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Also this issue: Human Resources On Enon Rasputina Danilo Perez Trio Mush on Parade |
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May 30-June 5, 2002
musicpicks
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Officially, it’s an acronym for “No one ever really dies,” but when Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo decided to call their band N.E.R.D., they might just as well have been alluding to the record-collecting music geek nature of its sound. After five years working as The Neptunes (production team responsible for an abundance of hip-hop/R&B/pop artists including Jay-Z, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Mary J. Blige), the two decided to venture from behind the mixing console, with their buddy Shay and eclectic sensibilities in tow. In Search Of … (Virgin) not only mixes genres at the same level as Beck’s early work (Stevie Wonder-esque psychedelic funk, mellow acoustic blues, R&B à la Marvin Gaye and, yes, even rap-rock), it outright blurs the lines of distinction between them, all within a consistent hip-hop context. Although the lyrical flow isn’t always on par, Williams’ singing voice is slick and strong, and flubs are forgivable. After all, it’s an album simultaneously great to party to and digable to the everyday music junkie.
Sat., June 1, 8 p.m., $15, with Spy Mob, The Trocadero, 10th and Arch sts., 215-922-LIVE, www.thetroc.com.
