Time Zone

Time Zone Members, Gear & Sound

1980s hiphop featuring Afrika Bambaataa

Members

Select a Time Zone band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

About

Time Zone is a pioneering collective formed in the early 1980s by influential hip-hop artist Afrika Bambaataa. Known for their genre-blending approach, Time Zone brought together a diverse group of collaborators, including bassist Doug Wimbish, guitarist Skip McDonald, and drummer Keith LeBlanc. Their music spans an eclectic mix of hip-hop, funk, punk, and electronic, culminating in iconic tracks like "Wild Style" and the groundbreaking "World Destruction," featuring former Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon. The group's innovative fusion of styles and collaborations with artists like James Brown and Bill Laswell have left a lasting impact on the musical landscape.

How to Sound Like Time Zone

Time Zone's sound is characterized by its bold, genre-defying energy and layered, rhythmic complexity. The group harnesses the gritty edge of punk with the groove-heavy elements of funk and hip-hop, creating a dynamic and unpredictable sonic palette. Key to their sonic character is the use of futuristic synth lines and tight funk instrumentation. Gear like the iconic Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer provides the crisp, punchy beats that underpin their tracks, while synths like the Roland Jupiter-8 add lush, expansive layers to their sound. This combination of electronic precision and organic groove makes Time Zone's music both timeless and avant-garde, offering a rich tapestry for any musician intrigued by blending genres and pushing boundaries.

Discography

Get the Time Zone Sound

Want to sound like Time Zone? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.

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