Why, Clef?

Occupations tend to share characteristics among their members. In education, it's altruism. In investment banking, it's the avarice. For solo artists and lead vocalists, it's conceit.

So is Wyclef somehow an exception? Don't his philanthropic deeds in his homeland of Haiti, or his efforts to spread hip-hop in hope of racial harmony indicate lack of self-concern? Or does Bob Dylan's cameo appearance in the "Gone Till November" video provide better insight into Jean's ego? In order to clarify any confusion, Wyclef issued a couple of public statements a few weeks back alluding to an affair he carried on with Lauryn Hill-a blatant attempt at getting some pre-release buzz for Ecleftic: 2 Sides II a Book, his second solo album. When left to consider a move like that, the public will understand the truth-it's all about no one but 'Clef.

On half of the album, Wyclef reminds listeners of the typical concerns of the hip-hop world, such as its impression on youth, animosity between artists and "keepin' it real." He dismisses these subjects and follows them with his "I'm-not-like-other-MCs-because-I-can-rap-and-play-instruments-too shtick." Ironically, other songs, like the Timbaland sound-alike, "Thug Angels," rely on old beats, riffs and lyrics that add to the mounting evidence that another shared trait among solo artists and lead vocalists is hypocrisy.

Aside from the lyrics, 'Clef manages to produce some soon-to-be dance floor hits, like "Mona Lisa," with its dead-party-proof beats and catchy hooks that can get even the harshest critics singing. He also dedicates a track to police brutality victim and fellow Haitian Amadou Diallo, along with a cover of Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here" and a ballad to Mary (Jane).

Although Ecleftic possesses the bluesy, happy-go-lucky spirit only a native-born Haitian can produce and is a refreshing counterpoint to gangsta rap's resurrection, it falls short of the potential exhibited by his first album, The Carnival, and farther still of the hype he generates for himself. Ultimately, Ecleftic exhibits another common trait among rappers: inadequacy in sophomore album attempts.