O.G.C., also known as the Originoo Gunn Clappaz, have made a long-awaited return to the hip-hop landscape. Comprised of Louieville Sluggah, Starang Wondah, and Top Dog, the Brooklyn trio is celebrating the 30th anniversary of their seminal 1996 debut, Da Storm, by dropping a new 3-track EP titled 3:30. This release marks the group’s first new material in 28 years, serving as a nostalgic yet grounded return for the Boot Camp Clik subunit.

The EP opens with “I Don’t Need You,” a track that leans into a dusty, three-and-a-half-minute intro characterized by sharp sampling and a focus on independent hustle. This is followed by “Make Peace,” which embraces a classic boom-bap aesthetic, delivering a stern message to low-budget competitors. The project concludes with “Still Starang,” produced by Rockwilder. It stands out as the EP’s highlight, offering a reflective look at the group’s journey—from touring the globe to their current connections with modern artists like Joey Bada$$.

While the release of 3:30 coincided with Buckshot’s self-produced third album, The Payback, the Gunn Clappaz hold their own. Though The Payback may edge it out in terms of overall impact, 3:30 is a significant improvement over the group’s sophomore effort, The MPire Shrikez Back. The members of O.G.C. have clearly retained their lyrical sharpness and chemistry, even if the production on the EP’s middle tracks feels somewhat standard compared to the standout outro.

Score: 6/10