerize and Hypnotize. Since then, they have sporadically performed and released music, with Tankian and Malakian focusing on solo careers. Despite their breaks, System Of A Down remain a beloved and influential band in the world of heavy music.