IIcons
Though not groundbreaking by any means,IIconsreaffirms that Naughty still has their party groove going on, and the groove is fine. Treach definitely isn't shy about saying so, laying claim to his group's place in hip-hop history throughout with words like "When you say 'Naughty by Nature' you say the word 'icon.'" And if you think about it, he's right. The Illtown, New Jersey, duo has been around since the early '90s, and they boast a string of monster hits (notably "O.P.P." and "Hip Hop Hooray") that helped prove rappers can cultivate a pop sound while maintaining their ever-important street credibility. But can these icons hang in today's uneasy rap scene? Of course. Treach's sharp flow and Vinnie's personable delivery are complemented by an array of producers and guests.Da Beatminerzlace a squealing trumpet riff throughout "Naughty by Nature," adding emphasis to Carl Thomas's reggae-inflected hook. Elsewhere,Pink's sultry vocals and dry asides power the club-friendly "What U Wanna Do," while "Feels So Good" is a surprisingly dance-oriented treat, thanks to3LW's giddy chorus.--Rebecca Levine