by Chris True

In most cases, bands put out these odds and sods collections for die-hard fans, to fulfill a record deal, or to stall while they're taking seven years to record a follow-up. Steal This Album!, on the other hand, definitely does NOT fit any of those ideals. Firstly, its almost impossible to think of this as an "outtakes" record. System of a Down has managed to make tracks from a seven-year period sound cohesive without having to embellish or sacrifice. Some might argue that maybe they're just treading water. Not true. If System proved anything with 2001's Toxicity, it's that they're one of the few breaths of fresh air out there in mainstream metal land. This collection is no different, and with its amazing pacing, it's hard to not be moved by what this band can do. Secondly, Steal This Album! has everything that a "normal" album release would have; it's heavy without being a burden, political without being condescending, and in some cases, downright beautiful. It's been mentioned that this is the link to what they've done and what they're moving towards. If that turns out to be true, the next one should be a monster.