Trio nearly massacres new album

Wu-Massacre had the potential to be an incredible album, but it is unfortunately stuck somewhere between mediocrity and greatness. The album features three of the Wu-Tang Clan’s most talented MCs rapping about guns, money, drugs and the good life over classic Wu-Tang-style beats.

Ghostface Killah, Method Man and Raekwon all hold their own throughout the album, and a few special guests like Inspectah Deck, Sheek and Trife do a great job of mixing things up. The album also features a hilarious and very vulgar skit featuring Ghostface’s good friend, actor Tracy Morgan.

The biggest problem with Wu-Massacre is its heart. It feels like no one was really determined to make an incredible album, as if all of those involved decided that “average” would be an acceptable goal. A few of the songs, “Pimpin’ Chipp” and “Youngstown Heist,” seem like B-sides from old Ghostface Killah’s albums that were thrown into Wu-Massacre to bulk up a small track list.

Hidden within the mediocrity of Wu-Massacre are a few gems that deserve attention. Both “Criminology 2.5” and “Meth v.s. Chef Part 2” are instant Wu-Tang classics.

Hardcore Wu-Tang fans will find some enjoyment in Wu-Massacre but may be disappointed with its length and quality. At the end of the day, it is hard to complain; average Wu-Tang is still better than most hip-hop played on the radio.