Watch The Throne is a logical consequence of the latest Jay-Z and Kanye West records. Musically, the album is an extension of Kanye's (2010) with even more unconventional use of samples - such as the vocals of and - and a whole host of co-producers ( , Jeff Bhasker, , ). Jay-Z's (2009) was the ultimate convergence of creativity and business. Given that Jay-Z is inspired by the work 'Most Kings
… Get Their Heads Cut Off' by graffiti artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, it is not surprising that the rapper feels like a king. After all, he's one of the greatest rappers of all time, alive and well. Yet the two gentlemen on Watch The Throne are not afraid to share the bittersweet taste of success. On the 12 songs they both describe their existence, each in a typical style. They enjoy life and are not ashamed of it, but at the end of the day they sleep like humans. Even if it is on a bed of gold. Approachable and boastful at the same time, Watch The Throne isn't bad. (GL)more