We tried to hold our tongues/Black Eyed Peas comparisons when we heard the news that N.E.R.D would be adding Rhea as the new member of their band. Also confirmed is the name of their upcoming fourth album, ‘Instant Gratification,’ a title which deserves at least a little loathing. On ‘Soldier’ (a song which isn’t that new) we find the group leaving behind Rhea and teaming up with Santigold, who so far is yet to do us wrong. We’ll give them a pass for now but we’ll have to wait until the full version of the song, rumoured to feature Lil’ Wayne, turns up.

Download: N.E.R.D – Soldier Feat. Santigold [2dopeboyz / Nah Right]

- The cover art and tracklist have finally been revealed for Q-Tip’s unreleased album, ‘Kamaal The Abstract’. The album was initially set to be released in 2002 but was shelved because his record label decided it was not commercial enough to market. ‘Kamaal’ is set to drop on September 15 via Battery Records.

- Radiohead could be releasing an EP on Monday. Stereogum reports that there are a few hints that a new EP ‘Wall of Ice’ could be set to be released next week. Thom Yorke recently mentioned in an interview that he was over making albums and wallofice.com automatically redirects to Radiohead’s official merchandise page.

- MTV reports that Christina Aguilera has said that she has been working with M.I.A, Santigold and Lady Tron on material for her upcoming album. “The overall versatility of this record is truly something special for me,” she says.

- To add to the list of musicians that have passed away in the last couple of months is Lit drummer, Allen Shellenberger. Shellenberger was 39 and was a long sufferer of brain cancer. Lit, who were known for their 1999 hit ‘My Own Worst Enemy’ had held benefit concerts recently to raise money for Shellenberger’s treatment. The group also held numerous eBay auctions to raise funds and sold items donated from Queens of the Stone Age, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Maroon 5 and Dave Matthews Band.

via the Q Side.