GZA at the Echoplex

GZA, the mind behind one of rap’s most beloved records, “Liquid Swords,� has never given up the mantle of his noirish, labyrinthine vision for hip-hop. He has one of the best post-Wu Tang solo reputations -- further cemented on his latest album, “Pro Tools� -- and even as a lion in winter he’s an essential part of any decade’s rap canon. The Echoplex (below the Echo), 1152 Glendale Blvd., Echo Park. 8:30 p.m. Fri. $14. (213) 413-8200.