Curtis [PA] by 50 Cent (CD, Sep-2007, Aftermath Records USA)

Originally titled "Before I Self Destruct," the cover of Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson's junior album, "Curtis," depicts an anguished, humanized Jackson.But as it goes, you can't judge a book, or in this case, album, by its cover.

The 17-track outing is nothing we haven't heard countless times from 50, a disappointing squandering of an opportunity to add a layer to his persona.

The uninspired production and fact he's spitting rhymes on regurgitated topics create the sense he's taking steps back creatively, even though he's really just running in place.

In case anyone forgot, 50 makes sure to remind listeners of his gangster status with tracks like "187," "Fully Loaded Clip," and "I'll Still Kill."

"When my name in ya mouth, better watch how you talk / I'll send ya punk a—to therapy to learn how to walk" he calmly boasts on the drone "187."

"I Get Money," one of "Curtis'" few strong points, shows 50's charm hasn't completely evaporated. Referring to the lucrative buyout of Glaceau, a company had a partial ownership in, by Coca-Cola, he brags, "I take quarter water sold it in bottles for two bucks / Coca-Cola came and bought it for billions, what the f---?"

No doubt 50's swagger remains fully intact, despite a rapidly-fading star. It's that refusal to show any dents in the armor, however, that may prove his musical undoing.