Artist: Big BoiAlbum:

Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico DustyLabel: Def Jam / Purple RibbonRelease date: July 6 (Today)Rating (Skip, Stream, or Buy): BuyListen Download:

Big Boi’s Mix Tape for DummiesWhile some might look to 2004’s Speakerboxxx as Big Boi’s solo debut–his flip to OutKast partner Andre 3000’s The Love Below–the Atlanta emcee sounds as lyrically nimble and polished as he has in years while he meshes with the funk-saturated beats. Now the modern and wisened pimp, Big Boi’s new sound is as current and stylish today as it was in 1994 when OutKast burst on to the scene. Atlanta-based production trio Organized Noise holds down a handful of tracks, but one-time hitmakers like Lil’ Jon and Scott Storch add an undeniable flair. And despite the fact that the powers that be at Def Jam kept Andre 3000 off the record–especially disappointing considering the leaks of “Lookin’ For Ya” and “Royal Flush” on which he guested–you have to begrudgingly acknowledge the logic because, unlike almost every other conversation about the duo, the star of this one is Big Boi. And, best of all, he sounds similar but somehow nothing like he’s ever sounded before. The man of the hour says it best: Sir Luscious Left Foot’s got his best foot forward. Hell yes.