Released on 04/06/2001
Label: Virgin

Are N*E*R*D the most eccentric artists in America? Quite possibly, but this first assault from their debut album proves conclusively that their bonkers take on contemporary R&B and hip-hop is one of the most unique sounds in a scene currently awash with exciting ideas.

Taking their moniker from the conviction that 'No one Ever Really Dies', Pharell Williams and Chad Hugo are best known for their production work as The Neptunes - numbering bona fide rump-shakers for Noreaga, Kelis and Jay-Z amongst others.

'Lapdance' only hints at it - being chosen for single release because of its more straightforwardly irresistible groove - but the forthcoming N*E*R*D album is an astonishing psychedelic soul masterpiece in the vein of Shuggie Otis' 'Inspiration Information' and Sly's 'There's A Riot Goin' On'. Whilst you wait for it, succumb to the perverted funk and sleazy flow of this tease.

    by James Poletti