STP doesn’t dramatically change their sound for No. 4. They have a raw, edgy guitar driven sound that is far from wimpy. Their songs, as illustrated by "Down" the single from No.4, are generally based on rifts and end up with a catchy hook. The end result is highly popular and musically relevant. "Glide" shows Weiland can exercise his higher registers which proves he is a bit of an underrated singer. The rawest cut on the record is "Sex and Violence" which has a driving beat and an obvious Sex Pistols punk influence along with a little early Bowie in Weiland’s vocals. The chorus does get back to a juicy hook which of course makes for a potential hit record.

No. 4 is a really strong rock and roll record which adds to my philosophy that is it, once again, cool to rock hard in a funky place. If you dig it loud, but require stronger songwriting than you’ll find with trendy acts like KORN and Limp Bizkit, No.4 is for you. No. 4 is no sonic marvel in regards to recording quality. It is heavy and hard hitting but it isn’t going to light up your hi-fi with a sugary sweet midrange. This is a down and dirty record which is exactly why you should buy it.