• Record Label: Republic
  • Release Date: Jan 7, 2022
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 1131 Ratings

User score distribution:
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
  1. Jan 10, 2022
    9
    Very enjoyable and a really creative way of differentiating this album with its Radio gimmick. The transitions were a great way of syncing the energy between the songs as well though This whole album was consistent overall. No contrasting genres, just a whole lotta 80s flowing through this piece. ❤️❤️
  2. Jan 10, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bro it is amaziiiing. Expand
  3. Jan 10, 2022
    9
    Para mi, el mejor trabajo de The Weeknd hasta la fecha. Pese a ser un Álbum muy alejado al resto (excepto con "After Hours"), ha logrado dominar el sonido y estilo de los 80s a la perfección.
  4. Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Album of the year, this is an album to avoid “shuffle mode” cause you will miss details, hear it in sequence.
  5. Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece , Abel never misses , from start to finish it takes you on a journey which I can’t describe , you just have to listen.
  6. Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece! Brilliant! Perfect!
    Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
  7. Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Probably one of his best works. Love to see him evolve as an artist and make new highs
  8. Jan 10, 2022
    10
    A great sequel to after hours. Love the radio type music that he created, it was like listening to gta radio while riding around los santos.
  9. Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Such an amazing album I love it , it really needs to be on a discoteque I really recommend it to everyone
  10. Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Wow, IT is getting better as more you listen. Every song, every detail of it, music is just out of The world
  11. Jan 11, 2022
    10
    This album is a masterpiece. The instrumental brings you back to 80's and the lycris is totally amazing, it connects with others songs, creating a history between his other album "After Hours" or even Starboy, Kiss Land and maybe Trilogy! Making a radio album is so good, you can feel many emotions like happiness, sadness, even feeling lost, etc. Finally, The Weeknd makes clear hisThis album is a masterpiece. The instrumental brings you back to 80's and the lycris is totally amazing, it connects with others songs, creating a history between his other album "After Hours" or even Starboy, Kiss Land and maybe Trilogy! Making a radio album is so good, you can feel many emotions like happiness, sadness, even feeling lost, etc. Finally, The Weeknd makes clear his influence of Daft Punk, Michael Jackson, and others. 10/10 Expand
  12. Jan 11, 2022
    10
    Yet another masterpiece, a work of art, from The Weeknd. The concept is everything, transports you somewhere truly unique. On the surface, we can see a very retro-inspired sound exploring a mix of bangers and ballads, usually quite upbeat and positive. But the addition of genius narration from Jim Carrey, and occasional interludes from The Weeknd, a much more eery theme is explored. AsYet another masterpiece, a work of art, from The Weeknd. The concept is everything, transports you somewhere truly unique. On the surface, we can see a very retro-inspired sound exploring a mix of bangers and ballads, usually quite upbeat and positive. But the addition of genius narration from Jim Carrey, and occasional interludes from The Weeknd, a much more eery theme is explored. As Tesfaye has stated in previous interviews, this album is meant to represent 'Purgatory' - the transitional stage from his previous life of overwhelming fame, drugs and sex (After Hours) into this uncertain place of remorse, discovery and regret. A truly beautiful picture is painted, and it feels as cohesive as any project you'll see. The rewarding nature of his work is truly unique, you get out what you put in. Immerse yourself into his world, and you won't regret it. 10/10. Expand
  13. Jan 11, 2022
    10
    Digno. Um excelente álbum. Um verdadeiro hitmaker muito bom tá de parabens vale lembrar que foi esnobado pelo Grammy e agora tá aí esfregando na cara de todos eles
  14. Jan 11, 2022
    10
    I think here you’ll find peace. There are influences from all music genres you could ever imagine. Some of the transitions are kinda ridiculous, eg Best Friends/Is there someone else?/Starry eyes.
    The whole album is a concept of an idea and a project that still needs to achieve his total complexity, as Abel said, we’re in a new trilogy.
    As a XO, I can only bless him to make us part of that
    I think here you’ll find peace. There are influences from all music genres you could ever imagine. Some of the transitions are kinda ridiculous, eg Best Friends/Is there someone else?/Starry eyes.
    The whole album is a concept of an idea and a project that still needs to achieve his total complexity, as Abel said, we’re in a new trilogy.
    As a XO, I can only bless him to make us part of that incredible journey started from the House of Balloons and taking us to Heaven.
    I just simply evaluate that album the decade’s one, a truly masterpiece. Can’t wait to see what’s coming on.
    XO
    Expand
  15. Jan 11, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. another amazing album from the weeknd as always bringing out the best of the 80s. making us a bit reminiscent of the king of pop with quincy telling the story along with awesome jim is the only thing i can say Expand
  16. Jan 12, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. DAWN FM is so sonic and the sequence in it is so desirable. You just want to play the first song and you end up listening to the album over and over again. Abel out did himself on this. Listen to this with a fresh mind, this is not like any of his previous works. This is Dawn Fm. Expand
  17. Jan 12, 2022
    10
    Very enjoyable listen and my list of favourite Weeknd songs has been extended. I see people online complaining about the MJ influence… doesn’t mean it isn’t great music.
  18. Jan 13, 2022
    10
    My first opinion of this album was that every song did sound similar and there wasn't much variety. I originally listened with only one airpod in and while I was working. Although being a huge fan of the Weeknd, I decided to give it another shot and really listen to the lyrics. That changed everything for me. I do feel that the features from Tyler the Creator, Lil Wayne and Quincy JonesMy first opinion of this album was that every song did sound similar and there wasn't much variety. I originally listened with only one airpod in and while I was working. Although being a huge fan of the Weeknd, I decided to give it another shot and really listen to the lyrics. That changed everything for me. I do feel that the features from Tyler the Creator, Lil Wayne and Quincy Jones skit weren't really necessary and didn't add anything to the album. Jim Carrey as the radio DJ was genius though and added another layer to the Dawn FM radio theme he was going for. In fact, one of my favorite "songs" of the album is "Phantom Regret by Jim." This album takes me back to the Weeknd's early music and I've been hoping he'd tap into that emotion again. Well done Abel! Expand
  19. Jan 23, 2022
    9
    2022 begins with a shattering big bang. Thanks to The Weeknd and his fifth studio album "Dawn FM". A journey back in time to a radio pop station of the 80s and at the same time as far into the future as it gets.

    The Weeknd delivers - with excellent production, melodies and vocals. Probably his best, most positive and thoughtful album to date. And the best 80's style synth pop album
    2022 begins with a shattering big bang. Thanks to The Weeknd and his fifth studio album "Dawn FM". A journey back in time to a radio pop station of the 80s and at the same time as far into the future as it gets.

    The Weeknd delivers - with excellent production, melodies and vocals. Probably his best, most positive and thoughtful album to date. And the best 80's style synth pop album since the 80's itself. Almost perfect - 9 out of 10.

    My favorites:
    "Take My Breath"
    "Gasoline"
    "Less than Zero"
    "How Do I Make You Love Me?"
    "Out of Time"

    ~ Fürstenberg
    January 23, 2022
    Expand
  20. Jan 17, 2022
    9
    I cannot think of an artist today who is world building around his music/art as clearly and commercially effective as The Weeknd is right now.

    Abel is perfectly balanced in this project between concept album and commercial hit maker that I recall having several Pinky Floyd dark side of the moon flashbacks listening to it. Beautifully sung, incredibly produced, perfectly paced and
    I cannot think of an artist today who is world building around his music/art as clearly and commercially effective as The Weeknd is right now.

    Abel is perfectly balanced in this project between concept album and commercial hit maker that I recall having several Pinky Floyd dark side of the moon flashbacks listening to it.

    Beautifully sung, incredibly produced, perfectly paced and wonderfully unique in todays regurgitated and remade landscape. The Weeknd has knocked this completely out of the park in my view and completely cements himself as one of the very best creators of art (period) of this generation.
    Expand
  21. Jan 21, 2022
    5
    I was an early weeknd fan with his first album “house of balloons”, and then really enjoyed “BBTM” and was seduced with my dear melancholy, more than I though i d have, this last album just doesn’t clic with me. There is not a single song that touches me like they used to in house of balloons or MDM. And while I didn’t enjoy starboy much (too mainstream for me) at least they had someI was an early weeknd fan with his first album “house of balloons”, and then really enjoyed “BBTM” and was seduced with my dear melancholy, more than I though i d have, this last album just doesn’t clic with me. There is not a single song that touches me like they used to in house of balloons or MDM. And while I didn’t enjoy starboy much (too mainstream for me) at least they had some tracks that would get stuck in your head. I wish I fell in the majority and enjoyed this album more… I d say after hours was already much much better and enjoyable to listen to Expand
  22. Jan 28, 2022
    10
    His best album yet. An 80s nostalgic trip mixed with modern pop brining us a new take with an old sound
  23. Feb 1, 2022
    5
    Although it isn't a terrible album, I personally didn't care for it. Although The Weeknd is clearly very talented and the concept is nice, I didn't love it. 5 out of ten.
  24. Jan 28, 2022
    10
    The most amazing album I have ever experienced. I love every little part of every song, everything just makes sense. Thank you Abel!
  25. Jan 30, 2022
    9
    Truly a great album filled with hidden gems, no skips at all for me. My favorite is definitely "less than zero".
  26. Feb 4, 2022
    8
    The Weeknd ou Abel para os mais íntimos, se reinventa nesse último trabalho. Entregando um álbum refrescante, dinâmico, elegante, melancólico e profundo na medida certa.
    De certa forma se diferencia do seu antecessor, After Hours, mas mantém a essência dançante dos anos 80. Além disso, a presença do Jim Carrey como locutor deixa a experiência ainda mais imersiva do que poderíamos
    The Weeknd ou Abel para os mais íntimos, se reinventa nesse último trabalho. Entregando um álbum refrescante, dinâmico, elegante, melancólico e profundo na medida certa.
    De certa forma se diferencia do seu antecessor, After Hours, mas mantém a essência dançante dos anos 80. Além disso, a presença do Jim Carrey como locutor deixa a experiência ainda mais imersiva do que poderíamos imaginar.

    Meu top 5 faixas:
    Less Than Zero
    Gasoline
    Sacrifice
    Take My Breath
    Dawn Fm
    Expand
  27. Feb 8, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I love the fact that the album's themes and concepts consist of; self-reflection, guilt, regret, heartbreak and is also a follow-up to After Hours. Sacrifice, Gasoline, Out of Time and Take My Breath being the main highlights that stick out to me. I love the features of Tyler, The Creator, Swedish House Mafia, Quincy Jones and Jim Carey (the radio host of Dawn FM)... All in all, this is an absolutely AMAZING start to 2022 in terms of new album releases! Expand
  28. Mar 29, 2022
    9
    goodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgood
  29. Feb 19, 2022
    10
    Man...I love the way this is going, pleaseee more of this!! I really really really need it.
  30. Mar 4, 2023
    8
    the experience listening to this album is perfect, the weeknd is such a brilliant artist, but gasoline is a terible song
  31. Feb 26, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. “You have to be heaven to see heaven.” This album delivers an otherworldly experience that’s gradually sending you to heaven. Out of Time, Less Than Zero, Sacrifice are my tier 1 tracks. Tier 2 tracks include- Take My Breath, Is there Someone else, How do I Make You Love Me? This album makes me dance like there’s no tomorrow, meanwhile experiencing a sense of loneliness and introspection. Great production. Even though it sounds like 80s music, but 80s music can’t deliver punchy bass, clear synths, and nuanced vocal like Dawn Fm- simply because music technology back then didn’t allow. To sum up, this is probably my favorite album of all time, close to Random Access Memories. Expand
  32. Mar 4, 2022
    10
    The songs on this were amazing and his vocals are amazing as usual and the song transitions were magnificent
  33. Mar 16, 2022
    10
    Great album from start to finish. Only been listening to his single tracks since Starboy but haven't given attention on his full album until now. The tracks are cohesive and the production is HUGE. Been enjoying it since January.
  34. Mar 18, 2022
    10
    Great!! Absolutely amazing album. Love the retro R&B music, he brought 80s back. Much love to this album.
  35. Jul 29, 2022
    10
    i know many people wont agree with me but ig this album is better than any album dropped this year. His voice , vocals everything is just perfect on this record . And imo dawn fm is better than after hours. When i first heard this album i was like ok and its an amazing album but afterr hours was better etc etc. But after sometime idk how i found myself loving this album moer than any
  36. Mar 22, 2022
    8
    The Weeknd delivered an excellent album to start out 2022. The listening experience was excellent and the songs are bangers as usual. I am starting to get tired of the continual 80's theme, though. I was hoping for more creativity, but overall I enjoyed this album. Lil Wayne needs to retire.
  37. Apr 2, 2022
    9
    This album is Great!, I'm actually mind-blown by the transitions in the song, Some of my favourites are, Take my breath, sacrifice, out of time, Here we go again and less than zero, Great continuation from after hours, if the weeknd keeps up like this, i'm telling my kids about him when they get old enough
  38. Apr 6, 2022
    8
    De primeiro impacto foi surpreendente, muito bem feito, mas a sonoridade com o tempo parece uma só, como se todas as músicas se resumissem a uma, e acaba perdendo a sensação da primeira vez, mas não deixa de ser muito bem elaborado!
  39. Apr 8, 2022
    10
    Me gustó mucho este álbum con una renovación musical de the weeknd, esto se escucha de principio a fin.
  40. Apr 15, 2022
    0
    super dynamically sounding album from Abel and Jim Carrey. The meaning of this album is super interesting as its a very dark follow up to After Hours
  41. May 5, 2022
    10
    Junto con Starboy y After Hours, este trae toda una influencia con relacion a R&B y musica electronica, algo de debo de aclarar es que pudo haber estado mejor si tuviera algo de rap pr el estilo
  42. May 11, 2022
    10
    Abel is a f****** genius, the successor of Michael Jackson, no doubt. Dawn FM doesn't have a smash hit, but it's the best the weekend album.
  43. Jul 8, 2023
    10
    It is without a doubt The Weeknd's best work to date. An album full of emotions in each song. A very nice and striking narrative interludes, to fit each part of this album into a masterpiece.
  44. May 20, 2022
    10
    Sem dúvidas o melhor projeto da carreira do The Weeknd (abel) até então. A composição vai contando uma história durante o álbum inteiro enquanto se encontra em um estado de purgatório esperando a luz do fim do túnel. a sonoridade é incrível, produção excelente, uma experiência única!
  45. Jan 8, 2023
    10
    Wonderful, perfect and brilant, the weekend can be amazing in this era aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
  46. May 31, 2022
    10
    O ano mal tinha começado e The Weeknd já entregou o ano todo.
    Todas as faixas são maravilhosas, as melodias, transições entre as faixas. Tudo maravilhoso
  47. Jun 10, 2022
    9
    80s Lovers, this is it!
    Strongly recommended to listen the whole album while driving a car by night.
  48. Jul 16, 2022
    8
    Dawn FM is a great comeback album of The Weeknd, songs on the album are really good. Why I gave this album an 8? Album includes "A Tale By Quincy", " Every Angel Is Terrifying" and "Phantom Regret By Jim". This tracks aren't actually a songs. In some of this tracks someone is just telling a story or else. I'm not hating the album, it is really good but If I could make a decision about theDawn FM is a great comeback album of The Weeknd, songs on the album are really good. Why I gave this album an 8? Album includes "A Tale By Quincy", " Every Angel Is Terrifying" and "Phantom Regret By Jim". This tracks aren't actually a songs. In some of this tracks someone is just telling a story or else. I'm not hating the album, it is really good but If I could make a decision about the tracks, I would just delete it from the album. Please don't hate me, it's just my opinion, if you think differently, that's ok. Expand
  49. Oct 17, 2022
    8
    Dawn FM brings one of the concepts never done before, of emulating an FM radio, and at the beginning of the album I was convinced that this album would be perfect, with tracks like "gasoline", "sacrifice" and "out of time" simply holding me and making me addicted and wanting to listen to them again, but after a while, right after the track "best friends" the album lost some of its essenceDawn FM brings one of the concepts never done before, of emulating an FM radio, and at the beginning of the album I was convinced that this album would be perfect, with tracks like "gasoline", "sacrifice" and "out of time" simply holding me and making me addicted and wanting to listen to them again, but after a while, right after the track "best friends" the album lost some of its essence and felt unfinished, some tracks after "best friends" are still ok, but no they are amazing just like the initials, this was my 4th favorite album of the year, but it left me a little disappointed in the end Expand
  50. Aug 6, 2022
    10
    Very nice idea with the radio type of album stuff with seamless transitions when you listen to the album from start to end but even without it this album is one of my faves with songs like Less Than Zero, Don't Break My Heart, How Do I Make You Love Me? and others.
  51. Aug 8, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dawn FM is a masterful album if ever I've heard one. Since Abel confirmed/posted that we're in the midsts of a new trilogy it has made people dissect and analyse his previous albums especially this one. In After Hours, our main character, 'The Protagonist' as Abel Tesfaye refers to him as - dies in Until I Bleed Out, basically OD'ing AGAIN because he cannot live without the loss of his loved one so this time he kind of does it with the intention to kill himself because he feels it would be better to die and with no recollection than live with the painful and neverending love for her that only has and will result in loss.
    After this our protagonist has entered purgatory, the state of suffering inhabited by sinners who must be forgiven of their acts and free of regret before entering heaven. We see him continuously regretting things throughout this album, signifying his growth, yes, but in order to enter heaven he must be cleansed of all this regret, so I guess we'll see in his next album whether he makes it to hell or heaven or is eternally stuck in purgatory. The style Abel is going for in these tracks, with the 80's synths, beats and smooth production is nothing short of masterful and fascinating, once again his vocal performance on each and every track is phenomenal. It's definitely a grower, first listen it wasn't my type of jam but after my second and continuous listens I realised just how lucky we are to have an album like this, someone who cares about music with such a deep passion and executes that passion so perfectly is just *chef kiss*.
    The only problem I necessarily had with this album was the features- Lil Wayne and Tyler the Creator, they didn't add anything to the tracks and they would have definitely been an S tier without that interference but that's all I can fault about it. 10/10A literal experience and even though this phrase is so loosely used for albums these days I have to say it... classic.
    Expand
  52. Aug 10, 2022
    9
    It's a masterpiece. It's very conceptual and very artistic. The concept is incredible, it's a real story and full of interpretation. Love it
  53. Aug 20, 2022
    10
    Diferent of other abel's albuns, Dawn FM is a whole experience, it sounds soo good with the idea of radio in album and really hypinotizes the listener. Congrats for taken us for you universe The Weekend, we love it
  54. Sep 1, 2022
    10
    Unlike other albums I love, (1) I've been listening to this one over and over for months now, and I'm still not tired of it, and (2) there's not a single song on the record that I don't love. It's everything I want in a record: catchy melodies that have musical depth and diversity within both the songs themselves and individually from track to track, as well as lyrics that aren't trying toUnlike other albums I love, (1) I've been listening to this one over and over for months now, and I'm still not tired of it, and (2) there's not a single song on the record that I don't love. It's everything I want in a record: catchy melodies that have musical depth and diversity within both the songs themselves and individually from track to track, as well as lyrics that aren't trying to push some form of social justice garbage down my throat. Only real bummer are the features on the album: they're absolutely horrible compared to The Weeknd's own performance, I really don't understand how they made it onto this record. Overall, the album is literally musical crack. I don't know how he does it. Expand
  55. Sep 2, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Como siempre The Weeknd un 10, álbum diferente que te transmite muchas cosas Expand
  56. Sep 4, 2022
    7
    Was expecting a lot worse. Some of the song progressions get to be predictable since its pop but the songs are not so bad that they can't be listened to.
  57. Nov 23, 2022
    10
    a genialidade do the weeknd simplesmente me choca, o maior artista pop da atualidade falo sem medo, aoty!!
  58. Oct 21, 2022
    10
    The Weeknd’s music makes me miss people I stopped missing. Gives me nostalgia from some of the best times in my life which is a beautiful feeling but a sad one. So while his music makes me feel like I haven’t moved on, I know I have. And also gives me hope. His music inspired so much ambivalence inside myself. I love it. Been a fan for years. Easily my favorite artist. I'd love more thanThe Weeknd’s music makes me miss people I stopped missing. Gives me nostalgia from some of the best times in my life which is a beautiful feeling but a sad one. So while his music makes me feel like I haven’t moved on, I know I have. And also gives me hope. His music inspired so much ambivalence inside myself. I love it. Been a fan for years. Easily my favorite artist. I'd love more than anything to make a song with this man some day. Expand
  59. Nov 4, 2022
    9
    Incredible yet simple concept, great "storytelling" from Jim Carrey, amazing vocals from Abel, mastered the 80s style, amazing skits/interludes, amazing pacing, and insanely consisted. As a whole an amazing and sweet experience. One of my favorite albums this year!
  60. Nov 8, 2022
    9
    Good. Interesting melodic experience. Starts strong: (Gasoline, How Do I Make You Love Me, Take My Breath, Sacrifice - 10/10s). The idea of the radio station makes you engaged towards the hole end.
    Upd: Wait, that was Jim Carrey :0?
  61. Nov 25, 2022
    8
    This is a great album but not as good as after hours in my opinion still I would check out
  62. Dec 27, 2022
    9
    An exceptional album from one of the greatest hit makers of all time. Dawn FM is sprawling with club bangers and a perfectly executed concept. This is a must listen.
  63. Jan 2, 2023
    10
    Dawn FM is a very well executed album, from the beginning it fulfills its purpose, a radio station while we wait to finish the tunnel where we are. The impeccable transitions and very special guests who enhance this work.
  64. Apr 16, 2023
    9
    Beautifully haunting is the best way to describe the album. What a great concept, a radio station that gives us 80's music while we are transitioning to the afterlife. It's not a 10 because this album has weak moments such as here we go again and best friends where the atmosphere of the album gets lost for a bit. My favorite tracks on this record are Gasoline, Out Of Time and Less ThanBeautifully haunting is the best way to describe the album. What a great concept, a radio station that gives us 80's music while we are transitioning to the afterlife. It's not a 10 because this album has weak moments such as here we go again and best friends where the atmosphere of the album gets lost for a bit. My favorite tracks on this record are Gasoline, Out Of Time and Less Than Zero. 8.8 out of 10. Expand
  65. Apr 30, 2023
    10
    Just an amazing album.Whole radio thing was brilliant.Great vocals from weeknd
Metascore
88

Universal acclaim - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
  1. Jan 24, 2022
    80
    It's invigorating, vulnerable and, at times, uncomfortably raw.
  2. Jan 18, 2022
    80
    Musically, Dawn FM mirrors Tesfaye’s disquiet, its buffed electronic sheen ruptured by moments of discord, as when ballad Starry Eyes teeters on the brink of implosion. It’s a state that Tesfaye seems to relish, with often stunning results.
  3. Jan 14, 2022
    76
    The Canadian megastar avoids the pitfalls of cheap, nostalgia bait by earnestly repurposing and breathing life into deep cuts from a bygone era.