Artist Name: Sun Zoo
Album Name: Roads on the Earth
Reviewed by: Matthew Molgaard

Rhode Island rap product Sun Zoo returns with his Veggie Co. Records debut release: “Roads On The Earth”. The album is the third release in just two years for the newly signed artist, and to this critical ear, the young m.c.’s strongest effort to date. Where previous releases “Hope Flies” (2006) and “Can’t See The Forest” (2007) contained heavy political and conscious undertones, “Roads On The Earth” adheres to a more personally relevant, direct approach to life that Sun Zoo relays very convincingly.

“Roads” drastically distances itself from it’s predecessors in one crucial area: production. While both of Zoo’s previous albums offered appealing and intelligent beat selections, “Roads On The Earth” summons a sense of absolute cohesiveness. Instrumentals, and vocals seem to merge into one, in such appropriate fashion, the end result is nearly unintentionally precocious. Worry not, the album stays true to a humble and personable path, and Sun Zoo’s approachable persona is an overdue breath of fresh air.

The Rhode Island rappers notorious affinity for Chinese culture resonates throughout the bulk of the album, and the homage is often executed in flawless fashion. While “Suibian”, “Calm Seas” and “Roads On The Earth” clearly reflect that Chinese influence; “Morning After”, “A Day On The Train” and “November Alone (Part 2)” all break the restraints of uniformity, and help to manufacture a startling sense of diversity. Zoo implores the usage of an unorthodox, (but) polished delivery, and a plethora of clever witticisms to create an exciting, and intriguing listening experience. Perhaps most important and defining however, is the fact that it’s a memorable listening experience.

Existing fans will respect, and appreciate the growth and maturity displayed on “Roads On The Earth”. New fans will likely find no trouble falling in love with some beautiful production and welcoming topics. Zoo’s delivery is creative, and highly entertaining, and he’s proven his production skills are unquestionably elite. What helps this album to work so well, is not the fact that Zoo understands the importance of delivery and beat, but the importance of taking both elements and combining them into one successful piece. Whether a first time listener, or long time fan, “Roads On The Earth” is not likely to disappoint. It’s a refined body of work that offers a little something for everyone.

Buy The Album:

itunes

VeggieRecords

Amazon

Artist Site: sun-zoo.com

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