Bronx-born artist Diamond D is both lyricist and producer, and happens to be proficient at both tasks. Hatred, Passion & Infidelity, the second solo album from Diamond D, doesn't reach the extreme heights of creativity and originality attained by his first album, Stunts, Blunts & Hip-Hop. Diamond produced 13 of the 16 tracks on this album, and as could be expected, his sense of melody and motivational rhythm makes each of them instrumentally interesting and enjoyable. His lyrical dexterity is exciting, providing a swift narrative which carries the listener willingly from song to song. However, this album suffers from thematic inconsistency; two spots, "Can't Keep My Grands to Myself" and "Cream N Sunshine," seem like forced attempts to attract a crossover, pop audience. The hybridization of R&B/pop and hip-hop instrumentation is unnatural, unsuccessful, and uncharacteristic of Diamond D. The rest of the tracks on this album excel and provide for an entertaining listen. Sideman John Dough adds strong lyrics to "Flowin'," "J.D.'s Revenge," and "On Stage." Reggae style chanter Don Barron (of Masters of Ceremony fame) gives an interesting touch to "MC Iz My Ambition." Phife (of A Tribe Called Quest) and lyricist/producer extraordinaire Pete Rock are both featured on "Painz and Strife." Diggin' in the Crates family members Fat Joe, Big L, Lord Finesse, and AG join Diamond on "5 Fingas of Death" for a dark and ominous posse cut. Legendary MC Sadat X (of Brand Nubians) and K. Terroribul join Diamond on "Never." K. Terroribul also appears on "K.T." and "On Stage." Aside from the two blemishes on this release, Hatred, Passion & Infidelity is a fair representation of Diamond D's skills on the microphone and behind the mixing board; an album a serious fan should have. ~ Qa'id Jacobs

Rovi