All Science of Breath Episodes

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All Science Of Breath Episodes

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DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath: Episode 48

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All Science Of Breath Episodes

DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath Radio: Episode 46

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The concept of society is based on rules and agreements. The authorities constantly program the people with ideas that they can either accept or reject. Acceptance breeds inclusion and greater degrees of comfort if you will. Rejection, on the other hand, is basically tantamount to declaring all out warfare on the system. When the rules of society are not obeyed, we have police and the legal system which are supposed to deal with the corruption.

However, what happens when the authorities themselves make a mistake in perpetuating their precious societal mores? How do the people governed by, and accepting of these laws react when they are attacked by the very same authorities that are supposed to protect them? These are the questions that surround the Oscar Grant verdict coming up this week.

The anticipation hangs in the air, thick that the rapture of swollen vines. Windows are already boarded up here in the studio and throughout downtown Oakland in case rioters take to the streets. There have been whispers that OPD is calling in back up from as far south as LA, in addition to many of the surrounding suburbs in the Bay. It feels as if everyone is expecting the worst reaction possible.

Do they know something that we don’t? If justice is truly served, and Johanne Meserhle, the murderer of Oscar Grant is convicted, than there is no reason to protest. Oscar’s life can never be given back, but a ruling of manslaughter would at least acknowledge some degree of negligence. I am concerned that Meserhle is acquitted. In that case, there is definite reason to be angered. We were angry already, but this is the stuff that destruction is made off.

I wonder if this had been a young white man shot face down on the Bart in San Francisco would it even be a question as to the guilt of the murderer. No, what is being called into question is the value of black life in American society. How easy is it to kill a young black man in cold blood, and without reason? It seems that they are telling us what they think of us with every deliberation and negation of justice that takes place. I understand the rage, but please, breaking the windows of small shop owners downtown will not do anything to bring redemption. Calm and cool minds will prevail.

Tune in to this week’s show as special guest J Period, Robert Collins, Amp Live, and 1-O.A.K. discuss the importance of how we handle the verdict.

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DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath - Episode 45

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I once read somewhere that sports were a metaphor, of war. If so, then we are living in violatile times, although the World Cup, is more of a grand spectacle. Being that, the whole world is involved, the political and social ramifications of the "football" can hardly be denied. Honestly, I haven't been interested in "football" since I was a youth. But since the World Cup in '06, I've been riveted by the collective attention which it demands. In many ways, it's bigger than the Olympics. There is much greater parity, which makes the competition all the more thrilling. Although juggernauts like Brazil and Argentina feel pre-destined to dominate, smaller countries like Uruguay, Switzerland, Ghana, and the Netherlands are able to eek their way onto the world stage. It is truly fascinating when we consider how many eyes and minds are focused on this one event.
What could we accomplish as human beings if we all got together and focused on ending poverty and oppression in the same way, and with the same passion that we view sports? I think we could truly change the world. Just a thought. Science of Breath...on the move.

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Whoa! World spin..begin..faster..FASTER! That's how I feel y'all. I know..intense right? Indeed. No worries..we'll be good. I just got to let it out every now and then. There seems to be so much going on these days. At the tip of my mind remains the tragedy of the BP spill. What have we done? I have a distinct feeling that we'll be dealing with the aftermath of this for the remainder of our lives. I read something that said that the leak was spilling over 2 million gallons a day!! What? That is completely impossible to fathom in many ways, but it sounds like its easily the worst environmental disaster in history. How will the ocean be effected by such negligence? It's scary to contemplate the ramifications. Still, we keep on pushin' thru. I pray for the good of all people, that we may learn from this. We cannot continue to repeat this type of behavior, the Earth will not allow it. Remember, we are blessed to have this environment which is perfectly suited to our beingness. Pray for healing..pray for peace. Bless...

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The word xenophobe means “fear of outsiders”. For me, this can mean foreign people, foreign ideas, or extraterrestrials…take your pick. On this week’s show, house DJ Vinroc and I build on two very pertinent topics. We begin by touching on the tragedy of the BP oil spill in the Gulf Coast region. The persistence of our world leader’s to use oil and gas as the staple of the world economy has lead us to yet, another crossroads. Will we ever learn from our mistakes? Oil is not a renewable power source. It is also finite. We will soon come to the end of our oil supply worldwide. Some say that this will happen within the next 20-50 years. What are we waiting for? Armageddon? Don’t get me started. Secondly, being that we at the Science of Breath pride ourselves in thinking outside of the box, we discussed the concept of aliens making contact with humans. Many may view this as sheer science fiction. However, anything is possible when we consider the fact that our galaxy is almost completely unexplored. We haven’t even thoroughly analyzed the ocean. Are we truly the only “intelligent” life in the universe? I highly doubt that. It seems that our self proclaimed importance is a symptom of our ego, and creating the idea that reality bends around our need to be the center of all things. We question what it would be like if extraterrestrials actually made themselves known to us. How would humanity respond? I assume there would be dramatic upheaval, both philosophically and psychologically. How would you react? Join us for an inside look at the future…

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DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath - Episode 42

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For the most part, I enjoy living in the United States. I mean, let's face it, I was born here. But every now and then, the ugly side of America is forced to reveal itself and I shutter at the lack of understanding that is ever present here.

An example of this is the immigration issue conjured up by the lonely state of Arizona. In response to the "border" issue faced by the US, Arizona has taken it upon itself to enforce a law that harkens back to the days of apartheid in South Africa. Legislation has made it so the police can detain anyone who they suspect of being an illegal citizen. Bear in mind that latinos comprise over 30% of Arizona’s population, and that's if you trust the skewed perspectives of the US Census. In my opinion, there is a higher number of latinos than that. Yet, the fear is that latinos will slowly overtake the number of whites in Arizona, and later in the United States. Why is this a fear? I suppose it has to do with power and control.

However, this is the United States. Our motto is that we are a melting pot of cultures, blended together to create a beautiful rainbow of humanity. But, the reality in this moment, is that Arizona is struggling with it's true identity. On a greater scale, the state could simply be a symbol of our growing pains as a country and as a world. I feel sorry for all you rednecks, conservatives and tea-baggers. In the immortal words of Nas, "America is browning". Better get your suntan lotion, and get comfortable with brown skin. In this episode, Vinroc and I chop it up on what it all means. Enjoy…     - ZUMBI

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DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath: Episode 41: By the Time I Get to Arizona

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In respect of our great ancestor El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, (better known as Malcolm X) I dedicate this show to the incredible work that he did in order to uplift our people. Davey D blasted out a great tidbit on his twitter yesterday. This is vintage audio of 2 FBI agents actively trying to coerce Malcolm into snitching on his own organization, the Black Muslims. With rare eloquence and resilience, we hear how Malcolm cleverly rebukes their feeble attempts. It is one of the best old school audio gems that I’ve heard in ages. To hear him break down the fidgety embargoes of the agents is priceless. Yet, this was recorded in 1963. The brother was assassinated a short 2 years later in 1965. It seems that the government tried one approach, and once they saw that it wasn’t working, they went to their old faithful. Straight up murder. Go figure. All praises to the brother. They killed his body, but they couldn’t end his legacy. Science of Breath on the move!

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DOWNLOAD:Science of Breath: Episode #39 

The music industry is in total disarray. Let the heads roll. It is better for us, the artists, this way. Why you ask, as you shake your head and roll your eyes? There is less control of the “system” now, then ever before. No longer do major labels hold complete sway over the marketplace. I am not a fool, I recognize the great influence that labels still have on the mass consciousness of the people. Yet, at the same time, I feel that independent musicians, filmmakers, and authors have opportunities today, that simply didn’t exist 10 years ago.

There is enough technology available that anyone can damn near craft a record and release it. This is a beautiful thing. Artistic expression is at an all time high. The only thing that can hold you back in this moment is you. If you want it, the world awaits your passion to possess their attention. What will you say when you finally have the blogosphere at your beck and call? The only limit is your creativity. This is your time. To quote Nas, “the world is yours, the world is yours”. The independent route of releasing your own music is not an easy one, but it is a liberating one. Be free of the machine, express your inner soul, and ride the current of wild creativity that pulses within your heart. Do not hold back, and do not be scared. Instead, practice fearlessness. May the force be with you. Churrrch… Read more...

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DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath: Episode #38: My Encounter w/ a Sea Turtle

The island of Hawaii is magical. With it's raw beauty and ancient culture, it is hard to find anything in the West that compares to it's natural elegance. We were blessed to be able to spend last week there, both working and chilling. The first half of the trip was spent on Maui, deep within the Grouch's rain forest hideout studio. Complete with hordes of geckos, mosquitoes, flying roaches, and cane spiders (which are the size of a large man's hand..), we sunk into the landscape and fed off of the simplicity and silence which was ever present. We were able to really sit down and concentrate on the new Zion I & the Grouch album. It felt good to be in that creative space where time feels like it's standing still. The cellphone felt obsolete, the TV was nonexistent. I believe that this is the best way to connect with the inner voice and create true art. We freaked about 5 songs in two days. I can't wait for y'all to hear the gumbo that we've been cooking up. The album is roughly slated for release in February of 2011.

The second half of the trip was spent in Oahu. Compared to Maui, Oahu felt like New York.

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DOWNLOAD: Science Of Breath: Episode #37: Guru R.I.P.

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Big up all massive and crew! Thank you for tuning in for another week of exciting new styles from across the world. This week, I'm broadcasting from sunny Los Angeles, CA. We had a show at UCLA last night at the annual event, the Mighty Mic. Each year, they throw a well organized concert in order to bring awareness to injustice in any form. This year was focused on the Congo, and how the country has been destabilized since the mid 90's. One startling fact is that nearly 6 million have died in the country since '98, but yet, the western media is not even willing to sneeze about the tragedy which is occurring there. Congo is rich in many minerals which provide the basis for electronics and technology. If these resources suddenly begin to dry up, we'll probably start hearing the Congo referenced on the news. But in the now, know that our brothers and sisters across the water need help. The show was dope last night, except for the fact that I busted my lip on the mic whilst leaping around. Definitely not an enjoyable experience, while broadcasting I was alternating between icing my golfball lip, and selecting the tunage. All to the good...enjoy..tune in..and tune up!

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  With all the changes currently sweeping the planet, it's of utmost importance to embrace the concept of change. It has been said that change is the only constant, and I believe that this is true. Every once in a while, a courageous soul stands up to embody the new idea. In 2010, this person is Erykah Badu.

  With an already illustrious career behind her, she has pushed the envelope of artistry with her latest video "Window Seat". In it, she gets out of a car and walks to the spot where JFK was assassinated, all while undressing herself. At the end of the video, she lies naked after being shot with the words "Groupthink" spilling from her prone body. In my mind, this is the ultimate collaboration of art and activism. The message which she sends forth is an edgy one, that I fear many will miss. She is questioning conformity, and society's norms, by literally stripping herself of all pretense.

  The Dallas PD is currently questioning whether to pull up charges against her. Another woman has stated that she will sue Ms. Badu. It is my opinion that change is hard for many of us, and that the backlash she faces, symbolizes the natural resistance that human beings have to change. Erykah, I am writing this to let you know that we stand with you, and we face the winds of change together. Peace..

- Zumbi

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DOWNLOAD: Science Of Breath: Episode 33 "In Honor of Erykah Badu"

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DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath: Episode 32

Live once again, from your traveling bard/MC/host! I’m dropping this one from a hotel in the higher heights of Whistler, Canada’s snow flecked mountaintops. I was really enjoying being home, but yes indeed, I’m right back out on the road. There are pros and cons to everything in the universe. This is the subtle balance often referred to as the yin and the yang. There is definitely a rare beauty in being able to travel the world performing music and rocking crowds. Yet, it does not come without struggle, hard work, lack of sleep, and countless hours driving into distant towns, cities, and villages. Let me not wax too philosophically though, this tour seems like it’s going to be fun. I really enjoy Canada, especially Vancouver. The layout is reminiscent of San Fran, but the architecture feels more edgily modern, and the ever-present mountain range sets it distinctly apart. I was feeling easy doing this set, and the music reflects that. I drop some reflective hip-hop tunes, alongside some soul music I’m feeling, and towards the end gallop into some progressive house. You know my steez!!! Tune in and tune up…Ites! - Zumbi

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DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath Episode 31 "Water Wars"

When I called Vinroc to see if he could come thru today's show, I had no idea what the topic of the day would be. Yet, when I asked if he had any ideas, he replied quickly with "Let's talk about the water problem which is facing the world right now." Water problem? Do you mean the California drought? Hardly. The problem of drinkable water, is being discussed as one of the most foreboding dilemmas that will soon plague humanity. No, this is not a doom and gloom show, it's all about communicating information and raising awareness. In many 3rd world countries this problem is already being felt. We in the "1st world", are kept ignorant to the cold reality of private corporations attempting to takeover the water supply, and sell it back to us in bottled form at a higher price. It's pure insanity, and the systematic corporate greed which endeavors this type of philosophy is unsustainable. Vinroc and I discuss different ways that people can inform themselves and spread the word about this insidious trend. Tune in and UP!

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There are some musical legends that are of monumental influence, yet still manage to fly under the radar of commercial popularity. Throughout the late 80’s and 90’s Gang Starr was a staple of Hip Hop culture. With Guru on the mic, and DJ Premier commanding the boards like a titan, the crew blazed trails of authentic street music for over 15 years. Yet, somehow in this day and age , they are often left out of conversations regarding Hip Hop’s illest crews. In my humble opinion, anyone who doesn’t recognize Gang Starr is not a true head.
Last weekend, Guru had a cardiac arrest and as a result fell into a coma. Twitter lit up almost instantaneously with updates and prayers for the suffering legend. Many of us began dropping quotes, song titles, and other Gang Starr trivia as a way to remind ourselves of the crew’s true greatness. It felt good. I hadn’t thought about some of these songs for over 10 years. It was then that I decided to dedicate the show to the crew, in the hope that the positive energy would aid in Guru’s recovery. Indeed, prayer is powerful and thoughts are things. This is a quick overview of one of the most prodigious groups that Hip Hop has ever known. Sit back, burn one and enjoy…Gang Starr y’all. The Real. Hip Hop.

-Zumbi

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DOWNLOAD: Science of Breath - Episode 30

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Oh the joys of traveling. I speak of incredibly long drives, occasionally terrible food, and the inspiration of finding new locales that feel like home. In this case, on this tour, I’ve been most impressed by New Orleans. Out of the 28 cities that we’ve passed thru, the jewel by the bayou is the one that has really stood out for me. This was my first visit back since Katrina, and I was more fascinated than surprised by what I encountered. Bourbon Street was still the same, drunken revelry at every turn. Yet, it seemed like the rest of the city was under reconstruction. There are vacant buildings and for sale signs everywhere, and the inevitable decay of the 18th French architecture is prevalent. At the same time, people bustle to and fro, intoxicated by the fragrant aroma of the New Orleans lifestyle. Being one of the oldest cities in the US, it is apparent that the roots run deep. It stands alone as a symbol of the trials and tribulations of African Americans, and the history of the states in general. I could feel the presence of the Spanish and French colonizers there. Although, I’m sure it will never be the same as it was before Katrina, there are still horn lines and delightful cuisine in the hearts of those strong enough to persist on thru the hard times. Hats off to the people of the New Orleans.

For the record, I’m glad the Saints won, they deserved that, at the very least.

                                    - Zumbi

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Yee! Barely got this show together...but the music gods were looking out for ya boy. I'm coming in live from the backstage of a club in Tampa, Florida, with subs and bass kicks raging in the background. Hey, we do the best we can with what we have. This week features a gang of rare gems from across the boom diaspora of music, specifically the legendary crew Massive Attack. Starting back in the late 80's, this crew has defied musical categories, and instead have pushed the limits of varied genres and styles. The remixes on the show are melodic dub landscapes sprinkled with lush vocals, their classic trademark. Many of these jams are brand spanking new, having just been discovered thru in-depth bloggery. Enjoy family...more to come. Stay tuned. Mind-Body-Spirit.

-Zumbi

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DOWNLOAD: Science Of Breath - Episode 28