For some strange reason, EMI decided to pair
N.E.R.D.'s first two albums -- 2002's
In Search Of... and 2004's
Fly or Die -- into one package and retail the set at a price slightly less than what you'd pay if you picked them up individually. It's worth noting that the version of
In Search Of... included here is the inferior re-recorded version (featuring competent backing by
Spymob) that is more rock-oriented and less reliant on
Pharrell Williams and
Chad Hugo's expert beat-making and keyboard work. What's most bizarre about this package is that it follows so closely after the release of
Fly or Die. Thankfully, EMI does not add any bonus material, in some lame attempt to bait hardcore fans. ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide