‘No Way Out’ Finds Its Way Back Into the Top Sales Spot

Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs’ “No Way Out,” bumped from the top of the national album sales chart last week by Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s “The Art of War,” reclaims the No. 1 position this week.

The debut collection from the rapper-producer-mogul sold almost 228,000 copies during the seven-day period that ended Sunday, moving past the 1-million mark after only three weeks in the stores. “The Art of War,” meanwhile, slipped to No. 2 after selling about 183,000 copies.

What’s Hot

Here’s the lowdown on the Puff Daddy and Bone Thugs albums, and other recent releases that are generating critical or commercial attention:

Puff Daddy & the Family’s “No Way Out” (Bad Boy). By finally stepping past the vainglorious gloss and letting us in on his deepest feelings and doubts, Bad Boy Entertainment’s CEO reveals his potential and power as an artist.

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s “The Art of War” (Ruthless/Relativity). Bone Thugs-N-Harmony helps draw a close to rap’s bicoastal war, joining the rapid-fire wordplay of the East Coast with the bass-heavy, deeply melodic funk sound of the West.

Prodigy’s “The Fat of the Land” (Maverick). “Fat,” which employs samples from such varied sources as Ultramagnetic M.C.’s and the Breeders, carries you along with the sonic rise and fall of a spectacular roller-coaster ride.

Sarah McLachlan’s “Surfacing” (Arista). While McLachlan’s well-timed new album showcases her considerable strengths, it also suffers from a lack of compelling craftsmanship and textural daring.

Los Tigres del Norte’s “Jefe de Jefes” (Fonovisa). Los Tigres have been the undisputed masters of norten~o music for years. Songs such as the title track and “El Mojado Acaudalado” (about an illegal immigrant who becomes a tycoon in the U.S.) showcase clever lyrics and crystal-clear production. The result is a well-rounded collection that justifies its length.

What’s New

In stores now: Morrissey’s “Maladjusted” (Mercury), SWV’s “Release Some Tension” (RCA).

What’s Coming

Tuesday: Fleetwood Mac’s “The Dance” (Reprise).

Aug. 26: Coolio’s “My Soul” (Tommy Boy), Oasis’ “Be Here Now” (Epic).