Director

by Andy KellmanOn his fourth album, Avant doggedly continues to do his smooth and relaxed thing and delivers his fourth consecutive decent album. Only a lark hit with maximum rotation on urban radio will propel him to superstar status, but it's not likely at this point. Avant is not a major star -- yet he's a considerable talent who knows exactly what he's best at, where he fits, and how to please his fans. Although a number of collaborators (the Underdogs, Jermaine Dupri) and guests (Lil Wayne, Lloyd Banks) are rolled in to add some edge, the material isn't much more flashy than it is on Avant's past albums. More importantly, Avant's new and somewhat surprising help looks a little desperate on paper but is hardly that on record. Those who loved Avant in the past for his slick, romantic, slow-to-midtempo songs (with the occasional dash of raunch) will find plenty to enjoy here. Veteran rapper turned producer Def Jef cooks up the best beat of all with "Exclusive," a tough yet sweet modern-day equivalent of a Reggie Lucas/James Mtume production.