The Weeknd Releases New Album, “Dawn FM”
By Declan Bunch
Photo of the “Dawn FM” album cover taken from Wikimedia.org
Ever since his introduction to the music scene in 2011, The Weeknd has been a driving force in the world of commercial music through his alternate take on modern R&B and pop music. Abel Tesfaye—professionally known as The Weeknd—has moved gracefully through genres such as synth-pop, electronic, trap and R&B over his discography, all while holding fans and critics’ attention. He has announced his latest album will be released on Jan. 7, 2022.
Most fans aren't sure what the project will sound like, mostly due to a decision Tesfaye made about the album rollout. On Dec. 31, 2021, he made a post to his instagram of a text conversation.
Tesfaye says, “ Music can heal and that feels more important than another album rollout. Let's just drop the whole thing and enjoy it with the people.”
He has decided to skip the traditional album rollout with interviews, singles, and publicity in favor of releasing the project in its entirety. This new album titled “Dawn FM” will be a continuation of his 2020 release “After Hours”. “After Hours” follows a character The Weeknd created through his life of heavy partying and drug use. The 80s inspired instrumentals guide the listener through this world that will ultimately lead to realization and escape. After Hours received impressive critical acclaim and contained chart topping singles. Dawn FM is meant to be a continuation of this narrative.
While most of the rollout is bypassed in favor of a full release, there is still some material that has preceded the release, including the singles “Moth to a Flame” and “Take my Breath”. The latter has been holding its place on the charts and radio stations. Both indicate the album will be electronic inspired with a dark and eerie aesthetic.
The official album announcement brought a short video and the intended cover. The cover features a close up of an aged version of himself surrounded by darkness with an electric blue tint covering his face. The video is close to 59 seconds and features dark visuals that see The Weeknd being dragged from a car by dark figures. They take him down a path to a woman covered in red cloth, all while instruments give tension to the scene and a peek at the album to come. Another interesting piece of the video is the list of album features displayed. These include Tyler, the Creator, Lil Wayne, Quincy Jones and frequent collaborator Oneohtrix Point Never. Puzzlingly, actor Jim Carrey was also listed on the record.
Fans are excited to see the follow-up to the success of After Hours. The unconventional rollout has only added to the mystique of the project. The Weeknd is set to finish the narrative of “After Hours” and reveal his intentions for the new project on January 7.