It's certainly not news anymore that soundtracks have a life of their own, far independent of their cinematic tie-in. In fact, it's highly likely that fewer than half of the songs on this soundtrack appear in the movie; after all, there needs to be some time for dialogue and plot. Nevertheless, these compilations--let's call them what they are--serve a vital purpose, since, with the exception of prog rock, singles are more important than albums, and a good collection of singles beats a few good songs and a smattering of filler by a single artist. However, what can be said about a handful of good singles sprinkled amid indistinct and mediocre tracks from a variety of high-profile artists? That's the problem on the Rush Hour soundtrack. Dru Hill, Jay-Z, Ja Rule, Too Short, and the duo of Snoop Dogg and Slick Rick are the few highlights in the 70 minutes of music here, while Montell Jordan, Wu-Tang, Jon B, and others mail it in. I guess that's why they make CD players programmable and sell them with remotes. --Martin Johnson