For a man who puts his trust in God, Kirk Franklin certainly seems defensive on the opening "interlude" of Nu Nation Project, which depicts criticism of his controversial hip-hop-tinged gospel as a court trial complete with urgent reporters outside the courthouse. The message, fortunately, quickly moves from Franklin's own problems to those of the world--which, notably, the star refuses to ignore while praising Jesus' name. Whether the Almighty is really impressed by the It's Showtime at the Apollo!-ready oversinging and clichéd R&B production is another question, but if you are, The Nu Nation Project is another helping of what's made Franklin a platinum seller. --Rickey Wright