Chester French has been spending time in an L.A. studio with Chad Hugo and Pharrell Williams to add some of The Neptunes' genius glow to their happy-go-lucky retro-pop. Check out some candid shots of their time in the studio.

The duo is currently rehearsing with a full band and preparing the release of their debut album in April, which will be introduced by the single "She Loves Everybody." One of the first stops on their promo tour is the SXSW Music Festival in March.

Chester French is one of the most promising new acts for 2008 as far as I'm concerned. Why? They simply want to make great pop music that combines style and substance. It is not rocket science, but in the era of overfabricated pop it is simplicity that stands out. And Chester French delivers.