CD’s title is more than an idle boast

DJ Muggs vs GZA the Genius

“Grandmasters” (Angeles/Fontana)

* * * 1/2

DJ MUGGS gave Cypress Hill its dusted and eerie sound, while GZA was one of the most respected members of the Wu-Tang Clan because of his innovative and captivating storytelling as well as his vast vocabulary and his clever turns of phrase.

After teaming on a number of projects over the last several years, the talented auteurs have released their first full-length collaborative effort (due in stores Tuesday), a lyrically and sonically dense masterwork that lives up to its ambitious title.

Muggs constructs a mesmerizing batch of cinematic beats that evoke the moody vibe of his Cypress Hill work circa “Temples of Boom,” with chilling piano patterns, wicked vocal moans and powerful drums.

GZA’s lyricism should be mandatory listening for aspiring rappers, as he creates a “Law & Order”-worthy crime caper on the savage “Exploitation of Mistakes” and weaves the names of NFL mascots into the tale of an aspiring actress on the somber “Queen’s Gambit (NFL).”

“All In Together Now,” GZA’s informed eulogy for his late cousin and fellow Wu-Tang Clan member Ol’ Dirty Bastard, makes a convincing case for the latter’s rich rap legacy. “Grandmasters” does the same for both Muggs and GZA.

Albums are rated on a scale of one star (poor), two stars (fair), three stars (good) and four stars (excellent). The albums are already released unless otherwise noted.