Album Review: After Hours - The Weeknd

After delivering months of an aesthetically consistent and enticing rollout, including multiple hit singles, The Weeknd has finally released his long-anticipated album After Hours. Similarities can be drawn from this project to Abel’s previous offerings, but there is a narrative focus and sense of sonic development which indicates The Weeknd’s progression as an artist, and more prominently, as a man.

After the release of the lead single “Heartless”, I was unsure which direction this project would be taking. While it’s an undeniably catchy track, it lacks complexity and depth as Abel once again shows his emotionless and cold side. This is territory which has been explored abundantly through Tesfaye’s discography. “Blinding Lights” is a groovy, 80’s-inspired, radio-friendly hit, but outside of the context of the album’s narrative, there’s no deeper messaging being delivered. “After Hours” had fans of Abel’s earliest work excited, as its minimal and revealing tone reflected that of Trilogy or Kissland. Finally, the SNL performance of “Scared To Live” proved that this project would be emotionally reflective just a week before the project’s release. Luckily, it didn’t disappoint.

This may be favorite project of Abel’s yet. It has something to offer for fans of each of his eras, and it has high replay-ability. From “In Your Eyes” and “Faith” to “Snowchild” and “Escape From LA”, this project is radio-friendly, hard-hitting, and poignant simultaneously. It is often the case that albums with heavy aesthetic variation are scattered and lack sonic consistency, which this project successfully avoids. The track listing reflects a well-thought-out narrative which tells a heartbreaking story - something Abel has become very experienced with.

The Weeknd’s popularity and reach have exploded over the years, as he has become one of the biggest stars in the world. This isn’t too detrimental as long as he doesn’t commit all of his creativity to pumping out radio-friendly tracks. Looking at you, Post Malone. After Hours, in almost every regard, lived up to my expectations and hopes. Some of the songs featured here aren’t as complete as I think they could be, but overall, most of the tracks on this album are fantastic. Give this is a listen. And please go wash your hands.

Good tracks: “Alone Again”, “Scared To Live”, “Snowchild”, “Escape From LA”, “Heartless”, “Faith”, “Blinding Lights”, “In Your Eyes”, , “After Hours”

SCORE: 8/10