System of a Down
Aerials
System of a Down's "Aerials" isn't your typical headbanger. Released in 2002 as the third single from their genre-bending album Toxicity, the song remains an enigmatic masterpiece, both musically and lyrically. While the pounding drums and Daron Malakian's signature riffs deliver a powerful punch, it's Serj Tankian's soaring vocals and the song's cryptic message that have secured its place as a modern rock anthem.
Diving Deeper into "Aerials": Lyrics and Meaning
"Aerials" by System of a Down is a song rich in open-ended lyrics that have fueled multiple interpretations. Here's a breakdown of some key parts and their potential meanings:
Losing the Small Mind to Free Your Life:
- Line: "When you lose small mind you free your life"
- Meaning: This central line can be interpreted as rejecting limitations imposed by societal expectations and ego. "Small mind" could represent our overthinking, self-conscious selves. Letting it go allows for a more authentic and free existence.
The Enigmatic Aerials:
- Line: "Come with me and do it again, we'll just float on / Aerials in the sky, I can see them / When I close my eyes"
- Meaning: The "aerials" are a recurring image, open to interpretation. They could represent a state of pure being, a higher consciousness, or even a spiritual awakening. The act of floating implies a release from earthly constraints. Closing one's eyes suggests looking inward to find these "aerials."
The Cycle of Self-Discovery:
- Line: "Come with me and do it again" (Repeated)
- Meaning: The repetition of this line hints at the cyclical nature of self-discovery. Reaching a state of liberation may be fleeting, requiring us to constantly revisit the process of letting go.
Beyond the Obvious:
- Line: "Life is a waterfall / We drink from the river then we turn around and put up our walls"
- Meaning: This line delves into human nature. We readily consume life's experiences but often build walls to protect ourselves, shutting out new possibilities. It's a call to be more receptive and open to the flow of life.
The Duality of the Song:
The beauty of "Aerials" lies in its lack of a singular, definitive meaning. The lyrics offer a range of interpretations, each reflecting the listener's own experiences and perspectives. The song acknowledges the struggle between control and letting go, mirroring this tension in its musical composition with the contrast between the gentle piano intro and the aggressive rock sections.
This enigmatic quality is what makes "Aerials" so enduring. It's a song that invites us to look within, question our limitations, and strive for a higher state of being.
Untangling the Lyrics: Freedom Through Letting Go
The core of "Aerials" lies in its lyrics, which paint a surreal landscape of self-discovery. Lines like "When you lose small mind, you free your life" hint at a rejection of societal constraints and a search for liberation through letting go of inhibitions. The imagery of "aerials in the sky" becomes a metaphor for transcending limitations and achieving a higher state of being.
However, the path to freedom isn't always sunshine and rainbows. The song acknowledges the struggle with the line "Come with me and do it again, we'll just float on." This repetition suggests the cyclical nature of self-discovery, where moments of clarity may be fleeting.
Duality and Balance: A Reflection in the Music
The musical composition of "Aerials" mirrors the lyrical duality. The song starts with a hauntingly beautiful piano melody, juxtaposed with the band's signature aggressive sound that erupts throughout. This constant push and pull reflects the internal struggle between control and letting go.
Chart Success and Cultural Impact
"Aerials" became a breakout hit for System of a Down. It topped both the Billboard Alternative Songs and Mainstream Rock charts, marking their first number-one single. The song's success transcended genre, finding its way into video games, commercials, and even a memorable appearance on The Simpsons.
No Guest Spots, Just Pure System of a Down
There are no guest musicians on "Aerials." The song's power comes from the raw energy and tight musicianship of the four core members of System of a Down. Each member contributes a vital piece to the sonic tapestry, creating a sound that is unmistakably theirs.
A Legacy of Enigmatic Inspiration
"Aerials" continues to inspire fans with its open-ended message. While interpretations vary, the core theme of liberation resonates deeply. The song is a reminder that true freedom lies not in following the crowd, but in embracing the unknown and letting go of limitations.
Whether you find solace in the soaring melody or catharsis in the pounding drums, "Aerials" remains a testament to System of a Down's ability to craft music that is both intelligent and undeniably head-banging.