Short answer? This song is dope. Absolute bop status.

Long answer?

Let's see....

N.E.R.D.'s triumphant return to the music scene after seven consecutive years of radio silence came in the form of a single released on November 1st, 2017. This firecracker of a track, featuring a verse from Rihanna, is a stark reminder to anybody who forgot just how fun, energetic, and plain weird hip-hop music could be. It mixes Pharrell's pop sensibilities, picked up from the wealth of music he released in the time since the last N.E.R.D. album, and the genius beats of Chad Hugo.

Pharrell's first verse is bursting with an infectious energy, coasting on the beat with sheer braggadocio and the swagger that only true rap veterans carry. He transitions into a bouncy, syncopated chorus that is catchy and easily danceable.

The family-friendly Pharrell, the one known for the last five years as the writer/performer of the hit song "Happy", is gone now. In his place stands a man who seems hungry to pick up where he left off. He's ready to be a rapper again, and it shows.

Rihanna's verse is undoubtedly the star of the show. Not known for her rapping skills, most believed that she was just going to be singing the hook when this track was first announced.

However, fans were met with no singing, no hook, just pure lyrical prowess. She glides effortlessly over the beat, firing offline after line with no signs of slowing down. Sources close to Rihanna say that this verse was recorded back in 2015 during the beginning of the new N.E.R.D. album's recording process. However, if Rihanna has improved any since that time, we can expect some more incredible verses in the future.

This track is the first single off of N.E.R.D.'s new album, No_One Ever Really Dies. It marks a return to the game for a group that has inspired more music in the last ten years that you would believe.

If you enjoyed Tyler the Creator's new album, Frank Ocean's Channel Orange, or even Ed Sheeran's recent output, you have the members of N.E.R.D. to thank. This new album, if it provides the same high quality as this single, will mark an inspiration for a new generation of artists for years to come.

"The truth will set you free. But first, it'll piss you off."