A little more than a year after releasing “Demographic II”, a sequel to “Demographic EP”, Mark Saunders returns with “In Due Time”, an EP of five songs. Across both previous projects, Saunders has demonstrated an affinity for sharp technical skill and lyricism.
One would rightfully expect “In Due Time” to be just as strong lyrically- and he did not disappoint. The latest project shows him moving more deliberately in that direction; his lyrics and flow grab you immediately, and the more time you spend with the EP, the more the words start to resonate. “In Due Time” navigates motivation, timing, religion, the African American experience, politics and loss.
The EP opens with “The Holy Mecca,” where Saunders is referred to as “Mister In Due Time.” An introspective and deliberate approach, that helps set the tone for the raw lyricism that follows.
“Scapegoats”, my personal favorite, featuring Ja’King The Divine and Javi Darko, followed by “Bruh Bruh,” keeps the momentum moving with an easy progression. The melody reels you in, and just when you’re settled, the beat falls away- nearly acappella, raw and unhidden-before the track drops back and locks you in again.
The production is another standout feature of the EP.
“I like hip-hop, you know what I’m saying, I love it, and to me it is being destroyed, commercialized, soon to be taken away, so before that happens, I will make a fuss about it.” – N.O.R.E. (What!?)
“N.O.R.E (What!?)” featuring Israel Jones, is his ode to the genre, which clearly runs deep in his DNA. Attacking the track over a seductive bass line and boom-bap drums. His metaphors make you think while his flow keeps you wanting more, balancing it all together.
Then comes “Inshallah,” featuring B-Hill. Meaning “if God wills,” it closes the EP and echoes the religious references woven throughout, tying back to this central notion of letting things unfold on their own terms. The outro, in which Saunders leaves a voice note to his mother, whom he lost in July 2025, makes the whole project feel even more intentional. By the time the last word fades out, you understand him far more than you did before pressing play.
This EP is a breath of fresh air compared to the more common ones we see, which are often just a loose compilation of unrelated songs. People are yearning for profound lyricism, and Mark Saunders is exactly what this genre needs right now. I am hoping that he gets the success he deserves, in due time.
