written by Wolf Windblade
I don't know the details of the beef in the old clan but this project sounds like Raekwon conspiring to dethrone the Abbot while he's taking scented baths in the royal white dragon lodge.
I've heard the criticisms about Rae, how he's stuck in gangstaland, how he keeps talkin that greasy cook up a key, flights to the Bahamas, slappin cats wit all types of hammers and ratchets lol. It's what he does, it's his chamber and don't you ever forget it...
Raekwon has always been ill and speaks in slang codes clear enough to comprehend if you're remotely familiar with Wu's classic vibes. "It ain't hard to tell." His gift is crystal snakes, he can say the same old thing over and over in new and innovative ways with a flow that pulses heavy handed while remaining fluid. (MuayThai Chi) His voice carries a strength and conviction that inspires old and young alike. This is wise warrior music that sits at its own reflection and finds a glorious light and deems it FLY. The productions hint stealth , a seriousness, a grinding humility that awaits sayers to speak their tales of toil and TRIUMPHS. This was a very good experience for my ears moreso because the chosen tracks all held an integrity that i associate with Wu-ness. Not an easy task especially when the very man that struck the original chord was the one to dismantle it. One can only dream of the possibility of RZA circa 97 would've assembled all the members to bring their best darts to this project. ( BIG SMILING SIGH HERE)
Nostalgic, yet not corny, it resurrects the original principles of a marching legion that confides in brotherhood and strive for lyrical excellence and Raises the Flag with a new capital letter 'R' blazing red. The production is a new bangin, that respects the old formula with upgraded ingredients. SPAR MUSIC! OH and a shaolin chant by Estelle on track 'Chop Chop' " This is Shaaoolliinnn..." that made me want to join front line ranks.
The new order wont be as prolific as the old nor last anywhere as long but its a valiant effort and shows all the older Gods and allying clans that the youthful fighting spirit lives on in the most seasoned of Generals.
All Hail Abbot Raekwon... Forever.
~Wolf
(with guest shots from Joell Ortiz, Busta Rhymes, Redman, Method Man, GZA, Raekwon and more) is due out December 21st courtesy of the fine folks at Def Jam. 
. rest in peace and thanks a lot, Osiris...