The W is the third studio album by the world's baddest Hip Hop group Wu-Tang Clan. Released in 2000, the album debuted at number 5 on the Billboard 200, and instantly topped the R&B/Hip Hop Albums Chart after release. Containing the hit "Gravel Pit", the album was certified Platinum a few months later.

After their 1997 album Wu-Tang Forever [MOVLP1055] and several solo projects, The W has a more rugged, less polished sound than most Wu-Tang related albums from that era. Group mastermind RZA produced The W with roughed up Soul samples and tight, tough beats. Paranoid kung fu samples and bizarre sounds drive the fantastic nightmare. The back-to-basics approach (the group's massive debut Enter The Wu-Tang [MOVLP215] comes to mind) works so well because it puts the focus back on some of the best rappers in the game.

The album also features guest appearances from Isaac Hayes, Redman, Nas, Busta Rhymes and Snoop Dogg.[info sheet from distr.]