I made the decision to not be dismissive of this new record as I stood in the Target checkout line clutching it in my hands. It had a beautiful photograph of a city skyline and the familiar Wu-Tang logo sat in the corner to serve as reminder that this wasn’t just some average hip-hop record; at least it would mean more than one. This album would serve as a continuation of a legacy of greatness. Is it one? Honestly, it’s debatable.

“Ruckus in B Minor” opens A Better Tomorrow with a bombastic delivery with some familiar beats, and a shocking verse from none other than the late ODB. It gives you a feeling of nostalgia from hearing a voice that takes you back to the days of 36 Chambers, and while I didn’t see a quality drop, I had to be taken back into reality by the aging verses and views of the Wu-Tang members now. This new album isn’t a trip back in time, but a pivotal point for the group. It represents a change that a lot of hip-hop artists had to make to move into the 21^st century after taking a break. Sure, we got Wu-Tang solo albums, but they have distinctive feel to them. A formal Wu-Tang clan record contains a style in which the various rappers have entire conversations through their rhymes. This record keeps it, but moves in a different direction than what we’re used to; a more commercial side of Wu-Tang. But it isn’t bad, it’s just a transition. While this record made cause a stir amongst Clan die-hards, it’s still definitley a record that all hip-hop fans should try out.