After a couple of clues and countless rumours, blockbuster trio N.E.R.D. have returned with the Rihanna-assisted comeback single ‘Lemon.’
It’s the first new N.E.R.D. material we’ve heard since their fourth album Nothing way back in 2010, and while Pharrell has dominated every sonic or style lane he’s stepped in since, the trio have been sorely missed. Now, Pharrell – alongside Chad Hugo and Shay Haley – have triumphantly returned with a typically catchy and genre-defying anthem, built on the vivacious production that made two-thirds of the group the hottest beat-makers in the game as The Neptunes.
‘Lemon’ premiered via Zane Lowe’s Beats1 show, and features the very notable addition of Rihanna on vocals, where she takes a more assertive, rap-heavy approach. It’s definitely different from her soaring melodies, but drips with the effortless attitude that’s earned her undeniable queen status. ‘Lemon’ is the first taste of the upcoming N.E.R.D. album, which is yet to be titled.
Watch ‘Lemon’ below, and stay tuned for the group’s live return at ComplexCon in Los Angeles in November:
