September 11th is a historic date for millions of people around the world, it is just about to get bigger. 9/11 has imprinted itself into the History books but tomorrow, Hip Hop history is going down. Kanye West’s and 50 Cent’s albums are both dropping backed up by the over-net-hyped (PMA included) beef between the two rappers. If you’ve missed it (doubtfully), here’s the short version: If Kanye’s Graduation beats out Curtis in the Battle of Billboardsburg, Fiddy promises to never release a solo album again. So now that you understand what is going on. Who’s album will you buy? Kanye West’s Graduation seems like the obvious answer, but taking a look at 50’s Curtis actually makes it a tough decision. They are both substantial albums, believe it or not.

To make this as honest as I could, I only listened to the albums once, prior to this post. As I was listening to them, I noticed how much in common ‘Ye and Fiddy actually have. They both have absolutely no problem to speak their minds, albeit, a little too much, but admirable nonetheless. Both men are assholes and immensely arrogant beyond my standards, and thats a feat of massive magnitude in itself. Both albums drop some of the best beats in Hip Hop all Year, and finally, they are both the best in the game, without a doubt.

While Kanye West is still not the best lyricist in hip-hop, he has made great improvements and if he keeps it up, he could definitely achieve such a title. Graduation is by far his most streamlined album and it truly benefits. The songs are much tighter and, apart from “Drunk and Hot Girls,” the instrumentals are all incredibly interesting and creative. His ear as a producer has never been better but it sounds like his focus has a tighter rein. The results are songs that reach out further creatively but still have great pop hooks. Considering the bland work churned out by so many mainstream hip-hop artists, it’s refreshing to hear Kanye branch out and embrace his most creative impulses (with some help from T-Pain, Chris Martin, Dwele, Lil Wayne, Mos Def, with John Mayer and Young Jeezy on the bonus tracks).

The only reason that I can see some people not liking this album is because a lot of the songs have an anthem or arena-like feel to them. Some songs might be a little too different for folks who only listen to that gangsta shit. I have not recently killed anything other than a mosquito that bit me, and I have never moved keys of cocaine or sold rocks on the corner, so I have no problem with Kanye’s music. For real, even the open-minded street nigga can appreciate this album. Sensitive thugs that need to be constantly reminded that they’re hard should probably steer clear, though.

Speaking of sensitive thugs, I have to be honest: 50 Cent’s Curtis surprised me. Judging from the first few songs that were released a few months ago, it sounded as if Mr. Jackson has lost his passion for his craft. The first couple of releases sounded a little cookie-cutter and lethargic. So when I finally listened to Curtis, the rest of the album pretty much made up for it in a big way. The man is a genius when it comes to coming up with clever and melodic hooks. That’s why he’ll always be able to make radio-accessible hip-hop, no matter what it is that he rhymes about

Plus, 50 gets extra credit just for actually saying “I’m stanky rich” in one of his songs. Do you know how rich you have to be to be stanky rich? I didn’t think so. The man is literally so paid, he comes home from a long day’s work, sniffs his shirt, and says “Damn. I still smell like cash. Let me go take a shower and wash this shit off.” Now that, my friends, is incredible!

The harder stuff on this album is way better than the smoother songs. Basically, if you’re looking for something to nod your head to in the ride, this is your album. The really good songs more than make up for the ones that come off as kind of generic, enough so, that the back and repeat button on your mp3 player should get plenty of use. The album’s production is standout, so it’s definitely going to make fans happy. The guest appearances here include Akon, Justin Timberlake, Young Buck, Nicole Sherzinger, Tony Yayo, Mary J Blige, Eminem, and Robin Thicke.

As a fan of hip hop, you really can’t go wrong on September 11, either way. 50 and Kany have both put out quality products. I have a feeling that people’s personal opinions of the artists will be the determining factor as far as album sale numbers. I really don’t believe that foolishness 50 Cent said about retiring if he does not outsell Kanye, but then again, he’stanky rich. He doesn’t need to keep rhyming. If I had to choose an album as the winner, it would be Graduation in a 12 round split-decision victory.

MP3: Kanye West ft. Chris Martin – Homecoming
MP3: Kanye West – Champion
MP3: 50 Cent – I’ll Still Kill