A hallmark of Wu-Tang albums was their cinematic quality, dating back to their debut in 1993 (Enter the Wu-Tang [36 Chambers]) and throughout the subsequent solo releases. It was RZA who directed and scored the collection of songs that made up the script. So when RZA was tapped as music director of Ghost Dog and then Kill Bill Vol. 1, the Wu-czar crafted sonic backdrops with all the emotion and drama of a vet. One would be foolish to argue that if you want some kung-fu music with a contemporary edge, anyone other than RZA would be sloppy-seconds.

Apparently, Japanese animation studio GONZO and director Fuminori Kizaki were no fools when it came time to select a music director for the anime series Afro Samurai, starring Samuel L. Jackson. They hired RZA to help tell the tale through music and the resulting soundtrack is a fitting companion: The RZA Presents: Afro Samurai – The Soundtrack. Throughout the album, RZA splices in well-timed interludes that link with the cuts to practically create a movie of its own.

Amazingly, you could...