The man known as Abel Tesfaye (or The Weeknd for those that practice slumber techniques) has taken the R&B world by storm. After releasing the carnally genius House of Balloons mixtape, it was only a matter of time before he started back releasing more material. It was rumored that House of Balloons was a part of a series of releases. Now, the second go around has arrived. His next project, Thursday, was released at midnight on August 19, 2011. If there is anything to be said is this: The Weeknd has mastered his sound.

     What needs to be understood and acknowledged is this: The Weeknd works to stay in his lane. Abel is known for making slow and sensual, yet warped and syrupy jams that scream sexual trysts after a cocaine and/or codeine binge. “Lonely Star” gets the album going with its high pitched crooning and cautionary tales and sensible observations. “The Zone” is appropriately titled, putting you into the bedroom mood. Even the track “The Birds Pt. 1” has him questioning why a female would want to fall in love with someone like him. The listener must understand that The Weeknd is making more of the same as he made on House of Balloons, which is atmospheric excellence.

     Yet, most people that are new to The Weeknd must be forewarned: this is not music for the weak at heart. Abel prefers subtly predisposed and fleshly realities to mundane idealism. One can sense this in “Rolling Stone”. In the aforementioned song, he reflects on being out on the streets too long while smoking. Abel notes that it is time for him to take another path towards love/companionship over guitar licks. It is this type of music that has one over so many fans.

     It is safe to say that The Weeknd is batting 1.000 with his musical output thus far. Making music of consistency is something of high regard. He has made it his duty to not stray too far from his sound. At the same time, he knows how to delve and evolve topically and musically. Listeners and fans can rest assured that this is another hit with multiple RBI’s.  

Photo Source: The-Weeknd.com

Article written by contributing writer, Mark A. Harris