Exclusive vinyl editions of Foundations available for pre-order alongside the digital release
Serj Tankian, the lead vocalist and lyricist of the Grammy®-winning rock band System of a Down, is preparing to release his latest musical project, Foundations, on September 27 via Gibson Records. The five-track EP, now available for pre-order, is a reflection of Tankian’s musical journey, featuring songs that span different eras of his career and reframe them within a hard-hitting, rock-centric context.
Foundations explores a wide range of sounds and emotions, embodying what Tankian describes as “music of rebellion.” The EP is a testament to his enduring creative spirit, offering a blend of styles that have defined his work over the years.
The limited-edition colored vinyl variants of Foundations
In addition to the earlier digital release, Tankian will offer three exclusive limited-edition colored vinyl variants of Foundations on November 1. These will be available for pre-order at the Serj Tankian Store, Revolver Magazine, and various U.S. record stores. Each vinyl edition will feature a special etching on Side B, with versions including a Red & Black Starburst, Opaque Purple, and Dark Blue Marble vinyl.
The EP’s standout track, “Justice Will Shine On,” is a hard-hitting anthem addressing the Armenian genocide. Tankian draws on his family’s painful history, turning their suffering into a declaration of resilience. The song has already gained traction, being featured on SiriusXM’s Octane and the nationally syndicated Loudwire Nights radio program.
Other tracks on Foundations include “Appropriations,” which juxtaposes Eastern and Western musical elements, and “Cartoon Buyer,” a song that builds from a folk-like beginning to an explosive, cathartic conclusion. The EP closes with “Life’s Revengeful Son,” a track that blends acoustic and electric guitars with orchestral elements, delivering a powerful message through vivid imagery.
Tankian recorded Foundations primarily at his Serjical Strike Studios in Los Angeles, and he also contributed the artwork for the EP cover, “Sunburst.” Foundations caps a prolific year for Tankian, which included a massive System of a Down concert at Golden Gate Park and the release of his memoir.
Foundations is set to be another powerful addition to Serj Tankian’s diverse and ever-evolving body of work.
Image: Serj Tankian’s Foundations EP cover art features one of his original artworks, “Sunburst”
What is the tracklist of Foundations?
- “A.F. Day”
- “Justice Will Shine On”
- “Appropriations”
- “Cartoon Buyer”
- “Life’s Revengeful Son”
Image: Serj Tankian’s debut memoir, “Down With the System” from Hachette Books
The companion memoir: Down with the System
Tankian’s Foundations EP is a companion to his memoir, Down with the System, a New York Times bestseller that delves into the philosophies and passions driving his life both within and outside of music.
The EP’s opening track, “A.F. Day,” dates back nearly three decades, originating from Tankian’s early days with System of a Down. The song retains much of its original sound, including Tankian’s vocals, and delivers a powerful message against indoctrination and blind obedience. Tankian felt “it should finally be released.”
Tankian adds that the Foundations EP is “A retrospective of songs from different eras of my life, meant to complement the memoir.”
Looking ahead, Tankian hints at future projects, potentially including a record of covers, collaborations, and collages. Reflecting on his creative process, he states, “I’m always moving in different directions. Repetition is boring, and the death of art.”
Watch the official video of “Justice Will Shine On,” and read Serj Tankian’s memoir for an in-depth look at his incredible journey and creative vision.
