More than three years after the release of their double album 'Forever', Wu-Tang maintains that status with the release of 'The W.' At a mere 60 minutes in length, and comprising only 13 tracks, I expected a tight, concise and well-directed album from the Wu. However what I got, wasn't exactly what I expected.

The album had a more laid back feel than I was hoping for. Only four of the tracks had a noticeably upbeat tempo. This normally wouldn't be a problem, except that the matching lyricism seemed slow motion, and the lacked the emotion of the upbeat tracks. Without surprise, Method Man stood on his head providing the most ear-catchy and appealing vocals. The Rza and Gza also ripped up the mic. Rza also took on the bulk of production, producing all but the Allah-produced track: 'Do You Really (Thang, Thang).' The beats are pretty impressive, and the listener fairly in tune.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Wu-Tang Clan, they're a 10 member rap posse that was formed back in 1993 with the release of their classic 'Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).' The current members are Rza, Gza (Genius), Method Man, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, Ol Dirty Bastard, U-God, Masta Killa, Inspectah Deck, and Cappadonna. This clan is made unique by the fact that almost all the members have released solo albums that have reached gold or platinum status. This makes the Wu-Tang Clan an elite rap crew, to say the very least.

The second single, "Gravel Pit" is hot. The fact that its beat sounds like a remix of the beat from Method Man's hit, "Judgement Day" (off his 'Tical 2000: Judgement Day' album), serves as an advantage. Paulissa Moorman will have you drooling at this track. She throws down the hook, which when coupled with Method Man's fluid verses, makes this a sure hit. "Do You Really (Thang, Thang)" is the only Allah-produced track, and the chorus is catchy. "Conditioner" features a one-two punch like no other track. The fugitive, Ol Dirty Bastard somehow managed to make it to the recording studio to lace this song with his vocals. Snoop Dogg takes over where ODB leaves off and spits some tight verses. The first single, "Protect Ya Neck (The Jump Off)" is catchy, and the video is bumpin'. My favorite part is Rza's verses, watch for his pause as his fellow clansmen chat "BOBBY." Once you notice it, you'll be waiting for it all song. "Intro (Shaolin Jab" & "Let My Niggas Live" featuring Nas were also impressive.

Overall I found mostly enjoyment in this album. Several of the tracks were very tight, but some felt weak. This is another typical Wu-Tang Clan album. Rza explores some new avenues for production, which leads to a well above-average album, which lands far from perfect. If you liked Wu-Tang's 'Forever' then this is a must get album. Also, if you're feeling the first single "Protect Ya Neck", then you'll enjoy the album.

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written November 27, 2000