Mix Master Mike

It's not that Mix Master Mike's Bangzilla isn't exciting; it is. The turntable master throws plenty of wild sounds at the listener, the pace is hectic throughout, and if you don't giggle at any of the numerous quirky samples you're probably the sour type. Problem is, Bangzilla is missing that something extra for all those who don't worship at the altar of his usual crew -- the Beastie Boys -- or those who don't own a ton of vinyl with words like "breaks" or "beats" on the covers. Bangzilla sounds like one of those waiting-for-the-rappers albums for the most part, and only occasionally breaks out a fully formed track. "Full Range Earmuff," "The Joust," and the smoking title track have definite direction, and while everything else displays Mike's wicked way of working the deck, non-DJ listeners are going to grow tired of the theatrics for theatrics sake pretty darn quick. As a demo for his nimble-fingered abilities, Bangzilla works. As an album to return to repeatedly, it falls short. ~ David Jeffries, All Music Guide