FiveNine's Fundamental Five: The Piano Effect

So I was gonna try to wait a while longer before starting a new series of sorts (per our follower's request!) but man, I've felt absolutely neglected when it comes to checking the internet for new music lately. So why not devote some time to sharing what I already do know of, with you guys.

The theme of this batch of tracks is - surprise - the piano. That's pretty much the only criteria I used, how nice the piano sounds on the ears; not the lyrics or anything like that. As usual I try to give newer tracks some shine. Now lets get started:

Soul Cry - Ab-Soul

If you're a fan of Black Hippy like we are, then you'll know Willie B is one massively slept on producer. His beats are gold. And if you can get over Ab's metaphor on the hook, you'll dig this track...

The Ride - Black El

Another of my favorite all-time tracks (I swear I only have like 30). It's too bad El hasn't really dropped a lot of material lately. Produced by Durkin.

Carry Me Home - Atmosphere

The top hip hop producer in my warped opinion would be DJ Premier/Ant. Yeah, I cheated. But that's how dope Ant is. This makes the cut because the piano riff sounds kind of antique and original.

Free My Soul - Big K.R.I.T.

Produced by KRIT himself, this is downtempo magic in the mold of Outkast. What's not to love? KRIT and Kendrick, that's really all todays hip hop needs...I went there.

Flow - Zion I & The Grouch (feat. Goapele)

I believe this is a home-made remix, but don't quote me on that. I think you'll agree it's very nice and well composed; better than the original. Why is it nobody ever talks about these guys? They were around way before the likes of Dom Kennedy, Pac Div, & Kendrick Lamar but folks talk like California is just now stepping away from the gangsta rap scene.

Hope you enjoyed my compilation. But I do have one request from you guys...let me know how you feel about the tracks. Have you already heard them all? Are they just plain old lame? Are there better out there that I failed to mention? Feedback makes the world of blogging go round folks...

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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