Much more contemporary and tasteful than those slacks is Kelis' third full-length, Tasty. As is the case with "Milkshake," the album has several tracks produced by no-miss hit-makers the Neptunes. In addition, no-miss hit-maker Timbaland and no-miss hit-maker Dallas Austin also contribute their production skills, and no-miss hit-makers Andre 3000 and Pharrell Williams turn in guest vocal appearances. So you don't even need to listen to the CD to decide if it's good; every automatically hip track will eventually make the radio and any MTV-addicted relative's "Most Played" iTunes list.
But, Tasty doesn't really deserve cynicism. Club cuts like "Protect My Heart" and "Milkshake" are banging, irresistible party-starters. "Trick Me" and "Millionaire" are more lyrically introverted and personal, but with a resilient undercurrent of ass-shake-itude. Kelis' seductive, raspy vocals ride the A-list, crunky beats with comfy precision. No inner city commentary here. But for those in the club, or even those who still let their momma dress them, the combination is fun and physical, and that's all this album really needs to be.
Kelis performs at Philips Arena Tues., March 23. 7:30 p.m. $40.50-$76.
