Hip-Hop Under Construction

Hip-Hop Under Construction

Track Listings

1. Intro - Shinobi
2. Take 'Em to War - J-Dawg, , Shinobi
3. We Got It
4. Rush - Shinobi
5. Slow Down
6. Can't Shut It Down - Shinobi
7. Fuck It Up
8. Gangsta II - J-Dawg, , Shinobi
9. Liar, Cheater
10. Woo!! - J-Dawg, Shinobi
11. Last Night - J-Dawg
12. Cadillac Strollin - J-Dawg, , ,
13. 911 - Shinobi,
14. Want My Cash
15. Thug Paradise
16. Take It Ov
17. Outro

Hip-Hop Under Construction,Various Artists,C.N.C./Longevity Entertainment,Modern piano, bass and drums trio inspired by the music of paul Bley and Ornette Coleman.,Pop,Rap & Hip-Hop,Rap Collections
Under Construction
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • 4.5 stars
  • "Under Construction" - Pretty Dam Close To Perfect!
  • under construction-Missy Elliott Cd
  • Reduced Phat Hip Hop {3 Stars}
  • Free From Bullshit
Under Construction
Missy Elliott
Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Miss E... So Addictive
  2. This is Not a Test
  3. The Cookbook
  4. Supa Dupa Fly
  5. Da Real World

ASIN: B00006LLNT
Release Date: 2002-11-12

Tracks:

  1. Intro/Go To The Floor
  2. Bring the Pain
  3. Gossip Folks
  4. Work It
  5. Back In The Day (feat. Jay-Z)
  6. Funky Fresh Dressed
  7. P***ycat
  8. Nothing Out There for Me
  9. Slide
  10. Play That Beat
  11. Ain't That Funny
  12. Hot
  13. Can You Hear Me?
  14. Work It (Remix Featuring 50 Cent)

Amazon.com

Attention B-girls and boys: Missy Elliott is officially over it. Like her homegirl Mary J. Blige, the rap diva declares, "no more drama." Time to get back to the essence. To that end, Under Construction bubbles over with a combination of ridiculously slamming beats and clever old-school references--not to mention a slew of guest stars. Based on the rhyme schematic from UTFO's "Roxanne Roxanne" and featuring Ms. Jade's tight-laced drawl, "Funky Fresh Dressed" draws on several classics, including the Beasties' "Paul Revere." Missy croons and Jay-Z namedrops his way through the loose-limbed "Back in the Day." Ludacris injects some new jack Southern flavor into the sinuous anti-hater's anthem, "Gossip Folks." "Work It" features a catchy chorus and an absolutely insane Timbaland track. As is to be expected, Aaliyah's presence looms large over the proceedings, especially on the classic Misdemeanor-style hip-hop and R&B hybrid, "Nothing out There for Me." Missy's rap adlibs play second fiddle to the song's lush vocals, as Beyoncé fills the diva role previously occupied by the late, great Aaliyah. --Rebecca Levine

Album Description

Missy's 2002 album will no doubt make her an even bigger multimedia superstar than this artist, producer, writer and businesswoman already is. The album features a great line-up of guests, including Jay-Z, Ludacris, Beyonce Knowles, TLC and Method Man. Elektra.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars 4.5 stars.......2006-12-08

In my eyes, this is Missy's second best album. (Her first best being the near flawless, Da Real World, even though it's hard to compare the two because they have two completely different sounds.)

The production on here is top-notch as expected, and her rhymes have improved immensely. Every single song on here is excellent, especially tracks like "Back In The Day" and "Gossip Folks." There are alos quite a few R&B cuts that are very nice and balance the album out.

This album has a lot of inspiration from the starting days of hip hop, and it can be seen. I think this is essential to everyone's collection who loves hip hop.

4 out of 5 stars "Under Construction" - Pretty Dam Close To Perfect!.......2006-12-07

I never thought I'd ever respect or even listen to Missy Elliott, but here I am to say that I actually do. Why else would I be reviewing her critically and commercially successful studio album, "Under Construction"? With the help of long-time partner/super-producer Timbaland, a star-studded guest list (Method Man, Ludacris, Ms. Jade, Beyonce, etc.) and recurring background vocals from long-forgotten, multi-talented R&B songstress/eventual-ex-protégé Tweet, Missy Elliott continues to prove why she's made it this far. She's a fierce rapper, a more-than-capable singer, she writes her own songs (not to mention others), she's an excellent producer, she continues to push the creative boundaries of Hip-Hop music, she never seems to be afraid to try something new, she's a representative of sorts for females (mainly female empowerment) and even amidst all the sweaty, energetic party records she continues to pump out, she always seems to have something important to say. Without a doubt, "Under Construction", her 4th studio album, serves as proof of this multi-talented phenomenon's brilliance.

Of course there's the club-banging, role-reversing smash hit "Work It", where Missy Elliott matches her male counterparts in unapologetically raunchy come-ons and unswathed sexuality over Timbaland's minimalist beat & DJ scratching (on another note, try finding another track that incoprates the sound of a wailing elephant and a line that is literally rewound for some neatly catchy gibberish) ; Funk-inflected, old-school Hip-Hop jams come in the form of the somewhat-raunchy "Bring The Pain", the nostalgic "Back In The Day" & the weird-as-hell "Funky Fresh Dressed", featuring a drug-sex-hungry Method Man, the always-dope Jay-Z and long-forgotten female rapper Ms. Jade, respectively ; "Gossip Folks", featuring Ludacris dropping an autobiographical verse about rising to the top, is Missy's obvious ode to haters and non-believers ; on the suitably titled "Hot", Missy Elliott mercilessly takes more stabs at haters and competitors far below over more of Timbaland's minimalist, old-school-inflected, bouncy beats ; and the synth-heavy ballad "Ain't That Funny" finds Missy Elliott venting out on a no-good lover with unbridled vengeance and emotional intensity.

Even when Missy Elliott decides to position herself as a victim of love, the results oddly work - the sensuously raunchy ballad "P****cat", Missy desperately tries to improve her sex life so her man's eyes and/or affection don't wander elsewhere; and on "Play That Beat", another minimalist, old-school-inflected jam, Missy uses her sweet vocals and promising come-ons to display her dedication and love for her man. Then there's the stellar album closer "Can Your Hear Me", a beautiful ballad where Missy & T.L.C. pay tribute to Aaliyah, Left Eye and, to less extensive degrees, other past artists like Big Daddy Kane.

Unfortunately, there is a few small tads of filler. The romantic ballad "Nothing Out There For Me", a surprising Beyonce/Missy Elliott duet about the former artist choosing her man over the latter artist's pleas to join her in the club, finds Beyonce occupying more time on the track than Missy herself, but the song itself is a bit of a drag musically ; "Slide" is nothing more than Missy's celebration of materialism and self-aggrandizement over a heavy, slinky beat ; the synth-heavy/drum-driven album opener "Go To The Floor" (excluding the introductory skit) lacks the fire of the album's other club tracks ; and the tacked-on remix of "Work It" is no different to the original, except for the fact that an obligatorily misogynistic verse from 50 Cent shows that not even he can outdo Missy on her own track.

Nonetheless, this is a very solid album which, despite inflections of Funk, R&B, Pop & Electro, remains firmly grounded in Hip-Hop and is well worth the investment. 4 stars!

5 Best Tracks:
"Work It"
"Gossip Folks (feat. Ludacris)"
"Back In The Day (feat. Jay-Z)
"Funky Fresh Dressed (feat. Ms. Jade)"
"Bring The Pain (feat. Method Man)"

3 out of 5 stars under construction-Missy Elliott Cd.......2006-11-20

I love Missy Elliotts songs and her lyrics!! The cd came in great shape and in fast shipping time!

3 out of 5 stars Reduced Phat Hip Hop {3 Stars}.......2006-09-13

Missy Elliott is a bit of an anomaly. Lyrically, she's not that great, but people seem to eat her up. I chalk it up to the energy and charsima that she has. With Timbaland in her corner, that's a definite recipe for success. On her fourth LP, Missy targets the dancefloor again and does a good job of turning out good material. "Gossip Folks", "Funky Fresh Dressed", "Work It", and "Play That Beat" are all guaranteed to get your butt moving. "Can You Hear Me" and "Back In The Day" are great reflective tracks that blend well with the rest of the dance tracks. Also, 50 Cent drops in to lend his talents to the "Work It" remix. So in alot of ways, Under Construction definitely accomplishes its mission.

A lot of what plagues the album is the lack of lyrical prowess and the severe nosedive the album takes toward the end. Another issue I kept running across was the lack of creativity, which is practically her trademark. Joints like "P****" (despite nice production) and "Nothing Out There For Me" sound as if she wrote them within a 24 hour period and "Bring The Pain" features Method Man on what has to be one of the most uninspired songs I've ever heard from her. "Slide" is plain awful, "Hot" is mad corny, and "Ain't That Funny" is straight wack. A lot the production is forgetable too (which is hard for me to say because I'm a HUGE Timbaland fan).

Under Construction is one of those albums that just doesn't stand out. For an artist like Missy Elliott, who made a name for herself by standing out, an average album is simply inexcusable. It's not necessarily a bad album, but a lot of it is just plain lazy. If you're new to Missy, you may like a lot of this album, but those familiar with her capabilities should grab this one from the used bin. Like I always say, it won't blow your socks off, but you won't be mad at yourself for buying either.

Standout Tracks: Play That Beat, Work It, Funky Fresh Dressed feat. Ms Jade (My Favorite), Gossip Folks feat. Ludacris, Back In The Day feat. Jay Z, and Work It [Remix] feat. 50 Cent

5 out of 5 stars Free From Bullshit.......2006-05-16

Missy's fourth album "Under Construction" is one of her best that I ever owned. This time, she decides to get the "Out of Jail" card and use her noodle for once and make herself a well connected cohesive piece of music. Let's put it all on the table: She only gave us this immaculate piece of music was because of the death of her homegirl Aaliyah. I ain't hating but, it was very transparent to want to put out a good album out the FOURTH time around when she should of been doing it the first time. That's neither here or there, but she came out with a slamming ass album. Everything from the intro to the end is hot. Even the song PUSSYCAT is hot. Hypnotic and refreshing. To me personally: IT shouldn't take the death of a friend to make you want to put something good out there for once. Grade: A-
Under Construction, Pt. II
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Superior album and production!
  • Great CD
  • very entertaining
  • phat beats
  • 1-1/2 stars -- Please make it stop
Under Construction, Pt. II
Timbaland & Magoo
Manufacturer: Umvd Labels
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Southern RapSouthern Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Indecent Proposal
  2. Welcome to Our World
  3. Tim's Bio: Life From da Basement
  4. Timbaland Presents Shock Value
  5. Girl Interrupted

ASIN: B0000C7PVB
Release Date: 2003-11-18

Tracks:

  1. Intro/Straight Outta Virginia
  2. Cop That Sh**
  3. Shenanigans
  4. Leavin'
  5. That Sh** Gonna Work
  6. Don't Make Me Take It There
  7. Indian Flute
  8. Can We Do It Again
  9. Naughty Eye
  10. N 2 Da Music
  11. Hold On
  12. Insane
  13. Throwback
  14. Hold Cutz
  15. I Got Luv
  16. Naughty Eye II ('Hips')

Amazon.com

Timbaland & Magoo continue to confound rap fans with albums that are mixed blessings. Like Indecent Proposal before it, this album flaunts the fantastic soundscapes that only Timbaland could conjure. For example, Tim enlists the talents of Indian vocalist Raje Shwari to sing over the most hypnotic flute and drum kicks imaginable on "Indian Flute." But, as usual, the problem comes when Tim pulls the dreaded producer-cum-emcee routine. Tim raps on a large chunk of the tracks--"Don't Make Me Take It There" exists as one big fat exercise in narcissism. The otherworldly, genre-bending beats are still there, but the middling raps by less than stellar emcees like Frank Lee White and, yeah, even Magoo diminish his dazzling compositions. Maybe the fact that Tim pays so much attention to the rap of yesteryear is telling. On "Cop That Sh**" the crew revises rhymes from Special Ed, Rakim, and MC Lyte while "Straight Outta Virginia" is a takeoff on N.W.A. Throwback tunes to match the jerseys? Or does Tim believe rap's best days are behind it? Either way, no one's sure how an album can be both stimulating and lackluster at the same time, but this one is. --Dalton Higgins

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Superior album and production!.......2006-09-12

This is an extremely entertaining album. The production stylings of Timbaland are rhythmical, textured, and very influential. Listening to this on a subwoofer-equipped stereo system reveals some serious juicy tones. The long list of guest appearances features such artists as Missy Elliott, Bubba Sparxxx, Sebastian, Raje Shwari, Wyclef Jean, and Beenie Man. The flows are funky and compliment Timbaland's deeply rhythmical production style. This album makes you want to dance, sprinkled with tracks that would make any club bump. The various bhangra and dance hall influenced tracks add even more character to this great piece of work.

5 out of 5 stars Great CD.......2006-02-18

Amazon reviewers are usually pretty good.
This is definitely not the case for Anthony Rupert, this guy's got problems.
I would pay big money to put him in a room with Magoo along with his reviews for this cd and Timbaland's newer one, Indecent Proposal.

That would be great. Timbaland could use the beats that Anthony takes in his next track.
That would be a huge HIT.

4 out of 5 stars very entertaining.......2005-07-12

I have no problem with Magoo because he is no worse than Missy, who I can't stand. I am still playing this sometimes in my car because it is so damn entertaining. "Don't Make Me Take It There" and "Hold On" are very solid songs, and this is one of those albums you can listen to the whole way through without skipping any tracks because none of the songs are horribly whack. Nice beats as well. You should definitely buy this if you are a mainstream rap lover. If you into underground ish like I am, there is still something to get out of this album.

4 out of 5 stars phat beats.......2004-05-20

Timbo is still doin it with his dope beats....
songs to listen to....track 3w/bubba sparxx, track 6- don't make me take it there is by far my favorite because of the music flow and how he carries with the lyrics, indian flute- really flows/great song, hold cutz-u just have to feel the lyrics

1 out of 5 stars 1-1/2 stars -- Please make it stop.......2004-05-07

It seems like the people that gave this album four and five stars are diehard fans of Timbaland who'll like just about anything he puts his hands on. Now, I'll agree that Timbaland is one heck of a producer, but he just can't deliver a great album. I didn't think things could get any worse after the piece of trash that was Indecent Proposal, but then I heard Under Construction Part II.

As usual, there is an abundance of guest stars on here. Why? Maybe because if you asked your friends, "How do you like to spend your day off?" most of them probably wouldn't say, "I'd kick back and listen to a Timbaland and Magoo album." And the usual guest rapper, Sebastian (whoever he is), has rhymes that neither help nor hurt the album.

Like I said before, Timbaland is a great producer, but you really can't tell on this album. As my favorite website said, Tim gave his best beats to Justin Timberlake and Bubba Sparxxx, leaving his own album with just okay beats. And as far as rapping goes, Tim still fails to impress for the most part. But the thing is, Magoo's rapping has actually improved a little. But I'm still not giving him a WHOLE bunch of credit because he still only fills his rhymes with talks about sex in the raunchiest way possible; it'll even make Devin the Dude want to throw up. Regardless, if Magoo is rapping better than Timbaland is, then there's something seriously wrong.

There ARE actually some tolerable songs on here, like "Indian Flute" and "Cop That Ish", the only song featuring Missy. Speaking of that song, I agree with reviewers that said there's a difference between interpolating a rap verse and just ripping it off. The first verse of this song rips off Eric B. and Rakim's "I Know You Got Soul", and later on you'll find "Throwback" ripping off LL Cool J's "Jingling Baby". I don't know if that's being wack or being lazy. And Tim really doesn't impress when he says to a rival: "You should push your album release back `cause that thing's crappy" (from "Can We Do It Again"). And after hearing "Throwback", I have a question for Tim: what the hell does "f***lin'" mean?

There are a few songs on here that are basically just filler, like "N 2 Da Music" with Brandy and "Shenanigans" with Bubba Sparxxx (although Bubba does kick a nice verse). But most of the songs just don't work at all, like "Leavin'" and "Don't Make Me Take It There"; and "That Ish Ain't Gonna Work" took the words right out of my mouth. Even the album's intro is wack.

As much as I try to cut rappers slack when they write personal songs, I have to say that even those songs are bad ("I Got Luv 4 Ya" and "Hold On" with Wyclef Jean). This album doesn't really prove anything except maybe that Timbaland still doesn't understand that PRODUCER and RAPPER are two different things. To say that Mag and Tim's -- oops, I mean Oo and Heavy T's (their new adopted nicknames...*sigh*) third album is under construction would be an understatement.

Anthony Rupert
Under Construction (Clean)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Reduced Phat Hip Hop {3 Stars}
  • Clean creativity...
  • AMAZING!!
  • Off the hook
  • haterz betta bow down!!!
Under Construction (Clean)
Missy Elliott
Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Miss E... So Addictive
  2. The Cookbook [Clean]
  3. Supa Dupa Fly
  4. This Is Not a Test!
  5. Da Real World

ASIN: B00006LUN1
Release Date: 2002-11-12

Tracks:

  1. Go To The Floor
  2. Bring The Pain
  3. Gossip Folks
  4. Work It
  5. Back In The Day
  6. Funky Fresh Dressed
  7. P***ycat
  8. Nothing Out There For Me
  9. Slide
  10. Play That Beat
  11. Ain't That Funny
  12. Hot
  13. Can You Hear Me
  14. Bonus Track 1

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Reduced Phat Hip Hop {3 Stars}.......2006-09-13

Missy Elliott is a bit of an anomaly. Lyrically, she's not that great, but people seem to eat her up. I chalk it up to the energy and charsima that she has. With Timbaland in her corner, that's a definite recipe for success. On her fourth LP, Missy targets the dancefloor again and does a good job of turning out good material. "Gossip Folks", "Funky Fresh Dressed", "Work It", and "Play That Beat" are all guaranteed to get your butt moving. "Can You Hear Me" and "Back In The Day" are great reflective tracks that blend well with the rest of the dance tracks. Also, 50 Cent drops in to lend his talents to the "Work It" remix. So in alot of ways, Under Construction definitely accomplishes its mission.

A lot of what plagues the album is the lack of lyrical prowess and the severe nosedive the album takes toward the end. Another issue I kept running across was the lack of creativity, which is practically her trademark. Joints like "Pu**y" (despite nice production) and "Nothing Out There For Me" sound as if she wrote them within a 24 hour period and "Bring The Pain" features Method Man on what has to be one of the most uninspired songs I've ever heard from her. "Slide" is plain awful, "Hot" is mad corny, and "Ain't That Funny" is straight wack. A lot the production is forgetable too (which is hard for me to say because I'm a HUGE Timbaland fan).

Under Construction is one of those albums that just doesn't stand out. For an artist like Missy Elliott, who made a name for herself by standing out, an average album is simply inexcusable. It's not necessarily a bad album, but a lot of it is just plain lazy. If you're new to Missy, you may like a lot of this album, but those familiar with her capabilities should grab this one from the used bin. Like I always say, it won't blow your socks off, but you won't be mad at yourself for buying either.

Standout Tracks: Play That Beat, Work It, Funky Fresh Dressed feat. Ms Jade (My Favorite), Gossip Folks feat. Ludacris, Back In The Day feat. Jay Z, and Work It [Remix] feat. 50 Cent

5 out of 5 stars Clean creativity..........2004-04-26

This album is Missy's best to date... If you have got tha explicit album go out and buy tha clean one aswell, coz sum of tha words are replaced, alot of this is in Gossip Folks... This cd is off tha hook!!! I love this cd... My faves r Gossip Folks, Work It, Slide, Nothing Out There For Me, Go To The Floor... Geez ALL of them are xlnt!!! If u like This Is Not A Test, this one is way betta, go out and buy it... Its money well worth spent...

5 out of 5 stars AMAZING!!.......2003-04-26

I've not been the greatest fan of Missy Elliott in the past, but Under Construction is pure genius. Timbaland lends a hand with some heavy beats, perfect for the dancefloor. Only downside is Missy's little editorial comments, but in a way, these add to the overall affect on what is the best CD i've bought this year.

5 out of 5 stars Off the hook.......2003-01-22

Missy is a great role model. She works very hard in making her videos and puts alot of thoughtwhen doing it.Her videos are always different from other videos which makes it very interesting and enjoyable. She and her dancers are rated off the chart. I love missy and will continue supporting her. Keep up the good work and good luck. You're the best. KEEP YEH HEAD UP.

5 out of 5 stars haterz betta bow down!!!.......2003-01-12

this new missy album is off the heasy!!! she got madd features and killa beats dat keep u delighted the whole way through. i also like how she's not takin any off this [stuff] dished out to her by all dem hataz out there. in conclusion, all yall haters need to chill out and definitely bow down to our new hip-hop queen MISSY ELLIOT.

(p.s cop if u don't cop dis album u need to get ur head checked)
Under Construction
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • Reduced Phat Hip Hop {3 Stars}
Under Construction
Missy Misdemeanor Elliott
Manufacturer: Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00008BNSS
Release Date: 2003-01-27

Tracks:

  1. Go to the Floor
  2. Bring the Pain - Missy Elliott, Method Man
  3. Gossip Folks - Missy Elliott, Ludacris
  4. Work It
  5. Back in the Day - Missy Elliott, Jay-Z,
  6. Funky Fresh Dressed - Missy Elliott, Ms. Jade
  7. P***ycat
  8. Nothing Out There for Me - Missy Elliott, Beyonc
  9. Slide
  10. Play That Beat
  11. Ain't That Funny
  12. Hot
  13. Can You Hear Me - Missy Elliott, TLC
  14. Work It [Remix] - 50 Cent, Missy Elliott

Tracks:

  1. Work It [Multimedia Track]
  2. Get Ur Freak On [Multimedia Track]
  3. One Minute Man [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Ludacris
  4. Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) [Multimedia Track]
  5. Hit 'Em Wit da Hee [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Lil' Kim,
  6. She's a Bitch [Multimedia Track]
  7. Hot Boyz [Multimedia Track]
  8. 4 My People [Basement Jaxx Remix][Multimedia Track]
  9. Sock It 2 Me [Multimedia Track] - Da Brat, Missy Elliott
  10. Beep Me 911 [Multimedia Track] - 702, Missy Elliott
  11. All N My Grill [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott,
  12. Take Away [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Ginuwine

Album Description

Asian exclusive release of Missy's 2002 album includes one audio bonus track not available on the U.S. version 'Work It' (remix feat. 50 Cent), plus a 12 track bonus VCD (viewable on all DVD players) featuring all of her videos, 'Work It', 'Get Ur Freak On', 'One Minute Man' (feat. Ludacris), 'The Rain' (Supa Dupa Fly), 'Hit 'Em Wit Da Hee' (feat. Lil' Kim), 'She's A Bitch', 'Hot Boyz', '4 My People' (Basement Jaxx remix), 'Sock It 2 Me' (feat. Da Brat), 'Beep Me 911' (feat. 702), 'All N My Girl' (feat. Big Boi Of Outkast & Nicole), & 'Take Away' (feat. Ginuwine). Slipcase. WEA. 2003.

Album Details

Asian Exclusive Version featuring a Bonus Track: "Work it (Remix)(Featuring 50 Cent)". Also Includes a Bonus Video CD (Playable in Dvd Players) with 12 Videos.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Reduced Phat Hip Hop {3 Stars}.......2006-09-13

Missy Elliott is a bit of an anomaly. Lyrically, she's not that great, but people seem to eat her up. I chalk it up to the energy and charsima that she has. With Timbaland in her corner, that's a definite recipe for success. On her fourth LP, Missy targets the dancefloor again and does a good job of turning out good material. "Gossip Folks", "Funky Fresh Dressed", "Work It", and "Play That Beat" are all guaranteed to get your butt moving. "Can You Hear Me" and "Back In The Day" are great reflective tracks that blend well with the rest of the dance tracks. Also, 50 Cent drops in to lend his talents to the "Work It" remix. So in alot of ways, Under Construction definitely accomplishes its mission.

A lot of what plagues the album is the lack of lyrical prowess and the severe nosedive the album takes toward the end. Another issue I kept running across was the lack of creativity, which is practically her trademark. Joints like "Pu***" (despite nice production) and "Nothing Out There For Me" sound as if she wrote them within a 24 hour period and "Bring The Pain" features Method Man on what has to be one of the most uninspired songs I've ever heard from her. "Slide" is plain awful, "Hot" is mad corny, and "Ain't That Funny" is straight wack. A lot the production is forgetable too (which is hard for me to say because I'm a HUGE Timbaland fan).

Under Construction is one of those albums that just doesn't stand out. For an artist like Missy Elliott, who made a name for herself by standing out, an average album is simply inexcusable. It's not necessarily a bad album, but a lot of it is just plain lazy. If you're new to Missy, you may like a lot of this album, but those familiar with her capabilities should grab this one from the used bin. Like I always say, it won't blow your socks off, but you won't be mad at yourself for buying either.

Standout Tracks: Play That Beat, Work It, Funky Fresh Dressed feat. Ms Jade (My Favorite), Gossip Folks feat. Ludacris, Back In The Day feat. Jay Z, and Work It [Remix] feat. 50 Cent
Under Construction
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Under Construction
    Missy Elliott
    Manufacturer: Wea/Elektra
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
    Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
    Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Imports | Stores | Music
    ASIN: B00008YJBC
    Release Date: 2003-04-07

    Tracks:

    1. Intro (Explicit Version)
    2. Work It (Promo Lp Version)
    3. Bring The Pain (Explicit Lp Version)
    4. Gossip Folks (Explicit Lp Version)
    5. Back In The Day (Explicit Lp Version)
    6. P***Ycat (Explicit Lp Version)
    7. Play That Beat (Explicit Lp Version)
    8. Nothing Out There For Me (Explicit Lp Version)
    9. Go To The Floor (Explicit Lp Version)
    10. Slide (Explicit Lp Version)
    11. Funky Fresh Dressed (Explicit Lp Version)
    12. Ain't That Funny (Explicit Lp Version)
    13. Swing Your Partner (Explicit Lp Version)
    14. Can You Hear Me (Explicit Lp Version)
    15. Gossip Folks (Fatboy Slim Remix) (Bonus Track)
    16. Gossip Folks (Mouse T Remix) (Bonus Track)

    Album Details

    Special Edition featuring Two Bonus Remixes of the Single 'gossip Folks' by Fat Boy Slim and Mouse T.
    Under Construction
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Under Construction
      Missy Elliott
      Manufacturer: Wea/Elektra
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
      Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
      Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Imports | Stores | Music
      ASIN: B0009EP01G
      Release Date: 2005-07-11

      Tracks:

      1. Go To The Floor
      2. Bring The Pain
      3. Gossip Folks
      4. Work It
      5. Back In The Day
      6. Funky Fresh Dressed
      7. P***Ycat
      8. Nothing Out There For Me
      9. Slide
      10. Play That Beat
      11. Ain't That Funny
      12. Hot
      13. Can You Hear Me
      14. Work It * Remix
      15. Drop The Bomb

      Album Details

      Japanese Digitally Remastered Limited Edition Issue of the Album Classic in a Deluxe, Miniaturized LP Sleeve Replica of the Original Vinyl Album Artwork.
      Under Construction, Pt. II
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Under Construction, Pt. II
        Timbaland & Magoo
        Manufacturer: Simply Vinyl
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
        Southern RapSouthern Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
        Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
        R&BR&B | Imports | Stores | Music
        ASIN: B000EPF8U8

        Tracks:

        1. Intro/Straight Outta Virginia - Magoo, Timbaland
        2. Cop That Sh** - Magoo, Missy Elliott, Timbaland
        3. Shenanigans - Bubba Sparxxx, Magoo, Timbaland
        4. Leavin' - Attitude, Magoo, Timbaland
        5. That Sh** Ain't Gonna Work - Magoo, Timbaland
        6. Don't Make Me Take It There - Magoo, Timbaland, Frank Lee White
        7. Indian Flute - Magoo, , Sebastian, Raje Shwari, Timbaland
        8. Can We Do It Again - Magoo, Timbaland
        9. Naughty Eye - Magoo, , Sebastian, Raje Shwari, Timbaland
        10. N 2 da Music - Brandy, Magoo, Timbaland
        11. Hold On - Wyclef Jean, Magoo, Timbaland
        12. Insane - Magoo, Candice Nelson "G.G.", Timbaland
        13. Throwback - Magoo, Timbaland
        14. Hold Cutz - Magoo, Timbaland
        15. I Got Luv 4 Ya - Magoo, Timbaland
        16. Naughty Eye II (Hips) - Beenie Man, Magoo, Timbaland

        Album Details

        Re-issue featuring the Tracks 'cop that Disc', 'indian 'flute' and 'that Shit Ain't Gonna Work'. Includes Contributions from Missy Elliott and Bubba Sparxxx.
        Hip-Hop Under Construction
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          Hip-Hop Under Construction
          Various Artists
          Manufacturer: C.N.C./Longevity Entertainment
          ProductGroup: Music
          Binding: Audio CD

          GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
          GeneralGeneral | Compilations | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
          Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
          GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
          ASIN: B00008L3Z1
          Release Date: 2003-03-04

          Tracks:

          1. Intro - Shinobi, J-Dawg, L.O.S.T., Duci, J-Maske, Phat the Assassin
          2. Take 'Em To War - Shinobi, J-Dawg, L.O.S.T.
          3. We Got It - Eternal, Ray aka Hollywood, Phat the Assassin, feat. Big D
          4. Rush - Shinobi
          5. SLow Down - Double or Nothing, Phat the Assassin, feat. K-Duce & K-Maske
          6. Can't Shut It Down - Eternal, Shinobi, Phat the Assassin
          7. F**k It Up - L.O.S.T.
          8. Gangsta II - J-Dawg, Shinobi, J-Maske
          9. Liar, Cheater - Miriam Benton feat. J-Maske
          10. Woo!! - Shinbo feat. J-Dawg
          11. Last Night - J-Dawg
          12. Cadillac Strollin - J-Dawg, Smoke, L.O.S.T., K-Duce aka Bellafonte
          13. 911 - Shinobi, L.O.S.T., Smoke, Panic
          14. Want My Cash - Double Or Nothing feat. Bellafonte, L.O.S.T., intro. Montana
          15. Thug Paradise - Double Or Nothing, K-Duce aka Bellafonte, feat. Kev
          16. Take It Ov - L.O.S.T., Phat the Assasssin, Panic
          17. Outro - Double Or Nothing, feat. Phat the Assassin
          Under Construction
          Average customer rating: Not rated
            Under Construction
            Missy Misdemeanor Elliott
            Manufacturer: Musicrama/Koch
            ProductGroup: Music
            Binding: Audio CD

            GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
            GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
            Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
            ASIN: B0000DESYR
            Release Date: 2003-03-25

            Tracks:

            1. Go to the Floor
            2. Bring the Pain - Missy Elliott, Method Man
            3. Gossip Folks - Missy Elliott, Ludacris
            4. Work It
            5. Back in the Day - Missy Elliott, Jay-Z,
            6. Funky Fresh Dressed - Missy Elliott, Ms. Jade
            7. P***ycat
            8. Nothing Out There for Me - Missy Elliott, Beyonc
            9. Slide
            10. Play That Beat
            11. Ain't That Funny
            12. Hot
            13. Can You Hear Me - Missy Elliott, TLC
            14. Work It [Remix] - 50 Cent, Missy Elliott

            Tracks:

            1. Work It [Multimedia Track]
            2. Get Ur Freak On [Multimedia Track]
            3. One Minute Man [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Ludacris
            4. Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) [Multimedia Track]
            5. Hit 'Em Wit da Hee [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Lil' Kim,
            6. She's a Bitch [Multimedia Track]
            7. Hot Boyz [Multimedia Track]
            8. 4 My People [Basement Jaxx Remix][Multimedia Track]
            9. Sock It 2 Me [Multimedia Track] - Da Brat, Missy Elliott
            10. Beep Me 911 [Multimedia Track] - 702, Missy Elliott
            11. All N My Grill [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott,
            12. Take Away [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Ginuwine
            Under Construction
            Average customer rating: Not rated
              Under Construction
              Missy Misdemeanor Elliott
              Manufacturer: Wea
              ProductGroup: Music
              Binding: Audio CD

              GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
              GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
              Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
              Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Imports | Stores | Music
              ASIN: B000094TA8
              Release Date: 2003-06-02

              Tracks:

              1. Go to the Floor
              2. Bring the Pain - Missy Elliott, Method Man
              3. Gossip Folks - Missy Elliott, Ludacris
              4. Work It
              5. Back in the Day - Missy Elliott, Jay-Z,
              6. Funky Fresh Dressed - Missy Elliott, Ms. Jade
              7. P***ycat
              8. Nothing Out There for Me - Missy Elliott, Beyonc
              9. Slide
              10. Play That Beat
              11. Ain't That Funny
              12. Hot
              13. Can You Hear Me - Missy Elliott, TLC
              14. Work It [Remix] - 50 Cent, Missy Elliott

              Tracks:

              1. Work It [Multimedia Track]
              2. Get Ur Freak On [Multimedia Track]
              3. One Minute Man [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Ludacris
              4. Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) [Multimedia Track]
              5. Hit 'Em Wit da Hee [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Lil' Kim,
              6. She's a Bitch [Multimedia Track]
              7. Hot Boyz [Multimedia Track]
              8. 4 My People [Basement Jaxx Remix][Multimedia Track]
              9. Sock It 2 Me [Multimedia Track] - Da Brat, Missy Elliott
              10. Beep Me 911 [Multimedia Track] - 702, Missy Elliott
              11. All N My Grill [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott,
              12. Take Away [Multimedia Track] - Missy Elliott, Ginuwine

              Album Details

              Japanese Version featuring Four Bonus Tracks: "Drop the Bomb", "Gossip Folks (Fatboy Slim Radio Remix)", "Gossip Folks (Fatboy Slim Remix)", and "Gossip Folks (Mousse T's So Phat Remix Extended)". Also Includes a Bonus Dvd with Video Clips of 'work It', and 'gossip Folks' (Ntsc/Region Code: 2).

              Dance Music:

              1. Hold My Ground [Explicit Lyrics]
              2. Huggable Beats [Explicit Lyrics]
              3. I Got Something I Wanna Say
              4. In Da Club [CD-single]
              5. Just Do It
              6. Kingpin Skinny Pimp Presents Code 999 [Explicit Lyrics]
              7. Legacy [Explicit Lyrics]
              8. Let 'Em Burn [Explicit Lyrics]
              9. Let's Get It On [EP]
              10. Let's Get It On [EP]

              Dance Music

              dance music

              Dance Music

              Morning Star

              Shostakovich: String Quartet No. 3, Op. 73; Schnittke: Piano Quintet

              Satin Sax: Undercover Lover

              Live at Athenaeum Jazz [Live] [SACD]

              Since I Told You It's Over, Pt. 2 [CD-single] [Import]

              Thanks for Bringing Love Around Again [Import]

              Songs Kids Love to Sing: Favorite Hymns

              Tchaikovsky: Souvenir of a Beloved Place

              The Complete Columbia Hits and More [Import]

              Some of My Best Friends Are...The Piano Players

              Spring Jazz

              Shorty Rogers Courts the Count

              Sister Golden Hair [CD-single] [Import]

              Adventures in Foam

              Tick, Tick... Boom! (2001 Original Off-Broadway Cast)