Kamikaze (by Twista, Rap)

With song titles like "Kill Us All" and "Pimp On," this very explicit and intense CD is not for everyone. Yet there are some seriously beautiful and majestic moments on KAMIKAZE, Twista's first solo album in about a decade. Since 1997's "Adrenaline Rush," Twista has kept his fans interested by appearing on other artists' CDs, such as Ludacris' "Word of Mouth." On Kamikaze, in fact, Twista rivals his pal Ludacris for "King of the Potty-Mouths," only without Ludacris' signature sense of humor, and even the edited CD is offensive from beginning to end. The clumsy edits only serve to point out the words that are missing, and the artist's sexism remains intact.

It's too bad that parents won't feel comfortable playing this CD for young aspiring rappers, because from a purely musical point of view, it's excellent. The Chicago native's songwriting reveals unexpected depth, his unique style of speed-rapping is aerobically impressive, and his singing is sweetly soulful. Long-awaited and delayed for over two years, this CD is an intelligent, beautifully produced musical offering with vocal performances that are among the best in the genre.

Released on: January 27, 2004
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Rap
Parental advisory: Yes
Edited version available: Yes