Raekwon: Only Built 4 Cuban Linx Pt.II Vinyl 2LP

Sequel to the infamous purple tape on purple vinyl! Rae & Ghost's epic conclusion to the Cuban Linx saga is as lush and cinematic as the O.G., flush with guest verses from The Lox, Beanie Sigel, Slick Rick, Busta Rhymes and most of the Wu, plus a who's who of underground producers (Scram Jones, Alchemist, Necro, Mathematics) rounding out the credits next to certified beat royalty (Dre, Erick Sermon, Pete Rock, Dilla, Marley Marl!). Here's our initial thoughts from back when we first carried the record:

Almost 15 years and many street tapes later, Raekwon FINALLY follows up the classic Only Built For Cuban Linx album with the long awaited part 2. Many (including this reviewer) consider the original to be one of the best, if not THE best Wu solo-albums (I played that purple tape to death kid), and to be honest, I was a little concerned that the second coming wouldn't live up to the expectations. Thankfully, all concerns got tossed out the window as soon as I pressed play on this thing. This shit is just as raw and uncut as the original with all the fierce street lyrics, Wu-gambino mafia shit, guest appearances from Wu-fam and razor sharp beats that made the first one so damn mind blowing! It's seriously that ill. In addition to the sick lyrical presentation, the production duties for this piece are SERIOUS. Only the biggest top dogs and legends have their beats laced up, and of course RZA is back and sounding as sharp as ever. Check the anthemic "New Wu" with Ghost and Meth, and "Black Mozart" with Inspectah Deck. Can I get a "SUUUU”! Recommended.

• black double vinyl pressing
• includes printed insert
• original release year: 2009
• music label: Ice H20 Records 2025

reviewed by snackmaster 07/2018