In Brief

* * * Shabba Ranks, “X-tra Naked,” Epic. Playing it safe and smart, this follow-up to Shabba’s hit debut, “As Raw as Ever,” sticks to a winning formula--the reggae star’s rugged basso rap booming out X-rated lyrics over spare drum tracks sweetened with choice samples. A few calls for justice and brotherhood are sprinkled amid the naughtiness, and a sultry match is made with soul crooner Johnny Gill on “Slow and Easy.” Duets with Queen Latifah and Chubb Rock also pack plenty of power, but Shabba’s is best left on his own.