1/2 MC Ren, “The Villain in Black,” Ruthless/Relativity (**).

If Ice Cube and Dr. Dre were N.W.A.’s Lennon and McCartney, then call MC Ren the group’s George Harrison. An icy-smooth, menacing vocalist whose low-key demeanor perfectly complemented Ice Cube’s fiery vehemence, Ren was an integral part of the group’s rebellious makeup. Despite widespread critical acclaim, however, none of MC Ren’s solo works--except his funky “Kiss My Black Azz” EP--have made a huge commercial splash.

“The Villain in Black” would have a chance to change that if it weren’t cheapened by numerous cliches. Ren proves himself a worthy rapper on such stirring tunes as “I Don’t Give a Damn” and the guitar-heavy “Live From Compton It’s Saturday Night.” But pedestrian fare such as “Mad Scientist” and “Keep It Real” doesn’t show off his narrative ability and provides little musical inspiration. Only the politically incendiary “Bring It On” fully demonstrates what Ren is capable of when his heart--and quality musical production--are in sync with his distinctive voice.

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Albums are rated on a scale of one star (poor), two stars (fair), three stars (good) and four stars (excellent).