Beastie Boys confirm 'Hot Sauce Committee' release date

Beastie Boys have confirmed the release date of their comeback album 'Hot Sauce Committee Part Two'.

The hip-hop group's long delayed record is their first release since 2007's instrumental set 'The Mix-Up', and their first full rap album since 'To the 5 Boroughs' in 2004.

The album was originally put on hold due to the band's Adam Yauch being diagnosed with cancer in his salivary gland and lymph node.

Although he is still receiving treatment, Adam's condition has improved greatly, and he is excited about the new album, posting on the group's website: "Since the dawn of time, and perhaps even before, there was a silent order who were tasked with a mission.

"They held their secret tightly. On may 3rd the HOT SAUCE COMMITTEE PART TWO will be unleashed on the general public. Hold fast ye heathens (sic)."

His bandmate, Adam Horvitz, added: "Yo, this s**t is crazy yo! (sic)"

The third member of the group, Mike Diamond, posted the cover artwork for the record, which is an abstract, multi-coloured work made from blocks and rectangles.

The new album superseded 'Hot Sauce Committee Part One' disc the group were working on when Yauch became ill, but they still plan to eventually release the first part later.

'Hot Sauce Committee Part Two' will be released on May 2 in Europe and May 3 in the US.