Zion I have long been a staple of the Bay Area hip-hop scene. Ever since the release of 2000’s critically acclaimed debut, Mind Over Matter, the duo’s ever-adventurous sound has established the Bay as a region that’s never afraid of exploring new musical territory.
Recently, the Oakland duo finally linked up with long-time friend J. Period to release Bomb First, an old-school style mixtape featuring new Zion I material in addition to tracks from artists the group currently cites as inspiration. Yet again, in an age where mixtapes typically feature original studio tracks, Amp Live and Zumbi took the left field approach in typical Bay fashion. I spoke with Zumbi by phone to find out a bit more about the inspiration behind their latest.
Zion I performs at the Catalyst Oct. 13. Read the interview HERE.
