The Magnificent [Audio CD] DJ JAZZY JEFF

This solo joint from DJ Jazzy Jeff, which follows other "Beat Generation" albums by Jay Dee, Marley Marl, and Pete Rock, sees JJ come up with a textured album steeped in jazz, soul, and funk. Jeff has enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the rap game after his time with Will "Fresh Prince" Smith--he started his own production company A Touch of Jazz a few years ago--and his expertise comes shining through in this slickly produced affair, all cavernous bass lines, tight, hypnotic beats, and gorgeously unhurried feel, with guests ranging from the fresh to the famous. Names like Jill Scott, Boyz II Men's Shawn Stockman, J-Live, and ?uestlove from the Roots supply a rich selection of R&B croons and MC flows, and while there's not much for the headbangers here, anyone looking for something silky, soulful, and seductive will find The Magnificent a massive aphrodisiac. --Paul Sullivan