Motley Crue should have listened to drummer, Tommy Lee's musical suggestions. Instead they stifled his creative say within the band, thus frustrating Tommy Lee. So he left Motley Crue and put together his own group, Methods Of Mayhem composed of himself and rapper TiLo (Tim Murray). The result is a self-titled debut album that blends metal, rap, punk, techno and funk in a way never before thought possible by one band.

'Methods Of Mayhem' is an amazing album. It seems to have something for everyone. The style of the songs provide an amazing variety, everything from a White Zombie feel, to a Cypress Hill-ish groove, and a couple songs even tinge of an unrefined Nine Inch Nails influence. The featured artists give you an idea of the diversity of this album. They include gangsta rap icon, Snoop Dogg, techno from Crystal Method, Fred Durst of Limp Bizkit, sexed up rap from Lil Kim, Kid Rock, the Beastie Boys' DJ Mixmaster Mike, U-God and the founder of funk, George Clinton. 'Methods Of Mayhem' is not a pop album. It's got a hard edge with funky beats. Each song incorporates so many different grooves that you'll find yourself wondering how you got from point A to B in a particular song.

In addition, "Methods Of Mayhem is an enhanced CD. It includes a multimedia portion that far outdoes any effort that I've ever seen before. It includes music while you browse, in fact you can pick which song you listen to. The video for "Get Naked" is provided, as well as a behind the scene's interview with Methods Of Mayhem. Also provided is a screensaver, email addresses for TiLo and Tommy Lee, and finally an internet link for the Methods Of Mayhem webpage that actually works (unlike Limp Bizkit's).

The first single, "Get Naked" is a truly great song. Its got a great beat provided by Mixmaster Mike and some great samples including George Clinton's "Bow Wow Wow." Lil Kim throws down some blazing verses as does Fred Durst.

Tommy Lee has found success once again, his creative ingenuity will never again be overlooked as he has proved its worth. Methods of Mayhem is a truly amazing album. If you like rap metal, then this album is a must get. If you're a big fan of Nine Inch Nails, Crystal Method, Cypress Hill, or punk-rock then you should really consider picking this album up. It's diverse, original and on the cutting edge.

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written January 3, 2000