War for Religion

Released in late 2024, War for Religion serves as a concentrated burst of Daron Malakian's signature songwriting style under the Scars on Broadway banner. Following a period of relative silence, this 4-track EP distills the project's alternative metal and art rock influences into a tighter, more atmospheric package. The inclusion of an instrumental opener, 'Scars on Broadway,' sets a cinematic tone that persists throughout the release. Sonically, the EP leans heavily into Malakian's unique guitar phrasing - characterized by rapid palm-muting and the use of harmonic minor scales - while the lyrical themes tackle religion, war, and social alienation. Critically, the EP represents a continuation of the 'manic' energy established on previous Scars on Broadway records, but with a more mature, layered production approach. It stands as a vital snapshot of Malakian's creative state, bridging the gap between his legendary work in System of a Down and his more personal, eccentric solo explorations.