BY: LILLY GOODMAN, STAFF WRITER
Album cover from albumoftheyear.org
The Weeknd’s new sixth studio album, “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” packs every powerful punch his September single lacked.
Loaded with popular names, such as Playboi Carti and Future, “Hurry Up Tomorrow” features 22 tracks. With a run time of nearly an hour and a half, each song transitions seamlessly into the next, enhancing the album’s thrilling journey.
The Weeknd’s single “Dancing in the Flames,” designed as a lead single, hinted at the modern 80s vibe of the yet-to-be-released album. “Hurry Up Tomorrow” boasts a sound distinct from any of The Weeknd’s previous albums, with the only common threads being the use of synthesizers and his unmistakable voice.
“Wake Me Up” (featuring Justice) is an intriguing opening to the album — initially confusing — but a perfect introduction to the extensive journey that follows. This track captures The Weeknd shedding his past beliefs and embracing a new identity, both mentally and spiritually, with symphonic backing that perfectly complements his vocals.
Accelerating midway through, it evokes a vibe similar to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” creating an unforgettable introduction to the album.
The eerie conclusion of “Wake Me Up” swiftly gives way to evident angst with the introduction of “Cry for Me.” This heavily trap-influenced track — produced by Metro Boomin — is marked by its characteristic beats and haunting undertones. As the song unfolds, The Weeknd masterfully conveys defeat and frustration, highlighting the pain of a lost relationship. The emotional intensity of “Cry for Me” continues the album’s narrative, deepening listener engagement with The Weeknd’s journey.
In a tranquil closing of “Opening Night,” tones of a mellow nylon guitar begin a bittersweet opening of “Reflections Laughing.” This standout track sharply contrasts with the rest of the album, making it an unforgettable highlight. The chorus, sung by a crowd behind The Weeknd (Florence and the Machine), adds a sense of heroism that rises from the tranquil ashes of the beginning. An answering machine hang-up introduces Travis Scott to the track, his entrance marked by a chugging yet sleazy trap tone that adds a unique twist to the song’s dynamic.
Co-written and produced by Pharrell Williams and featuring Playboy Carti, “Timeless” stands out as the most popular track on the album. Released as the lead single on Sept. 27, 2024, it has surpassed over 191 billion streams, enjoying a significant head start. Carti launches the song, adding a layer of depth that makes the track playful and cunningly threatening. His use of multiple vocal tones adds a teasing quality to the song, enhancing its evocative nature. As the most egotistical track on the album, “Timeless” showcases a layered and complex sound that captivates listeners.
“Big Sleep” (featuring Giorgio Moroder) is a surprising collaboration that defies today’s music trends, creating an uncharacteristic yet intriguing matchup. Positioned right in the middle of the album, the track has a lullaby feel, offering a brief intermission that breaks up the album’s energy. The Weeknd’s vocals are deliberately sleepy, giving the audience a sensation of falling out of reality and into a dream. Midway through, the song goes out of key and includes a creepy interlude that adds to its unsettling nature. This mildly off-putting track ends with a tragic tone, depicting the experience of falling to your knees as you are jolted back to reality from the dreamlike state.
“Hurry Up Tomorrow” is a triumphant addition to The Weeknd’s discography, offering a richly layered listening experience. With its seamless transitions, diverse
collaboration, and unique soundscapes, the album captivates from start to finish. It’s a bold statement that showcases The Weeknd’s evolution as an artist and cements his place at the forefront of contemporary music.
