As if being the sequel to one of the finest Hip-Hop albums ever made wasn’t enough, several changes in label, release date, and the content itself have made Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… Pt. II highly anticipated on sheer elusiveness. It’s still a little hard to believe that the project has finally seen the light of day, but possibly even more shocking is just how worth the wait it actually is, serving not simply as one of the year’s strongest albums, but also a worthy continuation of its predecessor.

‘Return Of The North Star’ begins the album with an excellent nod to the first Cuban Linx, as Popa Wu sets the scene by providing Raekwon with some words of wisdom over a chilling ‘North Star (Jewels)’ reprise. The immense ‘House Of Flying Daggers’ follows, combining razor sharp production with what can only be described as an all out lyrical assault from fellow group members Inspectah Deck, Ghostface Killah and Method Man. There are plenty of exciting guest verses to be found further on, and not just courtesy of the Wu-Tang Clan; though there might not be anything quite as monumental as Nas on ‘Verbal Intercourse’, outside contributions from Busta Rhymes, Styles P, and particularly Jadakiss are all impressive.

Even moreso than the guest verses, branching out to non Wu affiliates has had an extremely positive effect on the album in terms of production. It is somewhat surprising that RZA is responsible for just three tracks here, as the likes of The Alchemist and Pete Rock both showcase their own individual talents while managing to maintain the distinct cohesiveness and Wu-Tang feel that was such a significant aspect of Pt. I. J Dilla’s contributions are stellar, and his role in the project is made all the more poignant by the wonderful ‘Ason Jones’ – a tribute to the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard that features one of Yancey’s most soulful and heartwrenching compositions. Dr. Dre also makes an expected appearance, but unfortunately his work comes as little more than a relief that the album’s release on Aftermath never materialized.

It would be rash to claim that Raekwon has followed up the original Only Built 4 Cuban Linx with another classic, but it’s near impossible to imagine a more dignified attempt at doing so. Consequently, he has achieved what very few artists are able to in relation to building upon their best material, especially in a thematic sense. A spectacular and almost flawless effort, albums this well done just don’t come along very often. For that, compliments to the Chef.