Legend of the Liquid Sword

Editors’ Notes Arguably the most lyrically advanced member of the Wu-Tang Clan, GZA is loved around the world for his densely layered verses and intellectual style. His 1995 album Liquid Swords is one of the most crucial entries in the lengthy WTC discography, and on Legend, he looks to return to that vibe, after 1999's Beneath the Surface. A tall order to be sure, but he does not disappoint here, coming in with 15 tracks of refreshingly rugged, vintage Wu-style joints, and reasserting his position as one of the most impressive wordsmiths in the game. Conceptual songwriting is one of his biggest strengths, on full display here with the zoology-themed "Animal Planet" and "Fame," a celebrity referencing discourse akin to his old favorite "Labels." He also teams up with fellow Clansmen RZA and Masta Killa on the rowdy, Mathematics-produced "Fam (Members Only)," and connects with DJ Muggs for the spooky crime-scene tale "Luminal." While not as classic as the first Liquid Swords, this is still a great album, and suggested listening for any fan of the Genius or the Wu.