the only issue with that is that other MCs in the Wu were able to release certified bulletproof classic within the same context.

That to some degree leaves us to believe the issue was with Meth himself not being able to put together a complete album.

And therefore, why should we believe he would’ve been in the Nas/Big category using other producers. It’s more likely that he would’ve had the same outcome that he had within the Wu.

I do agree that he should’ve been able to release that 5 mic classic in either scenario but it just seems like he wasn’t quite the full album artist that other MCs were.

And I say this while holding both his first two solos, 421 and the first Blackout! album in high regard. I like all those albums and would argue Meth is under-appreciated.

But I can’t say he has a Liquid Swords, Cuban Linx or even an Ironman in his catalogue and he absolutely should.