Some bands manifest highly skilled forms of aggression. Zao is one such band. Their 2003 opus, “All Else Failed” [Solidstate Records], is a fierce hybrid of Hardcore, Swedish Style Death Metal, and Deathrock Metal. And it is amazing….
Loose, intense, and groove-bludgeoned guitars pulsate through the beautiful cacophony. Shrill, growled vocals charge the primal, musical roar. Softer introspective moments sharpen the caustic, jagged assaults that are the blood of the Zao style. Some samples and clean vocals are used, but infrequently.
The best of these stunning tracks includes the rampaging glory of “Endure,” “Growing In Grace,” the Slayer-ish “Exchange” (the guitars are astounding), and the crushing “In Loving Kindness.” Zao is simply killer.
Overall, Zao has unleashed one of the best releases of 2003. This is what brutality is all about…. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Dead To Fall, Konkhra, Hoods, Entombed, Darkest Hour, Dominus, Grope, Carcass, Atreyu, Living Sacrifice, Believer, Demon Hunter, Hate, Headhunter D.C., Marduk, Hatesphere, Deicide, Gutted, Soul Embraced, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. War.
Bill Vogel III
Email at: StrangeAeons@hatebox.net
Copyright 2003.
Courtesy of Stranger Aeons Magazine.
