When it comes to pure hip-hop, GZA is about as good as it gets. Often regarded as one of the best lyricists in hip-hop history, the Wu-Tang vet has plenty in his pen to carry not only an album but loyal fans as well. Possessing an innate flow and adroit storytelling skills, GZA is a living homage to hip-hop, the art and the science. On last year’s Grandmasters, GZA (a.k.a. the Genius) decided to move away from the RZA-produced tracks that dominated much of his earlier solo work. DJ Muggs, the primary beatmaker for Cypress Hill, infuses a West Coast flavor into the Genius’ Shaolin-style raps for their new album. If you want to hear what is arguably the best emcee-DJ partnership in years, check out this show. Expect a raw, no-frills performance and listen to the music carefully; you won’t be disappointed. You might even learn a new vocabulary word or two. Hangar 18 and Self Scientific open the show.

Saturday, March 4 at 9pm. The Buffalo Icon, 391 Ellicott St. (842-0167). $17-$20.