Note: Though Pharrell Williams has co-produced and performed on an enormous amount of smash hip hop/r&b/pop singles over the last decade and has achieved critical success as frontman of the electro funk rock group N.E.R.D., this is technically his solo debut album.
Sound: Synth-heavy, digital r&b and hip hop that tends to settle into reserved and repetitive (though daring) grooves, but occasionally gets pretty perky. Pharrell raps the verses and choruses on much of the first half of the album and sings/falsetto croons throughout most of the second half.
Lyrics: He spends some time being his usual horny and suave self, but also takes time to thank his family, send empowering messages to kids and dive into deep reflection.
Heavy Rotation tracks: none (shockingly)
Medium Rotation tracks: “Can I Have It Like
That” (featuring Gwen Stefani); “Young Girl” (featuring Jay-Z) (Note: There’s an inferior second part to this track called “I Really Like You,” which should have been cut or at least made into its own track.)
Recommended: Unfortunately, the man who’s crafted so many irresistible hits over the last eight years, can hardly find a hook on his own solo album. The production is often exciting, but the songs tend to meander aimlessly (regardless of whether he raps or reverts to his strength, singing). After awhile, In My Mind becomes a long and relatively unfulfilling listen.
Grade: C+