The Weeknd’s highly anticipated album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, dropped on Jan. 31st. Fans have been waiting for this next chapter in Abel Tesfaye’s career, hoping to start the year strong with an album that could shape the musical conversation.
Given the anticipation, the album had big shoes to fill, but as with all major releases, there’s a lingering question: does it live up to the hype? For me, the answer isn’t so straightforward. As a longtime listener, Hurry Up Tomorrow certainly showcases flashes of brilliance, but it also feels uneven in places. It’s still too early to say where this album will sit compared to The Weeknd’s previous works, but there’s no doubt that it’s heading in the right direction.
“Sound and Style”
Sonically, Hurry Up Tomorrow builds on the foundation set by After Hours and Dawn FM. It merges the haunting atmospheres of The Weeknd’s earlier work with the polished, synth-heavy production that has come to define his recent releases. Tracks like “Too Late Tonight” and “Never Look Back” are standout examples of his ability to craft smooth, hypnotic soundscapes. These songs capture that signature Weeknd vibe: melancholy, seductive, and cinematic.
However, not every track hits the same high. Some songs feel less impactful, lacking the depth and edge that made his previous albums unforgettable. While the production is undeniably sound, a handful of tracks feel more like filler than key pieces of the narrative. With 22 songs to take in, it’s clear that Abel is experimenting with different sounds, but at times, it feels like the album might be trying to do too much, leaving some moments feeling underdeveloped.
“Storytelling”
If there’s one thing The Weeknd excels at, it’s storytelling, and Hurry Up Tomorrow is no exception. The album explores the fragility of time and the elusive nature of the future, merging these themes into introspective lyrics that resonate deeply. Tracks like “Now or Never” and “Fractured Heart” reveal a vulnerable side of Abel as he grapples with isolation, regret, and redemption.
Personally, this introspective tone is one of the album’s strengths. Even when the production feels uneven, his ability to tell an interesting story keeps the listener engaged. The title of the album itself, “Hurry Up Tomorrow” feels like a reflection on the urgency of living in the present while grappling with the uncertainty of what’s coming, a theme that runs throughout the project.
“Final Thoughts: A Journey Worth Taking`”
But one lingering question still looms: is the album a hit or a miss? I’m leaning more on the hit side, but I’ll need a few more listens to truly digest it. Though previous albums set an incredibly high bar, this project hasn’t quite reached those heights for me yet. I’m optimistic that this album will too find its place in his legacy. Much like how the hit song “Starboy” grew on listeners over time, I feel like some tracks on this album will also have a similar effect. The sheer size, 22 tracks, demands patience and repeated listens to fully appreciate its layers.
