The Blueprint 3 [PA] by Jay-Z

Pros: One of Jay-Z's most consistently enjoyable albums.
Cons: A little too much braggadocio, plus someone needs to punch Pharrell in the larynx.

Jay-Z's been in a weird place these last few years, career-wise. After "un-retiring" in 2006, the rapper who most successfully bridges the gap between commercial success and street credibility seemed to struggle to find his way. That year's "Kingdom ...

Pros: Jay reminds us what he does best - rule the game.
Cons: Jay has nothing LEFT to say for the most part

To Shawn Carter, the word "Blueprint" has always represented change. When Jay-Z released The Blueprint on September 11th, 2001, it was an answer to his critics, fans and his peers who claimed he'd lost his ability to be introspective. ...

Pros: Some great songs. It'll grow on you
Cons: Inconsistent, Jay is lazy, and a disappointing second half

On Dayo’s essay on Jay-Z, Mike summed Jay up absolutely perfectly: I think Jay is a masterful MC-articulate in a way that Nas isn't...however, Jay's catalog is frustratingly inconsistent. For every classic he's dropped (Reasonable Doubt, ...

Pros: Surprisingly eclectic; effectively glossy beats; mostly strong first half.
Cons: Overindulgent, unfocused, and simply not as exciting as previous albums.

Alright, fine: Jay-Z's American Gangster was an unapologetic retread, a set of 15 crack commandments that came loaded with Scarface/Goodfellas references and shout-outs to crooked NYPD officers. It was clearly designed to make ...

Pros: Everything
Cons: Young Jezzy

What can I Say?
I really love this album, it is definitely the best album of the year.
Jay displays again his immense lyrical abilities, mixing street poetry with more club-oriented songs. His flow is untouchable and the beat selection is almost perfect. I would not call it a masterpiece, that honor goes to Reasonable Doubt, but it comes close. I mean, wow what an album! Buy it!