When Licensed To Ill was released in 1986, nobody would have guessed The Beastie Boys would still be rapping nearly twenty years later when they’re pushing 40. But such is the ubiquity of the culture the B. Boys didn’t merely borrow from, but helped create, that few really blink an eye that they’re still doing it. What does give pause is that they’re still good. 1998’s Hello Nasty was stiff and disappointing, lacking both wit and interesting beats. As they’ve grown up, discovered feminism and Buddhism, it seems like they’d have outgrown their genre. But they’re ability to have dumb fun never left.
While they do offer some socially conscious messages, particularly in “It Takes Time To Build” and “An Open Letter to NYC,” the raps also include just as many jokes as on the undisputed 1989 classic Paul’s Boutique. While there are plenty awkward rhymes, they actually enhance the freeflowing sense of fun, augmented by some pretty amazing beats, many of which rival their best work. Cranking To The 5 Boroughs on my backpack speakers while biking down the lakefront, people only needed to hear a few seconds as I zipped by before cheering in recognition and joy. Against all odds, The Beastie Boys are back in form.
September 17, 2025
Chameleons – Arctic Moon (Metropolis)
September 1, 2025
Lathe of Heaven – Aurora (Sacred Bones)
