ALBUM

Dr. Dre, "Compton"

On his first disc since 1999, Dre, now 50, has delivered a hip-hop concept album. It's an often tense musical indictment that tackles the challenges facing his hometown and the U.S. as a whole, gazing back with equal parts nostalgia, wonder, frustration and indignation while luminous beats reinforce the arguments. The album also displays Dre's versatility across music, business and culture. He introduces new voices, including Anderson Paak, King Mez and Justus. He also summons familiar voices, including Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar and fellow N.W.A. member Ice Cube. "Compton" is dense with themes that are as relevant today as when N.W.A. emerged in the late 1980s. With heavy, workmanlike verses, Dre uses his pulpit without hesitation. On "Medicine Man," he indicts contemporary culture, decrying in one quick verse Internet addiction, underpaid teachers, hip-hop fakers, fame, government databases, teenage girls acting like they're 22, grown men who act like boys and money leeches. Fellow Compton rapper Lamar confirms his import on three tracks; Eminem honors his mentor on "Medicine Man," and Snoop stars on "Satisfiction."

Randall Roberts, Los Angeles Times