What is the best Beastie Boys album of all time?

The Beastie Boys went from rowdy rap provocateurs to genre-blending experimentalists over a career that touched punk, jazz, psychedelia, and everything in between. Eight albums, no filler — which is the best?

1. 1
   Licensed to Ill

   The 1986 debut that became the first rap album to hit #1 on the Billboard 200, fusing hip-hop with heavy metal bravado.
2. 2
   Paul's Boutique

   The 1989 sample-layering masterpiece now considered one of the most innovative and influential hip-hop albums ever made.
3. 3
   Check Your Head

   The 1992 album marking their return to live instrumentation, blending hip-hop, punk, funk, and jazz.
4. 4
   Ill Communication

   The 1994 album featuring Sabotage and showcasing their musical versatility across genres and styles.
5. 5
   Hello Nasty

   The 1998 Grammy-winning album that debuted at #1 in multiple countries, blending hip-hop with electronic beats.
6. 6
   To the 5 Boroughs

   The 2004 album reflecting on New York City and the political aftermath of 9/11 with a return to stripped-down rap.
7. 7
   The Mix-Up

   The 2007 Grammy-winning all-instrumental hip-hop album showcasing their musicianship without any vocals.
8. 8
   Hot Sauce Committee Part Two

   The 2011 final studio album released after Adam Yauch's cancer diagnosis, a defiant and vibrant swan song.