THE RAW EMOTIONS OF ZION T.’S ZIP

By: Alicia Zamora

zion t.

Credits. The Black Label

Zion.T is one of the most original and commercially successful artists in South Korea. He is a singer and producer best known for his ability to flawlessly blend his distinctive voice with elements of hip-hop, R&B, soul, jazz and pop. He has been nominated multiple times for ‘Artist of the Year’ with his unconventional yet deeply sincere music. His incredible talent in music, coupled with his unique sense for fashion and visualization, has solidified his position as an artist who transcends the musical landscape.

This is Zion.T latest solo project since his last EP [ZZZ] as he has since appeared as a judge on the hit show "Show Me The Money 10" where he co-produced and featured on "MERRY-GO-ROUND" which remained #1 on Billboard K-Pop chart for 12 straight weeks. He also collaborated with Gen Hoshino on the soundtrack for the Marvel action-film "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" and this past October, he also collaborated with Rich Brian and Warren Hue on the song and music video for "World Stop Turning" released through 88rising. With that being said he has been noted as being one of the best live performers, he has toured all over the world starting SXSW in the US to solo concerts across Europe and Asia.

Zion.T has collaborated with major global brands, has landed on Forbes ‘Korea Power Celebrity’ list, and will continue to pave the way by setting new standards in the music industry as a legend-in-the-making.

With this new album, he has struck the industry once again. His creativity and soft voice has captured the ears of many people. Zion T has shown raw emotions in this new album “Zip”.

A look into the tracks

Starting off with the first track being “How to use (intro)”. The start of it sounds like a magical melody one that can sink you into the song. You can see how Zion really plays around with instrumentals and how he plays around with his voice. With this track in particular it sounds like he's reciting a poem. It's unique and sinks you into the storytelling part of it. The vocals in the background play such a strong statement for this song.

The second track “UNLOVE (prod. HONNE)” this one starts with a softer tone. It reminds me of sitting outside on a sunny day with your significant other and enjoying each other's presence. But once you hear the lyrics it sounds more like a song of letting go of the person you once loved.

For this track a music video was released where you can see how "UNLOVE (prod. Honne)" is about a relationship happily coming to an end and has a groove that will make you want to dance like you are tasting the freedom of being liberated. In the music video, Zion.T places drops of "baby tears" into his eyes as he is on a mission to achieve the perfect break-up while he sings "First it was true love, now you just unloved". The video reads like a manual on how to successfully end a relationship and closes with Zion.T toasting to his breakup by doing a guitar solo underneath fireworks as he flies above the city.

track 3: STranger

“Stranger” the third track from this album reminded me of an intro to a game that you have downloaded on your phone. Once again Zion does well when it comes to creating music with outstanding beats and melodies. The way he sings and perfects every note says a lot about him as an artist. This song gives me more of a mysterious vibe like something you would hear and you can picture yourself dancing with a stick. It's a funny concept to think about but this song will surely make you feel entertained. In this song you hear more of a higher vocal tone you can see how his voice can range from both low to high notes.

A music video was also released for this song. The music video for "Stranger" features an appearance from renowned actor Choi Min-sik, most internationally known for his role in "Lucy" alongside Scarlett Johansson and for his lead role in the critically acclaimed classic, "Oldboy". In the video, Choi Min-sik is intrigued by a tiny ant that he meets in front of his house. Faced with boredom, the ant provides entertainment and a sort of companionship to the old man who begins to find enjoyment in their interactions.

Tracks 4-9

The things I love

The fourth track “The Things I Love (feat. Benny Benack III)” this song, gets into a deeper vibe. You can feel the shift in energy in his voice. In the beginning, his voice sounds as if it's inside a jar or somewhere far then it continues with a softer tone. You can see that this album explores several genres and shows how he isn’t afraid of playing around with his voice and melodies. This song and album in general is very pleasant to listen to. As an artist, he distinguishes such a strong presence in his music. The way he sings is so distinct and unique.

v (peace)

“V (Peace) [feat. AKMU]” is the fifth track of this album gives more a joyful vibe. Something you can picture to be in a candy ad. It has more of a sweet sound to it. With the feature of AKMU, both vocals play so lovely together. They blend well with each other.

NOT FOR SALE

The sixth track “NOT FOR SALE” this song had a bit of a shift compared to peace. It felt a lot more deep and serious. It felt like he was trying to get a story through. The vocals were once again unbelievable. The way he can range his vocals and play around with different melodies. Near the middle of the song, he uses a deep voice that sounds a bit scary but adds a lot to the song. It's as if no one is quite listening in the beginning so when you hear that scary voice it catches your attention more.

INVISIBLE MAN

“Invisible man” the seventh track didn’t feel like a song it felt more like an entry to what was coming next but it has a strong sentiment to it. You can feel that it resonates with you. A soft song that feels as if all your worries will disappear. It's very comforting. Even though it's short it can speak to you a lot. It feels a bit lonely but not an overbearing loneliness. It feels like a loneliness that you can overcome and that you will find a way out of. This was more on the emotional side and you can feel what he was trying to portray in it.

THANK YOU

The eight-track “Thank u (feat.Yun Seokcheol)” all that can be said is wow. He is truly meant to sing and be an artist. This song is full of raw emotions and it feels like it needs to be heard. This is also on the deeper side. Diving deeper into it the melodies are quite sorrowful. The piano mixed in with his angelic voice ties this song all together. In his voice, you can hear how much emotion is being put into it. This song feels like a song that you need to hear after having a long day. It feels like a song that lets you know it's fine you’ll be okay and in return, you thank yourself for letting your ears sink into the melody and lyrics. Hence the title “Thank u” feels like a lovely letter that's being put into a song. He does very well with portraying emotions in slower songs.

DOLPHIN

The ninth track “Dolphin” with this one you can feel the energy shift. You feel more of a vibe with it. It’s not sad but it’s still a slow speed song. A song that feels like you’re by the ocean side waiting for a drink while feeling the breeze of the wind. It reminds me of sinking your feet into some sand. This one is a lot more instrumental than previous tracks. It sounds like theirs a mixture of jazz instruments as well.

FINAL TRACK

Ending the album off with the tenth track “Happy End”. This song was honestly such a lovely ending. It felt heartfelt and full of love. It pulled all the tracks together. It felt like it was a goodbye song but it also felt like it was a song that was meant for new beginnings. With the title being “Happy End” it did feel like a happy ending. The beat is upbeat with a joyful melody. With his voice in a low but high pitch, it blends well with the beat.

Overall, Zion T. is truly an impeccable outstanding artist and you can see it through this new album. Even with older work, he has always shown out. This album shows authenticity and diversity. Each track is uniquely different and beautifully written. For those who haven’t given the album a listen or if it's your first time hearing about ZionT. You guys will surely enjoy this album!

Go ahead and give it a listen.

Stream The Album: https://lnk.to/Zion.T_Zip