**1/2 DR. DOLITTLE: THE ALBUM

(Atlantic)

Mass-market soundtracks are usually aimed at the lowest and youngest common denominator, just like the movies to which they're tied. But in this film, the mere presence of Eddie Murphy kicked up the target age a demographic notch or two. Likewise, the sophistication and daring of current black pop takes this youthful soundtrack and kicks it, well, just kicks it.

Much of the credit goes to fresh new hip-hop prodigy Timbaland, who appears in various capacities on six of the compilation's 11 cuts. Although he peaks early with the writing and producing on the disc's current hit, Aaliyah's "Are You That Somebody,'' he's always angular and loose and funky enough to make you wonder whether the average 15-year-old in baggy jeans doesn't know something you don't. For balance, veteran entertainer Jody Watley has a track on which she does her best to teach the young 'uns something back.

-- Franklin Soults