The Weeknd's latest release marks a stark departure from his signature, upbeat sound, as he embraces a more somber, introspective atmosphere. This album sheds the bright, vibrant tracks of his earlier work in favor of slower, more restrained songs that dive deep into themes of legacy, self-reflection, and uncertainty about the future. Spanning 22 tracks, this project offers a captivating yet occasionally challenging listening experience. Fans who appreciate The Weeknd's emotional depth will find much to love, while more casual listeners might struggle with the lengthy runtimes and mellow tone that dominate the album.

The album's production shines, particularly in the seamless transitions between tracks, creating a continuous, flowing experience. However, its slower pace and extended song lengths can make it feel like a chore to get through, especially for listeners expecting quicker, more energetic songs. While true Weeknd fans will find this record to be a nuanced, reflective journey, others may find themselves losing interest as the mood remains subdued throughout.

One of the album's biggest strengths is the impressive blend of R&B, soul, and 80s-inspired sounds. The Weeknd stays true to his roots while pushing boundaries by exploring unconventional sounds that further develop his artistic identity. But, at times, the songs feel like they take a bit too long to build momentum, with certain tracks stretching out unnecessarily. There is also an excellent variety of featured artists—Playboi Carti, Future, Lana Del Rey, and Anitta—all of whom complement the songs well, adding fresh energy to the mix. That said, some guest appearances feel underutilized, leaving us wishing they had more to do.

Track Breakdown:

1. Wake Me Up (ft. Justice): A slow-burning opener with powerful vocals, "Wake Me Up" sets the tone for the album’s introspective nature. Its 80s-inspired Michael Jackson-like beat channels a nostalgic vibe, but it feels slightly underwhelming as an opener, especially given its lengthy runtime. Still, Justice’s production offers a smooth, relaxed feel to the track.

2. Cry For Me: A smooth transition into darker, synth-heavy territory, "Cry For Me" blends 80s influences with modern trap beats, giving it a unique flavor. The slow tempo and vocal variation make this track engaging, even as it takes its time to fully unfold.

3. I Can’t Fucking Sing: This short interlude feels like a conceptual bridge, hinting at the themes of legacy and authenticity explored throughout the album. Despite its brevity, it introduces the album's reflective nature and hints at deeper commentary on The Weeknd’s career.

4. São Paulo (ft. Anitta): A more vibrant track with deep, mesmerizing synths and Spanish vocals from Anitta, "São Paulo" feels out of place but still intriguing. The repetitive beat could become grating, but it remains captivating due to its unique, almost hypnotic rhythm.

5. Until We’re Skin & Bones: The transitions in this track are particularly noteworthy, with the smooth and quick shifts between sections maintaining the album's atmospheric flow.

6. Baptized In Fear: A standout track with a darker, haunting atmosphere, "Baptized In Fear" captivates with strong, emotional vocals that underscore the album’s thematic depth. It’s a standout example of the album’s ability to balance somber tone with impactful delivery.

7. Open Hearts: A great example of the album’s impeccable production, "Open Hearts" blends dark, upbeat synths with soulful vocals. The song’s build-up is nothing short of mesmerizing, and the incorporation of Euro trance elements adds a unique twist.

8. Opening Night: A dreamlike interlude, "Opening Night" creates a sense of surrealism with its angelic vocals and atmospheric production, offering a refreshing break from the album's more somber tracks.

9. Reflections Laughing (ft. Florence + The Machine & Travis Scott): Featuring the ethereal vocals of Florence Welch and Travis Scott's heavily auto-tuned delivery, "Reflections Laughing" creates a whimsical atmosphere, though it may feel a bit heavy-handed at times.

10. Enjoy The Show (ft. Future): A soulful R&B-influenced track where The Weeknd reflects on his journey and career. Future’s contribution complements the song well, with his vocals taking on a more enunciated and restrained delivery than usual.

11. Given Up On Me: A haunting, introspective track with a subtle trap beat, "Given Up On Me" provides a deep dive into The Weeknd’s emotional state. However, the song loses momentum halfway through when it shifts into a lounge-like atmosphere, making it feel disconnected.

12. I Can’t Wait To Get There: A sensual, mellow track that stands out for its rich, soothing bass and smooth vocals. Its calm, almost hypnotic vibe offers a nice contrast to the album’s more intense moments.

13. Timeless (ft. Playboi Carti): A slow, atmospheric build-up leads into a trap-infused 2000s techno beat, giving the track an unusual but fresh feel. Playboi Carti’s feature adds a much-needed burst of energy.

14. Niagara Falls: This track continues the album's smooth, chilled vibe with soft R&B beats and prominent synths. The squeaky chorus adds a fun, off-kilter touch, making this a relaxing standout.

15. Take Me Back To LA: A soft 80s vibe with big, Phil Collins-esque drum fills, "Take Me Back To LA" flows seamlessly into the album, enhancing its overall mood.

16. Big Sleep (ft. Giorgio Moroder): A slow, sensual track with moments of distortion that break up its otherwise smooth flow. Giorgio Moroder’s influence is subtle, but the haunting vocals make this track stand out.

17. Give Me Mercy: A throwback 80s RPG-inspired beat with a deep, melodic bassline gives this track a nostalgic, soulful feel. The song's progression adds depth and richness to the experience.

18. Drive: A smooth, sexy track with a deep, groovy beat and soft vocals that fit into the album's laid-back atmosphere while keeping things interesting.

19. The Abyss (ft. Lana Del Rey): Lana Del Rey’s delicate vocals are a perfect match for The Weeknd’s haunting style on "The Abyss." Her understated performance complements the melancholic piano-driven melody, with both artists adding emotional weight to the track.

20. Red Terror: A distorted opening gives way to an ominous build-up, with eerie synths and spoken word moments that build tension. The track’s slow burn makes it unsettling and intriguing.

21. Without a Warning: The album’s big-energy track, "Without a Warning" delivers a hard-hitting moment amidst the otherwise subdued vibes. Its sudden shift in tempo adds a surprising burst of intensity.

22. Hurry Up Tomorrow: A somber and emotional closer, "Hurry Up Tomorrow" is a reflection on loss, with poignant piano melodies underscoring the emotional weight of the track. It serves as a fitting, melancholic end to the album’s reflective journey.

In summary, while The Weeknd’s latest album takes a slower, more introspective path compared to his previous work, it’s a testament to his growth as an artist. The album’s atmospheric production and reflective lyrics create a hauntingly beautiful experience, but the long runtimes and subdued tone may deter some listeners. True fans of The Weeknd will find much to admire, but casual listeners may struggle to connect with its introspective mood.