Playlist: The Very Best of Wu-Tang Clan - Wu-Tang Clan

Since presentation is so important to the revolutionary rap group the Wu-Tang Clan, this 2009 compilation falls well outside the Wu universe on looks alone. That said, it is meant to fit the design standard of Sony's Playlist series and the track list is prime Wu material. The hits "C.R.E.A.M.," "Method Man," and "Protect Ya Neck" (in its "Jump Off" remix) are present and surrounded by fan favorites plus a couple deep album cuts. Without the inclusion of "Gravel Pit" or "Wu-Tang Clan Ain't Nuthing ta F' Wit," the "Very Best" part of the title is called into question, but what's really confusing is the comp's distaste for the group's 2000 album The W, which is only represented by one track. The Playlist series price is attractive and the whole eco-friendly, hybrid MP3/CD idea is interesting, but if money and availability are no object, you could do better (2004'sLegend of the Wu-Tang Clan) or much worse (1999's Wu-Chronicles). ~ David Jeffries, All Music Guide