Shabazz The Disciple is a long-time member of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan, and his latest album, Thewriting’s On The Wall, proves that his influence on the hip-hop community is still going strong. Produced entirely by Sydney native Ed Nodz, the 13-track project delves into the dirty, conscious world of rap. Known for his dark and mysterious storytelling, Shabazz uses his signature flow to drop complex narratives of struggle, survival, and wisdom using his signature lyrical rage and reggae influence on contemporary boom music. Ed Nodz’s production perfectly complements this sonic landscape, echoing the classic Wu-Tang Clan vibe but with a fresh, contemporary twist. The album’s overall tone is both timeless and urgent, capturing Shabazz’s most influential hip-hop territory in over three decades.
Among these standout tracks, UndergroundHipHopBlog.com highlights “Wizard of Oz,” a track that showcases Shabazz’s lyrical prowess and his ability to flip metaphors with surgical precision; The production blends with Shabazz’s keen observations on society and power; and bonus track “Conception Immaculate,” a profound reflection on the complexities of life and the need for mental clarity. Each song is imbued with rich symbolism, making Thewriting’sOnTheWall an album that requires multiple listens to truly unravel its layers.
2024 has undoubtedly been Shabazz’s most productive return year yet, with 5 projects released, and Thewriting’s On The Wall is set to kick off 2025 with more cohesive releases expected from the living legend. The consistency and creative output he has shown in such a short period of time is simply stunning, reaffirming his status as a hip-hop superstar.
Rating: 8/10