GET RIGHT OR GET LEFT review (performer mag.)

If only one word could be used to describe Ekundayo's Get Right or Get Left, that word would undoubtedly be "smooth," a word which aptly describes both the rapper's flow, as well as the superbly produced tracks.


Get Right or Get Left starts off with the somewhat played-out theme of chasing that paper in "All I Know (Paper Chase)." However, rather than being just another tired hip-hop story, Ekundayo manages to pull together an interesting urban tale. The catchy melody of the hook "All I know is I gotta get dough" may make this composition a classic for Ekundayo. Even with the strong start, Ekundayo takes it up a notch with "Katrina," a hard-hitting look at the human dramas and slow government response associated with the disastrous hurricane. Set to the soul staple, "Stop, Look and Listen," "Katrina" draws the listener in from the opening beat all the way to its controversial conclusion. "Katrina" is a defiant cut that reveals something new with each listen.


A strong visual image of Ekundayo is painted in "Hazesacks," which also provides a solid portrayal of his captivating personality. Another intriguing track is "Loving U," a smooth tale that describes a special lady, as well the things that Ekundayo loves doing with her. "Loving U" is both innocent and naughty, complete with a catchy hook that makes the song stand out in an album full of strong cuts.


Ekundayo steps up the energy slightly in "Oh Okay," which, though faster in tempo, seems to lack some of the catchiness of many of the other tracks.


Ekundayo also manages to sprinkle in a little fun and games, along with some real life drama, through entertaining outros such as "Friday Night," "Telephone Love 1" and "Telephone 2."


With Get Right or Get Left, Ekundayo has managed to put together an ultra-smooth hip-hop gem. The album is one that can be enjoyed from start to finish without ever hitting the skip button. Get Right or Get Left is hot enough to appeal to true hip-hop fans, but smooth enough to appeal to R&B and neo-soul lovers - a combination that is very rare indeed. (Self-released)