Solo albums from members of the Wu-Tang Clan [ tickets ] are about as hit-or-miss as you can get. For every spectacular platter like Raekwon's "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx," there's a disappointing foil, ala Ghostface Killah's "Bulletproof Wallets."

Method Man [ tickets ], the most accessible, playful member of the crew, is an enigma wrapped inside a riddle. Is he great? Is he still that mad creator of clever rhymes? Does he still possess that sly, know-it-all flow? "4:21--The Day After" answers those questions with a resounding "Ya!" This is the rapper's first great album since his '94 debut, "Tical."

The disc is an instant classic. Producers RZA, Scott Storch and Erick Sermon give Method Man beats that are bold and phat, while the rapper's flow is back where it should be: smooth and crisp, with lyrics that are as clever and funny as anything he's written before, reminding us of his stature in the rap game.

It is that rep that affords Method Man the chance to invite a cast of hip-hop stars to join him on his rap adventure. The late Ol' Dirty Bastard makes a cameo on the terrific "Dirty Mef." ODB's rhymes were never that great; rather, it was his undeniable charm that made him appealing. And that charm is evident here. Other impressive guest spots come courtesy of Method's other fellow Wu-Tangers, RZA, Raekwon and Inspectah Dec.

Redman drops some skills on "Walk On," an earthquake-deep bass pulsating throughout the cut. But all is not perfect in this latest chapter of Method Man's solo career. His turn with soulster Ginuwine on "Let's Ride," with its R&B glitz and EZ Lover vibe, wreaks of radio-readiness--a place Method Man's earlier efforts went to die.

Luckily, that's the only sore spot on this otherwise passionate, deep production--easily among Method Man's best solo albums. Finally.