Madlib, Beat Konducta – WLIB AM King Of The Wigflip (2xLP)

Madlib's WLIB AM: King of the Wigflip delivers a wildly creative sonic journey, weaving together an electrifying tapestry of funk, jazz, hip‑hop, and playful interludes that evoke the spirit of a late‑night AM radio broadcast. Every turn of the dial brings something fresh: gritty drum breaks, slinky soul samples, woozy melodies, and comedic skits that inject levity into the overall vibe. This album thrives on contrasts—melding smoky slow jams with stuttering electro beats and seamlessly shifting from dusty boom‑bap grooves to jazzy, laid‑back reflections. The result is a thrilling mix that feels both nostalgic and forward‑thinking, one where each track holds its own yet contributes to a compelling whole.

What truly sets this album apart is Madlib’s brilliant curatorial touch and his knack for crafting a cohesive world through sound. The host of collaborators—including Guilty Simpson, Georgia Anne Muldrow, Talib Kweli, Murs, and others—bring a vibrant diversity that elevates each cut. Yet despite their varied styles, the production unites the tracks under a unified, creatively charged banner. It’s the kind of record that invites you to get lost in its rich textures and playful transitions, rewarding repeat listens with new details, sonic quirks, and clever shifts you hadn’t noticed before.

Reviews

“Madlib using his traditional mix of diverse beat styles and judiciously placed comic interludes to pace a solid, multifaceted album‑length mix without making it sound monotonous.” – Pitchfork

“US hip‑hop producer … showcases his abstract style on WLIB AM: King of the Wigflip … stands as a strong effort, melding crunchy funk and old‑school soul samples with found vocals and illustrious guest spots …” – The Skinny

“The beats are excellent as well, loping and stuttering and falling over each other in Madlib’s best Drunken Master style.” – AllMusic