ogd5XOt reviewed From the Streets of Shaolin by S. H. Fernando
A Truly Excellent History of the Group and the Genre
5 stars
Fernando is both a journalist and a superfan, and his knowledge and enthusiasm are put to great use here. He covers the glory days of Wu-Tang, including their side projects, from their debut album to Wu-Tang Forever.
There's a lot of history in here. Fernando takes the time to explain the social context of the music, so the influences of the artists are really brought into focus. Sometimes the history is so deep the connection to the music isn't immediately apparent, but the walk is always worthwhile.
The music itself is explored in extensive depth. Almost every sample is discussed, including its origin, how it was modified to fit in the track, and often how RZA first found it. The analysis of the lyrics weaves in what was happening in the writer's life at that moment, and virtually every reference is explained.
The book focuses on the glory days of …
Fernando is both a journalist and a superfan, and his knowledge and enthusiasm are put to great use here. He covers the glory days of Wu-Tang, including their side projects, from their debut album to Wu-Tang Forever.
There's a lot of history in here. Fernando takes the time to explain the social context of the music, so the influences of the artists are really brought into focus. Sometimes the history is so deep the connection to the music isn't immediately apparent, but the walk is always worthwhile.
The music itself is explored in extensive depth. Almost every sample is discussed, including its origin, how it was modified to fit in the track, and often how RZA first found it. The analysis of the lyrics weaves in what was happening in the writer's life at that moment, and virtually every reference is explained.
The book focuses on the glory days of the Clan and not much from after 1998 is talked about in any length. Fernando does spend a few pages on the odd saga of 'Once Upon a Time in Shaolin', but not enough to really grasp the minutia.
This is a really excellent look at the genesis of hip-hop in general and not just Wu-Tang itself. Absolutely worth the time for anyone interested in the group or the genre.