Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... Pt. II
Raekwon · 2009
71 min · 22 tracks · gangsta rap
A cinematic tapestry of storytelling woven with gritty beats and sharp lyrical precision that revitalizes the mafioso rap narrative.
Top tracks — play these first
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Return of the North Star Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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House of Flying Daggers — This track showcases a masterful collaboration with Ghostface Killah and Inspectah Deck, highlighting intricate wordplay and vivid imagery that encapsulates the album's mafioso aesthetic.
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Catalina — Blending a smooth yet haunting beat with introspective lyrics, this track reflects on personal growth and the complexities of street life, making it a standout moment.
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Surgical Gloves — Featuring a stark contrast between menacing beats and meticulous lyricism, this track exemplifies Raekwon's ability to paint vivid scenes of urban life and struggle.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album excels in storytelling and production, creating a vivid narrative experience.
What we noticed
- Raekwon employs multiple guest artists who contribute distinct verses, enhancing the storytelling with varied perspectives.
- The production incorporates cinematic samples and layered instrumentals that create a rich backdrop for the lyrics, emphasizing the mafioso themes.
- Several tracks feature abrupt transitions or shifts in tempo, which serve to heighten dramatic moments within the narrative.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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9/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic emotional journeys
- cinematic storytelling experiences
- gradual builds and payoffs
- immersive narrative exploration
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — It is widely regarded as a high point in Raekwon's career, showcasing his storytelling and production.
- Moods
- Nostalgic
- Career context
- Released in 2009, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... Pt. II marked Raekwon's return to solo artistry following his acclaimed 1995 debut. By this time, he had solidified his role within the Wu-Tang Clan and was exploring deeper narratives influenced by his earlier work while addressing contemporary themes in hip-hop.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Ghostface Killah· Inspectah Deck· Nas
Tracklist
- 1 Return of the North Star Start here 2:39
- 2 House of Flying Daggers 3:51
- 3 Sonny’s Missing 2:28
- 4 Pyrex Vision 0:54
- 5 Cold Outside 4:40
- 6 Black Mozart 3:24
- 7 Gihad 2:57
- 8 New Wu 3:50
- 9 Penitentiary 2:35
- 10 Baggin Crack 1:58
- 11 Surgical Gloves 3:24
- 12 Broken Safety 2:45
- 13 Canal Street 3:37
- 14 Ason Jones 3:06
- 15 Have Mercy 3:51
- 16 10 Bricks 3:16
- 17 Fat Lady Sings 2:17
- 18 Catalina 3:28
- 19 We Will Rob You 3:15
- 20 About Me 3:59
- 21 Mean Streets 4:29
- 22 Kiss the Ring 4:09
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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