Various artists, 'Jim Jones & Skull Gang Present a Tribute to Bad Santa Starring Mike Epps'

The buzz: Popular East Coast rappers Jim Jones, Juelz Santana and Freekey Zekey present a Christmas-themed album inspired by the 2003 film “Bad Santa.” Comedian Mike Epps, best known for his appearances in Ice Cube’s “Friday” movies (and next up in Cube flick “Janky Promoters”) hosts this session of banging beats, occasionally interrupting with short skits about the season's hardships.

The verdict: With steady talk of strippers, guns, money and drugs, this is a far (and explicit) cry from most family-friendly holiday albums, and even from the most famous hip-hop holiday joint, Run-DMC’s “Christmas in Hollis.” “Let us tell you a few things that’s on our wish list,” announces Jones. “First, forgiveness; then, big booty bitches.” If you don’t find that sort of content offensive, you might think this entire album oddly compelling, especially when paired with its tight production of club-ready beats.

Did you know? Jim Jones recently starred in an Off-Broadway production based on his life story and will release a similar film next year.

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