When a rap star's career actually extends to a third or fourth album, it's time to make room for his homies -- Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, Eminem, and Nelly have all dropped house party collections. So it's no surprise that after releasing a pair of successful crunk thumpers, Ludacris finally unveils his crew, Disturbing tha Peace, on the obligatory posse deep effort, Golden Grain. Tracks such as "Break Sumthin' " and "Smokin' Dro" are classic Dirty South party starters. What makes this opus stand out from the pack, however, are cuts such as the soulful and nostalgic "Growing Pains (Do It Again)," featuring Luda's labelmate Scarface, and a standout performance from DTP's lone female member, Shawnna, who sounds like a rugged blend of Fugees-era Lauryn Hill and Master P rap moll Mia X. Other highlights include the hilarious "Pimp Council," featuring West Coast legend Too $hort, and the bombastic "When I Touch Down," featuring southern rap luminary Jazzie Pha. Although the disc doesn't go against the grain, it still fe
atures several golden hip-hop moments. Ron Hart
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