Following three mixtapes released in quick succession that contained some of the most influential and gripping R&B of the new decade, Abel Tesfaye's bleak and atmospheric project makes its major label debut.
For a moment, the Weeknd almost lost us. It wasn't because of poor quality music — 2011's trio of mixtapes ("House of Balloons," "Thursday," "Echoes of Silence") that introduced the mysterious singer were, individually, compelling and progressive R&B albums. But three albums over nine months' time are enough to make any fanbase a little tired.
Following three mixtapes released in quick succession that contained some of the most influential and gripping R&B of the new decade, Abel Tesfaye's bleak and atmospheric project makes its major label debut.
For a moment, the Weeknd almost lost us. It wasn't because of poor quality music — 2011's trio of mixtapes ("House of Balloons," "Thursday," "Echoes of Silence") that introduced the mysterious singer were, individually, compelling and progressive R&B albums. But three albums over nine months' time are enough to make any fanbase a little tired.
