The Understanding
The Roc-A-Fella platinum formula strikes again. All the usual suspects  are present: honchoJay-Z,Beanie Sigel,Amil, and the record's featured artist, Memphis Bleek. Lyrically light-years ahead of his debut album,Coming of Age, Bleek returns with an effort that easily avoids the sophomore jinx. The strings and pattering snares on the "My Mind Right" remix make it better than the original, particularly with the added vocal talents of Jigga, H. Money Baggs, and Sigel.Carl Thomasreturns to his hook-crooning roots on the female-targeted "Everyday," an attempt to show Bleek's sensitive side. Twista brings an added dimension to the alternate version of "That Your Chick," the first single; however, things get a little too sappy on "In My Life," which samplesForeigner'sclassic, "I Want to Know What Love Is." You don't have to be a brain surgeon to understand this brand ofUnderstanding. It's the patented Roc blend of drinking and smoking, guns and glory. Love it or leave it.--Kenji Jasper