Special Herbs and Spices Volume 1
MF DOOM · 2004
50 min · 14 tracks · alternative hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop · underground hip-hop
A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate beats and samples, layered with MF DOOM's signature lyrical wit.
Why this album works
'Special Herbs and Spices Volume 1' is significant for its innovative approach to beat-making, utilizing an array of obscure samples that would influence the alternative hip-hop scene. The album received positive reviews from critics, further cementing DOOM's status in the genre and leading to a resurgence of interest in instrumental hip-hop projects.
- Best for
- dynamic flow with intricate layers playful exploration of sound textures short tracks for focused listening
- Context
- Released on May 11, 2004, 'Special Herbs and Spices Volume 1' marked a notable departure for MF DOOM, as it followed his critically acclaimed album 'Madvillainy'. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in underground hip-hop, experimenting with production styles while maintaining his enigmatic persona.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Kool Keith· Kool G Rap· RZA
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 2:18
- 2 Arabic Gum + Ajowan = No Snakes Alive, Part 3 Standout 2:56
- 3 Calamus + Star Anise = Superhero 2:31
- 4 Dragons Blood + Cayenne = 1000 Degress Standout 4:04
- 5 Dragons Blood Resin + Ginger = War Paint 2:02
- 6 Benzoin Gum + Asafoetida = 10 Years Later 3:00
- 7 Red # 40 + Wasabi = Bottle Rocket Standout 3:55
- 8 Bergamot + Sumac = Rain Blood, Part 2 3:27
- 9 Kava Kava Root + Poppy Seeds = Stress Box 3:24
- 10 Styrax Gum + Nutmeg = Tick Tick, Part 2 3:30
- 11 Mugwort + Cinnamon = Shifting Lanes 2:57
- 12 Horehound + Sesame Seeds = Tonight's Show 3:10
- 13 Outro 0:57
- 14 My Love 12:29
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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