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Keepin' it real, Buju Banton's getting "Paid, Not Played" on Friends for Life, his latest release on VP (distributed by Atlantic). Twisting and flexing back and forth between his rudie side and his roots revolutionary alter ego, Buju manages to strike a balance and deliver once again, with yet another album chock-full of hits. The party time track "Tra La La" has been gracing the airwaves, for some time now, as have the rousing "Up Ye Mighty Race" (preceded by an excerpted Marcus Garvey speech), "Mama Africa," and "Good Times" with Beres Hammond and Fat Joe. Adeptly switching gears, "All Will Be Fine" is a mellow ballad with a hopeful message.

What Buju album would be complete without a tribute or two to the ladies? Remember "Love Sponge"? Remember "Wanna Be Loved?" Well watch out, this time he's "Hooked On The Love!" "Damn!" he proclaims, the man is truly at his best when he's weak in the knees! In the same vein (don't go there), "Get It On" with hot singer Wayne Wonder extends an intimate invitation. Noted for his killer collaborations, Buju shares the mic with a few of his other friends on Friends, including Bounty Killer, Nadine Sutherland, and the Sons & Daughters Choir. As with any Buju album, buy it - you won't be disappointed.

- Allie-I