Haven't really been keeping abreast of the new hip-hop releases, although I was really into it in high school and college. I worshiped Wu-Tang and also loved Boot Camp, MOP, Mobb Deep, CNN, Redman, Outkast, Dre, Snoop, Luniz and countless other acts.
It seems like even if the beats are quality and the flow is legit, there is something missing. I like the songs the first time I hear them, but there is a lack of replay value. For instance, I'm feeling that Swimming Pools track right now, but can't see myself playing it regularly three years from now.
Right now I am more into Z-Ro and The Jacka because they have old songs I was able to catch up on. The last hip-hop album I really enjoyed was Reks, Grey Hairs. Agree with your assessment of the the last Big Boi album, and am still bumping that.