ZayBang | ‘Since ’08’, A Plethora of Vibes
What’s going on Rap Fiesta fam? I know its been a minute but I didn’t forget about ya’ll. Your boy was getting adjusted to the law school grind, but after hearing that piece of certified trash ‘WAP,’ I’ve been reminded of my commitment to bring real, quality music to the community.
I figured, what better way to make my semi-return, than to present you with my first ever album review. Granted, this 6-piece EP barely qualifies as an album, but I can promise you that the quality more than makes up for the quantity. This man is the pride of Northern California. This is the man that has me shadow boxing in the shower. This man is my personal artist to watch in 2020 and beyond: Zaybang.
Don’t let this 6-piece mislead you, Zaybang has an incredible work ethic. He’s already blessed us with a full 15 track album this past March; we don’t deserve another EP this quickly. But Zaybang needed to make sure your summer wasn’t lacking in blunts, bars, or brashness. Hence the creative and experimental “Since ’08.”
Leading off, “Lion & a Cheetah” utilizes synth and bass to create an arcade, sega-style beat that alternates between poky and aggressive. Zay matches the beat step for step with his signature aggression, with both his lyrics and delivery. There are artists that make you laugh with their lyrics, a la Lil Yachty, and artists that get your head bumping and your stink face on, a la Tee Grizzley. Zay somehow captures both emotions. In. The. Same. Damn. Song.
Next up is the song that made serious waves in the mainstream crowd, “New Rem.” What’s really great about this song is its simplicity. There’s nothing immediately eye-catching about the beat, and Zay’s delivery is pretty consistent throughout. The song is essentially a blank canvas, and an average rapper may very well struggle to shine on this track, but Zay’s quirky charisma, signature rasp, and ever-apparent attitude dazzle all on their own.
“Losing Patience” is the song on this album that really encompasses Zaybang completely as an artist, and fittingly, is the song that has gained the most traction to date. Zay is at his best when he’s rapping over a delicate piano-based beat with minimalist style bass that approaches and recedes throughout the song. Zay touches on all of his primary themes: the family he lost and the family he fights to provide for today, his admirable honesty about his feelings, and his lifestyle. Oh, and definitely check out the music video for this one; Zay’s little dances are the most underrated in the game right now.
“Like I’m KK” is a punchline anthem, and “Take Long” ft. Lil Bean is an awesome example of that duo’s ridiculous chemistry, but the last song I want to touch on is my personal favorite: “3D.” I’ve literally started every day for the past two weeks with this song because the message is something every single person on the planet needs to internalize if they want to become the best version of themselves: “You don’t need like me or believe in me, but you’re going to respect me. I’m not going to talk about how I’m going to win; I’m going to show you. IN 3D.” This is what Zay is all about.
“Everybody left, they ain’t believe me, it’s all good I’ll make them see this shit in 3D.” – ZayBang
Haters will find a way to oppose anything, but nobody can deny what they see with their own eyes. Instead of worrying about what people think, work your ass off and get to the point where your success is indisputable. This is the wisdom that Zaybang helped me internalize. Any artist that can make ridiculously infectious music and help you grow as a human at the same time is special. Zay’s delivery is effortless, his scratchy blunt-laced voice is quintessential, and his charisma is undeniable. “No Relations” and “In that Rain” are iconic sensations, and with the work ethic he has, real estate on the throne of the music industry is inevitable. Be sure to follow ZayBang on Instagram and stream his album below:
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