Redman
Malpractice
(Def Jam)

“Malpractice,” Redman’s fifth solo album, is anything but improper conduct by a professional. On the contrary, the album is one that many rappers wish they could cut. This disc is inventive in its beats and perversely witty in its lyrics.

While Redman has always been known for his sophomoric nature, the production on this album is quite mature. Producer Erick Sermon provides Redman, whose real name is Reggie Noble, with original sounds while creating hip-hop that is unmatched, except by a select few, in the rap business.

Some highlights include “Soopaman Luva 5,” parts I and II, in which Redman flows over the funky emissions of a funk band and video-game-sounding melodies.

“Dat B***h,” which features Missy Elliott, evokes memories of a 1970s funk-induced TV show theme song. Missy’s vocal contributions to this tune complement Redman’s gunslinging rap style.

The album’s fourth track, “Let’s Get Dirty (I Can’t Get In Da Club),” is a complaining, pseudo-warning to anyone who would dare refuse Red’s entrance into a club. This track is definitely a booty-shakin’ jam that should be blasted out of every club’s sound system.

The upbeat “Enjoy Da Ride” features Redman’s Wu Tang Clan partner, Method Man, and a symphonic melody similar to Dr. Dre’s hit “Forgot About Dre.” The highlights of this tune are Meth’s verse and Adam F’s frightful continuation of the album’s introductory track.

Redman is also obviously up on entertainment trends. Throughout “Malpractice,” Redman references the film “Meet the Parents,” Playstation 2 and creates a porno-parody of “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire,” among other things.

In addition to the hip-hop on the CD, Redman provides a few worthwhile skits on “Malpractice,” including “Jerry Swinger Stickup” and “Judge Juniqua.” While skits simply take up room on most hip-hop CDs, Redman’s skits are humorous and provide the listener with brief, welcome pauses between songs.

Overall, “Malpractice” is a funk-laden, foul-mouthed, witty effort that flows in Redman’s style.