Review: "Press Play" - Diddy

3.5 out of 5 Diddy who is a hip-hop mogul seems to shine at just about everything he ventures into; his productions, scouting and putting out hot new musical talent, running multi-million dollar parties, companies and campaigns. Unfortunately, his lyrical skills are the major sore thumb for him. On this album it was noted that Pharoah Monche did some ghost writing on one track for Diddy, and it wouldn't be surprising if other guests lent their writing skills. In addition, Diddy who is well known for production, enlisted other producers for this album. The first single "Come to Me" featuring Nicole of the Pussycat Dolls is definitely a head nodder and mainstream club favorite. "Tell Me" featuring Christina Aguilera would have to be another winner on this album in terms of its beat which will amp up just about anyone along with the powerful and sexy sounds of Christina gracing the track. "Everything I Love" has a new-age hot beat by Kanye West, chorus by Cee-lo and Nas as guest vocalist, who may have helped Diddy with his own rhymes. Other all-star guests include Twista, Big Boi of Outkast, Timbaland, Mary J Blige, Keyshia Cole, Jamie Foxx and Mario Winans. The shameful parts are Diddy's continued use of 80's samples (intro track) and the track "Last Night" (which sounds like Prince sampled); his releasing a track ("The Future") on this album with a near identical beat to Jay-Z's recent "Show Me What U Got", and the interludes which have him discussing (but not really giving insight into) his love-life or personality traits. "Hold Up" might be catchy to some listeners yet annoy others with its different chorus, but thats what music is about. The majority of this album could pass off for current radio tracks. Unfortunately, thats not always the best idea for a hip-hop album, but it keeps people listening. This album isn't terrible as an all star guest album, but shortening the track length might not hurt some. Press play on this for some interesting new futuristic samples, great guest appearances and Diddy's new attempts to rap over other producers' beats.