Wu Tang Clan, The 8 Diagrams Review

Overall Rating

RZA transition from hip-hop producer to Musician. Production gives the listener an artistic sound scape. An unreleased 36 Chambers ODB track. Campfire, Get em out ya way, Gun Will Go, Weak Spot, Tar Pits have that classic Wu-Vibe. Tracks like Wolves, Stick Me, Windmill, Heart Gently Weeps, Starter, Rushing Elephants show how RZA has become a master of his craft. Inspectah Deck, U-God, GZA, Method Man (minus 1 cheesy line on campfire) are all beasts on the mic and shine on every track they touch.

Only 3 ghostface verses and a hook. Only 3 Cappa verses (thought he would get more shine since RZA announced he is official). Two minutes of un-listenable ranting at the end of Tar Pits. Too much singing on some tracks. Raekwon seems uninspired on some tracks, probably cause Dre sheveled OB4CL2.

Great album, but it will generate a lot of mixed feelings. Some will love it, while others will hate it. Give the record a few spins, let the tracks sink in before you make a judgment because everyone has said that this album took a few listens to grow on them. Do not listen to the negativity surrounding this album (i.e. bad reviews, rae & ghost) because everyone felt the same about Wu-Tang Forever when that came out in '97...and now it is regarded as a hip-hop classic. One day this album will be regarded in the same light. But with that said, take this record for what it is...the 90's are over ladies...and clearly RZA wants to be labeled as a musician not a hip-hop producer