***1/2 Missy Misdemeanor Elliott

SUPA DUPA FLY

(EastWest)

Notwithstanding an occasional rhymer of reason like Wyclef Jean or Coolio, most of the new rappers who are dancing their way out of hip-hop's constriction are still blindered by hard-ass tradition. Missy Elliott may not flash a gat, but that's only because her taste in threats is more low-key, like "Ladies and gents, dogs cats and babies/Whoever bit my style I hope you croak from rabies." Her signature sound matches this cool attitude to slow, dark beats laced with an impressive variety of spare, funky hooks.

Elliott first demonstrated that style as a songwriter for artists like Aaliyah and Ginuwine. Now, with the inestimable help of her childhood pal and DJ, Timbaland, she lays out her skills in a masterful debut album that drops catchy crossover raps, sultry R&B ballads, and untraditional samples (the current hit "The Rain" is based on an Ann Peebles classic), all without breaking ranks with the hard, uncouth streets. It's so simple and strong, I got to wondering whether hip-hop's only real problem is bad music. I guess formal triumphs can engender formalist delusions.

-- Franklin Soults