LIQUID SWORDS
By GZA
Getondown.com, $20
The reissue of Wu-Tang Clan member GZA’s seminal 1995 solo album Liquid Swords – complete with a chess set – provides a good chance for those who haven’t heard the album to get acquainted.
Often cited as one of the best albums in the Wu-Tang canon, Liquid Swords isn’t as immediate as 36 Chambers and doesn’t have any hits but is still one of the most compelling hip hop albums you’re likely to hear.
GZA – aka Gary Grice – is an incredibly skilled rapper and lyricist. He says in one line what most rappers struggle to evoke in an entire verse, and he shies away from the misogyny and self-aggrandisement of so many of his peers.
Liquid Swords deals with oppression, graphic violence, drug dealing and the battle to survive. Masterfully produced by RZA, tracks such as Cold World will make you want to put a thick jumper on, while Swordsman sees GZA promoting knowledge as a way of life over a hypnotic beat. A masterpiece in every sense of the word.
