Two years ago, when Wu-Tang Clan MC Raekwon announced the sequel to his acclaimed 1995 solo debut, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx …, you could’ve been forgiven for thinking it was merely some kind of clever ploy to stir up interest in a career that had arguably long been patchy. When the record finally dropped however, it became apparent this was in fact an unprecedented return to form, showcasing a unique storytelling ability and his trademark rap flow – perhaps one of the most recognisable of the ‘Clan. Where he would go next after such an achievement seemed unclear, but this has proven to be far from problematic for ‘The Chef’, who, in between touring with Wu-Tang and writing a movie, has been busy lending his mic skills to numerous collaborators, including Kanye West, Faith Evans and uh, Justin Bieber.

The announcement of new album, Shaolin Vs Wu-Tang, released later this month, got pulses racing again with its proposed allegiance to the old school Wu-Tang sound, which has the potential to be another classic for the vault. If that wasn’t enough The Chef is taking his wares to Edinburgh for a one-off Scottish date. ‘When I think about Scotland I think about the exciting people out there that really love hip hop’, Raekwon told The List. ‘It’s been a minute since I been out there though, but yeah, I can’t wait man, it’s gonna be hot.’ You heard the man.

Shaolin Vs Wu-Tang is released Monday 7 March. Raekwon plays The Liquid Room, Edinburgh, Tuesday 15 March.

New Raekwon "Shaolin vs WuTang"