Founded in 1993 in Parkersburg, West Virginia, Zao has gone on to release 11 hard-hitting full-length albums and several EPs and splits, including 2019’s Reformat/Reboot remix album that, aside from traditional formats, was also released as an NES cartridge. Steadfast Records has a pair of upcoming releases from the group that celebrate their lengthy career.
First up is a 25th anniversary edition of the band’s 1995 debut album, All Else Failed, being released on casette, CD, and some really nice looking vinyl editions. Second is Preface: Early Recordings 1995-1996, a 14-track collection that features previously unreleased demos, cuts taken from early split albums, and seven tracks featuring vocalist Shawn Jonas. The CD release also features two exclusive tracks from the early Zao side project Monroe.
Premiering below is a track from Preface entitled “Conflict.” Founding and original vocalist Eric Reeder says this about the track: “When treasures get unburied, it’s priceless. These songs with Mic, Roy, & Jesse are still top shelf highlights in my life. After 25+ years, having all the eras of Zao still holding meaning to so many has me in awe. From all the fans to all those who added their part to the band, the movement known as Zao is such a collective experience. This was always the dream.”
Both Zao releases drop October 9th on Steadfast Records and can be preordered here. Check out “Conflict” below.
