ZO2 has to be one of the biggest sounding trios I have ever heard. In the tradition of Cream, Moterhead and The Jimi Hendrix Experience these guys hit you wall of sound that will bring you to your knees. The music is very raw and edgy but never sloppy or immature. The band uses classic trappings throughout the album, a touch of Hammond Organ, soulful backup singers and big wha wha guitar solos. Still ZO2 keep away from the obvious clichés.
The album opens with what I am guessing is the single, “Isolate” is a funky off meter rocker with a huge back beat. From there the album picks up steam and never disappoints. A huge stand out is the song “If You See Kay”. This song sounds more Aerosmith than Aerosmith has in 25 years. Close your eyes and think back to “Toys in the Attic” or “Rocks”. The guitarist Paulie Z captures the classic Perry tone with his Les Paul and Marshall cranked.
The rhythm section comprised of Paullie’s brother David Z the former bassist from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, with the assistance of drummer Joey Cassata. They lay down the tightest grooves I have heard in a long time. Suprisingly with all of the talent in this band the album is refreshingly void of obnoxious ultra fast progressive instrumental breaks. It is full or great soulful funky rock grooves.
So what does ZO2 mean? I have no clue; I am thinking it is a unit of time measurement. Something like a nanosecond because that is how long it will take you to fall in love with this album.
– Bruce Owens
