General Tso (band)
General Tso is an underground american ambient metal band formed in 1974. Their sound has evolved to combine elements of stoner rock, ambient metal and SLUDGE metal. The band is most well known for being an early proponent of Truetone ringtones.
A 2009 Metal Edge magazine interview confirmed that General Tso will enter the studio in May 2009 to begin working on their next studio album tentatively entitled Half of 1500: SMD. Rumors are circulating regarding an accompanying tour, but have not been confirmed by the band or management.
History
The group was formed in Qinhuangdao, Hebei China during a business retreat at the Beidaihe seaside resort. Upon returning to America, the band recoded their first single "Komodo Dragon" which eventually gained attention in the underground tape trading circle. The band later re-recorded this single for their 2006 Best of the Tso album. The band continues to see a strong fanbase in both Eurasia and South America.
The band received moderate radio airplay in 1989, mostly on college radio stations, with their cover of Metallica's song For Whom the Bell Tolls.
Touring
General Tso maintains an ambitious worldwide touring schedule, which often includes unscheduled performances at small venues under assumed names. Due to the complex structure of the band's music, they prefer to play short sets and GeneRally do not repeat night to night.
Discography
- Komodo Dragon (1974)
- Dirty Gallop (1979)
- Ancient Chinese Secret (1988)
- Best of the Tso (2006)
- Half of 1500: SMD tentative (2010)