When I came across The Weeknd for the first time, I thought it was a group of plaid wearing 17-21 year old Cali guys who got into the limelight by playing pop alternative beats in their garage. But boy was I wrong. How is it that his voice is a crossbreed of the King of Pop and Prince? Or how is that he’s the guy who knows how to rock his own goofy (but unique) hairdo whenever he’d perform (has anyone watched his performance in this year’s VMAs?). All things considered, the 25 year old Canadian singer-songwriter/producer, is taking the world by storm, and with astonishing class.
From the release of his first studio album, his work on major movie flicks such as The Hunger Games, Fifty Shades of Grey, to his collaborations with the likes of Sia and Ariana Grande, he has gained so much momentum that it’s about time we recognize his piece kind of genius. With the his sophomore album out of its cages, The Weeknd has solidified himself as an artist that people should “beware” of. Not to scare the kids out there, but this compilation of work is an animal in itself with its wanton-style lyrics and sound. Before you press play… did I mention that parental advisory is needed? Restrictions aside, satisfaction is consistently felt in the 14-track album, each song successfully exceeding listener expectations, turning fans to lovers, and haters to converts.
‘Beauty Behind the Madness’ strongly starts with ‘Real Life’ a song that is understood to be a memoir of a part of his past and is followed with the self-reflective ‘Losers’ and ‘Tell Your Friends’. The album’s unrestrained pace then becomes intensely apparent with singles like ‘Often’, ‘The Hills’, ‘Acquainted’ and popular singles ‘I Can’t Feel My Face’ and ‘Earned It’. The Weeknd then surprises us with the progression of songs highlighting his hopeless romantic yet sensitive side, with singles like ‘As You Are’, ‘Dark Times’ and the last and longest track in the album, ‘Angel’. He collaborated with fellow artists like Lana Del Rey, Labrinth and Ed Sheeran with some of the songs.
The lyrics may be a bit ‘over the top’, but expression is expression, and sometimes going to extreme is the only way for people to understand the message completely. The Weeknd’s voice accompanied with simple yet exalting beats and melody will have you craving for more.
Critics say that this album is an example of well-executed artistry. I agree. Beside it being perfect to play during chill nights with your friends or with a special somebody, it’s an album that deserves to be recommended for play on the street or at a suit and tie affair. The album transcends: it is a record that has earns its reputation, because no one comes up with this stuff off the fly. It’s clear that the Weeknd put all his emotions, time and expertise to this second round. I bet he’s out there in a recording studio, building momentum for the next blow. And we’ll be waiting.
