The Weeknd releases two new singles for his upcoming album. One with an ‘80s synth-pop sound and the other a rap song featuring rapper Playboi Carti. The result of both varying in quality.
The Weeknd has recently released his first two singles for his upcoming album “Hurry Up Tomorrow” and they both vary in quality.
The two singles, “Dancing In the Flames” and “Timeless” both follow the concept and sound of The Weeknd’s previous two albums “After Hours” and “Dawn FM,” those being death, fame and introspection, along with having ‘80s synths to back both of them up.
The song “Dancing In The Flames,” which was released on Sept. 13, is more aligned with the sound and theme of his previous two albums. The instrumental sounds have a very retro sound yet it’s underwhelming. The Weeknd has done this before with his other albums, but much better. The beat of “Dancing In the Flames” is less memorable and is not as catchy as some of his other songs like “Blinding Lights” or “Save Your Tears.”
However, the lyrics are very vivid and descriptive. They tell the story of The Weeknd and an unspecified partner getting into a car crash, and being consumed by the “fire” resembling death or the perils of a relationship, in a more metaphorical sense.
The Weeknd’s next single, “Timeless,” released also in September, is completely different from “Dancing In The Flames.” The production of the song is more along the trap sound instead of being synthpop like his first single. It’s much better as it provides a really nice nocturnal atmosphere.
The song also includes a feature from rapper Playboi Carti, known for the signature cartoon voice he uses in his music. This time though, Carti decides to go with a different delivery, using his normal voice to actually rap. His presence on the track is nice, and although his more cartoony voice would’ve fit with the instrumental more, it still works.
The lyrics themselves are not as substantial as “Dancing In The Flames” though as it’s more boastful describing how The Weeknd and Playboi Carti are “Timeless.” It’s not a grand statement and is typical for rap, but they both deliver.
Overall, “Timeless” feels more creative compared to “Dancing In The Flames.” Production-wise “Dancing In The Flames” sounds good yet more generic, with“Timeless” taking more original elements compared to the production The Weeknd usually makes. Regardless of these differences, both of the tracks are good, and we will have to wait until – when The Weeknd releases the rest of his album.
Edited by Alyssa Royston | aroyston@themaneater.com
Copyedited by Ella McGuire and Natalie Kientzy | nkientzy@themaneater.com
Edited by Emily Skidmore | eskidmore@themaneater.com