Chantziantoniou, and drummer Roman Lomtadze, who later joined the band as touring members. The album was recorded in 2012, with Malakian explaining the delay by saying "Not knowing what's happening with System has kept me from putting my own stuff out. Too much time has passed, and I'm really excited to finally get some music out finally." Malakian stated that the new album could have been System of a Down music, however members of the band couldn't agree on musical direction. Malakian also confirmed that "Gie mou", a song originally sung by Stamatis Kokotas, was going to be in the album. Additionally, he revealed that he was working with a full band for the band's third release, scheduled to begin recording in August. Musical style From its early days, Daron Malakian always addressed the project as just rock, and "a lot more rock driven, although there will be some metal influences in the System of a Down style". Malakian stated, "I think a System fan will be able to relate to the music, but there's a few different directions I want to take, whether it be a little bit more ethnic or sometimes electronic." In a later interview, Malakian stated that the music would be influenced by classic rock acts such as David Bowie, Brian Eno, Neil Young, and Roxy Music. He also stated that he shifted his songwriting from System of a Down's "frazzled metal" to more song-based work, which was inspired by Neil Young and David Bowie. "I don't feel we're the mosh-pit band," said Malakian. "That's just where I'm comfortable as a writer right now," he said, hinting at the band's rock over metal music approach. He also stated his intentions for the band to "have their own identity" from System of a Down, while still maintaining the same "thematic and sonic territory". Band members Current Daron Malakian — lead vocals, lead guitar (2006–2008; 2010–present); drums, bass, keyboards (studio) Current touring members Orbel Babayan - rhythm guitar, backing vocals, sampler (2018–present) Niko Chantziantoniou - bass (2018–present) Roman Lomtadze - drums (2018–present) Former John Dolmayan — drums (2006–2012) Former touring members Franky Perez — rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2008–2009, 2010), lead vocals, lead guitar (2008–2009) Dominic Cifarelli — bass, backing vocals (2008–2012) Danny Shamoun — keyboards, piano, percussion (2008–2012) Jules Pampena — drums (2012) Timeline Discography Studio albums Singles Music videos References External links Musical groups established in