LL Cool J wraps 23 years of recording for the historic Def Jam label with Exit 13, an appropriately dramatic crown on a distinguished and groundbreaking rap career. And by sounds of it, it ain't over yet.

Back in the day, LL Cool J was a young rapper with a surprise hit: "I Need A Beat" got him his foot in the door and "Rock The Bells" busted it wide open. Next came his smash signature song, "I Need Love," and the DJ classic, "Go Cut Creator Go." LL has gone through various phases but he's always remained a solid and reliable, full service rapper from his first "comeback album," Mama Say Knock You Out on through his collaboration with around the way girl J Lo on "All I Have."

He opens his 13th album with "It's Time For War," an epic boast cautioning people not to forget him. "Old School, New School" also makes much of his long running career and legend as an unbeatable MC. "Feel My Heart Beat" features 50 Cent who also co-produced some of the tracks here. The pair began making the album in 2006 but side projects and various delays held-up the collaboration between the two celebrated Queens rappers until now. It was totally worth the wait.

Other special guests sit in throughout the session: Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora knocks out some riffs for "Baby (Rock Remix)." Another version of "Baby" features The Dream in a smooth R&B treatment of the song.

Wyclef Jean shares the mic with LL on "Mr. President," a plea to understand the policies in effect during the Bush years, in particular the reason for the Iraq War. "Get Over Here" featuring It's Ya Girl Nicolette, Jiz, Lyrikal and Ticky Diamondz is a slice of hyped-up Harlem rap meets smooth Queens-style.

"This is Ring Tone M..." featuring Grandmaster Caz borrows from original rapper Kurtis Blow's "The Breaks." "Rocking With The G.O.A.T." is given a modern and minimal arrangement, with a siren filling in as percussion.

"American Girl" is LL at his best, singing the praises of all the ladies while always making sure you know who's on top.

"Dear Hip Hop" is LL's scratch/orchestrated open letter to the game: he's truly apologetic for dropping out for awhile but he's back. As one of the most reliable and oldest working names in hip-hop, Exit 13 is all the evidence required: we're lucky to still have LL to kick around.

By Daisy Duarte