The Beastie Boys' second effort is the closest to the roots of hip-hop that they can get. The trio turns in the distorted guitar for simple beats and samples. The raw energy and spunk from the first album is still here, but in the form of funky organic beats and catchier rhymes. Nothing is taken seriously here, from the humorous story of the Egg Man to the slow, loud, and aggressive delivery of High Plains Drifter. The Beastie Boys graduate to a more college-oriented sound, which contributes to fact that this is my personal favorite.

Tracks to check out: Shake Your Rump, Egg Man, High Plains Drifter, Hey Ladies