Ghetto Fabolous

Fabolous has been compared often to self-exiled MC Mase, but though his flow is reminiscent of the ex-Bad Boy's laid-back delivery, all similarities end there. Ghetto Fabolous might be an album that appeals to younger hip-hop heads, but more-discerning fans will find that the freshman artist makes several mistakes that blunt his debut's impact. The missteps include uninspired subject matter (illegal business dealings, ghetto flossing, and fighting off persistent groupies); gratuitous use of the words "thug," "gangsta," and "playa"; and an entire song centered around a Notorious B.I.G. riff ("Get Right" is a mediocre "Players Anthem" knockoff). On the plus side, the album's chock-full of guest appearances designed to please those aforementioned youngsters; Ja Rule's strident vocals on "Ride for This" almost drown out his host's more meticulous delivery. The album's one true bright spot is the dance-floor-friendly "Now and Later." With this one song, Fabolous lives up to the hype.