Zion I - True & Livin' (2005)

Zion I - producer Amp Live (left) and MC Zumbi (right)

Today I bring to you a group by the name of Zion I. I'm actually really suprised I haven't posted about them on any of blogs yet. One of my absolute groups, definitely. Hailing out of Oakland, Zion I is composed of MC Zumbi and producer Amp Live. They began making music in the mid 90's, in a time where hyphy music in the bay area ruled the area. They were really one of the first bay area hip-hop artists who ventured out into spreading good vibes and socially charged material when everyone else was going "dumb".

Amp Live is an internationally renowned producer, known for creating futuristic, lush, and melodic landscapes...even venturing into what the kids nowadays call "slaps". Don't fret, he balances each characteristic on each track. Zumbi is definitely one of my favorite rappers, encompassing everything an MC should be: positive messages, witty and strong lyrics, and sometimes politically and socially charged lyrics. These two are some of smoothest music I've ever heard, like they were born to do this shit. I bring to you their 3rd album, "True & Livin'", which I find to be their most accessible album (although I'm sure some will disagree). Check out the streams below if you ain't convinced.


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