This tendency to improvise ideas explains the transition from 2004’s “To The 5 Boroughs” to the newest release, “The Mix-Up.” Their prior effort was a concise, old-school love letter to NYC in the wake of 9/11, featuring brilliant electronic work from frequent collaborator Mix Master Mike. Yet the lyrics sounded a bit tired, surprising given the Boys’ six-year absence after 1998’s mega-hit “Hello Nasty.”
This explains the absence of words on “The Mix-Up,” their first instrumental outing since 1996’s “The In Sound From Way Out!” Although it may seem foolish for the snotty kids who burst into consciousness with an ’80s party anthem to bite their tongues, the Boys’ roots are based heavily in both classic funk and punk, since they began as a non-rap group akin to such peace punkers as Dead Kennedys and Reagan Youth.
Yet it is impossible not to preface analysis of “The Mix-Up” without bemoaning how the album would have benefited from some of the pithy wordplay the group so often utilizes. Tracks such as the groovy “The Melee” and hazed-out “Off The Grid” beg to be more than background music. This is not to say that the three Beasties are not competent in their grooves; in fact, Mike D.’s solid drumbeat folds quite comfortably into the pocket with MCA’s sturdy bass lines, creating the core for Adrock’s guitar noodling and cameos from Beastie camp heavyweights such as Money Mark.
Sadly, the songs lack the depth and tension-release necessary to carry most instrumental efforts. Most of the songs carry along pleasantly, but never crescendo as one hopes they will. Ultimately, it will be hard for “The Mix-Up” to remain relevant past its novelty value. The Boys’ have promised that the album will be the springboard for fully-formed songs, potentially some with collaborations from contemporary vocalists — a near-first in the group’s legendary career. Until then, it can act as a decent placeholder until we hear of the group’s next move.
William Earl suggests that if you’re looking for great instrumental hip-hop, try DJ Shadow’s 1996 album “Endtroducing…,” a pioneering turntablist disc which redefined the genre. Email him at williamjearl@gmail.com.