The Beastie Boys – The Mix-Up

I do not consider myself in any way, shape or form to be knowledgeable about Hip-Hop in general or about the Beastie Boys in particular. But being that I consider myself to be musically open minded, I am not automatically dismissive of the genre and being a music nerd, of course I was aware of the Beastie Boys. So one day back in 2007, I was looking through the Arts section of the Sunday NY Times when I saw a photograph of the Beastie Boys dressed in suit, ties, porkpie hats and looking very retro. They were discussing their new record called The Mix-Up and it was all instrumental.
If I had to describe it, the term that comes to mind is post-punk soul jazz. I hear Jimmy Smith style organ grooves along with bands like The Meters but also reggae dub bass lines and more abrasive experiment textures you would hear in bands like Public Image Ltd.
It makes for a very cool listen that’s perfect for headphones. Everything is super tight but the atmosphere is relaxed.
Highly recommended to sooth the soul in these trying times.

B For My Name

14th St. Break

Beastie Boys – Off The Grid (Official Music Video)

Beastie Boys – The Rat Cage (Official Music Video)