The Rza: A Resurrection

The ever expanded reach of the Wu affiliates has gotten to the point where it mirrors some sort of filmic, secret society that controls things from behind the scenes. Wu hasn’t been overly flashy. They give more credence to reality than to pretending to be something that they’re not, but nonetheless.

One of the most visible members of the affiliate – even though he spends most of his time behind the boards – is the RZA. Cousin to Ol’ Dirty Bastard and the GZA, the RZA has worked tirelessly to spread the Wu image, name and fame across every media type possible. And after the initial success of Afro Samurai, the soundtrack that accompanies the film has finally arrived.

If you’re a fan of the show, you should be supremely aware of the musical production during the credits and amidst fight scenes. The work the RZA turns in really is the best extension of this love of kung-fu flicks. His first publicized filmic work in this mode was the Forest Whitaker vehicle Ghost Dog. And that soundtrack sported rugged and simple beats coupled with some Wu family rappers.

And while the Afro Samurai soundtrack possesses some of the same musical characteristics, the folks guesting on top of these tracks is a bit different. Just like 8 Diagrams and Digi Snax there’s a great deal more soul music. Stone Mecca – the folks that turned in an assist on the RZA’s tour last year – make an appearance on a track with a rather tired Sly and the Family Stone sample.

Kool G Rap shows up a few times. And on the strongest track – “Whar” – even the soul hook can’t detract from the veteran rappers flow or that of Ghostface Killa, Tash Mahogany or the RZA himself.

Making an appearance on not only the Ghost Dog disc, but here as well is the west coast Black Knights. And even if that cohort of rappers wasn’t affiliated with the Wu, comparisons between the two would fly. The beat they get on “Bloody Samurai” is a slightly orchestrated affair, but anchored by a steady drum beat and a regular tambourine count.

Without crying a disparaging word, this disc fits seamlessly into the last few efforts from the RZA. And dependent upon your feelings about all of those, this may or may not be for you. But regardless of that, the new Afro Samurai film should be a pretty entertaining watch.