Ashley Walters: Ashley Walters

Since his release from prison in 2002, former So Solid Crew member Ashley Walters has been known more for a burgeoning and acclaimed acting career than for his music, accompanied by countless stories on how his life has turned around. In a bid to capitalise on this newfound respectability, his return to his first career finds his MC name, Asher D, ditched in favour of his full name, and a selection of polished, eclectic tracks assembled. Walters switches between loping hip-hop beats, frenetic grime tracks and thoughtful, downtempo reflections with impressive dexterity and, as he casually tosses in descriptions such as "fighting like white boys pissed in the pub" along the way, his mix of gruffness and smoothness is appealing enough. But the album lacks a certain something - an energy, a drive to take it up a level - and Walters is often outshone by an array of guests such as Sway and No Lay. This is a competent, professional and occasionally brilliant effort - the brooding MO Part II in particular - but is difficult to detect the same unmistakeable heart and character that Walters displays on screen.