Streetwise but with an eye for new avenues

The Product

“One Hunid” (Koch)

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ONE of the best rappers of all time, Scarface has influenced and been cited as an inspiration by such performers as 2pac and Jay-Z. In his new side project, the Product, the Houston rapper forms a talented trio with two up-and-coming rappers who seem poised to continue his rock-solid legacy -- Will Hen, from the Bay Area, and Young Malice, from Jackson, Miss.

On this somber, bluesy, 13-track collection (in stores Tuesday), the trio raps about the struggle and obstacles that accompany life in the ghetto. Whereas most modern rappers tend to glorify or champion the street lifestyle without considering its inherent pitfalls, the Product reports from the front lines.

On such cuts as the guitar- and horn-driven “Hustle” and the keyboard-highlighted “In the Hood,” they offer the pained perspective of a group that has seen and suffered too much.

They assume a defensive, violent outlook on the menacing “2 Real,” but they are more reactive than aggressive. Despite the largely dark feel of the album, the Product ends its trip with the wistful “Life’s Been Good.” It’s a striking, optimistic conclusion in which Scarface campaigns for making the most of any opportunity, regardless of one’s circumstances.

By imparting wisdom while navigating chaos, Scarface shows why he will remain a rap staple.

-- Soren Baker