Lamp Mode Recordings Releasing Messianic Jewish Hip-Hop Duo’s Long Awaited Theophanies Album on June 23rd

(Philadelphia) – Lamp Mode Recordings announces the upcoming release of Hazakim’s long awaited Theophanies album on June 23rd, 2009. This album arrives on the heels of several critically acclaimed releases from the Philly based label, which includes shai linne’s Stories album and J’Son’s Life On Life. With messianic fervor, Hazakim brings to the table a unique blend of hefty theology, captivating story telling and convincing proof texts served over an assortment of hard hitting beats. Listeners are sure to be challenged, entertained and educated by Hazakim’s imposing sound and weighty message.

Showcasing the talents of emcees / producers Michael & Anthony Wray, this 21 track album reflects a wide array of sounds. It features the contributions of over 15 musicians (including professional harp & accordion players – that’s right, an accordion player), giving Theophanies an eclectic, unparalleled quality…all the while staying true to Hazakim’s “boom bap/underground” motif. The project also features appearances from such lyrical heavy hitters as shai linne & Stephen the Levite (who’s recent appearance on Tedashi’s Identity Crisis album has been the topic of much discussion), and Illect Records recording artist muzeOne, while featuring scratches by DJ Average Joe & deejay essence. Most surprising are a handful of cameos and endorsements by leading theologians and apologists such as creationist champion Ken Ham of Answers In Genesis, Todd Friel of Wretched Radio (formerly Way of the Master Radio) and Messianic Jewish scholar, author and host of Inspiration Network’s “Think It Thru” television show, Dr
Michael Brown.

Hazakim (pronounced “Ha-Za-Keem”) first hit the scene in 2001 with their independent freshman release, “Hip-Hologetics”, which garnered substantial support as an underground effort. Hazakim is an especially anomalous group due to their unique Messianic Jewish perspective & content; replete with allusions to messianic prophecy and the Jewish roots of Christianity, sometimes even accompanied by Hebrew lyrics. Despite a mutual love of music, the partnership between Hazakim & Lamp Mode has as it’s foundation a common passion for the Gospel of Jesus the Messiah. With Theophanies as a catalyst, Hazakim is gearing up for an extensive tour; to take this Good News of Jesus the Jewish Messiah to all nations – to the Jew as well as to the Greek. (Romans 1:16)

Hazakim’s “Theophanies” will be available through Lamp Mode Recordings and distributed by Infinity Music Distribution. To find out more, visit: www.lampmode.com or www.myspace.com/hazakimcamp.