With so many hip hop artists claiming that they're the missing link in the rap game, I'm starting to wonder where the true real links lie. With an album title like 'Bridging the Gap,' and the hot party single, "Weekends", I couldn't help but have high expectations of the Black Eyed Peas' sophomore album. This diverse trio of will.i.am, apl.de.ap and taboo, might have bridged some gaps, but this album didn't do anything to bring hip hop to a higher level. Their style borders on that of Mos Def or Common, but without the lyrical potency. The beats are average, providing an upbeat R&B'ish feel providing a positive groove. The featured artists are many, including the likes of De La Soul, Mos Def, Macy Gray, Wyclef Jean, Esthero, Les Nubian.

The first single, "Weekends" is an infectious clubbish dance tune, putting me in the mood for those precious two days that come only once a week. It features trip hop artist, Esthero and borrows the chorus from Debbie Deb's '80s hit "Lookout Weekend." The title track, "Bridging the Gaps" is a hot joint produced by apl. "Tell Your Mama Come," "Get Original" and "Request Line" featuring Macy Gray are also impressive.

Overall this album fell just below average. It was as filling as a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, but no meat. 'Bridging the Gap' is only an appropriate title, if with this album Black Eyed Peas have started construction, so that upon the release of their next album, their bridge will be complete and their music on point. As for the present, this album was a bit weak, but did have some really hot joints. (for example, "Weekends" is currently my favorite track) If you're feeling Mos Def, or De La Soul, then this album is probably a good pickup.

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