DZE Like RZA – Sensei DZE (reviewed by Dave Franklin)

In the kaleidoscopic realm of urban music, Sensei DZE emerges from the fiery depths of Phoenix, wielding his sonic arsenal as a four-track opus dubbed “DZE Like RZA.” The audacious collection doesn’t just pay homage to the roots of hip-hop, where pioneers and rebels sculpted the genre’s foundations—it defiantly stakes its claim at the avant-garde of contemporary musical expression.

The heartbeat of yesteryear’s sounds pulses through this offering, resonating with the same rhythmic cadence and unapologetic swagger that defined hip-hop’s rebellious spirit. It’s a nod to the past, acknowledging the genre’s roots and the imperative for musical evolution in the face of survival. Sensei DZE deftly balances homage with a forward-thinking ethos, narrating the sonic saga with innovative musical forms.

Within the lyrical labyrinth, themes of triumph and conquering modern-day obstacles emerge—a recurrent motif in the narrative of street-bred music. The sonic landscape, crafted with trippy beats, swirling sonics, and layers of electronica, metamorphoses into soulful slow jams and groove-inducing beats, weaving a captivating tapestry.

The sonic odyssey commences with the explosive entry of BLAMETHEPOLTERGEIST, revealing a maestro adept at intertwining wit and inventiveness with groove and melody. It’s not just a song; it’s a musical statement, a testament to Sensei DZE’s verbal prowess, effortlessly blending wit and wisdom, profundity and profanity.

Yet, Sensei DZE doesn’t seek to reinvent the genre; instead, he reshapes it for the contemporary age. Adapting to the zeitgeist is crucial, and his music speaks the language of today, addressing modern concerns while delving into timeless issues that remain relevant.

LETITGO exemplifies DZE’s genre-agnostic approach, a street-edge neo-soul masterpiece forged from off-beats, deliberate rap/spoken vocals, Lord Ra’s collaboration, melodic basslines, ethereal harmonies, and beguiling electronica washes.

Similarly, BACKROADS navigates through confident rap deliveries, mysterious interludes, soul-searching, and exploring love and loss. Krabs Inna Basket, featuring Kujo Red, showcases calm and hustling lyrical delivery riding the waves of chiming electronica and atmospheric use of space.

Sensei DZE encapsulates the essence of contemporary hip-hop, rap, soul, and R&B, seamlessly drawing inspiration from each genre to create a new sonic amalgamation. DZE, Like RZE, not only mirrors the current sonic landscape but also offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future—a testament to an artist unafraid to transcend boundaries and carve his path in the ever-evolving tapestry of urban music.