Personnel: Jadakiss (rap vocals); Mariah Carey, Anthony Hamilton (vocals); DJ Quik, Eminem, Kanye West, Nate Dogg, Sheek, Snoop Dogg, Styles P (rap vocals).

Recording information: Evil Genius, New York, New York (2004); Powerhouse, Yonkers, New York (2004); Groovyville, Los Angeles, California (2004).

On his second solo record, KISS OF DEATH, Jadakiss begins the wistful, reflective song "Why" with the question, "Why is Jadakiss as hard as it gets?" Unwavering confidence contrasted by soft introspection is a trademark of the ex-Lox member, and this quality distinguishes the Yonkers, New York rapper from his peers.

KISS OF DEATH balances street knowledge with humor, and serves up robust beats and guest shots by a legion of hip-hop luminaries. Jadakiss brings together both American coasts, as well as years of history, on the groovy, 1970s-tinged "Shine," with Cali's Snoop Dogg and NYC's DJ Quik packing some of their best rhymes. On the other end of the spectrum is the rock-sampling "Welcome to D-Block," featuring Jadakiss's former Lox bandmates and a relatively subdued Eminem. Of course, Jadakiss can unleash some serious rhymes on his own, especially on the hardcore title track and the melodic "Bring You Down." A dynamic sophomore effort, KISS OF DEATH cements Jadakiss's status as one of the premier forces in East Coast rap.

What the critics say...

Rolling Stone (p.106) - 3 stars out of 5 - "He's a master of the fine lyrical detail, and he knows it."
Rolling Stone (p.144) - Included in Rolling Stone's Top 50 Records Of 2004 - "Jada's hell-raising flow was everywhere this year."
Spin (pp.103-4) - "[I]t gets no better than 'Real Hip Hop,' where Swizz Beatz loops a Curtis Mayfield sample into a careening roller coaster as Jada and his D-Block compatriot Shreek run punch-line relay races." - Grade: A-
Entertainment Weekly (p.89) - "Jada flexes impressive muscles as he grinds his heels into a well-trodden dance floor." - Grade: B