This was posted about a month ago on the band’s myspace, but I don’t think it was ever posted here. Click below to read it.

Monday, October 20, 2008

ZAO FAQs (Updated)

We haven’t done a set of FAQs since 2005.
Here is a new set as of October 20th, 2008.

Q: Is this page run by the band?
A: YES! It is run by ZAO (and our longtime management).

Q: Where can I buy ZAO merchandise like CDs and t-shirts?
A: www.Zambooie.com

Q: When is the new ZAO album coming out?
A: 2009.

Q: Who is producing the new ZAO album?
A: Scott Mellinger, Daniel Castleman and Tim Lambesis.

Q: What record label is releasing the new ZAO album?
A: Ferret Music.

Q: When is ZAO coming to my town?
A: As of right now there are no plans for ZAO to be a full-time touring band. The band did our most extensive and consistent touring ever behind “The Funeral Of God” and “The Fear Is What Keeps Us Here,” touring the US and Europe for months with bands like In Flames, Devildriver, Trivium, Demon Hunter, Bleeding Through, Throwdown, Unearth, Shadows Fall. We will still play from time to time, however. Check back often.

Q: How can I get ZAO to play a show in my town?
A: ZAO has been booked by The Agency Group for many years. If you book shows regularly, you already know how to get in touch with the Agency Group.

Q: What albums does ZAO have out?
A: “The Fear Is What Keeps Us Here” (2006) and “The Funeral Of God” (2004) are the band’s latest albums, released by Ferret Music. Before that, the band put out the following records on Solid State/ Tooth & Nail: “Parade Of Chaos” (2002), “Self-Titled” (2001), “Liberate Te Ex Inferis” (1999), “Where Blood & Fire Bring Rest” (1998) and “The Splinter Shards The Birth Of Separation” (1997). T&N also released a “best of” called “Legendary” (2004). There is also an album called “All Else Failed” that was recorded by the original incarnation of ZAO, re-released a few years later, and then re-recorded by a newer incarnation of the band (featuring Scott and Dan) a few years ago. And a few smaller releases here and there.

Q: What is up with ZAO’s evolving lineup?
A: “ZAO: The Lesser Lights Of Heaven” 2-disc DVD explains all of this. But here is the short answer: ZAO formed in the Midwest in the early 90s, released two albums and some EPs, and changed members here and there as bands often do. Then in 1997 every member of the band quit except for drummer Jesse Smith, who recruited three friends from Greensburg, PA into the band — one of them being Dan Weyandt (vocals). This lineup made “Blood & Fire” and ZAO as it has been known ever since was born. Scott Mellinger (guitar) joined on the following album. Dan has been the singer on every album ever since (see above). Scott has never left. Jeff Gretz (drums) and Marty Lunn (bass) are the newest members of ZAO. Both of them are from Pennsylvania and have known Dan and Scott for many years. Marty was formerly ZAO’s tour manager.

Q: What is the status of Russ Cogdell and ZAO?
A: Russ joined ZAO along with Dan before the recording of “Where Blood & Fire Bring Rest.” He quit the band, primarily to go to film school, before the recording of “Self-Titled.” When the band toured “Parade Of Chaos,” he was there. He participated in the writing, recording and touring of “The Funeral Of God” as well. In 2005, a knee-injury (and other personal reasons) took Russ off the road. The band continued on as a four-piece — Dan, Scott, Marty and Jeff. This lineup recorded “The Fear…” and is recording the new album. The spot Russ left vacant on the stage was left open for him. He moved to California, did not fly back home for the band’s only show this year and has not contributed any songs toward the new album. ZAO decided to push forward with making a new album.

Q: Is ZAO a Christian band?
A: You’ll have to get the DVD for a full answer to this commonly asked question. Think more along the lines of Johnny Cash, U2 or Nick Cave when it comes to Zao and faith. Jeff (drums) is the only member that does not consider himself a Christian at all.