Automatic Weapon

Bay Area studio wizard Dan Nakamura (aka Dan The Automator) is best known for his whimsical work with two of hip hop's underrated geniuses: Prince Paul (as Handsome Boy Modeling School) and Kool Keith (on his Dr. Octagon project). 2K7 offers the producer a new challenge, working with top rappers from every region for a soundtrack to a basketball-themed videogame. From New Yorkers Fabolous and Ghostface to Chi-Town's Lupe Fiasco and Rhymefest to Los Angeles' Aceyalone and Chali 2na (of Jurassic 5), there's plenty of flavor to digest here, but Automator's skill set keeps the project from getting too wildly eclectic.

Related Content

• The Top 20 Greatest San Francisco Musicians, Nos. 10-6
  April 18, 2012
• Raw Golden Healer Honey Sources Natural Candy From Stern Grove
  December 28, 2012
• The New Gangsta Rap's Real Problem
  January 22, 2013
• T.I. Previews His New Album Trouble Man in San Francisco
  December 6, 2012
• Stock Up on Kitchen Supplies on the Cheap at the Meyer Factory Outlet Sale
  December 5, 2012

More About

• Dan The Automator
• Kool Keith
• Prince Paul
• Hip-Hop and Rap
• Underground Hip-Hop

Throughout 2K7, the kingpin gives his MCs new possibilities. That's especially true with "I Love This Game," a sparse anthem built on rock guitars that brings a new magnificence to the laid-back Houston rapper Slim Thug. The Automator also knows when to keep a sound more familiar, as with the cut-and-paste backdrop he creates for Oakland's Hieroglyphics on "Don't Hate the Player." The slam dunk on this comp belongs to Vallejo's E-40 and S.F.'s San Quinn, though, who perform a rare collaboration on "Baller Blockin'." Automator can produce anyone, but it sounds especially sweet when he's playing on the home court. — Tamara Palmer