** Various artists, “DJ Clue Presents: Backstage--Mixtape (Music Inspired by the Film),” Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam.

Where’s DMX? Where’s Method Man? For a soundtrack that is supposed to highlight the Hard Knock Life Tour, which featured those rap stars as well as Jay-Z and Redman, the absence of half of the artists is inexcusable. Even Jay-Z (who is on three songs) and Redman (one song) are barely present on the 19-cut collection.

Such lesser-knowns as Beanie Sigel, Memphis Bleek and Amil appeared on the tour and delivered strong performances for the soundtrack, but they should not preempt DMX and Method Man, both of whom are more charismatic and create better music than any of those featured in their place.

All that being said, there are some strong moments on the album. Redman and Lady Luck exchange sharp braggadocio barbs on the spare “Come and Get It,” while Memphis Bleek (“My Mind Right”) and Capone-N-Noreaga (“Don’t Want Beef”) also make impressive appearances. But a number of R&B; songs (a style that wasn’t even featured on the tour) and the no-shows by two of the tour’s marquee acts are hurdles this soundtrack can’t clear.

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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.