Album Review: LL Cool J - Authentic

Just when you thought the very first Def Jam artist had forever retired from music as he became a permanent resident of the NCIS world; Mr Cool J – who the ladies love – comes out with his 14th album release. And there's nothing like getting all your biz friends to come to the party when you're trying to make a comeback. Authentic features a whole lot of old and new school names including Snoop (as a Dogg and not a Lion), Eddie Van Halen, Fitz & The Tantrums, Monica and Seal. And it doesn't just have individual mash-up tracks either; each song features numerous artists from different genres attempting to tap into the indefinable sound of today.

Between The Sheets has that simple and spacey new school 808 beat, heavy on the bass with a little spitfire snare dropped in and showcases the Rihanna-like, nasal vocals of Mickey Shiloh. Something About You stands out with its big band sounds and while still highly-produced the track has the potential to captivate when jammed out live. Whaddup featuring Chuck D, Travis Barker, Tom Morello and Z-Trip is the definite highlight and on paper alone sounds explosive – from the scratches, drum and guitar solos it already deserves props. Adding in that aggressive flow -– Momma Said Knock You Out-style – plus Chuck D's recognisable call makes it a great, rap-rock throwback.

Authentic is a little bit of a gimmick with a whole lot of trimmings. After listening through it in full and getting a few great moments, the only thing that seems to be missing is the 'Mr Nice Guy' of rap smoothly spitting over the NCIS LA theme song.