The Imperial Album

Back in the early 1990s, Busta Rhymes was a member of Leaders of the New School, a talented bunch whose critical praise didn't translate into sales. Reaching acclaim on his two solo releases, Busta now returns to his roots by heading a new rap tandem: the Flipmode Squad, consisting of Lord Have Mercy, Spliff Star, Baby Sham, and Rah Digga. Their debut, Imperial, contains head-nodding beats and spirited verbal exchanges that can have as many as all six members rhyming on one song ("Straight Spittin"). Maintaining an unapologetic street edge with the occasional dance-floor flavor ("Everybody on the Line Outside"), Busta's latest should satisfy those willing to give his side project a listen. --Elliott Wilson