Zion I Synchs Up "Atomic Clock"

"Atomic Clock" by Zion I promises to be one of the best hip-hop albums of the year.

Oakland hip-hop duo Zion I released "Atomic Clock" on Tuesday, November 9, their fifth full-length studio album together (Break A Dawn was released in Japan, Hereos in the City of Dope was a collaboration with The Grouch). The group has been making music for over 15 years and doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon.

The first thing that sticks out on the album is the heavy drum patterns on every song. Amp Live, the group's producer, sought out live instruments for this album, which combines reggae and funk influences, using horns and guitars in place of synthesizers and drum machines. This is a major change from "Mind Over Matter," the group's first album released in 2000, which featured electronic and trip-hop vibes.



"Atomic Clock" features guest appearances on only three of the 13 songs. The most interesting feature has emcee Locksmith displaying his excitement on collaborating with Zion I on "Polarity."

The rest of the rhymes are kicked by Zumbi, the socially-conscious emcee who speaks of spiritual freedom, political activism, and personal struggles. On "Always," the second track, Zumbi concludes the first verse with an uplifting message that resonates throughout: "And that's a mighty long time they say, when any given moment it can be judgement day, we get down though it seems like a setup, love conquers always, gotta keep your head up."

"Atomic Clock" may show a changed sound for Zion I, but the duo has consistently evolved and adapted since its debut. The crisp beats and conscious lyrics remain true to the roots and keep the content from becoming stale.