A Whoof Whoof!

Rhythm and Gangsta follows all the trends that make up today’s commercially successful rap album. Love, hate, guns, drugs, gold, ice, and just a touch of morality. Snoop’s latest release begins with the religious overtones of “I Love To Give You Light” but the choir is shelved for the remainder of the album. After his repent Snoop goes back to pimpin’ hoes and pistol whippin’, leaving his newly found spiritual side behind. Snoop hooks up with Pharrell for a handful of tracks, some laced with the signature Neptunes sound of heavy bass, minimal high tweaks, and Pharrell’s best impression of an R&B singer. Two of these songs, “Drop It Like It’s Hot” and “Lets Get Blown” were obviously expected to be the album’s hit singles and both do suffice with catchy hooks, smooth lyrics, and flawless production.

Ryhthm And Gangsta has its share of disappointments as well as successes. Snoop gets a little carried away with his own fame, recording some uninteresting tracks devoted to his dick size and his groupies. Lil’ Jon does little to help as his production gimmicks fail to work with Snoop’s smooth, laid back delivery. On the other hand, the concept of overusing R&B to drive the production and offset Snoop’s “gangstaism” works surprisingly well on tracks like “Perfect”, “Signs”, and “No Thang On Me” featuring Bootsy Collins.

Ryhthm and Gangsta is far from Snoop’s best work yet offers something fresh and different for those seeking something more on the mellow side.