Often the lowest-reviewed of any of the Beastie Boys' vocal records, Ill Communication is a record made by a band - yeah, things are more band-like this time - that is trying to shed its image as snotty young hip-hop/punk kids. Well, most of the time.From the start, it's clear that the sample bukkake of Paul's Boutique is long gone, with tracks mostly comprised of original compositions, as well as numerous instrumental tracks ("Sabrosa" is a standout). There aren't any big party anthems - single "Sabotage" is probably the closest thing - and the record sounds a good bit more...not necessarily downbeat, but not as bouncy or upbeat. The most notable exceptions are the dual bursts of hardcore that are two of the most obvious standouts just for their rage alone: "Heart Attack Man" and the minute-long "Tough Guy."
Ill Communication stands as an interesting record in the band's discography, as a point at which the band is basically looking at itself and saying, "Okay, we did all that, what else do we have?" It turned out they had plenty, but it takes some acclimating to. It's the least immediate of any of their vocal albums, but there's a lot going on here. While the layers may not be as fascinating to peel away as Paul's Boutique, it's definitely the right hip-hop record for...whatever it is this mood is.
"Sabrosa" live a few weeks ago
The classic "Sabotage" video
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