In Brief

Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott--the anti-drug. Not because the rapper-producer-songwriterpushes a stay-clean message on her third album (due Tuesday). In fact, strictly metaphorically, the throbbing hip-hop electronica of “X-tasy” likens a flirtation to the euphoria of being on the latest demon drug, Ecstasy. But Elliott presents herself as the ultimate feel-good substance, offering her usual fresh-’n’-tasty twists on hip-hop cliches.

When it comes to not taking bad stuff, Elliott runs the school. The naturally authoritative rapper and commanding singer’s lessons for the ladies include not settling for the fleeting affections of a “One Minute Man.” The gentlemen’s instruction is of the respect-me-or-else variety, as on the retro-funky “Old School Joint.” Along with pals Busta Rhymes, Ginuwine, Eve and Da Brat, Elliott is again abetted by forward-thinking co-producer Timbaland. They update her style by, ironically, culling from synth-driven ‘80s-era R&B-pop;, and adding liberal doses of techno flava. Particularly fetching is “Get Ur Freak On,” with its film-score sweep and skittering drum-and-bass rhythms offering noir drama and the promise of dance-floor action.

Elliott can infuse even a sad character with menace, as the jilted lover in “Step Off” makes her ex sound like a plain fool. The cartoonishness of earlier works is buried deeper in the mix, however, allowing this album to illuminate an increasingly complex pop personality.

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