First of all, you can't really beat the $15 CD & DVD combo, especially when it's a Madlib mix and a Peanut Butter Wolf DVD (and you guys already know the Beat Konducta always comes correct on the mix). Previous volumes in this series have included Fischerspooner and Black Strobe. For "The Other Side of LA," Madlib blends an eclectic set of tracks from the likes of Quasimoto, Cybotron, Jaylib, Dabrye, Sun Ra, Prince Jazzbo, Freestyle Fellowship and then some. I feel the vibe here really fits that conscious, smoked-out LA mindstate (but what do I know, I'm from BK transplanted from the Yay). For the DVD, Stones Throw head honcho Peanut Butter Wolf gives you a personal tour of all the best shopping spots, food (my favorite part), nightlife, sights and accommodations in downtown LA. It's kind of like something off the Travel Channel, but with dope beats and hosted by PBW so you know you can trust. In addition, PB Wolf throws down a revealing interview about the 10+ year history of Stones Throw, from its early beginnings to becoming the one of the biggest indy labels of today. You also get videos from Dudley Perkins, Oh No, Aloe Blacc and Roc C. Worth every penny, especially if you plan on stopping by LA anytime soon.

reviewed by snackmaster