Sermon Gathers Stellar Group of Hip-Hoppers on ‘Onasis’

Although Erick Sermon’s not one of the most high-profile hip-hop personalities, this alumnus of the legendary rap group EPMD has produced everyone from Jay-Z and Ja Rule to Redman and Keith Murray. On his own album (due in stores Tuesday), Sermon assembles a wide range of talent to rap over his stellar, funk-drenched beats. Sermon also raps on the collection, but the songs are far more enjoyable when he trades verses with such charismatic stars as Slick Rick, Xzibit, Redman and Too $hort.

Sermon’s rap skills are average, although his thick lisp and conversational delivery make his style distinctive and appealing. His beats--spare, thunderous and crisp--are his strength, allowing the clever vocals from his guests to stand out. The many producers who drown out the words from their high-octane guests should pay attention to his technique.

The album’s surprise track is “So Sweet,” which features the late Eazy-E. The N.W.A founder sounds natural with Sermon, making you wonder what might have happened had they been able to collaborate more extensively. Like the majority of the album, “So Sweet” focuses on simple braggadocio, but as long as the beats are as potent as Sermon’s, the lack of depth is no drawback.

*** Freddie Foxxx, “Industry Shakedown,” KJac/Landspeed.

Also known as Bumpy Knuckles, this veteran underground New York rapper takes no prisoners on his second album. Angrily calling out a number of rappers and label executives by name, Foxxx cites specifics where most artists remain vague. His scruffy, intimidating voice lends an authenticity to his detailed threats. Even when Foxxx focuses on boasting, the production from DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Diamond D and others is as punishing as his barbed words.

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.