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Every once in awhile you come across some music and wonder how the fuck it could stay hidden for so long. I was first introduced to Zion I back in 2003 while they were on tour with Scarub of the Living Legends in San Jose, CA. Not only do they rock one of the livest sets in Hip-Hop, but their music continues to push the boundaries of innovation and creativity. Their latest album, The TakeOver (2009) on Gold Dust Records, is MC Zumbi and Amp Live’s most original and diverse album to date.

Clocking in at just under an hour, The TakeOver is Zion I’s statement album to the world and is very accurately titled. Whether you have followed the crew since Mind Over Matter (or even before that with the Enter the Woods EP) or are brand new to their music, you will not be disappointed.

Amp Live’s versatility behind the beats is definitely on showcase with every track on the album — from the traditional African drum sound on Geek to the Beat to the funky-electro sounds on DJ DJ. Of course, you’ll also find the classic Zion I sound on songs like Caged Bird Part I (Featuring Brother Ali), In the Morning (Caged Bird Part II) and for their Hyphy brethren on Juicy Juice. Zumbi, as always, continues to hold his own on the mic and really makes a statement as to why Zion I is ready to “take over” the Hip Hop scene. You can hear the maturity in Zumbi’s flow on this album, as he continues his relentless mission of spitting intelligent, socially-conscious lyrics, while having a good time in the process. On Bring in the Light, he paints a vivid picture of the negative outlook prevalent in the world today, where “sex, money, dope, guns be the psychology.” With the recent shooting of Oscar Grant by a local police officer in Oakland to the larger scale global issues, Zion I has always maintained a powerful, positive presence within the community.

Zumbi and Amp Live aren’t just legends from Oakland, CA anymore, but are now a legitimate force in the industry and it’s time that these musical geniuses have a chance to spread their message to the masses. I’ve personally followed the crew for the last 6 years and have seen first hand their passionate live shows and their intense work ethic. This crew is no joke and they are the epitome of Independent artists hustling to succeed. There’s never a feeling of disconnectedness when it comes to Zion I and you can be sure that after any performance, Zumbi and Amp Live will be down in the trenches hanging out with their fans. With this latest effort, they are on the cusp of mainstream success. There are elements and musical styles for everyone on this album, whether you are into Rock, Techno, Drum and Bass, Jazz, Latin, Blues, Funk, Hyphy or of course classic Hip-Hop. There’s even a track with Devin the Dude called Country Baked Yams.