Bury the Hatchet is the fourth studio album by The Cranberries, released on April 19, 1999, by Island Records. Marking a significant turning point in the band's career, it was their first release following a three-year hiatus that began in 1996. This hiatus allowed lead singer Dolores O'Riordan time to heal from stress-induced illnesses that had plagued the band during their previous tour. During this break, O'Riordan also gave birth to her first child, Taylor, an event that profoundly influenced the album's lyrical content. The songwriting credits reflect a collaborative effort, with all lyrics written by O'Riordan and music composed by her and guitarist Noel Hogan, except for tracks 3, 8, 10, and 13, which were written solely by O'Riordan. Musically and thematically, the album represents a maturation of the band's sound. It moves away from the raw anger of its predecessor, To the Faithful Departed, while retaining the melodic sensibilities of their earlier work. The lyrics explore personal and often dark subjects: "Animal Instinct" and "You and Me" deal directly with maternity and the fear of losing custody, while "Fee Fi Fo" tackles the disturbing subject of child abuse. Other tracks, such as "Promises," touch on themes of divorce and broken vows. The album's striking cover art was designed by the renowned graphic designer Storm Thorgerson, famous for his work with Pink Floyd. The image depicts a naked man cowering under a giant "All-Seeing Eye" in the desert landscape