HipHopDX Premiere: Zumbi of Zion I has managed to walk the fine line between classic Hip Hop and more contemporary styles, blending the two in a way that is both unique and exciting. As the Bay Area MC prepares to unleash his first full-length album without former partner-in-crime Amp Live, he’s blessing us with a first listen of TheLabyrinth, a 15-track venture into the mind of the dexterous rapper.
On the heals of the consciousness raising track “Tech $,” which addresses gentrification in his hometown of Oakland, and his mixtape, Stay Woke, The Labyrinth is the perfect exclamation point to his summer.
Featuring fellow MCs Deuce Eclipse and Codnay Holiday, and production from Ariano, Mikos the Gawd, Teeko, and Decap, it bumps from beginning to end. However, it’s not simply just another Hip Hop album. It’s full of insightful, thought-provoking lyrics and plenty of soul searching.
“Not Ur Fault” was written the night his father passed away last year and finds Zumbi paying a beautiful tribute to the man who played a significant role in his life, as he contemplates life with his own three young sons. “Let Me Be” is an indictment on the current state of Black America.
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Even though Amp is no longer behind the board, there is no lack of certified bangers. “Wake Up” is the sound of triumph coupled with glass-breaking beats. Check it out The Labyrinth in full above, pre-order the album here and check out Zion I’s remaining tour dates below.
LABYRINTH TOUR DATES:
Oct. 21: Hawaiian Brian’s, Honolulu, HI
Oct. 22: Hilo Tavern, Hilo, HI
Oct. 23: Hard Rock Cafe, Lahaina, HI
Oct. 27: Wonder Ballroom, Portland, OR.
Oct. 28: Hi-Fi Music Hall, Eugene, OR.
Oct. 30: Nectar Lounge, Seattle, WA.
Nov. 25: New Parish, Oakland, CA.
Nov. 26: Soho Lounge, Santa Barbara, CA.
