No No not literally! This is not breaking news and I assume if like me you are a long time Beastie Boys fan you would already now this. If not and you’re just a fan of music you might be aware, but hold the front pages ……… Mike D aka Michael Diamond aka Clarence has dropped a new record. Bear in mind that he has not put out any music since the Beastie Boys disbanded in 2012 following founding member Adam Yauch’s death.
Third member in no particular order Ad-Rock has continued to produce music, remix, and collaborate since the Beastie Boys ended. His post-Beastie work has focused on producing and remixes for artists like Ratking and Tune-Yards, as well as collaborating with Champagne Jerry.
Mike D has shared his debut solo single ‘Switch Up’ which is the first new music from any Beastie Boy since their 2011 album ‘Hot Sauce Committee Part Two’.
To any fan this a fantastic news and will bring obviously start a list of questions such as, “When will we hear more?”, “Is there going to be an album?”, “Will Ad-Rock feature anywhere on it?”, “What does Ad-Rock think?”, “Will there be a tour?” and for us in the UK “Are you coming our way??????”
If you have missed it, have a listen:
No it’s not Beastie Boys-esque which I’m glad about, it shouldn’t be. It’s a new style, heavily sampled which it should be, experimental beats with vocals of a sort over the top. Not traditional Mike D style, even his voice sounds sampled and with effects. It’s got that feel of going to a house party and a DJ and MC in the corner just doing there thing and mixing it up free-styling. That’s why I like it and want more but make your own mind up.
A UK tour is not yet announced officially or unofficially but a European festival slot in June does suggests a broader tour is in motion. Keep your ears to the ground for information as the moment anything is announced they will sell like the hottest hot cakes you could imagine.
To read more about the drop, here is the NME article i came across with more infor about his appearance at a recent show performing with his sons.
To listen to the Radio 6 interview with Chris Hawkins, here is the link and fast forward to 1:03;27 for the start of the chat.
