Heavy waits: albums that are long overdue

Eminem, 'Relapse'

Years in development: three

Years since last studio album: four

In the years since Eminem’s last album, 2004’s “Encore,” the Shady one has taken a “hiatus,” gone to rehab, had a health scare, reportedly gained weight, written an autobiography, and started work on his supposedly forthcoming album, the Dr. Dre–produced “Relapse.” Originally intended for a 2008 release, the likelihood of this LP dropping before the New Year seems rather...Slim. Expect it to hit stores in early '09.