Album: War & Peace, Volume 1 (The War Disc)

Introduction
"War & Peace, Volume 1 (The War Disc)" is the fifth studio album by American rap artist Ice Cube, launched on November 17, 1998, by Priority Records and Lench Mob Records. This album acts as the first installation of a two-part project, with "War & Peace, Volume 2 (The Peace Disc)" released in 2000. The War Disc includes a more aggressive and confrontational tone compared to its counterpart, showcasing the various aspects of Ice Cube's lyrical design and musical influences.

Background and Production
Coming off the success of his 1997 film "Anaconda", Ice Cube reconnected with manufacturer Bud' da, who had formerly dealt with the rap artist's 1996 release "Bow Down" with Westside Connection. Other notable producers on the project consist of N.O. Joe, T-Mix and Ice Cube himself. This album likewise consists of collaborations with a number of popular artists like Korn, Mr. Short Khop, and R&B group K-Ci & JoJo.

One of the main styles of "War & Peace, Volume 1 (The War Disc)" is the concept of war, portrayed through numerous subject matters, such as gang violence, cops brutality, and internal battles. Ice Cube also integrates social commentary and political views throughout the album, making it a thought-provoking and questionable piece of work.

Track Listing and Notable Songs
The War Disc includes 19 tracks, including several standout songs that display Ice Cube's lyrical capabilities and the large variety of topics explored in the album. Some notable songs include:

1. "Ask About Me" - The opening track sets the tone for the album, with Ice Cube asserting his supremacy in the rap game through menacing lyrics and hard-hitting production.

2. "Pushin' Weight" (feat. Mr. Short Khop) - This tune features a memorable hook and a slick verse from up-and-coming rap artist Mr. Short Khop. The track acts as a commentary on the drug trade and its impact on urban communities.

3. "Dr. Frankenstein" (accomplishment. Korn) - A partnership with nu-metal band Korn, this track checks out the metaphor of producing a monster within oneself, a repeating theme throughout the album.

4. "War & Peace" - The title track explores the subject of cops brutality and racial profiling, with Ice Cube expressing his frustration with the justice system.

5. "Ghetto Vet" - A powerful story of a gang member injured in a drive-by shooting, forced to adjust to life as a paraplegic. This haunting track serves as a reminder of the extreme truths faced by individuals associated with gang life.

Reception and Legacy
"War & Peace, Volume 1 (The War Disc)" debuted at number 7 on the US Billboard 200 chart and was later certified platinum by the RIAA. Despite combined reviews from critics, some of whom felt the album was overproduced and lacked focus, the War Disc has actually considering that been considered as among Ice Cube's most ambitious and thought-provoking tasks.

The album's lead single, "Pushin' Weight", became a hit on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 76, while the follow-up single "Ghetto Vet" got critical recognition for its gripping storytelling and raw feeling.

"War & Peace, Volume 1 (The War Disc)" remains a necessary piece in Ice Cube's discography, highlighting the rapper's flexibility and development as an artist. Its relevance in the late '90s hip-hop scene helped strengthen Ice Cube's enduring impact on the genre and foreshadowed the release of the more introspective and reflective "War & Peace, Volume 2 (The Peace Disc).".