The Wu-Tang Clan is by far the greatest hip-hop group of all time. Emerged from Staten Island, New York, with members such as legendary producer RZA, GZA, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Raekwon, Masta Killa, Cappadonna, the unforgettable Ol' Dirty Bastard and their DJ Mathematics. They once began as a trio under the name "All in Together Now," but blew over the east coast scene with their debut album "Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)" in 1993. This album became a milestone in hip-hop and has been a must-hear for any true hip-hop head ever since. Their second album "Wu-Tang Forever" that followed in 1997 put the game even saltier on the map with its double-album format that shook the scene.
The Wu-Tang Clan is famous for their raw sound. "The W" and "Iron Flag" maintained that line tightly, with "8 Diagrams" causing a stir due to RZA's new universal and orchestral beat style. Even though "A Better Tomorrow" was questionable in quality in the eyes of many, "Pioneer the Frontier" remains a banger that stood out. Mathematics held the baton with "The Saga Continues...," and seems to be throwing its sauce as well for their upcoming and final album, following their farewell tour. Not to mention "Once Upon a Time in Shaolin" which needs less discussion.
On their latest release, the Clan goes back to their film and musical roots, inspired by Blaxploitation and martial arts. The album starts strong with "Mandigo," a boom bap track that showcases the Clan's remaining 4 swords. "Roar of a Lion (The Lion's Pit)" is pure middle finger to the haters, while "Claudine" mixes love with a soul vibe. Inspectah Deck and Raekwon make you think about keeping your head straight on "Shaolin vs. Lama."
The joint "Executioners from Shaolin" warns anyone who dares to take on the Clan, while "Cleopatra Jones" highlights Masta Killa and Raekwon's love for their particular lady. "Warriors 2, Cooley High" featuring Method Man and Benny the Butcher is a delight for any Wu-Tang and Griselda fan. RZA, RJ Payne, Willie the Kid and 38 Spesh hit you in the heart with "Let's Do It Again."
Cappadonna, Masta Killa and U-God bring the hardcore vibes on "Dolomite," followed by an impressive outro "Trouble Man" featuring Kameron Corvet. And then "Charleston Blue, Legend of a Fighter" closes the door in a way that fits the Wu style exactly, with Cappadonna writing a letter to his mothers.
After nearly 8 years of silence, they deliver a tribute that nails their legacy in a sonic journey that gives all 9 members room to blaze the mic. Mathematics shows how much he has grown as a producer with sharp choices in beats, and this album is undoubtedly a necessary addition to any salt-oriented collection. Score: 7/10, worth a salty trip!
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