Solid Gold Hits [PA] [Digipak]

Performer: Beastie Boys
Producer: Beastie Boys
Distributor: EMI Music Distribution

Notes: Beastie Boys: Ad Rock, Mike D , MCA (rap vocals); DJ Hurricane (turntables). The only collection to span the Beastie Boys' career from 1986 to 2004, SOLID GOLD HITS features songs from each of the New York City rap/rock trio's first six studio albums. Arranged in non-chronological order, this 15-track disc focuses on the pioneering group's most popular tunes, ranging from the infamous anthem "Fight for Your Right" to the ominous, organ-heavy "So What'cha Want" and the thoughtful hometown tribute "An Open Letter to NYC." Somewhat bafflingly, the Beasties' most rewarding records--PAUL'S BOUTIQUE (1989) and CHECK YOUR HEAD (1992)--are represented by only two tracks each, but this is likely due to the cohesive yet eclectic nature of those discs, which concentrate more on overall mood rather than on catchy singles. Hardcore B-Boys fans will lament the absence of classics such as "Looking Down the Barrel of a Gun," "Gratitude," and "Stand Together," but this 2005 compilation, as the title states, is geared toward the hits, and thus functions as a concise, party-ready sampler of the Beasties' groundbreaking and energetic brand of hip-hop.

Uncut (p.122) - 4 stars out of 5 - "SOLID GOLD HITS leaves you with the impression that the Beasties were one of the great singles bands of their generation: nutty, fun, and a bit bizarre."

In the mid-1980s, the idea of white middle-class Jewish rappers may have provoked laughter or outright disdain, but the Beastie Boys' albums and singles have shown that they are anything but a joke. After hip-hop and rock fused into the music of choice for rebellious American youth, it became increasingly clear that the Beastie Boys deserved to be regarded as true musical innovators. The release of 1989's PAUL'S BOUTIQUE began the Beasties' transition from lewd, party-seeking prankers to sophisticated, party-throwing sonic pioneers, with band members ditching the six-packs and gold chains in favor of Buddhism and social activism. The trio's newfound maturity and good-natured vibe only enhanced their success, leading to a continued streak of hit albums. Not bad for three New York City weisenheimers.

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