For the past 15 years, the original Only Built 4 Cuban Linx has been Raekwon the Chef’s greatest achievement. With the recent release of Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II, Wu – Tang fans definitely have something to look forward too. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II definitely recaptured the essence of Raekwon’s first LP.

You immediately return to the summer of ’95 due to the familiar rhythms and verses on “Return of the North Star.” Raekwon reprises his role as the confidant, “uncle – like figure” and leads right into the best track on the album, “House of Flying Daggers.” The track is classic Wu. From the throbbing string instruments, soul/kung fu samples, and exceptional verses of original Wu – Tang members Method Man, Inspectah Deck, and Ghostface Killah, the LP gets off to the perfect start for those doubting the credibility of the Clan.

When Raekwon did a few solo joints on the album such as “Fat Lady Sings”, the album was still great. However, what would a Raekwon album be if it wasn’t guest starring Tony Sparks aka Ghostface. Ghost, as always, delivered lyrically but also demonstrated his spunk. For example, in the track “Gihad,” he describes being caught ditching his friend through a pregnant girlfriend. It’s classic Ghostface, and you can’t help but smirk.

This album was excellent and I could not find one track that was disappointing. Good stuff.