It wouldn’t be 4/20 without a new release from Long Beach, California’s own Daz Dillinger. As a rapper, producer, and songwriter with nearly three decades of experience, Daz has cemented his status as a West Coast legend. From his early days as an in-house producer at Death Row Records under the guidance of Dr. Dre to his formation of Tha Dogg Pound with Kurupt, his contributions to the genre are undeniable. With his 25th studio LP, Mo’ Weed 4 Sale, Daz aims to claim the title for his definitive 4/20-themed opus.
A Deep Dive into the Production
The album opens with the self-produced title track, a cheerful, upbeat introduction that sets the tone for the project. Daz transitions seamlessly into tracks like “Don’t Fucc Up My High,” which offers a more chilled-out, cautionary vibe. Throughout the record, Daz explores various sonic landscapes, from the soulful trap influence on “Why U Wanna Smoke with Me For?” to the introspective nature of “I Promise.”
While the album maintains a consistent theme, it is not without its variety. “She Don’t Smoke” provides a smooth transition into the second half of the project, though “How Bad U Wanna Smoke?”—a fusion of cloud rap and pop—feels slightly less impactful compared to the rest of the tracklist. However, the energy quickly returns with “Mota,” a slick, beat-driven track that highlights Daz’s personal preferences.
Reflecting on a Storied Career
The latter portion of the album, featuring tracks like “American Weed” and “Don’t Smoke Up My Weed,” leans into southern hip-hop sensibilities, embracing a trap-heavy sound that feels fresh yet familiar. The closer, “‘Til I Pass Out,” brings the project to a satisfying end with classic G-funk undertones, proving that Daz remains a master of his craft.
In recent interviews, Daz has been candid about his departure from Death Row and his complicated relationship with Snoop Dogg. Despite these industry tensions, Mo’ Weed 4 Sale stands as a testament to his resilience and production prowess. It is a project that clearly surpasses his previous marijuana-themed efforts, Weed Money and Smoke Me Out. While some listeners may find the recurring themes repetitive, Daz’s technical skill behind the boards remains sharp, leaving fans eager for his upcoming production work with The LOX and Smif-n-Wessun.
Score: 6/10