Through the deep depths of Shaolin, GZA rose from the bottom of the 36 chambers and broke out this 1995 classic “Liquid Swords” and never looked back.  GZA is one of the founding members of the Wu-Tang Clan, one of the greatest rap collectives we have seen.  Back in 1995 this solo project went platinum and ascended to No. 9 on the Billboard top 200.  Each song on this release is classic hip hop, from the golden age of the musical genre.  Tracks such as “Shadowboxin,” “Duel of the Iron Mic,” and “Labels,” are still in heavy rotation among hip hop heads with a love for the grimy, 90’s sound Wu Tang pioneered. The album was produced by RZA in his basement where the repetitive and kung-fu style beats play a big factor in the rapping style of GZA.  Additionally, all of the original nine members of the Clan appear on the album making it one of the group’s essential classics alongside Raekwon’s Only Built for Cuban Linx and Ghostface’s Ironman.

Also, many would not expect the title to have a deeper meaning, but it suggests the lyrical style on display, one that flows like water. Furthermore, swords suggests the content packs a hard punch.  Clearly, the metaphoric title works as the material is mostly about snapping necks and cashing large checks.  If you’re in love with Kendrick Lamar’s or even the J.Cole’s style of modern rap , you will absolutely respect as well as love the lyricism throughout the album’s core.  As an old soul and a fan of classic hip hop, I highly recommend this album. It’s  a must listen if you possess even a slight respect of the world of hip-hop.