Whether you've been listening to hip-hop for your entire life or you're just a casual fan, theres a good chance you've heard of Raekwon. From being one of the original 9 members of the Wu-Tang Clan, to releasing the undeniable classic that is "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx", to being featured on Kanye Wests highly anticipated 5th album, to even being on a remix of a Justin Bieber song. The man has done it all. Now he's released his 5th album Shaolin VS Wu-Tang which boasts guest appearances by fellow clansmen Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, and Method Man, as well as performances from old and new friends like Nas, Busta Rhymes, Black Thought, Estelle, Rick Ross, and Lloyd Banks. Lets get into the album.
Upon first look, you'll notice that the RZA is nowhere to be found. So what? He's not needed for every single Wu solo album. Besides, all of the producers on this release put in work creating a minimalistic landscape that serves merely as a vehicle for the lyrics. And when it comes to lyrics, everyone delivers. Raekwon's story telling abilities are still as sharp as ever while every single guest brings their all to the table.
Stand out tracks include Silver Rings, Crane Style, Dart School, Molasses, and Shaolin vs Wu Tang, amongst others.
I can't recommend this album to everyone simply because the minimalistic return to 90s sound isn't something that everyone can get into. Also some of the songs are TOO SHORT! But if you've been a Raekwon fan since day one, the minimalistic 90s sound is something that you're into, and you can get over the fact that some songs aren't long enough, you'll love this album.
Pros: Dope lyrics from everyone involved, album is rewarding after multiple listens, cohesive album
Cons: Not for everybody, the minimalistic beats might bore some folks, and a handful of the tracks aren't long enough for some listeners
Rating 8/10
Sidenote: If you buy the album on iTunes, you get 2 bonus tracks. If you buy the album at FYE, you get a free T-Shirt! Decisions Decisions
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