N.E.R.D.
Seeing Sounds

THE REVIEW

New album release for N.E.R.D; responding to rumors of their impending breakup, Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo are back on track with a controversial work, at times interesting and forward-thinking, at times glossy and slick. "Seeing Sounds" is like that. Unintelligible. As indeed, their entire career. I belong to those who consider them a potentially great band, but I am firmly aware, confirmed by this album, that they will remain so.

The intro "Time For Some Action", rhythmic crescendo and fierce groove, is a superb start. Class and swagger. An intriguing mix, not a guarantee of consistency. Even after several listens, there is a noticeable lack of fluidity and cohesion, combined with alternating inspiration. Alongside incredible tracks, like the wild and frenzied dance of "Spaz", or the surprising "Maybe", rich in noise-pop echoes, worthy of the most inspired Dandy Warhols, there are less compelling, if not dull, others (the piano-bar ballad "Yeah You"). Rarely have I seen such a grand waste of good ideas. The single "Everyone nose (All the girls standing in the line for the bathroom)" potentially has it all. Amazing rhythm, meticulous interplay between brass, driven electronics, piano breaks, boastful chorus. Varied, peculiar, and engaging? More than anything disorienting. Likely a piss-take disguised as a great piece. Pharrell has no rivals in this field. A kindred spirit in rock could be Mike Patton. Both hyperactive, maniacal, crafty; mines of ideas not always on target. Geniuses, fools, or incomplete? Everyone is free to form their own opinion.

"Sooner Or Later" references the Beatles with incredible elegance, mastery, and confidence. The Oasis dream of writing such pieces. "Kill Joy" is a killer argument, punctuated by extravagant percussion and electronic beats, a ride à la Public Enemy. Low-profile closing, entrusted to the anonymous "Laugh About It". "Seeing Sounds" is everything I expected. An exercise in pure boasting, swagger, and self-confidence of Pharrell Williams, a buffoonish showman who will continue to bewilder and attract attention, not only for charisma and famous collaborations but also for his undeniable skill and expertise.

Even on this occasion, N.E.R.D package an interesting, honest, enjoyable album; it’s fair to expect a bit more. Another commendable 6, there's still work to be done. You will always have another chance with me, I remain waiting for better outings.