Bratty trio the Beastie Boys, who helped pioneer rap into the mainstream six years ago, try playing instruments on their third LP “Check Your Head.” Often using distortion-altered vocals, the boys weave goofy raps through funky and spacey music.
The Beasties are experimental, so anyone seeking the metal-rap fusion of “Licensed to Ill” of the lyrical looniness of “Paul’s Boutique” will be disappointed. The rest of us can continue to marvel at their ambitious reinvention.
GRADE: A-