In the mid-1990s, twin brothers Eric "Mac Dad-E" & Keith "AK" Gordon signed with Tommy Boy Records and are preparing to release their debut album, "Drastic Measures", seasoned with some important feats such as E-40, Above the Law and Mac Mall.
The album was later shelved by Tommy Boy. In December 1996, the duo Mac & AK released an EP. Mac Dad-E is responsible for the production, aided by the live instrumentation of G-Man Stan Keith, who plays bass and guitar. Guests include Top Dog, The S&L Thugz, Son of Sam, Tasha Ingram and Pleasor.
The opening piece is one of the strongest on the tape, thanks to a vibrant bass that opens the way to fresh samples, great funky rhythm over which the duo delivers with a velvet and relaxed style. "Killa Kali" is a top posse cut: laid-back boom bap, accessible g-funk synths, effortless laid-back delivery from the performers. Choice number three boasts a sleek jazz sample paired with light downtempo drums, which gives lounge vibes, simple hook, good rapping from the boys. “Shop's Open” features glossy and sustainable g-funk synths, robust drums and a good funky rhythm. The smoothness and slow style of Mac & AK gives relaxed vibes also in the following two songs, on a couple of elegant productions. "I Got the Message" closes, another effective track from the East Palo Alto duo.
This is a flawless EP with excellent production and good mixing by Mac Dad-E, Matt Kelley, Sanija Ross and G-Man. Certainly among my favorites of the period on the West Coast, it's a forgotten gem that proves how much the guys deserved at least that LP with major. In 2022 the Italian label Armabillion releases a limited edition on vinyl. 8/10.
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