Description
Masta Killa – No Said Date – Double Red Splatter Vinyl Records
VMP Hip-Hop Record of the Month for December 2023
Lacquers cut by Barry Grint, AIR Mastering
Pressed on exclusive 2LP red splatter vinyl
Listening notes booklet by Dimas Sanfiorenzo
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
No Said Date is the debut studio album by Masta Killa, a member of the iconic hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, released on June 1, 2004. Despite being one of the last members of Wu-Tang to release a solo album, Masta Killa’s debut was highly anticipated by fans due to his prominent contributions to Wu-Tang projects and his introspective, deliberate style. The album features a mix of solo tracks and collaborations with fellow Wu-Tang members, delivering the raw, gritty sound that the group is known for.
Masta Killa, born Elgin Turner, is known for his more reserved and introspective approach to rapping compared to some of the more flamboyant Wu-Tang Clan members like Ghostface Killah or Method Man. He first made an impact on the Wu-Tang’s classic debut album ‘Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)’, delivering a memorable verse on ‘Da Mystery of Chessboxin’.’ His quiet but impactful presence in the group earned him respect, even though he waited more than a decade after Wu-Tang’s rise to stardom to release his solo work.
No Said Date features production primarily from Wu-Tang-affiliated producers like RZA, True Master, and Mathematics, capturing the classic Wu-Tang sound of raw, sample-based beats and kung fu-inspired lyrics.
No Said Date is a well-balanced mix of hard-hitting, raw tracks and more reflective, lyrical pieces. The album features appearances by fellow Wu-Tang members like RZA, GZA, Inspectah Deck, and Raekwon, giving it a familial, collaborative vibe.
‘No Said Date’ – The title track sets the tone with a haunting beat and Masta Killa’s signature laid-back but intense flow. The track reflects on loyalty, discipline, and staying true to one’s values, all delivered with wisdom.
‘D.T.D. (Do the Dance)’ (feat. Raekwon & Ghostface Killah) – This track features Raekwon and Ghostface, two of Wu-Tang’s most distinctive voices. The song blends their unique styles over a head-nodding beat, giving it a classic Wu-Tang feel.
‘Last Drink’ – One of the more introspective tracks on the album, ‘Last Drink’ showcases Masta Killa’s storytelling ability, reflecting on life’s struggles and temptations. The song’s slower, more reflective tone contrasts with some of the album’s harder-hitting tracks.
‘Secret Rivals’ (feat. Inspectah Deck & Raekwon) – This song features Inspectah Deck and Raekwon trading sharp verses, with Masta Killa delivering precise bars. The track’s production is atmospheric, with dark, cinematic strings and a strong bassline.
‘Old Man’ (feat. Ol’ Dirty Bastard & RZA) – A standout track featuring the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard, whose chaotic energy contrasts with Masta Killa’s more methodical delivery. RZA’s production is raw and organic, adding depth to the lyrical content, which reflects on the wisdom that comes with age.
‘Love Spell’ – One of the more mellow, melodic tracks on the album, ‘Love Spell’ is a subtle, soulful song that shows Masta Killa’s softer side. The production is smooth, with a hypnotic beat that complements his relaxed delivery.
‘Silverbacks’ (feat. Inspectah Deck & GZA) – This track features the lyrical prowess of both Masta Killa and GZA, known for their more cerebral approach to rapping. The song is full of metaphors and intellectual references, making it a lyrical standout.
‘Queen’ – A love letter to women, ‘Queen’ offers a break from the album’s harder themes. The track is respectful and poetic, showing Masta Killa’s ability to explore personal and emotional topics.
‘School’ (feat. RZA) – ‘School’ is a reflective track that discusses the lessons learned in life and the streets, with Masta Killa and RZA both delivering poignant verses over a minimalistic, soulful beat.
No Said Date is deeply rooted in the classic Wu-Tang aesthetic—hardcore beats, introspective lyrics, and a dedication to knowledge and self-discipline. Masta Killa’s style is more understated compared to his Wu-Tang counterparts, often delivering slow, deliberate bars filled with wisdom and reflection.
The themes on the album revolve around loyalty, discipline, personal growth, and the challenges of life. Tracks like ‘School’ and ‘No Said Date’ reflect on life lessons, while songs like ‘Old Man’ and ‘Last Drink’ touch on aging and the wisdom that comes with experience. Masta Killa’s lyricism is thoughtful and deliberate, with a focus on storytelling and introspection.
Musically, the album is steeped in the gritty, sample-based production style that RZA pioneered, with minimalistic beats that allow the lyrics to take center stage. The influence of kung fu philosophy and spirituality, a hallmark of Wu-Tang’s earlier work, is present in both the lyrics and the atmospheric production.
No Said Date was well-received by critics and fans alike, praised for its consistency and adherence to the Wu-Tang Clan’s signature sound. Despite being released over a decade after the Wu-Tang Clan’s debut, the album was seen as a solid addition to the Wu-Tang solo catalog, with many praising Masta Killa’s lyrical depth and thoughtful approach.
The album reached No. 50 on the Billboard 200 and No. 15 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, solidifying Masta Killa’s place among his more prolific Wu-Tang counterparts. While it didn’t achieve the commercial success of some other Wu-Tang solo projects, it earned a loyal fanbase and critical respect.
No Said Date remains a significant album in the Wu-Tang legacy, offering fans a mature, introspective project that stays true to the core values of the group. Masta Killa’s ability to deliver thoughtful, methodical verses makes this album a standout, especially for listeners who appreciate more intellectual and spiritual themes in hip-hop.
For fans of Wu-Tang and East Coast rap, No Said Date is an essential listen, showcasing Masta Killa’s unique voice within the larger Wu-Tang collective. The album’s consistent sound, lyrical depth, and raw production help solidify Masta Killa’s place as one of the most thoughtful and underrated members of the legendary group.
Track Listing
Born Chamber
Grab The Mic
No Said Date
Last Drink
Love Spell
The Future (Skit)
D.T.D. Featuring – Ghostface Killah, Raekwon
Whatever Featuring – Prodigal Sunn, Streetlife
Secret Rivals Featuring – Killah Priest, Method Man
Skit
Digi Warfare Featuring – RZA, U-God
Old Man Featuring – Ol’ Dirty Bastard, RZA
Queen
School Featuring – RZA
Silverbacks Featuring – GZA, Inspectah Deck
Masta Killa
