40 Dayz & 40 Nightz

Released in 1998, 40 Dayz & 40 Nightz is the sophomore studio album by Xzibit and is widely regarded as his creative peak before his transition into mainstream television and film. Produced largely by Sir Jinx and Jesse West, the album is a landmark of the 'Lyricist Lounge' era of West Coast hip-hop, prioritizing technical lyricism and dark, cinematic production over the radio-friendly melodies of the time. The album's centerpiece, 'What U See Is What U Get,' became a signature hit, featuring a unique video that utilized then-groundbreaking motion control photography. Sonically, the record is defined by its heavy use of orchestral samples - violins, cellos, and operatic snippets - which provide a dramatic backdrop for Xzibit's uniquely gravelly vocal delivery. It stands as a bridge between the raw underground aesthetic of his debut and the polished, high-budget sound he would later adopt under Dr. Dre's tutelage on Restless.