Tim Mosley, aka Timbaland, is best known as the maverick producer who's made his protege Missy Elliott one of the biggest hip-hop stars in the world. Like most knob-twiddlers, however, the charismatic Virginian has ambitions to get behind the microphone himself - and in recent years he's begun to make his own records with sidekick Magoo. This imaginatively-titled sequel to 2002's Under Construction is probably one of his best albums yet, edgy, exciting and brimming with original ideas. Timbaland and Magoo aren't exactly the best vocalists in the world, but they more than make up for it with the quality of their guests - Wyclef Jean, Bubba Sparxx, Beenie Man and Elliot herself to mention just a few. And just as the old maestro's musical formula of staccato beats and bumpy bass lines threatens to get a bit stale, he's given it new life by adding in some country, soul and Indian influences. Stirring stuff, and an absolute must for all hip-hop aficionados.

Your Comments

No comments have been posted for this article yet. Be the first!