A rare debut album from the now more prominent rapper La the Darkman (yes the AMG LAD). This album also happens to be one of my favorite albums of all time. A “Wu-Fam” release from the late 90’s that exemplified the rugged street sounds that made the Wu-Tang Clan a phenomenon. The album also follows in the same vein as Raekwon’s OB4CL in that it’s mafioso rap was in contrast to the “gangster” rap that was very popular in the West Coast at the time. Instead of tales of small time drug peddling and drive-by shootings, mafioso rap like “Heist of the Century” tried to weave tales of organized crime and opulence.

The production of this album really sets it apart from many other albums at the time. With production from in-house Wu-Tang producer “4th Disciple” and long time producer for Killarmy Carlos “Sixth of July” Broady along with RZA and a standout track produced by one of my favorite underrated producers “Havoc” of Mobb Deep fame. It’s that track “Figaro Chain” produced by Havoc that I feel is the best track on the album, Spring Water Ft. “Raekwon” and “Lucci” are two other standout tracks.

I cannot stress enough this is the quintessential Wu-Fam album of the late 90’s. Any fan of Wu-Tang Clan or 90’s rap who have not had the pleasure of listening to this album should do themselves a favor and check it out. 5/5