10 Incredible Musical Side Projects

One of the messier band splits of the 2000's was System of a Down. After the release of their back-to-back albums Mezmerize and Hypnotize, the band decided to go on hiatus, with frontman Serj Tankian dabbling in avant-garde and classical pieces.

For many disheartened System fans, guitarist Daron Malakian formed Scars on Broadway with fellow System drummer John Dolmayan. The songs on this band's debut is a good indicator as to where the more traditional System sound went.

The riffs found on these tracks are just as ferocious as they would be on a proper System project. Malakian also stepped up as lead vocalist on this project, which made for some great moments on tracks like the raging "They Say."

Over time, Scars on Broadway has since devolved into a Daron Malakian solo effort, but the music has never suffered for it. To this day, Scars on Broadway are still going with another stellar album in 2018.

With System of a Down touring, Daron often finds himself jamming in both bands on the festival circuit. While System of a Down's music is unmatched, Scars on Broadway serve as a great place to go if you are clamouring for more hard-edged rock.