Many hip-hop fans across the world were filled with excitement when Chef Raekwon’s oft-delayed sequel to the seminal 1995 debut album, “Only Built For Cuban Linx” finally became a reality. After its release, Rae continued to record as both a solo artist and as a member of the pioneering Wu-Tang Clan, but many loyalists had been begging for a return to the form of that album that made the summer of ’95 so memorable.

Fourteen years later, the fans finally got what they wanted, and for their patience they were rewarded with an album that would end up being ranked #7 on Time Magazine’s list of 2009′s best albums and #1 on iTunes.

Recently, Lex Diamonds has embarked upon a nationwide tour in support of his latest effort. Opting for smaller and more intimate venues instead of larger arenas, the tour made its way to a bitterly cold Columbus this past Friday, with Alrosa Villa being the gracious host.

The show got off to a good start with Columbus’ own Greenhouse. The duo performed a rather lengthy set which included many songs from their new release, “Electric Purgatory” and also a few freestyles over beats from The Who and Run-DMC. Other opening acts included Likeblood and Queen YoNasDa.

After a brief intermission, the man of the hour made his way to the stage. Surrounded  by an entourage that included Capone (of Capone-N-Noreaga). Playing to the crowd, Raekwon started out with a few Wu-Tang classics before moving into songs from the original “Linx” album.

Capone held down a short set which featured crowd favorites such as “T.O.N.Y.” and “Bang Bang”. He even did justice to a few songs that belonged to his absent partner in crime, Noreaga, such as “Superthug” and “Nothin’”.

If anyone came into Alrosa Villa doubting that the Chef still had the same edge as when he first came onto the scene, then they were certainly proven wrong by the time Lex left the stage. Songs like “Catalina”, “Surgical Gloves” and “Kiss The Ring” show that Shallah Raekwon still has the right ingredients to cook, and he’ll be doing so for awhile to come.

Source: Examiner.com