Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt. 2

iTunes Review

Back in the mid-‘90s, when Wu-Tang was at the height of its powers, Raekwon unleashed Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... (a.k.a. the purple tape), dazzling listeners worldwide with his complex crime narratives, narcotic trade exploits, and stylistic street slanguage. Produced entirely by RZA and co-starring Ghostface, it was an instant classic that often finds itself on "all-time top ten" lists to this day. Cuban Linx II has been speculated upon for many years, tracks leaked and release dates published, then always pushed back. Many feared it would never see the light of day, banished to come out in the fifth quarter of Nevuary. Finally, 14 years after the original, it's here, and it's well worth the wait. Cinematic drug-kingpin rap set to rugged New York beats as grimy as the Park Hill Projects on a cold winter night, it is exactly what we all hoped it would be. Rae's lyricism sounds just as raw as it did back in '95, proving that he hasn't lost a step when it comes to hyper-vivid storytelling. Just about every joint on here is outstanding; don't miss "The New Wu," "Sonny's Missing," and ODB tribute "Ason Jones."