OMG
By: Justin Hess

Up and coming rock trio ZO2 have recently climbed to the next rung on the ladder of success with the release of their second album, Ain't It Beautiful. Touring in support of the record, the band will be at Arlene's Grocery in NYC on Aug 31.

ZO2 are no strangers to Arlene's; singer/guitarist Paulie Z is the creator of the venue's monthly "ZO2's Rcok Asylum" show, at which the band customarily headlines a bill of five local acts. In addition to spearheading this rock revival of their own creation, the band members have built up impressive resumes in the greater music world. Bassist David Z (brother of Paulie Z) doubles as a member of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and drummer Joey Cassata has worked with the Blue Man Group. The group's greatest achievement to date, however, is perhaps their stint as the opening act for Kiss and Poison in 2004.

Initial interest in the band was spurred by their independent debut release, 2004's Tuesdays & Thursdays. Immediately snowbaling into high-class tour spots and a deal with upstart label Riker Hill Records, attention to Zo2 has yet to taper off. The Independent Film Channel has a pilot in the works for a comedy series featuring the band, and the "Rock Asylum" is going strong.

Arlene's Grocery is located at 95 Stanton St. Tickets are $10. Zo2 go on at 10pm. Also playing are the Vinyl Stash, Powervibe, Lazarus, Airiel Down and Kill Van Kull. Go to zo2.com for more info.