The HBO series, Oz, inspired a diverse array of rap artists to combine the hardships of prison life into 16 tracks. The 'Oz Soundtrack' compiles rap and R&B tracks from prominent artists such as Kurupt, Wu-Tang Clan, Snoop Dogg, Cypress Hill, Master P, Krayzie Bone, Nate Dogg, Pharoahe Monch, Trick Dadddy, Three 6 Mafia, Talib kweli, just to name a few. In all, 26 artists appear on the album, making it one of the most diverse rap soundtracks of the year. The compilation's eerie feel is derived from the lyrics of sorrows, struggles and missed love ones. East Side Cult's track "Ain't No Sunshine", might best describe the album.

The lead single, "Behind The Walls" is catchy with a beat that'll keep you coming back. Kurupt further proves his worth and Nate Dogg laces the chorus. Cypress Hill keep doing their thang with the infectious "Can I Live." Devin The Dude impresses with his flow on the laid-back funk-laden R&B-ish "Can't Wait." "Incarcerated" makes Magic, Blanuede and Fiend shine over a catchy clubbish beat. Pharoahe Monch's "What Is The Law" and Wu-Tang Clan's "What You In Fo" were also decent tracks.

This compilation provided a great deal of diversity. Unfortunately, there were only a couple tracks that I was really feelin'. The rest were average or below average, likely a result of the limitation to tracks of one theme: 'prison life'. Nonetheless, the lyrical content seemed deep which can make for good ear candy.

Click here to buy the album or read CDNow's album review.