Album: Zion I – The Rapture: Live from Oaklandia

Electronic Musician Premieres The Bay Area Icons’ Powerful Live Album

08.12.2015

Critical Praise for Zion I:

“Zion keeps the revolutionary fire spirit lit in the minds of the people.” – Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

“Zion I is the Bay Area-based rapper and production duo who’s been balancing the Bay’s energetic hip hop trends with brilliant lyricism.” – EARMILK

“Producer AmpLive and emcee Zumbi want you to be moved not just by the music, but also by the message.” – HipHopDX

The Album:

Bay Area legends Zion I have released a riveting live album of both new and classic tracks, all featuring live instrumentation courtesy of an all-star band. Recorded at The Catalyst in Santa Cruz, California, The Rapture: Live from Oaklandia, premiered via Electronic Musician, is a compelling record dominated by Zumbi’s lyrical prowess. Adding to the richness of the album is the backing band featuring piano prodigy Kev Choice, sultry horns, and contrasting female vocals. Showcasing the band’s musicianship and crowd interaction, the album proves how Zion I have amassed a cult following over the past 20 years and continue to sell-out venues and get booked for festivals. Describing his dedication to putting on the best performance he can, the often spiritual Zumbi explains, “I always give 110% of myself. I don’t hold back or try to conserve anything. It’s a blessing to be able to live as an artist so I give it all as thankfulness. I do my best to create a sincere connection with those in the audience with eye contact, conversations, and copious amounts of sweat,” adding that the band is a “unique formation of Bay Area luminaries that blessed the stage together on this auspicious evening for one night of magical vibrations.”

Twelve tracks in length, the album contains classic tracks “Silly Puddy,” “Trippin,” and “First light” from the group’s debut album, Mind Over Matter as well as several newer releases from their catalog. The live album re-envisions and transforms Zion I’s music into a unique and intimate space by incorporating elements of jazz and acoustic instrumentation.

The Rapture: Live from Oaklandia follows Zion I’s collaborative single with Locksmith, “Culture Freedom,” premiered via DJ Booth and The Sun, Moon, and Stars EP premiered via Mass Appeal in February.Purchase tickets to Zion I’s next show here

Listen to The Rapture: Live from Oaklandia: https://soundcloud.com/therealzioni/sets/the-rapture-live-from-oaklandia

Check out the Electronic Musician premiere: http://www.emusician.com/artists/1333/exclusive-premiere-zion-is-the-rapture-live-from-oaklandia/53429

Purchase on iTunes: apple.co/1ghqdpW

Order CDs & Packages: zionicrew.bandcamp.com

Check out the Electronic Musician Premiere: http://www.emusician.com/artists/1333/exclusive-premiere-zion-is-the-rapture-live-from-oaklandia/53429

Upcoming Shows:

8/14 – Fairfax, California – 19 Broadway
8/27 – Arcata, California – Humboldt State University
9/18 – Ventura, California – Discovery Ventura
9/26 – Placerville, California – Dry Diggings

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Please contact Michelle or Rory if interested in talking with Zion I.