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In Search Of... [Second Version]
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In Search Of... [Second Version] Image
Metascore
83

Universal acclaim - based on 20 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 42 Ratings

  • Summary: This is the debut album for in-demand hip-hop production duo The Neptunes, recording with Shay under the name N.E.R.D. (for "No One Ever Really Dies"). Note that there are two different versions of this album in circulation. The original version, featuring mainly electronic instrumentation,This is the debut album for in-demand hip-hop production duo The Neptunes, recording with Shay under the name N.E.R.D. (for "No One Ever Really Dies"). Note that there are two different versions of this album in circulation. The original version, featuring mainly electronic instrumentation, was intended for release in August 2001 but was shelved by the band (only to be released in the UK over the band's objection). This new version, released March 2002, was completely rerecorded, and features live instrumentation by Minneapolis funk band Spymob.… Expand
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    91
    ''In Search Of...'' has a crackling vigor missing from the first stab, and its mélange of genres makes for music unlike anything else around.
  2. L.A. Weekly
    90
    An early contender for album of the year.
  3. Mojo
    90
    It is quizzical, troubled, socially concerned, compassionate, schizoid, retro-eclectic, strikingly modern, racially mixed--and even likes women. [Apr 2002, p.112]
    All this publication's reviews
  4. Launch.com
    80
    While their hitmaking formula is responsible for countless success stories, the talent, smarts, and overall quality of this album prove the Neptunes are infinitely more interesting than most of their clients.
  5. New Musical Express (NME)
    80
    Despite the rock, you can still dance to it. [Review of U.S. version]
  6. Q Magazine
    80
    Still a stunningly individual reinvention of hip hop and R&B, with great songs swimming in a murk of bizarre arrangements. [Apr 2002, p.119]
    All this publication's reviews
  7. Pitchfork
    60
    While Rap-Metal 101 drums bang away in the background, the basslines are replaced by chugging guitar riffs reminiscent of your high school hardcore band. What remains, though, is the exceptional quality of Pharrell's voice, which, unlike the bass sound, doesn't lose its intensity due to repeated radio exposure.

See all 20 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 13
  3. Negative: 1 out of 13
  1. DougW.
    Mar 11, 2002
    10
    Simply the best, new, freshest, listenable, enjoyable, MODERN music I have heard. Instant appeal and lasting satisfaction. I love its depth, Simply the best, new, freshest, listenable, enjoyable, MODERN music I have heard. Instant appeal and lasting satisfaction. I love its depth, its new direction, its soulful thought.… Expand
  2. EdgarPOE
    Mar 7, 2002
    10
    THE BEST ALBULM OF 2001 and 2002 definety something diffrent something fresh and something new...The future just pulled up to your local CD THE BEST ALBULM OF 2001 and 2002 definety something diffrent something fresh and something new...The future just pulled up to your local CD store and NERD is here to stay....… Expand
  4. marshallm
    Jun 6, 2005
    10
    what a cd! loved it ! one of my favorites! the 2 best were " baby doll" and "brain"...very original!
  5. Steve
    Mar 17, 2002
    10
    The Neptunes have definatly reached new heights with the instrument propelled, second version of N.E.R.D. If anyone knows of how to obtain The Neptunes have definatly reached new heights with the instrument propelled, second version of N.E.R.D. If anyone knows of how to obtain the first version without means of the internet, please let me know.… Expand
  6. JUSTINF
    Aug 21, 2003
    10
    This album is killer. Nerd not only mixes several great kinds of music, but Pharrel wows me with his great vocal range... kickas$.
  7. NicolaC
    Aug 25, 2003
    10
    I thought it was brilliant
  8. NickH.
    Oct 5, 2002
    0
    I just don't get it. I don't see anything fresh or innovative about it. They should stick to producing other people.

See all 13 User Reviews

Awards & Rankings

24
#24 Best Album of 2002
72
#72 Most Discussed Album of 2002
54
#54 Most Shared Album of 2002