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 October 19, 2008
Pro Tools
Genius/GZA
Babygrande Records
While this review of the Genius' latest effort may be a little late, it is long overdue. Gary Grice, a.k.a. the GZA, one of the Wu-Tang Clan's founding members (along with RZA and ODB), recently released what he refers to as a compilation album, entitled "Pro Tools." The Genius has been spittin' rhymes for almost 20 years (he was the only Clan member to release a solo album before 36 Chambers), and he is yet to sound outdated, as is proven here.
GZA, along with Ghostface Killah, is commonly regarded as one of the best lyricists within the Clan.
"Pro Tools" does not disappoint in this area.
Typical of the GZA's style, similes and metaphors abound throughout the album and the rhymes are always dope.
One of the best lines comes in the track "7 Pounds" where he expresses his thoughts on the current state of hip-hop: "Me to hip-hop, Is like Einstein to science, A match made in heaven, Most likely an alliance…" The current state of rap and its commercial misuse are a persistent theme throughout the album, as has always been throughout the Wu's career.
Other themes include chess and street violence. The GZA even gets vaguely political on the track "Columbian Ties."
The high point of the album is the G-Unit diss track, "Paper Plate." G-Unit and the Wu have been at odds recently and this just adds fuel to the fire.
In terms of production, the album's beats are, for the most part, dark, simple and bass heavy; in other words, typical of the Wu-Tang style.
Two tracks are produced by the RZA: "Paper Plate" and "Life Is A Movie" (also featuring RZA on the mic).
The other tracks are produced by various Wu affiliates.
Two tracks also feature live guitar. Notable guest spots include fellow Wu members Masta Killa (GZA's protégé, whose verse here, though, is relatively weak) and the RZA, as well as GZA's son, Young Justice.
While "Pro Tools" may not be the next "Liquid Swords" (then again, what album is?), it certainly is an overall solid release from a hip-hop legend and mainstay. The beats are dark and the rhymes are off the hook: everything one has come to expect from the intelligent hip-hopper known simply by the alias the Genius. Check out "Pro Tools" and you might just figure out why.
Key Tracks: "Alphabets," "Paper Plate," "Life is a Movie." |
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