You Got Nothing: N*E*R*D’s Highly Anticipated New Album Released

Though N*E*R*D’s (A.K.A. Noone Ever Really Dies) new album, Nothing, has been rumored for release since early September, the group has finally released their fourth record on November 2nd.

Since N*E*R*D’s debut in 2001, every album made by the trio has brought a different feel, as each consists of compilations from diverse inspirations. As N*E*R*D’s previous album, Seeing Sounds, focused heavily on the electric guitar, Nothing, holds on to the group’s signature upbeat dance songs while mixing in music inspired by 60’s and 70’s rock classics, along with other unexpected sounds from different musical eras.

The new record kicks off with a brand-new single, “Party People,” featuring rapper T.I. The album has plenty of other high-energy dance songs, including, “Hot N’ Fun” featuring Nelly Furtado, “I Wanna Jam,” and “Sacred Temple,’ which utilizes the infamous 70’s soul clap.

Pharrell shows off his distinctive high-pitched vocals on “Hypnotize U.” The track has a sensual, Prince-like feel to it with a bass-infused beat. The album has other smooth songs in the same vein, like “Nothing On You,” which ties in some of the group’s signature Neptunes beats.

On every previous N*E*R*D album, the band has been known to make music with underlying themes, pertaining to serious societal issues. Nothing has numerous songs, including the Beatles-inspired “Help Me,” and the folksy “Life as a Fish,” with more abstract lyrics.

N*E*R*D’s unlimited gallery of influences and inspirations has the tendency to lead to unpredictable, refreshing songs, and the new album brings in a variety of sounds to keep listeners on their toes. From fun, up-tempo, flirty songs, such as “Perfect Defect.” to the bizarre rap/30’s burlesque jam of “Its in the Air,” the roots of this album grow deep and wide. The group mixes folksy tunes with story-telling, combining unexpected jazzy horns that become part of the perfect blend in “I See the Light.”

Nothing does an excellent job of bringing new elements to some of their older, signature sounds..

N*E*R*D’s Nothing was released in the U.S. on November 2nd, 2010 on Star Track Entertainment and Interscope Records.

by Manhatten Royal

(via www.thehornrva.com)