Def Jam Vendetta: Streaming Audio Problem

I'm using a back-up of Def Jam Vendetta that, for the most part, boots and runs perfectly. No skipping during FMV. Fast Loads. Etc. Etc.

Here's the problem:
During gameplay/matches that go beyond 3-4 minutes, the streaming audio/bg-music, cuts out and the laser sounds as if it is trying to travel further than mechanically possible (towards the center, I imagine). The sound of the laser traveling is what worries me, it makes a rattling noise.

The game freezes for about 3 seconds then resumes, accompanied by the sound of the laser refocussing and the audio picking back up.

I guess I shouldn't be so nit-picky, my mod works perfectly for all of my other games (even Vice City, which is constantly accessing the disc for data).

Just wondering.