Predator
It's true that Cube's third solo album lacked the righteous fury and sonic assault ofAmeriKKKa's Most Wantedand the visionary social scope ofDeath Certificate, but calling it his third-best album is hardly a consolation prize. It remains the last great album that Cube released before giving in to his gangsta-god complex on later efforts. From a political point of view, Cube doesn't bring a whole lot of new ideas to the plate, but musically the album sounds as good as ever with its dark and aggressive beats.Cypress Hill's DJ Muggs lays down some thick, rolling bass lines for "We Had to Tear This Muthaf---er Up," while DJ Pooh jacks a smooth '70s soul loop from theIsley Brothersfor "It Was a Good Day," leaving Cube himself to handle the beats on songs such as "When Will They Shoot," with its stomping beat and flinty edge.--Oliver Wang