User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 838 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 55 out of 838

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  1. Nov 6, 2011
    10
    A masterpiece. MF DOOM is one of the most talented rappers I have ever heard (and I've heard 100's of albums), and Madlib is one of the greatest and most diverse producers in the world. The combination of the two works extremely well, as the two have a very similar sound. This is a must for any hip hop fan to listen to.
  2. Jan 24, 2011
    10
    Some people seem just not to GET IT. I hate to phrase it in such a such a way, because everyone is entitled to their opinion, but that's the way it is. For one, both the word play of MF Doom, and the mixing of Madlib destined this album to be extremely polarizing from the get go. Not everyone is going to love it, some are going to hate it, but most just won't get it. It's intentionally aSome people seem just not to GET IT. I hate to phrase it in such a such a way, because everyone is entitled to their opinion, but that's the way it is. For one, both the word play of MF Doom, and the mixing of Madlib destined this album to be extremely polarizing from the get go. Not everyone is going to love it, some are going to hate it, but most just won't get it. It's intentionally a jumbled mess of near silliness, that switches between abstract tracks and specific concepts, but it blends the two seamlessly. It's an album that if you want to hear jaw dropping punchlines and crazy metaphors, you're not going to get until the third listen or so; if you want head nodding beats you're not going to get because the tracks are too short and all over the place. BUT if you're willing to look past the 'weird' nature of the album, you'll hear the masterpiece underneath. And if you give it a chance and listen 2,3, 4 times you'll get something different out of it every time. This album gets a 10/10 from me, because it's so out there that it's brilliant. MF Doom will never be an artist that everyone can appreciate it, but if you give him a chance he might just surprise you.

    Oh, and Accordion is EASILY one of the greatest songs ever, of any genre.
    Expand
  3. Jan 18, 2014
    10
    I can't believe it! Almost 10 years after this album came out, it's only recently that I finally get it! I was one of the people who was interested (in major part due to all the amazing reviews it was getting) but didn't "get it". I tried, but for whatever reason it never clicked w me. Well that's changed. It's incredible! To hear this album properly, play it through some really goodI can't believe it! Almost 10 years after this album came out, it's only recently that I finally get it! I was one of the people who was interested (in major part due to all the amazing reviews it was getting) but didn't "get it". I tried, but for whatever reason it never clicked w me. Well that's changed. It's incredible! To hear this album properly, play it through some really good headphones. Any doubt will be erased. It's an all-time classic! So check it out - it's aged really well & still sounds like nothing else. Expand
  4. Jul 13, 2012
    10
    This is where true rap and hip-hop is. This is what most rap artists are missing. Originality. It has it's own independent style in the lyrically and production department. Perfection, literally...
  5. Dec 28, 2012
    9
    I' m not big into hip-hop, but I think this, like some other albums from this genre (The Money Store, The Grey Album) is a masterpiece. The singles (like All Caps or Accordion) are delightful, and the other tracks are also great. The group relies equally on the abstract rhymes of MF Doom and Madlib's Jazz Influenced Beats. However, the feat. on Raid and MF's "singing" on Great Day aren'tI' m not big into hip-hop, but I think this, like some other albums from this genre (The Money Store, The Grey Album) is a masterpiece. The singles (like All Caps or Accordion) are delightful, and the other tracks are also great. The group relies equally on the abstract rhymes of MF Doom and Madlib's Jazz Influenced Beats. However, the feat. on Raid and MF's "singing" on Great Day aren't amazing. Overall, a great record and a great introduction to underground Hip-Hop. Expand
  6. Mar 9, 2013
    10
    this album might be great to you if you're into weird rap, but if you're a fan of all types of rap, this will just seem good, songs like all caps are gems
  7. Oct 24, 2013
    10
    I was going to write a review on the albums 10th anniversary, but I just couldn't wait. After almost 10 years, Madvillainy has etched itself in the history of underground hip hop and is truly a classic to hip hop listeners who appreciate very complex rhyme schemes and carefully put together production. MF DOOM (remember all caps) covers an incredibly large range of topics, and each of hisI was going to write a review on the albums 10th anniversary, but I just couldn't wait. After almost 10 years, Madvillainy has etched itself in the history of underground hip hop and is truly a classic to hip hop listeners who appreciate very complex rhyme schemes and carefully put together production. MF DOOM (remember all caps) covers an incredibly large range of topics, and each of his very clever verses are backed up perfectly by individually unique beats by Madlib. Even Madlib and his alter ego, 'Quasimoto' step in to help the Villain on the lyrics (see: America's Most Blunted, Shadows of Tomorrow). It's hard for me to put into words how great this album is, and writing a 'favourite tracks' list would be silly since this album is perfect to me, but I will name the songs that I think show both Madlib's and DOOM's skills at each their own position: Accordion, Meat Grinder, Curls, Figaro, Strange Ways, All Caps, Great Day, Rhinestone Cowboy. Expand
  8. Dec 31, 2013
    10
    This album is amazing. It's one of my favorite albums, and I am not even a big fan of hip hop. MF DOOM's imaginative rhymes and Madlib's excellent and lush production make this album one that absolutely needs to be in your collection.
  9. Jul 18, 2015
    10
    a very sophisticated piece of work by MF Doom and Madlib. both are very incredible producers. I love the chemistry between these two. the production is mind blowing and the lyrical dexterity that doom brings makes it even better. a classic album by two of hip hops kings. true hip hop at its finest.
  10. Jan 19, 2021
    10
    Deserving of all the praise as it is easily one of the best hip hop albums of all time. DOOM and Madlib have incredible chemistry throughout the entirety of the album. DOOM delivers witty and intricate verse one after another and shows why he is truly a unique rapper. Madlib makes incredible beats; often sampling insanely obscure stuff such as commercials. While it can be criticized forDeserving of all the praise as it is easily one of the best hip hop albums of all time. DOOM and Madlib have incredible chemistry throughout the entirety of the album. DOOM delivers witty and intricate verse one after another and shows why he is truly a unique rapper. Madlib makes incredible beats; often sampling insanely obscure stuff such as commercials. While it can be criticized for not really having a song that is clearly better than the rest, this just further shows how great every song on this album is. Expand
  11. KevinL
    Jun 26, 2006
    10
    Wow...this is freaking dope...man this ...is the bomb...I reccomend this to all hip hop and underground rap fans.
  12. SimonN
    May 6, 2004
    10
    BUY. IT. NOW. Forget that questionable album of 2003 "Speakerboxxx/Love Below" (come on, now, what band in their right mind releases a song with the chorus "Lean a little bit closer/See, Roses really smell like poo poo poo-ooo"?). Get this Madvillain masterpiece. Jaw-droppingly brillaint - its everything you want it to be.
  13. SHarris
    Apr 4, 2004
    10
    Best Hip-Hop Album of 2004...Madlib's creative - dirty, innovative, yet soulful - productions is the perfect complement over MF Doom's calm, yet stylish voice. Furthermore, the dare to bend the rules, not making your very standard hip-hop song (verse and a course) to produce a story element that keeps the listener at the edge of their seat. Most def an "eargasm."
  14. [Anonymous]
    Apr 18, 2004
    10
    ground-breaking
  15. JasonT
    May 30, 2004
    9
    Madlib's production provides the perfect backdrop for Doom's take on things. Sure to be talked about for years to come.
  16. cathalf.
    Jan 24, 2009
    10
    Awesome album, makes some of the most original hip hop albums look unoriginal!
  17. TJ
    Aug 9, 2009
    10
    I've referred to this as my favorite album of all time in many, many occasions, and I still fully back that comment. Every single track is mindblowing.
  18. BeerRun
    Apr 17, 2007
    9
    Cool Clean sound, i am not usually a rap listener, but i would definitely recommend this album to all my rock and metal listening friends!
  19. JimmyC.
    Jul 15, 2007
    10
    God, there are so many white people on this forum.
  20. HexumS
    Jul 18, 2007
    8
    This album is pretty good, but check out a different and better album by this guy! The only thing about this other album is the subject matter is mostly about Aldult Swim. Danger Doom - The Mouse and the Mask.
  21. VinceH
    May 21, 2004
    10
    I have to admit I didn't like this album at first. I liked it, I just didn't LOVE it like other people did. Now it's one of my favorite CD's in my collection. It grows on you with repeated listenings so definitely spin it a few times to really get it. A complex, sprawling work that if there is any justice in the world will get nominated for some type of award.
  22. NickD.
    Mar 25, 2008
    9
    A masterpiece; at turns amusing, threatening and even downright psychopathic. Just for the record, anyone who - like Eric Y - refers to this as "rap" doesn't know of what they speak and should get back to their Fifty Cent record collection.
  23. TericD
    Nov 29, 2006
    10
    This is a an independent classic for ages to come! I was not a common Doom fan until I listened to this CD. Madlib is one of the best underground producers of all times. This was a big breath of fresh air to Hip Hop!
  24. Apr 20, 2016
    10
    The scariest rhymer in the 2000's paired up with a trippy, unusual producer. A masterpiece that is to live for many years, which inspired many young rappers in the game.
  25. jetblack
    Aug 1, 2004
    10
    Best HipHop Album of 2004.......
  26. BillF
    Mar 30, 2004
    10
    Best hip hop album of 2004. MF Doom is unstoppable.
  27. JonH
    Jun 30, 2004
    10
    Shockingly Genius Recording, nothing will beat this for this year unless some kind of revelation comes around.
  28. SteK
    Feb 2, 2005
    10
    Genius. Anyone who doesn't rate this album highly needs to re-assess the way they evaluate pretty much everything. Or they could just turn off MTV.
  29. ThurogoodW
    Apr 1, 2006
    7
    I enjoy the album start to finish. I would recommend it to hiphop all hiphop lovers. Its the type of album that will never be fully appreciated by the masses as it is too abstract for that. No hooks on any songs, lots instrumental time. This is the type of album that grows on you. When I first listened I was expecting more due to all the hype. When you hit play you wait for this guy to I enjoy the album start to finish. I would recommend it to hiphop all hiphop lovers. Its the type of album that will never be fully appreciated by the masses as it is too abstract for that. No hooks on any songs, lots instrumental time. This is the type of album that grows on you. When I first listened I was expecting more due to all the hype. When you hit play you wait for this guy to rap, but it takes a while, just be easy and let it play in the background...All of the sudden this dudes raps smack you in the face. When he spits, he tickles your rhyming fancy. Expand
  30. SeppM
    Mar 12, 2007
    10
    an unbelievable album!!!
  31. DavidR
    Oct 22, 2004
    10
    Incredible blend of beats, rythm and dissonance. Worthy of non Hip Hop merits. Also dig on Quasimoto if you like this album.
  32. AlanR
    Dec 9, 2004
    10
    Madlib is our generation's Miles Davis and MF Doom is a grower. You need a degree of patience for this one. After that, it's magic.
  33. JK
    Mar 30, 2004
    10
    Probably the best hip-hop album in quite some time. This is truly a modern classic.
  34. LawrenceP
    Apr 7, 2004
    9
    Real hip-hop music. It will grow on you. People will be talking about this record for years. A MUST OWN.
  35. D-Rod
    Jan 14, 2005
    10
    10!!! If you dont agree that this albums a classic, you havent been listening to it long enough. Give it more than two spins and youll be hooked. This album marries classic Madlib production and the always witty genius that is Metal Face Doom. The best album by both so far in their dynamic careers is, for me, the best ALBUM of the year.
  36. MichaelN
    Jan 17, 2005
    10
    This album is a stroke of GENIUS. If you are a hardcore Hip Hop head by this album. A combination of hard underground beats by MADLIB and slick lyrical flow by MF DOOM made this album 2004's best buy. Hip Hop Classic.
  37. MattH
    Oct 7, 2005
    10
    Whoever posted anonymous was talking about Bloc Party's album, which i gave a 7.5 too heh. This however, is one of my favorite rap albums of all time.
  38. SamiK
    Feb 11, 2005
    10
    Best album of 2004
  39. [anonymous]
    May 11, 2005
    7
    a 7.5 actually. i could have given it 8 or 8.5 being the highest but i think they were overhyped and a bit overrated. i guess i just had high expectations due to the hype. i enjoyed the album though and it's still in my cd player. my top 3 tracks are "banquet", "blue light" and "this modern love".
  40. matta
    May 27, 2005
    10
    Wow, I know that it's bold of me, but this is seriously the best Rap album that I have ever heard. Madvillainy is not just proof that MF Doom and Madlib are two of the most talented figures in rap today, but that they need to collaborate again. Totally original and groundbeaking in every way.
  41. IllyaZ
    May 30, 2005
    10
    One of the best rap/hip-hop albums of all time!
  42. NathanG
    Jul 4, 2005
    9
    Anyone who is planning to buy this album has to realise that it's MF Doom & Madlib. Those two guys are well into unconventional rap. I mean: this album is as far away from - let's say - 50 Cent as it is to - let's say - Radiohead. Maybe even closer to Radiohead. But if you like to hear new things, things that haven't been done before, if you like to be suprised by an Anyone who is planning to buy this album has to realise that it's MF Doom & Madlib. Those two guys are well into unconventional rap. I mean: this album is as far away from - let's say - 50 Cent as it is to - let's say - Radiohead. Maybe even closer to Radiohead. But if you like to hear new things, things that haven't been done before, if you like to be suprised by an album, if you don't like the "been there, done that"-approach that some rappers are into nowadays, but you are into rap, well: this is your album. BTW: [anonymous] (who gives the album a 7) is talking about Bloc Party's Silent Alarm and not about this album. Expand
  43. BenS
    Jul 7, 2005
    10
    I can't call it the greatest rap album of all time, because I haven't heard them ALL but that said, my favorite rap album of all time.
  44. JoelC
    Mar 2, 2006
    7
    Like other reviewers, I was expecting a lot out of my first listen to MF Doom. I think every track was solid with good beats, tight rhymes, and surgically placed samples. Despite every track's merit, the album it self lacks character and substance. For example, I'm not sure what the most popular track (according to napster), "Accordian," is about... it's so busting at the Like other reviewers, I was expecting a lot out of my first listen to MF Doom. I think every track was solid with good beats, tight rhymes, and surgically placed samples. Despite every track's merit, the album it self lacks character and substance. For example, I'm not sure what the most popular track (according to napster), "Accordian," is about... it's so busting at the seams with similies inserted solely to complete rhymes that the direction of the track unrecognizable. Unfortunately, these meaningless-yet-tight rhymes permeate the whole album. I'll look forward to future releases from MF Doom as his potential is evident though unfulfilled in "Madvillainy". Expand
  45. JamieM
    Aug 15, 2006
    10
    An exceptional album...MF DOOM proves he is among the greatest rappers ever.....
  46. MichaelC
    Sep 1, 2006
    10
    It's one of the few albums that I can listen to over and over and over again, every track flows so flawlessy, and are instantly catchy, but there are plenty of hidden tresures in some of these songs, that you start to notice on about the 10th listen. A Classic no doubt, almost as good as The Unseen.
  47. JBone
    Sep 15, 2006
    10
    I don't give out tens easily. This album is a ten. Basically, if you are a fan of Madlib's disctinct production style, then this is a masterpiece you must check out. Immediately. Art meets entertainment in a most equisite package/
  48. MFDOOMMFDOOM
    Mar 22, 2007
    10
    Gets more fresh and fresh after every listen.
  49. OzzieM
    Apr 28, 2007
    10
    Madvillain album Madvillainy is one of the greatest underground albums of all time period. IT ROCKS
  50. DanA
    Jun 24, 2007
    9
    An awesome album, but really the only flaw holding it back is the length of some tracks.
  51. macb
    Oct 6, 2009
    10
    Incredible originality and flow - nothing else like it in this genre. Doom is the master of low-fi indie hip-hop and this collection is a 7-course meal of listening pleasure. If you've come here for pop rap or auto-tune, look elsewhere - you are not worthy.
  52. KellyM
    Dec 31, 2004
    7
    Decent, but not quite the classic some fans and critics seem to think.
  53. johnnyl
    Apr 11, 2004
    9
    .......with the exception of MF DOOM's other side projects, MADVILLAINY is the finest hip-hop album of the past two years......
  54. jfletch
    Apr 15, 2004
    10
    completely testicles
  55. sumwansumwan
    Apr 15, 2004
    10
    awesome. a flashing colalboration between mf doom & madlib isw the best hiphop album released in the 21st century. it is raising hell of our times
  56. AdamP
    Apr 4, 2004
    10
    Instant classic, this hasn't left my cd player since I bought it a week ago, and I think it'll keep within my reach for the rest of the year. The best work yet by Madlib as well as Doom.
  57. WillR
    Jul 28, 2004
    10
    A phenomenal hip-hop trip. Listening to this album is actually more like watching a really good film. The straits and peaks are perfectly balanced, and despite being incredibly eclectic and creative, Madvillain never lose their grass-roots hip-hop. It's a rocker.
  58. MH
    Sep 22, 2004
    10
    Rarely does an album come around like this.
  59. DankyM
    Nov 21, 2005
    9
    dude mf doom has had the midas touch since 99's operation doomsday. like u can hear it start devepling even with KMD as Zev love X now its Doom's time.
  60. Chris
    Jan 27, 2005
    7
    This was not that great it sounded all the same what it so good about that. MF Doom has rapped and produced him self much better. I am sorry but being a true rap fan would you seriously say this anywhere near a classic album like illmatic or even close to the underground classic operation Doomsday which MF Doom released in 1999-No
  61. BigD
    Mar 22, 2005
    10
    Simply the best of 2004. And maybe 2005.
  62. DareA
    Mar 28, 2005
    10
    upon ma first listen of this Album...i was thinking the album was a 7 at best. Then I took the commercial MTV/BET clog blocking ma listening skills out. after the 3rd listen i was bedazzled! the lyrical content of this album is Amazing! the beats and skits are perfect. The album touches many many things! This is a classic. Definetaly comes after Illmatic in ma all time greatest upon ma first listen of this Album...i was thinking the album was a 7 at best. Then I took the commercial MTV/BET clog blocking ma listening skills out. after the 3rd listen i was bedazzled! the lyrical content of this album is Amazing! the beats and skits are perfect. The album touches many many things! This is a classic. Definetaly comes after Illmatic in ma all time greatest albums....and if it aint in ur top 3.....I wonder what the f*ck is!!!!!!! Expand
  63. LiamL
    Apr 1, 2005
    10
    Best album ever
  64. Ben
    Apr 29, 2005
    9
    Pretty Much As good as rap gets
  65. BillyH
    Nov 11, 2006
    10
    Reading all the bad reviews here clearly shows that this album is for people with an love of hip hop and wider music in general. Some people drink Teachers, other choose a single malt.
  66. HansE
    Oct 18, 2006
    10
    This was the first rap album I ever owned and it has never gotten old. It puts me in a mood that no other cd possibly can. The review that Blender gives is so far off from what this cd is. Nothing punk-rock about it. Just fucking amazing
  67. FletcherB
    Jan 5, 2006
    10
    An absolute hip-hop classic. A must have. I wouldn't say that Doom misses the beat, he just flows over it. But your head just has to calibrate itself to a style of hip hop that's outside the box...or in this instance; the beat. Picasso had the most warped perspective ever, but he's revered as a master of the masters. And a thousand other examples. the ONLY lacking element An absolute hip-hop classic. A must have. I wouldn't say that Doom misses the beat, he just flows over it. But your head just has to calibrate itself to a style of hip hop that's outside the box...or in this instance; the beat. Picasso had the most warped perspective ever, but he's revered as a master of the masters. And a thousand other examples. the ONLY lacking element is the entire track of "hardcore hustle". No doom, no track. Wildchild sucks. Expand
  68. TimD
    Mar 29, 2006
    10
    this is the most inventive rap album EVER! if you dont like this your a piece of shAt! i wanna be listening to this when i die...
  69. AlexS
    Apr 28, 2006
    10
    Simply Head-Bangin, Mind Twangin, and Straight up Reignin at #1 With the world...
  70. TylerD
    May 1, 2006
    10
    This is what hip hop is supposed to be. Madlib and MF Doom? Are you kiddin me? Wow. All I can say is wow. As for Bubba Hick, well I think his name speaks for himself. He should show more respect for others opinions and go on listening to Journey or something.
  71. AndrewS
    Jun 30, 2006
    10
    "Got more soul than a sock with a hole" brilliant
  72. MikeC
    Jul 8, 2006
    10
    I bought this album on critical responce after I head a bunch of good things about Doom, this album is easlily my favorite hip hop album, which is odd because it's so current, but its badass, the beats are spectacular, the punk rock presentation is endearing, and the buttery smooth flow is bodacious, Every single hip hop fan needs to own this album as a reference point to greatness.
  73. proj10
    Aug 28, 2006
    10
    dopeness at it's maximum
  74. Blak000K
    Dec 10, 2007
    10
    A classic album. This is one of my favorite hip-hop albums of all time. The CD is filled with great songs, and even greater beats. Doom can sound like he's rambling (as he often does), but his songs usually have a profound (or at least meaningful) message. If you're into jazzy style hip-hop, then this CD might be worth looking into.
  75. NikolaiR
    May 9, 2007
    10
    WOW. this is weird yet entertaining
  76. MarcianoP
    May 9, 2007
    10
    I love this
  77. JOHNW.
    Jul 16, 2007
    10
    BRILLIANT.
  78. Lukas
    Jan 17, 2008
    10
    Utterly unique, thick bass lines, fantastic jazz samples and the greatest rapper of all time to boot, any of you fools that gave this a bad review have no taste and are the reason most hip hop is crap nowadays.
  79. KrishB
    Jan 25, 2008
    10
    DOOM + MADLIB = Greatest Combination EVER!!!
  80. BrandonS
    Apr 5, 2008
    8
    Its a great album but i wouldnt give it a straight 10.
  81. Daro
    Jul 17, 2008
    10
    Pure genius.
  82. WesM.
    Sep 4, 2008
    10
    I admit, this took a LOT of listens for me to get into, and I only finally got into after listening to the excellent Mouse and the Mask -- reinvigorated my interest in hip-hop -- highly recommended!
  83. AshleyB
    Nov 18, 2004
    9
    "Mad man never goes (*pop*) like snot bubbles." If somebody overdosed on pcp, they couldn't come up with something like that. The most original album I have heard in a while!
  84. JoseG
    Nov 7, 2004
    10
    This is the best album since never....This is on another level. You can't rate it along with any other album. Simply BRILLIANT!!!!
  85. DrewW
    Dec 19, 2004
    10
    It took some time to love, and now I can't stop listening. The lyrics are good , but the samples are genius.
  86. ShabarO
    Dec 22, 2004
    10
    Not only a perfect note it should be a blue note. That is what I call jazz!
  87. DJMayday
    Dec 23, 2004
    10
    Wildly overrated??? Son, please...try as we all might, you cannot overhype a masterpiece. Madvillainy joins a very elite lineup--jazzed like Tribe, blitzed like Wu, tight as all hell...requires--no, DEMANDS--spin after spin. Yes, Madlib and Doom have dropped hands down the best hip hop release of 2004, but more than that, they've set a precedent: to take a shot at all-time Wildly overrated??? Son, please...try as we all might, you cannot overhype a masterpiece. Madvillainy joins a very elite lineup--jazzed like Tribe, blitzed like Wu, tight as all hell...requires--no, DEMANDS--spin after spin. Yes, Madlib and Doom have dropped hands down the best hip hop release of 2004, but more than that, they've set a precedent: to take a shot at all-time greatness--whoever you are--that next record's gonna be held up against this one. Expand
  88. timd
    Mar 26, 2004
    10
    Like all great pop art this album is familiar and decidedly alien. Engaging and oddly distant. MF Doom and Madlib are the best thing happening in underground hip hop, undercutting El-P and his Def Jukies on the grounds of inovative music by altering musical preconceptions as well as contexual ones. Perhaps more hip hop should keep it sureal.
  89. RobertA
    Jun 15, 2004
    9
    Jampacked full of complete originality. great cd. great music but the Street Fighter 2 sounds in one song won me over. 9 for sure. like nothing you have ever heard before.
  90. DanielB
    Sep 19, 2004
    10
    Wow...so rarely see this kind of invention in such a tired usher world. Sick.
  91. GinaM
    Nov 17, 2005
    10
    i really think this is such an amazing album. the sampling along with the wild rapping is excellently done, and just because all of MF Doom's lyrics don't always make sense it TOTALLY works on this album, it's almost more intelligent. i would definitely recommend this album to anyone.
  92. rodram
    Dec 28, 2005
    10
    brilliant super genius, nvr get bored of this after years..
  93. JoeyB
    Jan 23, 2005
    10
    My first exposure to MF Doom has blown me away. I didn't know what to say to what I was listening to as it came through the speakers, but I could only stutter and blink in awe. What a great album.
  94. TimM
    Apr 13, 2005
    9
    This album is simply incredible. Flowing... Brilliant.
  95. ON
    Feb 17, 2006
    7
    Madvillainy is a decent album, though to be perfectly honest I expected a lot more from MF Doom after all the hype. And maybe that's why I'm only giving it a 7. After hearing so much about Doom's creative genius it's easy to be disappointed. Is it genius to not have a chorus in any song? I don't know. Is it genius to create "abstract" raps? I don't know. But Madvillainy is a decent album, though to be perfectly honest I expected a lot more from MF Doom after all the hype. And maybe that's why I'm only giving it a 7. After hearing so much about Doom's creative genius it's easy to be disappointed. Is it genius to not have a chorus in any song? I don't know. Is it genius to create "abstract" raps? I don't know. But I know what I like, and I like having some choruses and having some raps that have a story to tell. This album's got some sweet beats and his rhythm is pretty tight, but my expectations were way higher. Expand
  96. DanH
    Jul 31, 2006
    10
    Great album. But to anyone who disses Doom as an MC: name one rapper out today with a more unique style. You can't. And Madlibs beats are cool, perfect for Doom's style.
  97. Aug 12, 2010
    10
    I have to respond to JeremyE's review. Look just because you can't understand the lyrics doesn't mean they aren't saying anything or have no meaning. I can't expect you to know what you don't know, but if you pay attention there is a lot of fascinatingly deep lyrics here. Try not to look at the world with such a literal view point. The lyrics on this album are abstract and take time toI have to respond to JeremyE's review. Look just because you can't understand the lyrics doesn't mean they aren't saying anything or have no meaning. I can't expect you to know what you don't know, but if you pay attention there is a lot of fascinatingly deep lyrics here. Try not to look at the world with such a literal view point. The lyrics on this album are abstract and take time to grasp. There are plenty of fine artists out there that say very literal things in their raps, go find them and leave what you don't understand alone. Collapse
  98. Aug 14, 2010
    10
    This is one of the greatest albums, rap/indie wise, possibly ever. Its so well built from instrumentals to lyrical this album is a classic in my opinion. Accordion is one of the best songs on the album and can be taken in to context as one of the best rap songs in the past ten years and possibly of all time. M.F. Doom and Madlib create such a masterpiece that it will have your mind blownThis is one of the greatest albums, rap/indie wise, possibly ever. Its so well built from instrumentals to lyrical this album is a classic in my opinion. Accordion is one of the best songs on the album and can be taken in to context as one of the best rap songs in the past ten years and possibly of all time. M.F. Doom and Madlib create such a masterpiece that it will have your mind blown away from the first minute to the last. Definite buy for any indie lover or rap lover. You will never be the same again after you listen to this work of art Expand
  99. Aug 19, 2010
    10
    This is one of very few albums in the rap world where I can jam to the entire album without skipping a song. Doom, being probably my personal favorite rapper, does some of his best work on this album. I heard this album being my first Madlib experience, and I was wowed. Most people don't appreciate the rap DOOM spits, but if you follow along to each spoken word, Doom is probably one ofThis is one of very few albums in the rap world where I can jam to the entire album without skipping a song. Doom, being probably my personal favorite rapper, does some of his best work on this album. I heard this album being my first Madlib experience, and I was wowed. Most people don't appreciate the rap DOOM spits, but if you follow along to each spoken word, Doom is probably one of the top ten most talented MC's of the world. Listen to this, this is BANGIN! Expand
  100. Oct 1, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It is strange that the album already downloaded, is different rhymes, beats different, but the sound has an incredible quality;

    A good rap underground, MF DOOM rhymes short, dark and no chorus. Already in the beats, sounds of Madlib uses film clips, cartoons and even accordion, one thing is very complex and different from what happens in the mainstream;
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Metascore
93

Universal acclaim - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 20 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. A dizzying synergy of heavy brains and chemistry, culminating in blissfully fun, irreverent, and engaging brand of record-making magic.
  2. Mojo
    90
    The wily creativity on display here is astonishing. [Jun 2004, p.114]
  3. Not only does it capture the unstructured verse of a masked maniac within a sheer net of plausibility, it parades his inner dementia among instrumental adornments of the highest order.