Post-Pepsi Phatness
When Wyclef Jean's first album, The Carnival came out, it seemed clear that a new visionary had entered the music world. An album with both humor and heart, alongside fantastic melodies and killer beats, Jean crafted a masterpiece of hip-hop and of modern music in general. However, he inexplicably followed it up with two horrendous albums, a slew of Pepsi commercials, and a lot of fair to middling producer work. Well, the young genius behind The Carnival is back at it. The Preacher's Son again blends hip-hop, rock, pop, soul, reggae, and R&B into a pastiche of pure brilliance.

Virtually every track is strong enough to be a single. Each has ornate hooks, mixed with the trademark production quality that put the Fugees at the top of the chart (and trust me, their success was all about Wyclef, not Lauryn.) The hardcore posturing is kept to a minimum (no Rock singing about Bentley's this time out), and is used more to make a social point than to actually show off. The sense of humor that made The Carnival one of the best records of that year is back in full force. It's as though Wyclef's personality has been unleashed again, and it returns like an old friend come home.

Guest Star Goodness
A wide range of guest stars elevate the record beyond one's expectations, including Patti Labelle's haunting addition on "Celebrate," easily one of the strongest tracks on the album, Carlos Santana on "Three Nights in Rio" sounds more vibrant than he has in years, as does the usually mediocre Monica on "Class Reunion." Jean brings out the best in his guest stars, actually using their talents to compliment his, and his to compliment theirs. There are no generic "superstar tracks" thrown in for sales, each guest star plays an important role on their individual songs, making them their own. It's a trick that's often missing from hip-hop records.

And then, there's the wonderful heartfelt, sweet but not sappy love song, "Baby." If ever there was proof that Wyclef Jean was a true talent it's this beautiful, and classic in the making type song. It channels the power of the soul masters and is literally chilling. It makes the listener smile to that loved one sitting nearby (or listfully wish they were there to be smiled at.) It's a great feeling, and is exactly what we should expect from music, but seldom get anymore.

The Preacher's Son is more than the sum of its parts. Superbly crafted as an album, with some fabulous singles to be had, Wyclef Jean has crafted what might just be the best album of the year.