Made in Brooklyn is the second solo studio album by Wu-Tang Clan member Masta Killa. The album was released on August 8, 2006, by Nature Sounds. Recording sessions took place during 2004 to 2006. Production was handled by Pete Rock, Bronze Nazareth, Whyz Ruler and MF Doom, as well as guest appearances from all the other seven surviving Wu-Tang Clan members. Upon its release, Made in Brooklyn has received generally favorable reviews from music critics. The album peaked at number 176 on the US Billboard 200.
Background
In regard to the album's title he stated:
It's basically the same formula as No Said Date, but with more of a Brooklyn swagger. It's a piece of me, where I come from and a dedication to the MCs, producers and the people from the neighborhood.[1]
Unlike his previous album, there is no production input from the RZA, although it has several tracks from Bronze Nazareth. In regards to this decision, he stated:
I know how the Wu-Tang sound is supposed to be. I can get sound I’m looking for. Go back to neighborhood and work with people I’ve wanted to for a long time. When you hear the music you will think one of those original brothers did the beats, but it’s not. 75% of this album was recorded in Brooklyn. But I’m not looking to taking nothing over. I’m not the king of shit. It’s just what I’m doing now. There’s not a whole bunch of beefing and quarrelling. That’s just a whole bunch of bullshit that doesn’t really have anything to do with music.[2]
Singles
The album's first single, "Ringing Bells", was originally released on the Nature Sounds Records Natural Selection compilation.[3] The second single from the album is "It's What It Is" featuring Raekwon and Ghostface Killah, with "Brooklyn King" as its B-Side.[4]
Made in Brooklyn has received generally favorable reviews from critics. Okayplayer gave the album a score of 83 out of 100.[6] Ryan Dombal of Pitchfork Media gave the album a 7.2 out of 10 rating.[7] RapReviews.com's Steve Juon gave the album an 8 out of 10.[8]
