The Ruff Ryder's first lady is back and appears to be no worse for the wear. In fact, it's hard to believe that Dr. Dre once passed on this slick-tongued female rapper. However, there appears to be no hard feelings on Eve's third album, Eve-olution, as Dre again manages to produce a couple tracks.

Although I'm not really feeling the video for the first single, 'Gangsta Lovin', this album does present several gems. The album's last song, 'Eve-olution,' might be easily missed, but in actuality it's the hottest gem. The old school beat by Teflon is simply off the hook. 'Figure You Out' is one of my favorites as Eve demonstrates her maturity with her portrayal of how a real man would treat her. Irv Gotti's production on 'Irresistible Chick' provokes a few short liquid-smooth verses from Eve, creating a hot dance track. 'As I Grow' is a soulfully conscious track with a catchy chorus. Dre's funk-laden production on 'Satisfaction' when coupled with a smooth R&B chorus yields another head-bopper. 'Hey Yall' presents a new Eve flavour as she flows over a standard Snoop funk bounce beat. With Snoop's featured verse and yet another Nate Dogg chorus, this track grows on you.

Once again Eve impresses. Her third album, Eve-olution, again provides an incandescent mix of hard, club and conscious rap tracks laced with some R&B. My only problem with this album is that it lacks the expected growth implied by the title "evolution." Nonetheless, Eve-olution is worthy of praise.

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