Though many may think of Crunk Juice as the album that, for better or worse, introduced the term “Crunk” into the popular lexicon, and made diamond encrusted pimp cups the accessory of choice for clueless celebrities worldwide, the album is in fact a carefully considered, and flawlessly executed, amalgamation of Southern hip-hop styles custom fitted to spark action on even the most lifeless of dance-floors. Concealed behind a generous mop of dreadlocks, oversized sunglasses and his gem spangled chalice, Lil John seems an unlikely candidate for the mantle of savvy super producer, but this is a producer’s album through and through. Crunk Juice filters the icy perfectionism of The Chronic through a synth-laden whirlwind of screwed up vocal samples, bracing bounce tempos and breathlessly shouted rejoinders to “Get Crunk!” Tracks like “What U Gon Do” and “Choppin” steal their sing-song refrains and unrepentant decadence from the party-rocking styles of electro pioneers like Man Parrish and Afrika Bambattaa, while the rapid-fire delivery of MCs like Bun B, Ludacris, MJG and others lend the proceedings a contemporary edge. A euphoric blast of futuristic party music that manages to evoke hip-hop’s carefree early days, Crunk Juice is one of the most invigorating hip-hop records of the 21st century.