The Magnificent
This solo joint from DJ Jazzy Jeff, which follows other "Beat  Generation" albums byJay Dee,Marley Marl, andPete 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 withWill "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 likeJill Scott,Boyz II Men's  Shawn Stockman,J-Live, and  ?uestlove fromthe  Rootssupply 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 findThe Magnificenta massive aphrodisiac.--Paul  Sullivan