Review: Madvillainy

by Aiden Griffin (he/him)

MF Doom released Madvillainy on March 24, 2004 which has since been critically acclaimed as one of the best rap albums of the 2000s. MF Doom, known for his unique samples and odd topics, uses samples from old cartoons and radio broadcasts such as Spider-Man and the Fantastic Four to give the album a retro feeling.

Throughout the album, MF Doom talks about villains and how they become villainous in a way that everyone can relate; Doom sees himself as the villain Dr. Doom, which he portrays on all of his album covers. MF Doom had recorded this album before, in a much more upbeat manner, but decided to scrap the recording once it was leaked to the public and received harsh criticism. He then went back to record the whole album again in the monotone voice that you hear on the album today.

Whether it's talking about food or childhood cartoons, MF Doom weaves childhood memories throughout the album. His passion for food is clear throughout his discography whether it's talking about McDonald’s or foods he ate as a kid. Another childhood memory he draws back to are the cartoons like Spider-Man and the Fantastic Four which Madlib, the producer of the album, intertwined with the beats perfectly.

I would rate this album a 8.8 out of 10; the lyrical genius of MF Doom is on full display on this album along with the unique beats from Madlib, combining to make a one-of-a-kind listening experience.