More of a refinement and restatement of Check Your Head than a bold departure, Ill Communication still finds The Beastie Boys in prime form, adding more elements of jazz to their dense, surrealistic sound. From the scores of wah-wah guitars to the short hardcore punk songs, Ill Communication is firmly entrenched in '70s worship without ever once sounding like it's recycled. It may offer the same thing as Check Your Head, but Ill Communication never sounds formulaic or tired. [Ill Communication is also available as an import release.] ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide