Released 23 years ago this November
Special Herbs, Vols. 4, 5 & 6
MF DOOM · 2003
71 min · 21 tracks · alternative hip-hop
A collection of intricate, sample-heavy instrumentals that evoke the essence of hip-hop's underground and experimental roots.
Top tracks — play these first
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Blood Root — Opening with a haunting melody overlaid with intricate rhythms, this track sets the tone for the entire collection, showcasing DOOM's signature sample manipulation.
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Star Anis — This track features a captivating loop that blends ethereal sounds with crisp percussion, highlighting DOOM's skill in creating immersive soundscapes.
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Galangal Root — Characterized by its complex layering and unique sampling choices, this track exemplifies the creativity and depth found throughout the compilation.
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Valerian Root — With its mellow vibe and rhythmic intricacies, this track represents an introspective side of DOOM's production style, inviting listeners into a deeper exploration of his work.
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Jasmine Blossoms — The delicate instrumentation combined with subtle groove makes this track memorable, embodying the lush textures that define the album's aesthetic.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album features intricate instrumentals with seamless transitions, showcasing MF DOOM's unique production style.
What we noticed
- Several pieces transition seamlessly into one another, maintaining a cohesive flow while exploring different moods and themes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like pacing with peaks
- atmospheric explorations of sound
- short tracks for focused listening
- herbal mystique in each piece
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer longer, cohesive albums
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on November 24, 2003, 'Special Herbs, Vols. 4, 5 & 6' came during MF DOOM's prolific period following his acclaimed album 'Madvillainy' from earlier that year. This compilation showcases his unique production style and serves to further establish his identity as a formidable figure in underground hip-hop.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Aesop Rock· Madlib· El-P
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Blood Root 2:07
- 2 Star Anis 2:52
- 3 Lemon Grass 2:47
- 4 Four Thieves Vinegar 3:28
- 5 Galangal Root 3:50
- 6 Spikenard 3:38
- 7 Cinquefoil 2:46
- 8 Hyssop 2:33
- 9 Pennyroyal 3:11
- 10 Lavender Buds 3:05
- 11 White Willow Bark 4:24
- 12 Orange Blossoms 1:59
- 13 Coffin Nails 2:55
- 14 Kava Kava Root 4:07
- 15 Valerian Root 4:53
- 16 Jasmine Blossoms 2:58
- 17 Black Snake Root 3:43
- 18 Horehound 3:07
- 19 Dragon’s Blood 4:06
- 20 Myrtle Leaf 5:16
- 21 Patchouly Leaves 3:45
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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