Root Down EP

by

Beastie Boys

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I would have to agree with what someone else said about this being better for people who have already heard the album versions. That being said, it's a great album. In my opinion, the best track on here is the live version of "Time to Get ill". I love it- it's raw, fresh, and as close to gangster rap as any white guys can get (B-boys are way better than eminem). "Root Down" is one of my all-time fave B-Boy songs, and the remixes give it an extra kick (even though both of the mixes can be found on the DVD, if you heard them on there and liked it, you can listen to them in your cd player now). For those who actually like "Sabrosa", like me, this live version is great. It's got more wah's than, well....., let's just say Adrock doesn't take his foot off the pedal once- and it's still an awesome groove. For those who haven't seen B-boys live, they've got so much energy (especially Adrock) that isn't ever shown on their studio albums, and I think this album finally does it well. Hearing Adrock scream like a maniac really does something for you on the inside. Last thing- I've never been a huge fan of B-boy punk, but just listening to the live version of "Time for livin'" got me hooked.

Before you skip this review because I'm from Vermont, hear me out. I am the biggest BBoys fan in the world I think, but this CD wore out too fast. Every track is really good, but something seems missing. Where are the cuts, samples, and scratches that I love so much? Well they're gone boss hog, this is a live album. Although the Root Down remixes are cool, they just don't have the bass-y base line that the original contained. The live songs are really cool, and are definately worth a look, but they just seem rushed. This "album" was created so fans wouldn't lose interest in the Beastie Boys in the time between Ill Communication and Hello Nasty. It was originally supposed to be a single, but it was just doctored up. I am being overly critical though, like all BBoys music, I just can't put this down. It's a good trip, but I've heard it all before.