Big Boi's 'Vicious Lies ...' review: Adventurous

Big Boi's ambition has no bounds on his second solo album "Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors" (Def Jam), a sprawling mishmash of thrilling hip-hop. OutKast's practical one, Big Boi enlists everyone from indie-rockers Wavves to hip-hop heavy hitters T.I., Ludacris and A$AP Rocky for his vision of crafting street-smart soul that seemingly absorbs everything in its path. "Mama Told Me," with the help of Kelly Rowland, picks up on Prince's playful side with its flexible '80s funk. "Tremendous Damage" is a wrenching soul ballad toughened by his honest verses. "Vicious Lies" is a grand leap forward from his solo debut, both more focused and more fun.

Big Boi

"Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors"

GRADE A-

BOTTOM LINE Adventurous hip-hop happiness