More From Rap’s Queen of the Serene

Although her profile has been relatively low in the last few years, Bahamadia remains one of the best female rappers. The Philadelphian’s debut album, 1996’s “Kollage,” featured an addictive mix of smooth, jazzy grooves and top-tier wordplay. On her second album (due in stores Tuesday), she continues where she left off with a thoughtful collection of serene hip-hop.

Where Lil’ Kim delivers gangster raunch and Rah Digga goes for the jugular with aggressive raps, Bahamadia focuses on exposing societal ills and bragging of her rhyming ability. She shows a gratifying range of skills and interests, offering pure boast on “Special Forces,” sending a shout-out to the everyday woman on “Commonwealth (Cheap Chicks)” and bemoaning various forms of prejudice on “Beautiful Things.”

Her even-keel, monotone delivery may be too laid-back and relaxed for some, but it’s always effective. Guests Rasco, Planet Asia and Chops offer a balance to Bahamadia’s tranquil persona with their feisty flows. With the exception of the lively drum-and-bass- inspired “Pep Talk,” producers EQ, Ronald “Ron E.” Estill and others keep the beats understated. It’s a good idea, one that ensures that Bahamadia doesn’t get lost in the type of bombastic production that accompanies some rappers.

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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.