5 Best Rap Albums of 2011(thus Far)

With the month of June marking the halfway point of the twelve month calender year, It's only fitting to take a look at the 5 best rap albums released so far this year. With a lot of the big names getting their egos stroked at award shows, I feel some should probably get back into the lab, and reevaluate their strategy for making an album. there's at least one old school emcee who's proven that he still has the midus touch when grabbing the mic.

Talib Kweli -Gutter Rainbows.
Kweli is still throwing lyrical fireballs, in the name of self expression. Instead of littering his newest release with big name collaborations, he's instead decided to enlist the help of a few rappers not widely known this time around. Jean Grae is always welcome feature on any emcees album. Sean Price, Outasight and Blaq Toven all manage to hold their own, and don't weigh any of the songs down much.

Lupe Fiasco - Lasers.
What happens when you look in the pantry for something to eat, only to find bits and pieces of edible ingredients? If being unable to order a pizza, you'd probably try to mix everything into one dish. That's kinda what Lasers turned out to be. Lupe lambasts the music industry over pop beats, and still manages to hark on social issues(see 'words I Never Said') while being surrounded by artists like Trey Songz and John Legend. While Lupe has apologized to his fans over how Lasers turned out, He really made the most of the situation. When you consider what was asked for him, Lupe Fiasco could have easily phoned it in for this release.

Kool G Rap - Riches, Royalty & Respect.
The self proclaimed Donald Goines of Rap is back! G Rap lays out his legendary storytelling ability, over soulful background beats.The imagery used throughout Riches, Royalty & Respect gives off this sort of Blaxploitation feel to the album. It's like a Superfly audio book in many ways. Quality concept album, that doesn't veer off before meeting it's final destination.

Tyler The Creator - Goblin.
Tyler is in serious need of psychiatric help. While Goblin might be seen as his own brand of musical therapy, this kid really needs to lay on the couch of a professional. Amidst the clever punchlines, and poetic nature of tracks like 'Nightmare', lies the kind of unapologetic vulgarity, and downright freaky references and claims one might expect from an enraged teenager with a contract. It'll be interesting to see this kids growth as an artist in the coming years.

Pharoahe Month - W.A.R.(We Are Renegades)
Anyone who's ever listened to an Organized Konfusion album is aware of what Praroahe Month is capable of. W.A.R. see's this freakish talent team up with the likes of Royce Da 5'9", Jean Grae, Immortal Technique, Styles P, Phonte & Mr. Porter, for a rhythmic call to action for those who are sick and tired of injustice, and being lied to. If you only know Monch from Simon Says, Oh No, and his recent collaboration with Slaugterhouse, you really need to do yourself a favor and check out this mans solo and group catalog.