* 1/2 SILKK THE SHOCKER, “Made Man,” No Limit/Priority

With Master P supposedly retired from his solo recording career, P’s younger brother seems set to become No Limit Records’ marquee artist. Silkk’s first two albums have sold nearly 2 million copies together, and after appearing on the recent slew of high-profile No Limit releases and on popular singles from singer Mya and fellow rappers Eightball and Cam’ron, the New Orleans rhyme slinger has become one of hip-hop’s most sought-after stars.

But it looks like a case of hype rather than talent. Silkk, like many other contemporary hit makers, lacks lyrical innovation. His story lines are recycled gangsta narratives of a type that many other artists have handled more effectively. The 20-year-old’s narrow vocabulary and limited creativity further handicap his presentation on his third album, due in stores on Tuesday.

“It Ain’t My Fault,” one of the collection’s strongest selections, is Part 2 of the most popular song from his last album, 1998’s “Charge It 2 Da Game.” However, guest rapper Mystikal easily outperforms Silkk, who tries in vain to keep pace with his hyperactive label-mate. On the set’s more reflective songs, Silkk lacks the necessary sincerity. The backing production is also hollow, leaning too heavily on familiar R&B; tunes.

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Albums are rated on a scale of one star (poor), two stars (fair), three stars (good) and four stars (excellent). The albums are already released unless otherwise noted.

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