R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece [PA] (CD - 2004)

Personnel: Snoop Dogg (rap vocals); 50 Cent, Justin Timberlake, Lil Jon, Nelly, Pharrell Williams, Soopafly, Bee Gees, Trina, Bootsy Collins, Charlie Wilson.

Following up one of his strongest records to date, Snoop Dogg returned in 2004 with an album he audaciously labeled a "masterpiece." Indeed, the rapper's seventh record finds the Long Beach, California native firing on all cylinders, with his usual slow-and-steady delivery freely flowing over tracks of all varieties.

Easily Snoop's most diverse album, R&G slips from solidly street-oriented tracks to purely fun tunes, with moments both sensual and silly that add up to what's almost a concept record. Snoop has always been a master of squaring a mellow melody with his hardcore edge, but he reaches new heights on R&G, particularly on the Neptunes-assisted single "Drop It Like It's Hot" and the incredible early-1980s disco-soul sound of "Let's Get Blown." Snoop also reminds listeners just how hard he can hit on tracks like the relentless, chaotic "The Bidness" and the sinister 50 Cent duet "Oh No." If there were ever any questions about Snoop's stature as a premier statesman of rap, R&G effortlessly lays them to rest. minimize