Kanye West
Graduation

By Joe Walker

Over the course of three albums Kanye West eventually got "Stronger"; his industry toughness and blindness to boundaries drove him headfirst to an electric sound from music's past so desperately needed today. West dropped out of college and flew away in a spaceship on his debut album. On his follow-up, he was late for registration, but was still able to touch the sky. Here on Graduation, he has passed the curriculum of conventional hip-hop. Educated in the ways of production and rhyme, he takes his degree of creativity to new levels.

The DJ Premier co-produced "Everything Thing I Am," which comes close to the ceremonial conclusion of this album, is a perfect example. When listening to this verbal, audio lesson you’ll want to throw your hat off in celebration of this eclectic collection of lyrical and technical teachings, head-nodders and body-movers alike. Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Dwele join West for emotional moments in "Homecoming" and "Flashing Lights," respectively. West's production on both mixes perfectly with each singer’s mild-mannered power and contemporary melodic maneuvering. And what would a West album be without homage paid to his own ego? "Can't Tell Me Nothing" is it. It’s about an MC holding his own mouth open while simultaneously shoving himself full of himself. Icons like Melle Mel, LL Cool J, Big Daddy Kane and Rakim helped redefine this classic style, each making it famous all over again, which West himself has done for a new generation. Similar confidence can be found on "Barry Bonds," featuring Lil’ Wayne. Another highlight comes when West teams with The mighty Mos Def on "Drunk & Hot Girls.” With this album, West has received his diploma and graduated with honors.