Jay-Z's the Blueprint 3 Reviewed

There is a prevailing sense throughout "The Blueprint 3" that Jay-Z sees himself as being above the genre. I'm not talking about the prerequisite hip-hop status posturing. This isn't a hungry up and coming artist boasting about his lyrical dexterity. This isn't the weathered and wise for it vet imparting wisdom through his there and back tales of the frontline. This is the self portrait of a man who feels that he has transcended the art. Is he wrong? Under the guise of a history lesson Professor Jay, with the help of his trusty teaching assistant J. Cole, lays out a fairly comprehensive timeline of raps trail blazers in "A Star Is Born". At the end Jay reminds us that he has watched their ups and downs, but he himself remains unfazed. That really sums up the feel of "The Blueprint 3". Much of it is "classic" Jay-Z, and if that is your thing you will be more than satisfied. Personally I think the strongest tracks are a result of more unconventional moments, such as the off key singing and abrasive beat on the anti Auto-Tune anthem "D.O.A.". Kanye West handles the bulk of the production masterfully, but he is also responsible for "Hate" which is by far the sets weakest link. The biggest surprise is the collaboration with England's Mr Hudson on "Young Forever". It may not be the greatest song, but it was a daring move and I give credit where its due.

"The Blueprint 3" Track List:
1. What We Talkin' About (w/ Luke Steele of Empire Of The Sun)
2. Thank You
3. D.O.A. (Death Of Auto-Tune)
4. Run This Town (w/ Rihanna & Kanye West)
5. Empire State Of Mind (w/ Alicia Keys)
6. Real As It Gets (w/ Young Jeezy)
7. On To The Next One (w/ Swizz Beatz)
8. Off That (w/ Drake)
9. A Star Is Born (w/ J. Cole)
10. Venus Vs. Mars
11. Already Home (w/ Kid Cudi)
12. Hate (w/ Kanye West)
13. Reminder
14. So Ambitious (w/ Pharrell)
15. Young Forever (w/ Mr Hudson)