What makes The Four Horsemen by Ultramagnetic MCs notable?

The album is notable for its experimental approach to hip-hop, contributing to the genre's evolution during the early 90s. Although it did not achieve mainstream commercial success, it has been praised by critics and remains influential among underground rap artists, often cited for its lyrical complexity and avant-garde production choices. Released on August 10, 1993, The Four Horsemen marked Ultramagnetic MCs' third studio album, following their critically acclaimed debut Critical Beatdown in 1988. At this point, the group was solidifying its influence in underground hip-hop, showcasing a unique style that incorporated complex lyrics and innovative sampling techniques.

How many songs are on The Four Horsemen?

The Four Horsemen has 14 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

The Four Horsemen

Ultramagnetic MCs · 1993

51 min · 14 tracks · hip-hop

A frenetic blend of inventive wordplay and eclectic production that pushes the boundaries of early 90s hip-hop.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Checkin’ My Style — This track exemplifies the group's signature style with rapid-fire lyricism and playful wordplay, showcasing their ability to blend humor and skill seamlessly.
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Two Brothers With Checks — Featuring sharp commentary on materialism and brotherhood, this track captures the duo's dynamic chemistry and clever narrative style prevalent throughout the album.
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Saga of Dandy, the Devil & Day — This track stands out with its storytelling approach, weaving a tale filled with vivid characters that highlights the group's imaginative lyrical prowess.
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Don’t Be Scared — With its engaging beat and confident delivery, this track serves as an anthem for self-assurance while showcasing the MCs' distinctive vocal style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's inventive wordplay and eclectic production mark it as a significant entry in early 90s hip-hop.

What we noticed

Production incorporates a wide range of samples and unconventional beats, with tracks varying significantly in tempo and style.
Several tracks utilize abrupt transitions and layered vocal effects, contributing to an experimental sound that challenges traditional hip-hop structures.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Checkin’ My Style

The verses feature a playful back-and-forth rhythm where internal rhymes create an intricate flow that captivates listeners.

The use of unexpected rhyme schemes elevates the track beyond typical structures, emphasizing the group’s innovative approach to lyricism.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 We Are the Horsemen 3:52
2 Checkin’ My Style 2:33
3 Two Brothers With Checks 4:42
4 Raise It Up 4:18
5 Saga of Dandy, the Devil & Day 4:36
6 Delta Force II 3:54
7 Adventures of Herman’s Lust 2:02
8 See the Man on the Street 3:23
9 Bring It Down to Earth 3:35
10 Don’t Be Scared 5:03
11 One, Two, One, Two 2:44
12 Time to Catch a Body 3:31
13 Yo Black 4:23
14 Big Booty 2:47

What to play next

Listen next

The Basement Tapes 1984–1990

1994

Go back to

Funk Your Head Up

1992

Full Ultramagnetic MCs discography Artists like Ultramagnetic MCs

hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata