****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
On April 21, 1992 the Beastie Boys released their third studio album, Check Your Head. Three years earlier they had left Def Jam and signed to Capitol Records where they launched the commercially unsuccessful (at the time) Paul’s Boutique. To the people that listened the sample heavy album made with the Dust Brothers proved that the 3 Mc’s were more than just a flash in the pan.With Check Your Head expectations were blown and the Beastie Boys once again went against the grain and made a completely unique record that still holds up to this day. While still sample heavy (68, but I could have miscounted and I’m too lazy to double check), the Beastie Boys decided to brush off the instruments from their punk days, recruit soon to be longtime collaborator Money Mark on keys and Mario C was tapped to produce. What came out was another truly unique sound from a band that showed no fear when it comes to experimentation.I had just turned 11 years old when this album dropped and while I don’t remember the first single, Pass the Mic, I remember seeing So What’cha Want for the first time on MTV and by god was I blown away. I started coming into my music taste around this time thanks to a cool dad with a stellar record collection and the help of MTV. Music was in a weird space. Rap was finally coming into its own and Nirvana laid to waste all the hair metal and pop bands dominating the charts. “Alt” bands were coming out of the woodwork and punk rock was getting noticed. This (in my opinion) opened up the channels for bands to explore and experiment because Nirvana did something unexpected and every company wanted to cash in.There was no better time for the Beastie Boys to launch this album. It’s a cross breed that has a formula that is not well replicated. The funk and soul blended with rap, samples and punk made for such a unique listening experience. Forever gone were the Beastie Boys misogynistic, Budweiser guzzling, track suit wearing gimmick of old. What emerged was a group that solidified themselves as a creative powerhouse that was eager to show their diversity, maturity and depth all while keeping true to their goofy sense of humor.For me this is the essential starting point if you don’t know the Beastie Boys and want to jump in. The music on this record was the blueprint for what was to come. It’s a fantastic listen and I believe it’s one of those albums that if released today, would still sound modern and innovative. It’s a rare gem that was able to work as a bridge for the hip-hop and alternative sound that was dominating the air waves.As for the record, I picked up the 2009 re-issue and it sounds so good. The record has lots of warmth and the bass will get the neighbors attention if you are not careful of your levels. My set up for comparison is a Technics SU-G50 amp, Advent Model 300 (used as a pre-amp), Technics SB-LX50K speakers and a Denon DP-300F turntable. It’s not a high end system but definitely better than an entry level Crosley set up. If you are thinking of getting this reissue, I say go for it. I am pleased with this purchase.
