There is little doubt that Zao are one of the founding fathers of metalcore music in the US, using Christianity as a huge influence in their work, which seems to be something of a trend at the moment.
Founded in 1993, Zao have completed ten full-length albums, three EPs, a two-disc DVD documentary and multiple concert tours, garnering a limited but global fanbase and earning critical praise in the process, so it was a true honour for FemaleFirst to gain an insight into the world of Scott Mellinger.
Hello there pretties, how are things going in your lovely world?
Tiring and exciting
We are proper 100% loving your super hot new record…tell us a bit about the inspiration behind it…
As a band we felt that there are things people aren't aware of or don't care to understand. we wanted to do a record that opens peoples eyes as well as their minds
To anyone who hasn’t heard of you yet, how would you describe your sound?
Heavy, melodic, different
If you were going to give us just one song of yours to listen to so that you would become our new favourite singer, what would it be?
Any one from our new record you pick we're confident in all of them
If you could cover another band’s song, what would it be?
Pink Floyd - shine on you crazy diamond (all parts)
And can you sum up your good selves in just five words?
Honest, real, caring, angry, open minded
What makes you stand out from the crowd?
Nothing
You know we’re having a bit of an economic crisis here at the moment, if people wanted to spend their last £10 on a cd this weekend, why should they buy yours?
Because there are only 8000 in existence
What three bands would you have to headline your dream festival?
Neurosis, Radiohead, Sigur ros
What has been your favourite musical memory to date?
Playing guitar with my grandfather
If all of the bands equipment was on fire, what one piece would you save and why?
My 1976 Les Paul Custom. Because i've dreamed of owning one since I was 12
Who do you think is the greatest artist around at the moment?
There are too many great ones to name one!
If you could only listen to one CD for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Johnny Cash live at Folsom Prison
Okay, now we want to ask you some random questions; Tell me about the most terrifying experience of your life…
Researching the way the world works and realizing I have been lied to my whole life.
What’s the most stupid purchase you’ve ever made?
A little statue i bought for my wife's first mother's day
Why go to the top of a tall building, only to put money in binoculars and look at things on the ground?
To change your perspective. the only way to find truth is to broaden your mind and open up a wider view.
Cheers, good luck with everything & thanks for making my day slightly more entertaining!
Thank you
FemaleFirst - Ruth Harrison