Anybody who remembers the significance behind "It's Murda" can attest to the long and prosperous reign of Ja Rule and Ashanti. Ushering in a radio-friendly batch of thug-luv blammers, Ja and Ashanti proved kindred spirits on songs like "Always On Time" and "Mesmerize." In fact, their particular chemistry seemed to capture a particular moment in early-millennium hip-hop, despite Ja's pop tendencies rubbing some of his day one fans the wrong way. Either way, nostalgia has done wonders for the duo, who seem to recognize that very fact; in the wake of The Carters, Ja and Ashanti decided it was high time to get the band back together for another go.
While details on the project remain scarce, Complex has provided a first look at one of the early tracks. Tentatively titled "Encore," the song finds Ja and Ashanti taking to an eighties-inspired groove, complete with g-funk inspired basslines and synth-work. The pair go back and forth, playing the coy lovers once again, this time in a different musical landscape than ever before. Is the world ready for a Murda Inc reboot? That remains to be seen. Either way, be sure to peep the first single from Ja and Ashanti courtesy of Complex.