The College Dropout

Kanye West is his own biggest fan. But back in 2004, when no one knew who he was, he had something to prove. Despite having produced some of the hottest tracks in recent years (Ludacris's "Stand Up," Jay-Z's "Izzo" and "Takeover," Talib Kweli's "Get By"), he still hadn't yet established himself as a rapper to be reckoned with. "The College Dropout" changed all that. With a sizzling and innovative production, fresh lyrics, and style to boot...Kanye West comes off just as awesome as he thinks he is on "The College Dropout."

Kanye West isn't the strongest rapper; sometimes he sounds like he's just talking and his flow is predictable and boring. But his material is engaging and grabs your immediate attention. Dealing with racism, religion, and yes, a college education...West pulls off being a preacher one minute ("Jesus Walks") and a lusty lothario the next ("The New Workout Plan").

West's sound is a great one: It stirs the soul and pumps the heart. Soulful is the best way to describe it. Looking at Kanye West as a musician, and not just a hip-hop artist, it's clear he's a good MC but an absolutely fantastic musician.

Hip-hop aficionados should not turn their heads though, "The College Dropout" can give you your hip-hop fix. "Get Em High," which features noteworthy appearances from Common and Talib Kweli, will vibrate your eardrums nicely with its ice-cold drums, and even colder verses (that's a good thing).

"The College Dropout" has many guest appearances...all of them, with the exception of Ludacris, being favorable. GLC, Consequence, Jay-Z, Twista, Jamie Foxx, Mos Def are a few of the many guests who step up to the plate. Like Dr. Dre, West is a production master; who cares if he isn't always in the spotlight? The music is always front and center.

Simply put, "The College Dropout" is a musical masterpiece. There isn't a whack track to be found here; everything hits just the right notes.