The Day After (by Twista, Rap)

Twista is known as the "world's fastest rapper," and the Chicago native shows off his speedy chops on his new release, THE DAY AFTER. Brilliant performances, terrific songwriting, elegant production, and all-star cameos (by Jamie Foxx, Juvenile, Lil' Kim, Mariah Carey, Pharrell, Pitbull, Snoop Dogg, Speedknot Mobstaz, and Trey Songz) are all wonderful touches -- but don't soften the explicitness of Twista's lyrics.

Even the edited version of The Day After is very sexually explicit, sexist, and leaves few of the violent images to the imagination. If anything, the clumsy edits end up emphasizing the words that are omitted. The edited version does have different insert art; the weapons and explosions depicted in the original CD booklet are replaced by milder visuals. But Twista's material is tough and visceral, with none of the signature humor used by many of his peers. As terrific a performer as he is, no amount of editing will make this guy come across as comfortably kid-friendly.

Families accustomed to explicit music might use this CD to fuel discussions about all sorts of socio-political and sexual-political issues -- but it's hard to imagine most parents feeling comfortable listening to Twista with their kids, and vice versa. It's too bad, because Twista has a lot to say, and despite the discomfort level created by his explicitness, he says it very well (as well as very fast).

Released on: September 4, 2005
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Rap
Parental advisory: Yes
Edited version available: Yes