A Review By: Brandon Ben
If you’ve never heard of N.E.R.D (standing for No-one Ever Really Dies) then stop reading right now, and go listen to them! If you don’t know N.E.R.D, you know Pharrell Williams. So, N.E.R.D is Pharrell’s band. N.E.R.D was super huge during the 2000s, their last release being in 2010. This new album by the band, is their first release in seven years, and when I realized, I was excited.
This album has some amazing features: Rihanna, Gucci Mane, Wale, Future, Kendrick Lamar, Andre 3000, M.I.A., and Ed Sheeran. Seriously, an amazing cast of artists that we are blessed with. I was pretty captivated from the first track “Lemon” featuring Rihanna. This is one huge reason this album is good, is the features. Due to the many artists, this album is super diverse, and each track offers something different. Its got rap & hip-hop, funk, and alternative vibes. I was pleasantly surprised to see Thundercat providing some bass on tracks one and two on the album (check out Thundercat if you are not familiar). It truly feels like Pharrell, along with the other members of N.E.R.D are taking some creative freedom here, and are really trying to make some solid, funky, music.
The one piece of criticism I have noticed is the band’s failed attempt at advocacy. It seems like Pharrell is trying to fit in all of these serious issues, like the unfair treatment of African-American men in the United States. An example of this is “Don’t Don’t Do It!” featuring Kendrick Lamar. The song is trying to tackle this serious issue, but in a very light and playful way. To me, it doesn’t seem tasteful, however this song isn’t about me so it’s up to the public to decide. I’m not an African-American living in the United States, but, it still feels wrong.
All in all, this album is great, but, N.E.R.D should stay away from the serious lyrics and stick to the fun and funky stuff. It doesn’t feel right vibing to a song about about police brutality. I’m not trying to say artists shouldn’t talk about social issues. In fact, it’s really the opposite. Music has always been a form of protest, advocacy, and social commentary. But, it’s much better when done in a more serious and tasteful way (like Kendrick Lamar). Aside from this fact, you can’t help but appreciate this album. It sounds good, but not in a generic way. There are solid features on it, amazing samples, production, and musicality. Check it out for yourself!