Pharrell Williams hasn't released a solo album since 2006's In My Mind. Now, Pharrell has finally released his second album, G I R L, through Colombia Records.
Just like Justin Timberlake's 20/20 Experience, Pharrell opens his album with a gorgeous arrangement of string instruments courtesy of Oscar winning composer Hans Zimmer. In fact, Timberlake and his partner in crime Timbaland appear on the album. The second track, "Brand New," has Pharrell and Timberlake channeling Off the Wall-era Michael Jackson. The "doot doot doot" backing vocals bounce around like ping pong balls as percussion is kept at a bare minimum, utilizing only hi-hats, bass drums and hand claps. Then there's "Gust of Wind," which features Daft Punk on backing vocals. The track has that four-on-the-floor disco beat that was heavily featured on Daft Punk's massive hit album Random Access Memories. Even his Oscar nominated "Happy" makes an appearance as the album's fifth track. However, the most interesting track may be "Lost Queen," which uses a vocal sample that sounds like it was taken from Lady Smith Mambazo over an African drum.
Like The 20/20 Experience, the album seems to run a little long. Does "Lost Queen" really need the hidden track "Freq?" Still, like anything Pharrell touches these days, the album is worth a listen. Check out the Spotify stream above.
For more music, news and tour dates, check out Pharrell William's Zumic artist page.
Source: Spotify
