Genesis

Busta Rhymes takes his charismatic style of rapping and applies it to a new production style on Genesis, his fourth solo album. This time around the beats seem darker and more synth-oriented, giving it an edge reminiscent of the bass-heavy G-funk sound. "As I Come Back" is a good example, featuring a sustained keyboard note droning on throughout the chorus with Busta rapping in his raspy style. On the other hand, Rhymes can still make a good dance song, like the hypnotic "What It Is," a fractured funk anthem that features robotic female vocals from Kelis and a slow beat consisting of clicks and snaps. Other guest appearances include P. Diddy's turn on the dramatic "Pass the Courvoisier," Mary J. Blidge on "There's Only One," and the occasional appearances by the Flipmode Squad, as well as production work from Pete Rock and Dr. Dre, among others. The only questionable track is a remake of Public Enemy's classic "Shut 'Em Down" that may leave some fans cold due to its different feel and message. But outside of the one track, this is another solid release from a consistent hip hop artist who can still make relevant, interesting albums long after his days with the Leaders of the New School. ~ Bradley Torreano

バスタのニュー・アルバムは、テロ以降の時節に配慮したわけでもあるまいが、彼お得意の無理からにも近いテンションの昇り詰めがいささか影を潜めた作り。ここに来て、ビッグ・ネームたちが一時の狂乱を忘れ、音も丸抱えで時計を戻したかのごとく見えるのに対し、彼は確実に狂乱をくぐりぬけた跡を見せつつも前へと進んでいるのがよくわかる。トップギアで駆け登ることなくとも曲をルールできるMCぶりと、地の語り口が活きる引きの芸風は、ほどよく抜けのあるトラック群と絡み合うことでなお愛らしい佇まいに?　華も控えめなゲスト陣しかり（メアリーJ・ブライジ含む）、名のある制作陣しかり（ドクター・ドレ含む）の、目をぐっと引きそで引かぬわきまえたサポートも、ほかの誰でもないバスタの作品としてアルバム全体を機能させている。これで前作のツケは払ったな。しかも利子付きで。
bounce (C)一ノ木裕之