The RZA’s beats have always been imbued with soul. Since the beginning the producer’s off-kilter loops and dusty breaks have betrayed his predilection for the sounds of Southern soul. The music of Memphis, especially what came out of the STAX Records recording studios, served as a palette for the RZA. With Shaolin Soul Collection Vol. 1 we’re served a selection of cuts from the STAX Records back catalog that has been curated by the Wu-Tang mastermind. What better a guide to the label to have than one of hip hop’s most storied producers, someone who’s been combing through the labels releases for years. Along side popular tracks from the likes of Isaac Hayes and The Dramatics we’re treated to deeper cuts from acts like 24 Carat Black. The end result is a compilation that serves as a comprehensive collection of classic soul music as well as a must-have for any Wu-Tang completionist.
- music label: Soul Temple Entertainment 2013