One underlooked music publication that always shows love to emerging artists is Zeal & Pristine. They help put more awareness on artists that are deserving of surpassing their underground status. No matter if they have a big following or not if the music is good they're tapped in.
Inspired by the XXL Freshman List, the creator of Z&P wanted to show there are unique ways for a publication to showcase rising talent. “That's never been done before. I wanted to not only do something different but allow my publication to shine a light on the ones that deserve it.” Enlisting help from artists all across the country, she was able to execute her vision by trusting the artists and laying the groundwork for them. “Some of the artists are people I’ve been a fan of for a while...I knew what they were capable of...they know how to make masterpieces. All she had to do was tell them the vibe she wanted, “sent samples, and sat back, and let them cook.”
Even though it's a short offering at 6 songs, all the songs mesh so well together. Not to throw shade, but most publications only give their attention to what’s popping. So I know for a fact if they attempted to do something similar, it wouldn't feature as many underrated artists as this one does. It opens with “NYC’s Newest Entity”, featuring rapper Dizziablo. His sinister bars over the gritty throwback production sets the profound tone for the project. Continuing to ride that wave, you have more tracks in that vein, like “Visit to Harlem” featuring Ro. J & Daylan Gideon. This track is filled with substance and introspective, something you don't find in every song. I'm a sucker for songs with conscious lyrics if done right, and this EP continuously feeds my mind and makes me think.
Executive producing a project is harder than most people realize. DJ Khaled makes it look easy because he has unlimited access to premium resources like elite talent and the best producers. The Z-List is proof that anyone can executive produce an EP if it's strategically arranged like this one. Don't hold your breath for a deluxe version, but she did tell us to be on the lookout for music via SC and Youtube in the coming months.
Until then be sure to follow Zeal & Pristine below.
Stream The Z-List down below!
Follow Zeal & Pristine:
IG: @zealandpristine
Twitter: @ZealandPristine