Zao is an American metalcore band founded in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and later relocated to Greensburg, Pennsylvania. Founded in March 1993, Zao has hosted several musicians and endured numerous roster changes to the point where no original members remain.
Former drummer Jesse Smith, vocalist Dan Weyandt, and guitarists Scott Mellinger and Russ Cogdell are seen by some fans as the "core" of Zao, with the current line up being the longest running in the band's history.
For a time, the band featured Christian themes in their music and was regarded as a Christian band, however this theme was eventually met with debate among the members and the band currently no longer considers themselves a "Christian band" with only bassist Martin Lunn identifying as a Christian.
To date, Zao has released 11 full-length albums, 9 EPs or splits, a two-disc DVD documentary and embarked on numerous concert tours, garnering a limited but global fan base and earning critical praise in the process.
Members:
Dan Weyandt
Scott Mellinger
Martin Lunn
Jeff Gretz
Russ Cogdell
Past members:
Eric Reeder
Roy Goudy
Mic Cox
Jesse Smith
Shawn Jonas
Ron Gray
Kevin Moran
Brett Detar
Rob Horner
Shawn Koschik
Stephen Peck
Name Origin:
The band's name comes from the Greek word ζάω, which means 'alive' or 'to have life'. Zao vocalist Eric Reeder has been credited with coming up with the band's name.
From: Parkersburg, West Virginia
Genre(s):
Metalcore post-hardcore,
alternative metal
Active From: 1993-present
Associated Acts:
The Juliana Theory