"The Splinter Shards the Birth of Separation" showcases Zao's signature metalcore sound with a raw, aggressive production style that captures the intensity of the genre. The album features a blend of heavy, distorted guitar riffs and intricate drumming, creating a dynamic sonic landscape. Tracks like "Time of Separation" and "Resistance" pulse with high energy, characterized by rapid tempos and frenetic rhythms, while moments of melodic interludes provide contrast. The vocal delivery oscillates between guttural screams and haunting clean passages, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics. The overall texture is dense and layered, with a gritty edge that reflects the band's commitment to authenticity, making this album a distinctive entry in the metalcore canon.

Album: The Splinter Shards the Birth of Separation by Zao (1997)
Genre: Metalcore
Record Label: Tooth & Nail Records
Format: Album

Related Artists: Haste the Day, Poison the Well, Living Sacrifice, The Chariot

Music Scene: Part of the Parkersburg, West Virginia, US music scene. Emerged in the 1990s era. Associated with Metalcore movement.

Tags: Metalcore, 1990s, Album, Tooth & Nail Records

Additional Context: Available on Discogs marketplace


The Splinter Shards the Birth of Separation is the second full-length release by metalcore band Zao, released on Tooth & Nail Records on April 1, 1997.
In 2020, the band repressed the album, alongside the follow up album, Where Blood and Fire Bring Rest, to vinyl with both albums getting around 500 each and new artwork done by David Rankin.

The Splinter Shards the Birth of Separation

Zao

Track List

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