Comprised from their several Tooth and Nail releases, the Zao "Best Of" covers a large chunk of Zao history. Splinter Shards the Birth of Separation, Where Blood and Fire Bring Rest, Liberate Te Ex Inferis, the Split EP with T.F.U., Self-Titled and Parade of Chaos are all represented with at least one song. In addition three new songs with former vocalist Cory Darst finish off this Best Of release. Fresh on the heels of another new chapter in the Zao saga, this release takes us down a memory lane filled with numerous personal and stylistic changes.
There is a big difference between this and what I would consider to be Zao's best material. I'm not sure who selected these particular tracks, but they don't really showcase the best the band has to offer. The newly released three songs are not all that spectacular and do little to redeem "Legendary." If you're a fan, you probably already have most of this stuff, and if you're not, get someone to show you the real best of and don't waste your time or money picking this up. The grade below is more reflective of the overall song selection than for creativity etc (as the majority of these songs have been previously released).
2/4
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2004Reviewed by Ryan LittleLadies and Gentlemen, Zao has done it again! One of very few bands who could possibly be worthy of the title, "the band that wouldn't die"; Zao is legendary by virtue of survival alone. Having had ten members over the years (eleven; counting their new vocalist,) and still managing to make the most unique music in the hard rock scene is a testament in itself. Combined with their touring schedule…Similar sounding releases
2003IntegrityTo Die For
2004ComityThe Deus Ex-Machina As a Forgotten Genius (Andy Warhol Sucks)
2005UnearthOur Days of Eulogy
2001As I Lay DyingBeneath the Encasing Of Ashes
2001Brain:FAQBrainstorming
1999SpitfireThe Dead Next DoorMore from Zao
1995The Tie That Binds
1999Liberate Te Ex Inferis
1997The Splinter Shards The Birth Of Separation
1998Split
2002Parade of Chaos
2004The Funeral of God
