On at the present time in 1998, West Coast legends Cypress Hill delivered IV, their fourth studio album and one of the crucial hard-hitting initiatives of their storied catalog. By the point this document dropped, B-Actual, Sen Canine, and DJ Muggs had already cemented themselves as pioneers of Latino hip-hop and advocates for hashish tradition, however IV proved they nonetheless had a lot left to say — and new methods to say it.

Coming off the success of their earlier releases, Cypress Hill used IV to push deeper into darker, extra aggressive territory with out shedding the signature psychedelic sound that made them icons. DJ Muggs laced the album with heavy, bass-driven manufacturing and eerie, cinematic samples, setting the stage for B-Actual and Sen Canine’s unmistakable back-and-forth stream. From the menacing power of “Wanting By the Eye of a Pig” to the rebellious anthem “Checkmate,” the undertaking balanced social commentary, avenue perspective, and unapologetic weed advocacy with precision.

One of many album’s standout moments got here with “Tequila Dawn,” a fan favourite that confirmed a extra reflective facet of the group, whereas tracks like “Dr. Greenthumb” and “Amplified” continued Cypress Hill’s custom of mixing activism with sharp lyricism. The album additionally featured visitor appearances from MC Eiht and Barron Ricks, including depth and selection to the 17-track set.

Whereas IV didn’t attain the identical business heights as Black Sunday, it debuted robust and additional solidified Cypress Hill’s legacy as one of the crucial influential hip-hop teams of the ‘90s. Its uncooked power, uncompromising tone, and fearless experimentation helped bridge the hole between hardcore rap, stoner anthems, and political edge — a mix that may affect generations to come back.

Twenty-seven years later, IV stays a fan-favorite chapter in Cypress Hill’s legacy and a reminder of the group’s unmatched skill to evolve with out ever compromising their sound or their message.