Xzibit's fourth album, Man vs Machine, is quite possibly his cockiest yet, but the man has his reasons. Seeing that his last album, Restless, was nothing short of amazing, I'm sure that his ego has had plenty of time to swell. Unfortunately, Man vs Machine falls a bit short of the high standards he's set for himself.

With an all-star entourage of producers (Dr. Dre, Erick Sermon, Rockwilder, Rick Rock, Denaun, Jellyroll) and featured artists (Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, M.O.P.) this album is certainly bound for success. Xzibit's hard and gritty, yet fluid vocal style makes him a distinctive voice in the growing pool of laid-back rappers.

The first half of this album is bang-on, with sharp beats and on-point vocals that'll keep you captivated. However, the second half left something to be desired, especially on 'Missin U,' which featured an eerie female moan sample that made me cringe upon each repetition. Nonetheless, Man vs Machine features some impressive tracks.

The first single, 'Multiply' is definitely the standout hit track, as Nate Dogg and Xzibit combine on an amazing chorus. 'Choke Me Spank Me' introduces the listener to yet another song stapled with Dr. Dre innovative production. 'Heart of Man' is a feel-good laid-back track that could pass for a theme song from an eighties soundtrack, and is reminiscent of Jay-z's 'The City of Mine'. 'Symphony in X Major' is banger that features a hot and cocky verse from Dr. Dre.

Having heard Xzibit's performance on Restless, I know he can come harder than he does on Man vs Machine. The thing I liked most about Restless were its cutting-edge beats. Such beats are missing from Man vs Machine, with tracks like 'Losin Your Mind' and 'My Name' sounding extremely un-innovative. Overall, the album is good, but I know that Xzibit can do better.

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