‘No Way Out’ at the Top

Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs’ “No Way Out” was the nation’s top-selling album for the second week in a row, easily outdistancing the “Men in Black” soundtrack.

Combs’ debut collection sold nearly 186,000 copies during the seven-day period that ended Sunday, claiming the No. 1 spot for the third time in four weeks. “Men in Black” sold about 130,000 copies.

The highest first-week entry was Luis Miguel’s “Romances,” which debuted at No. 14.

Meanwhile, the Insane Clown Posse’s “The Great Milenko,” released by Island Records after it was recalled by Disney-owned Hollywood Records, debuted at No. 66 after selling about 18,000 copies.

The nation’s top-selling single was the late Notorious B.I.G.’s “Mo Money Mo Problems.”

What’s Hot

Here are some recent releases that are generating critical or commercial attention:

Puff Daddy & the Family’s “No Way Out” (Bad Boy). By finally stepping past the vainglorious gloss and letting us in on his deepest feelings and doubts, Bad Boy Entertainment’s CEO reveals his potential and power as an artist.

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s “The Art of War” (Ruthless/Relativity). Bone Thugs-N-Harmony helps draw a close to rap’s bicoastal war, joining the rapid-fire wordplay of the East Coast with the bass-heavy, deeply melodic funk sound of the West.

Spice Girls’ “Spice” (Virgin). This sexy, prepackaged, female version of the Monkees appears shamelessly one-dimensional--even if it’s all in the name of fun.

Prodigy’s “The Fat of the Land” (Maverick). Employing samples from such varied sources as Ultramagnetic M.C.’s and the Breeders, “Fat” carries you along with the sonic rise and fall of a spectacular roller-coaster ride.

Fleetwood Mac’s “The Dance” (Reprise). Reuniting the five members of the Mac’s most successful lineup, this live album features spirited but faithful versions of the lyrical, folk-based tunes that make up the group’s rich catalog and a few new numbers.

Los Tigres del Norte’s “Jefe de Jefes” (Fonovisa). Los Tigres have been the undisputed masters of norten~o music for years. Songs such as the title track and “El Mojado Acaudalado” (about an illegal immigrant who becomes a tycoon in the United States) showcase clever lyrics and crystal-clear production. The result is a well-rounded collection.

Los Fabulosos Cadillacs’ “Fabulosos Calavera” (BMG). A deep, heartfelt album by what used to be the most shallow band in Argentine rock, “Fabulosos” finds the group in high gear, immersed in a schizoid’s musical collage that includes cheesy ‘70s pop, spaghetti western soundtracks, hard core and a sudden turn toward the jazzier side of things.

What’s New

In stores now: Fleetwood Mac’s “The Dance” (Reprise), Vanessa Williams’ “Next” (Mercury).

What’s Coming

Tuesday: Coolio’s “My Soul” (Tommy Boy), Oasis’ “Be Here Now” (Epic).

Sept. 2: Genesis’ “Calling All Stations” (Atlantic).

Sept. 9: LeAnn Rimes’ “The Inspirational Album” (Curb).