Search - Zao :: All Else Failed

A Great Remake of a Classic

Jericho Leon | California | 04/08/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is an album people would either love or hate, and much of the disagreement is related with the preference over which singer-- Dan Weyandt or Eric Reeder. Personally, I think this CD should not be seen as a target for comparison but a simple rerelease that adds a new dimension of listening to what was already a successful album.Objectively, All Else Failed is a dark, heavy, spiritual album with roaring vocals by Dan Weyandt and guitars that add some clarity to the disoriented tunes of hardcore. The whole package is artistic, especially with the addition of the mysterious and ironic outro. For Christians reading this review, the outro somewhat reminds me of the Book of Job where the rain and thunder symbolize struggle, and the laughter at the end symbolize that it was all a test. This CD is probably suited for Zao fans. If you're new to Zao, you're probably better off buying other albums by the band like "Liberate Te Ex Fenris" or preferably the greatest hits compilation, "Legendary"."

Good stuff

Evan | PA United States | 03/02/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"All Else Failed. The 1st full-length Zao album. Although there were EP's, this started it all. Now it's back with Zao's newest and "final" line-up of Jesse, Scott and Dan. If you have heard the original, this has definitly a more metal sound then before. Although Jesse's drumming was no were near as technical in the original, it's far better then his work on Parade of Chaos. Although I shouldn't really be commenting on his dumming, he's one of the best. And I have to say, Dan's vocal diversity on this album is incredible. He goes back to his older high-pitched shrieks, then to his deeper more throaty growls like those in "Self-Titled". The only downside is that there are only 8 songs. They're all amazing of course, and it still manages to hit over 44 minutes despite the lack of tracks. All in all, it's a great buy, especially for those who didn't like Shawn Jonas' vocals in the original. I personally liked them, but thats just me. Anyways, if you like Zao, buy it, if you haven't heard Zao, buy Where Blood and Fire Bring Rest."

Zao at their best

Scott Matkovich | Island Lake, IL United States | 03/02/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Though I was a bit disappointed at their last album, Zao shows that they are still capable of groundbreaking metal. This album shows overall maturity and precision. This album is a re-release with a different vocalist than earlier Zao days. The album has plenty of great new arrangements. I was thrilled when I was listening to this for the first time. This album sums up what Zao at their best. We can only hope they stick around for another album. This is a must buy for any Zao fan in particular or any metal fan in general."