Undoubtedly, D.R.S.(Dirty Rotten Scoundrels) released the most interesting urban album of 1993. Combining the waning r&b rhythm, new jack, with the hot rap lyrical content, gangsta, this l.a. quintet's fusion of both genres into one set was not only risky, but innovative as well. Gangsta Lean maunfactured one big hit in its title track, a sentimental dedication to all the brothas lost in the war-torn streets. It moved the whole country, as it topped the r&b charts and was all the rage throughout the fall of '93. D.R.S. also managed an obscure hit in "Scoundrels Get Lonely". Both singles favor the smooth r&b flavor of the album, as they croon effortlessly and incorporate synchronized harmonies. Other highlights include the g-funk specialties "strip" and "44 ways", and new jack entries "trust me" and "bonnie & clyde". Overall, new jack r&b and gangsta rap were two separate circles before this release. This album was the first to incorporate both genres successfully while gaining commerical attention and is the only one since. Unfortunately, D.R.S. never issued a follow-up, making this release a gem worth searching for. In other words, this groundbreaking release is for gangsta rap/g-funk fans as well as new jack fans. by Guru. D.R.S.: Jail Bait, Deuce Deuce, Endo, The Blunted, Pic (rap vocals)