The 2009 9/11 Memorial Hip-Hop Album Release: Blueprint, Vol 3.

I don’t know why rappers in recent years have used 9/11 as a backdrop to release their much-hyped albums (the “epic” Kanye West & 50 Cent Graduation/Curtis same-day numbers duel reigning most memorable) but this year, Jay-Z will undoubtedly be opening unopposed as he drops the third installment in his Blueprint series.

The original Blueprint is an undisputed classic, as well as both a critical and commercial success, whereas the second, two-CD affair left many with a much less positive review. Coming off the release of 2007’s American Gangster, Jay-Z has a lot to live up with these new album.

Last week Jay leaked a sampling of how the grizzled hip hop veteran sees the current landscape with his self-explanatory non-anthem “D.O.A. (Death of AutoTune)”. Give it a listen and tell us what you think in the comments box below!