Goodie Mob World Party CD

In the glut that is the Southern rap scene, it's easy for cream to get lost in the tidal wave of less-than-stellar material. However, Atlanta's Goodie Mob stands behind only fellow Altantans Outkast in the field of Southern-fried hip-hop, with its relaxed-as-that-Countrytime-Lemonade-guy grooves and flows and its perfect balance of intelligent rhymes and party jam know-how. WORLD PARTY finds the foursome at the top of its game with a perfectly even collection of 13 thoroughly original cuts.

Goodie Mob's four members--Cee-Lo, Khujo, T-Mo, and Big Gipp--play off each other sweetly with their varied styles, which range from Busta-stylin' growl to more rapid-fire delivery. The foursome reaches a high on the let-it-all-hang-out "Fie FieDelish," the slamminly infectious disco party jam (think Earth, Wind & Fire branching into rap) "The Dip," and the easygoing title track, which is centered on Lionel Richie's "All Night Long" (one of a few endearingly cheeky references). Also worth noting is the face-off with the multi-platinum TLC on "What It Ain't (Ghetto Enough)," a groovy, almost sensual anthem. The final touch is provided by the hands of Organized Noize whose production touch is felt throughout this solid third effort from Goodie Mob.

Goodie Mob's four members--Cee-Lo, Khujo, T-Mo, and Big Gipp--play off each other sweetly with their varied styles, which range from Busta-stylin' growl to rapid-fire delivery. The foursome reaches a high on the let-it-all-hang-out "Fie FieDelish," the slamminly infectious disco party jam (think Earth, Wind & Fire branching into rap) "The Dip," and the easygoing title track, which is centered on Lionel Richie's "All Night Long" (one of a few ...