Beastie Boys Book

In this immensely enjoyable illustrated biography, Beastie Boys members Diamond and Horovitz share the band’s history, from the release of its first album, Licensed to Ill, in 1986 to band member Adam Yauch’s death from cancer in 2012. The book is a tribute to him and “the spirit that marked a lot of the adventures” he led the three of them on. Hilarious anecdotes include an episode, before the release of their first album, when record producer Russell Simmons encouraged them to rap onstage at the Danceteria night club in New York City (their performance was completely ignored) and an awkward conversation with Bob Dylan at a party for Dolly Parton in L.A. (he asked the band to join him in a “pro-smoking concert,” then simply stared at them), as well as various details from the heady mayhem of their final world tours, when they were “together having fun, and it was all-consuming.” Densely packed with photographs, set lists, and album track descriptions, the book also features such guest essayists as Amy Poehler (with a “Beastie Boys Video Review”) and L.A. chef Roy Choi, who recalls first hearing the Beastie Boy’s song “Paul Revere” as the moment when “part of my life changed.” This entertaining look at Beastie Boys history is as innovative and raucous as the band’s music. (Oct.)