2002-03-08 - 4:46 p.m.

I've been listening to a lot of Wu-Tang lately, as I suggested a couple of entries ago. Lately I've been trying to edit Wu-Tang Forever down to one disc. I figure I might have to cut only a couple actual songs, in addition to all the Five-Percent Islam bullshit that pollutes the beginnings and endings of both discs. Shouldn't be too hard. If I actually do this, I'll post the track list and offer to make copies.

I've also been thinking of editing down the actual crew. Lately they've been playing shows with seven of the originals -- those missing are ODB (of course) and Meth.

First cut would be Masta Killa. I'm sorry, but his flow is awful. So slow, no personality, no writing skillz. None of his verses are in the least bit memorable. Except for maybe the one where he begs us, "But don't forget about the Masta...Killa." Sorry dude, we already have. Goodbye. I'm busting your ass down to Triple A. Maybe there you can be the High Chief of Sunz of Man or something.

Second, get rid of Cappadonna. He's actually not an official member, but he's around enough for me to want to send him packing. He's just too damn nasal. Sounds like one of the Outsidaz. Although he flows and writes 500% better than Masta Killa.

Then I'd offer Street Life full membership status. He's charismatic -- a great role player who wouldn't try to outshine Ghost, Rae, Meth, or GZA. Great line from the new disc: "Serial killaz tote guns without the serial."

Everyone else, I'd keep. They fit together like a well-oiled machine. Sports metaphors abound: Inspectah Deck is a great lead-off hitter. He's the most energetic and enthusiastic, with a sweet bouncy flow. Not enough personality to hold together a solo album (namely Uncontrolled Substance), but you need him around. Ghostface is the MVP, the cleanup hitter, no doubt there. Rae is his very capable backup muscle. Note how seamlessly those two trade lines on jams like "MGM Grand."

Shit, I gotta go. Anyway, more soon. I've got chapters to write on this.