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By: Jan Bunny
Date: 9th Sep 06
Release: Album
To Cure: A predictable playlist
What:
In My Mind
Who:
Pharrell
On:
Star Trak / Virgin
For all the commercial success Mr Williams has had producing hits for other artists, his solo work and N*E*R*D project have barely touched the top 10. There is Pharrell, the singer, songwriter, MC and then The Neptunes - Hollaback Girl, Hott In Here and J.T - don't confuse them.
In My Mind features Pharrell rapping more than ever. Like Kanye, who guests on the track ‘Number One', he is not known for his mic skills. The flow is passable but some of P's lyrics are just plain stupid. On the flipside, the autobiographical track ‘Best Friend' has Pharrell briefly ‘open up'. The slow jams recall Motown hitting the 80's and the tinkerbell drums, synth pianos and sex rhymes are like a rap version of ‘Sexual Healing' era Marvin Gaye. For an artist whose discography is applauded for its experimental take on pop, these straight R&B tracks may seem unremarkable, yet they are the album's brightest moments. P is best when he singing and the expected genius behind the boards.
Bob Dylan once commented that he wished albums could be catagorised by title rather than by artist, much like a film would. A system that would benefit In My Mind, which, listened to without previous productions in mind, is really quite good.