The Weeknd - Hurry Up Tomorrow ALBUM REVIEW

Summary

In this review, the internet's busiest music nerd dives into The Weeknd's latest album *Hurry Up Tomorrow*, the final installment of his trilogy following *After Hours* and *Dawn FM*. The album spans 22 tracks and explores themes of fame, addiction, and isolation, with cinematic production and contributions from artists like Justice and Giorgio Moroder. While there are some lulls in the tracklist, the album impresses with its bold artistic risks, blending Michael Jackson-esque influences with experimental sounds. Despite occasional repetitive moments, the album solidifies The Weeknd’s legacy as a multifaceted artist, balancing emotional depth and sonic innovation.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Weeknd's *Hurry Up Tomorrow* is his sixth studio album and marks the end of a trilogy following *After Hours* and *Dawn FM*.
• 😀 The album explores themes of fame, addiction, isolation, insecurity, and self-doubt, with a cinematic sound and ambitious storytelling.
• 😀 Despite being an R&B artist, The Weeknd has ventured into pop, 80s-inspired synth music, and even Brazilian funk on this record.
• 😀 The album features significant contributions from producers like Mike Dean, Daniel Lattin (10 of Trillions), Justice, and Giorgio Moroder.
• 😀 Opening track 'Killer' is a strong homage to Michael Jackson, featuring high-energy production and compelling vocals.
• 😀 *Hurry Up Tomorrow* is nearly 90 minutes long, with 22 tracks that dive deep into The Weeknd's emotional journey.
• 😀 Tracks like 'Cry For Me' and 'Sa Pao' display The Weeknd's ability to blend different musical styles while maintaining his signature sound.
• 😀 Some tracks, such as 'Reflections Laughing', may feel like filler, but they contribute to the overarching narrative of the album.
• 😀 The album's narrative leans heavily into self-destructive themes, with songs like 'Enjoy the Show' presenting The Weeknd's downfall as entertainment.
• 😀 The final tracks, such as 'Big Sleep' and 'Give Me Mercy', provide some of the album's most gripping moments, with themes of love and rebirth.

Q & A

What is the main theme of The Weeknd's album *Hurry Up Tomorrow*?

The main theme of *Hurry Up Tomorrow* revolves around The Weeknd's struggles with fame, addiction, isolation, and insecurity, exploring both personal and external conflicts throughout the album.

How does *Hurry Up Tomorrow* fit into the context of The Weeknd's career?

It serves as the third installment in a trilogy following *After Hours* and *Dawn FM*, marking a progression in his musical direction and thematic depth, while also reflecting on the highs and lows of his career.

What are some key musical influences and collaborators featured on the album?

The album features contributions from Justice, Giorgio Moroder, Mike Dean, and Daniel Luppi. There are also influences from Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' era and a mix of genres like Brazilian funk and 80s synth-pop.

How does the production on *Hurry Up Tomorrow* compare to The Weeknd's previous work?

The production is more cinematic and experimental compared to earlier albums, with a broader range of musical styles, including more electronic, disco, and funk elements, while still retaining The Weeknd's signature atmospheric R&B sound.

What role do the album's transitions play in its overall impact?

The seamless transitions between tracks help maintain the album’s immersive flow and contribute to its cohesive, cinematic feel, making it more than just a collection of songs but a continuous narrative journey.

Which track on the album shows a clear homage to Michael Jackson?

The opening track, which features vocal performances and production reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s 'Thriller' era, particularly through the use of pumping synths and a strong rhythmic beat.

How does The Weeknd address personal challenges in the album?

The Weeknd touches on his struggles with fame, addiction, and isolation, often exploring his feelings of being disconnected from others, using his music as a form of self-expression and vulnerability.

Are there any specific tracks that stand out as highlights on *Hurry Up Tomorrow*?

Highlights include 'Cry For Me' for its throwback to the Trilogy era, 'Baptized in Fear' for its haunting, dramatic tone, and 'Enjoy the Show,' a track featuring Future that adds emotional depth with its vulnerability.

What are some criticisms of the album?

While the album is generally praised for its boldness, some tracks are seen as overlong or repetitive, and a few moments in the middle of the album feel like they drag or become disjointed, which may impact the overall pacing.

What rating did the reviewer give to the album, and why?

The reviewer gave the album a light to decent 8/10, noting that while there are some weaker moments and lulls in the tracklist, the album is still a strong artistic statement and a significant achievement in The Weeknd's career.