Dawn FM
by The Weeknd
  • Record Label: Republic
  • Release Date: Jan 7, 2022
User Score
8.9

Universal acclaim- based on 1131 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,029 out of 1131
  2. Mixed: 43 out of 1131
  3. Negative: 59 out of 1131
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  1. shauryaizm03
    Jan 12, 2022
    10
    in one word, simply mesmerizing, Abel's ability to create a cinematic universe through his music is nonparallel, no other singer could ever achieve this, he makes music seem like a movie, his dystopian retro themes are flawless and he has already become a legend.
  2. Jummel47
    Jan 12, 2022
    9
    My favorite project by The Weeknd since House of Balloons / Thursday. I’ll cherish this albums sound for a very long time. It’s not quite a 10 though, but real close. Can’t wait to see the third part of the trilogy, but for now I’ve got something to enjoy for a while.
  3. Amruk
    Jan 12, 2022
    8
    The album starts with a titular intro track with an ambient and electropop instrumentation reminiscent of C418 Minecraft score and vocorecorded vocals. The next track, "Gasoline", starts on kind of similar note, but later turns into something more The Weeknd- or even Mr.Kitty-esque, especially with this drum machine work and altered vocals. This track is okay, but sounds a littleThe album starts with a titular intro track with an ambient and electropop instrumentation reminiscent of C418 Minecraft score and vocorecorded vocals. The next track, "Gasoline", starts on kind of similar note, but later turns into something more The Weeknd- or even Mr.Kitty-esque, especially with this drum machine work and altered vocals. This track is okay, but sounds a little streached-out even though it is 3:30 minutes long, and it features some cool production touches at the end. "How Do I Make You Love Me?" is less alternative, featuring more "natural" vocals and really dope transitions! At the end we are jumping to GTA V music, not Minecraft, and a cool sugue into "Take My Breath"! A song with a beautiful synth melody taken straight from the 80's! It is sucha cool track with a gorgeous vocal delivery and the album version is even more impress than earlier released version of it, with a really dope intro! "Sacrifise" sounds like a turn backwards after "Take My Breath", it's really similar to its predecessor, however those "my-ah"'s are really cool, but at the great scale of things it is just another the Weeknd song. But still pretty okay.
    "A Tale by Quincy" sounds like a fusion of "Leave the Door Open" and "Dick in a Box" musically to me. Cool that the Weeknd brought sucha legendary producer to his album to just tell a story - cute! "Out of Time" sounds like a little bit stripped-down and jazzier version of "I Feel it Coming" he did with Daft Punk for Starboy. "Here We Go...Again" takes us even earlier than the previous songs, even though it has synths but its instrumentation will be a good suit even in 60's! To be honest this whole song sounds "suiting" for me, everything fits here so well, but it is kinda retread of Silk Sonic. "Best Friends" is groovy but besides that it really feels like an album filler. However it contains a cool transition into the next track - "Is There Something Else?" - which starts with a high-pitched vocals reminiscent of 00's dance scene. Even though it is another song I would call "groovy", I would not reffer to it as an album filler because it has a really interesting texture. It also sugues into the following track - wow! Did not notice it even, so clean and smooth! Maybe this is this way, hence "Starry Eyes" is some kind of retread of the preceeding song.
    "Every Angel is Terrifying" gets us back to the first third of the album, more inspired by the music of the video games and Mr.Kitty. It also sugues well into "Don't Break My Heart" which is more reserved than the rest of the album, more sweet. "I Heard You're Married" is an okay track, another album filler if you will. Lil Wayne's verse is passable at best. In "Less Than Zero" we can finally hear some guitar strings and light-heartness! The final track serves as an outro, and like every other spoken track, this one takes some stylistic inspirations from Latin music.
    In conclusion, the three-act Dawn FM is a really good concept album, well developed, but like some songs could be simply cut or some parts of others. Not every song is like "Take My Breath" and can stay great on every 5 minutes of it.    … Expand
  4. FruitPolo
    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.
  5. MetFRekS
    Jan 12, 2022
    10
    This album is just perfect, no words, just emotions. I love all his music, i wanna say thanks to the weeknd, for creating this album.
  6. Sahibbassey
    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
  7. Klamar
    Jan 12, 2022
    10
    His best work since Trilogy. Faultless production and great vocals. Every synth/disco beat is done perfectly. If MJ was born later, this is the kind of album he'd be making right now. Less Than Zero, Sacrifice and HDIMYLM are stand out tracks. I predict this as the best album of 2022.
  8. Mikedv
    Jan 12, 2022
    10
    Just an amazing experience! The Weeknd is becoming the new Michael Jackson. Enjoy the ride.
  9. ladyjopita
    Jan 11, 2022
    10
    The album is very impressive and wonderfully nostalgic! This is the first radio-inspired album I've ever heard, the concept is absolutely unique. This is the first best album of 2022.
  10. Luiz007
    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
  11. GianlucaBenfe
    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
  12. EuphoriaVibe
    Jan 11, 2022
    3
    What a disappointment after the incredibly impactful “After Hours.” The album, outside of 2-3 tracks, is just boring. Songs all sound the same and never reach any kind of peak. There is no real vibe or emotion to feel when listening to these tracks. It’s not party enough to be a feel good fun album. Not emotional enough to make you reflect. It just kind of is there. A weak, monotonousWhat a disappointment after the incredibly impactful “After Hours.” The album, outside of 2-3 tracks, is just boring. Songs all sound the same and never reach any kind of peak. There is no real vibe or emotion to feel when listening to these tracks. It’s not party enough to be a feel good fun album. Not emotional enough to make you reflect. It just kind of is there. A weak, monotonous effort overall. Just add the small handful of songs you like to your library and dump the rest because it’s mostly filler.… Expand
  13. JeffRson
    Jan 11, 2022
    10
    The album is great. It may not change the face of music - I don't feel hear any massive hit in it - but it doesn't take itself seriously neither. The album is easy to listen, very coherent and polished. The transition are very funny and the sound's post production is mind blowing. It feels like playing GTA Vice City and listening to the radio. The entire album sounds is retro wave and theThe album is great. It may not change the face of music - I don't feel hear any massive hit in it - but it doesn't take itself seriously neither. The album is easy to listen, very coherent and polished. The transition are very funny and the sound's post production is mind blowing. It feels like playing GTA Vice City and listening to the radio. The entire album sounds is retro wave and the vocals are brilliant. I keep listening on repeat. A great album to get a good vibe.… Expand
  14. idracula42
    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
  15. JDGrphcs
    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
  16. teklay
    Jan 11, 2022
    10
    This album is so amazing that you keep listening and keep fall in love with (as always),but it different sound for him and for me to.The production,the voice, hope full lyrics just wow.XOTWOD
  17. Minhyuk102
    Jan 7, 2022
    10
    His album cures my heart and ears..! Out of time and less than zero is legendary. I love its concept and level of completion. It will be my favorite album of weeknd
    His voice, his lyrics is totally amazing. And some skits and narrations was good. I hope you guys to listen to DAWN FM and enjoy it. Thanks weeknd
  18. Nachota4
    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
  19. kavelate
    Jan 11, 2022
    10
    Felt like an 80's dystopian sci-fi mystery thriller movie. The radio elements are honestly my favourite from this album. Jim Carrey did his thing, his choice of words was beautiful and freaky. The commercial in "Every angel is terrifying" was a nice touch, loved it. The production is amazing, unsurprisingly, I mean it's The Weeknd album, the production, mixing, and the vocals will be onFelt like an 80's dystopian sci-fi mystery thriller movie. The radio elements are honestly my favourite from this album. Jim Carrey did his thing, his choice of words was beautiful and freaky. The commercial in "Every angel is terrifying" was a nice touch, loved it. The production is amazing, unsurprisingly, I mean it's The Weeknd album, the production, mixing, and the vocals will be on point, as always. Not really crazy about the features, felt like it was unnecessary to be honest. I hope this will be the last 80's synth inspired dance pop album form The Weeknd, I think he can do a different style in his next chapter, something very new and refreshing. I know he will find a way to it, he's always the standard in pop music. Overall, Dawn FM is a brilliant radio themed album, with great cryptic story. From the start to the end, it was a mesmerizing journey.… Expand
  20. b4rt
    Jan 11, 2022
    9
    maybe the most incredible and complete album of Abel which embodies well-valued voices with experimentation and the will to increase their skills more and more and, therefore, to release an album very different from its previous ones.
  21. zuzqqa
    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
  22. DarkTrilogyXO
    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
  23. bl_nk
    Jan 10, 2022
    8
    This is a good album, if a tiny bit overrated.

    In many ways, this is his mid-life crisis record. He's in his early thirties and death is on his mind. His priorities seem to have changed from his earlier efforts. He's searching for some sort of future. Throughout the album, the narrator, an ethereal radio host voiced by Jim Carrey, seems to be guiding you towards a purgatorial state.    This is a good album, if a tiny bit overrated.

    In many ways, this is his mid-life crisis record. He's in his early thirties and death is on his mind. His priorities seem to have changed from his earlier efforts. He's searching for some sort of future. Throughout the album, the narrator, an ethereal radio host voiced by Jim Carrey, seems to be guiding you towards a purgatorial state. Even the cover drips with morbidity.

    While After Hours was more thematically cohesive, this album is more sonically cohesive. From a production standpoint, The Weeknd completely nails the aesthetic he was going for. It's pure 80's synth pop that wouldn't sound out of place as a radio station in GTA: Vice City.

    My only issue, is while the production is excellent across the board, some of the hooks fell flat for me. There's a lot of skips, but it's still technically excellent. Lots of the tracks I didn't care for were other peoples' favorites

    Worth a listen, especially for 80's fans    … Expand
  24. l3incey
    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.
  25. drj98
    Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Probably one of his best works. Love to see him evolve as an artist and make new highs
  26. Robertsoa
    Jan 10, 2022
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Pra mim The weekend está desde o After Hours lançando o mesmo álbum, mesmos singles… As música do novo álbum estão todas soando igual, a mesma imagem, ele não preocupou em se reinventar, pegou os descartes do álbum passado e resolveu lançar mais um álbum de estúdio, de qualquer forma, qualquer jeito!… Expand
  27. Alisson92335235
    Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece! Brilliant! Perfect!
    Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
  28. Itsnotjose01
    Jan 10, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Album was so beautiful I won’t lie I want a deluxe album, but it’s amazing and the live event on Amazon was great also . Just feels like you are dreaming when you hear out of time .❤️… Expand
  29. MishalN
    Jan 10, 2022
    1
    I think he can do better than that, the best thing in this album is the transition and the song “ take my breath “ the rest are expected and similar to his previous album “ after hours “ , he just copy the 80s sound and just stuck in this sound, if you want to make music don’t repeat the past and do something different than the others , be unique
  30. LewisCourtney
    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.
  31. Carcot
    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.
  32. ISETAEME
    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.
  33. Fabri_canavero
    Jan 10, 2022
    8
    Estas muerto. Aún no se decide si vas a ir al paraíso o al inframundo. Sentado en la oscuridad del purgatorio, hay una emiosra de radio FM. Esta emisora emite música electrónica, con un intrumental muy similar a la música de los 80s, y una voz de locutor que intenta mantenerte calmo a la expectativa de qué ocurrirá al final.
    Esta es la premisa de DOWN FM. Un álbum muy conceptual donde The    Estas muerto. Aún no se decide si vas a ir al paraíso o al inframundo. Sentado en la oscuridad del purgatorio, hay una emiosra de radio FM. Esta emisora emite música electrónica, con un intrumental muy similar a la música de los 80s, y una voz de locutor que intenta mantenerte calmo a la expectativa de qué ocurrirá al final.
    Esta es la premisa de DOWN FM. Un álbum muy conceptual donde The Weeknd propone un contexto ficticio muy original para el álbum.
    La música es muy ELECTRO y la voz (autotuneada) de The Weeknd encaja correctamente con el ritmo, las notas y el tempo.
    Lo más valorable es que, para mantener la premisa hasta el final y que no olvides que estás en el purgatorio escuchando esta emisora, aparecen anuncios (como una pulp fiction llamada "After Life") e incluso hay voces y relatos de personas, como A Tale By Quincy, sobre un hombre que sufrió maltrato de una madre abusiva cuando pequeño y fue luego llevada a un psiquiatrico. Eventos traumáticos luego, hicieron que desarrollara un rechazo hacia las mujeres.
    El track final es esa voz que anuncia tu sentencia final, luego de haber disfrutado la música.

    The Weeknd nos lleva a un mundo aparte con DOWN FM. La música es muy pegadiza y se disfruta mucho.    … Expand
  34. Solseritneko
    Jan 10, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bro it is amaziiiing. … Expand
  35. DavidsoGerado
    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. ❤️❤️
  36. TheMusicNerd
    Jan 10, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I love the them of this album Also the production in this work is perfect, but after hours still his best work… Expand
  37. estherkabbalah8
    Jan 10, 2022
    10
    To be honest, there are some not-so-good tracks on this album but the entire experience of listening from start to finish is indeed rewarding and breathtaking.

    I loved Take My Breath and Out of Time. These songs will create history for sure. Few tracks such as Every Angel is Terrifying, Starry Eyes could have been replaced by Moth To A Flame, One Right now and the other song which he    To be honest, there are some not-so-good tracks on this album but the entire experience of listening from start to finish is indeed rewarding and breathtaking.

    I loved Take My Breath and Out of Time. These songs will create history for sure.

    Few tracks such as Every Angel is Terrifying, Starry Eyes could have been replaced by Moth To A Flame, One Right now and the other song which he did with Calvin Harris.

    The songs which are good are gold and that's what makes this album enjoyable.    … Expand
  38. victorhill12
    Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Work of Art. I loved this entire album. Fantastic experience.

    Congrats the weeknd.
  39. Buddysoysa
    Jan 10, 2022
    5
    It's a mid album. Repetitive. Half of the songs are short. His least favourite album. Feel like rushed
  40. RafayKhattak
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    Amazing album by The Weeknd. He has outdone himself again with the new 80s synth-pop genre. Great vocals and amazing delivery. Album of the year for sure.
  41. claudylaud
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    One of the best pop albums in our time. Every track is a bopper that flows beautifully in every transition; it feels like a whole song and by the end of the album, it kept me wanting more. Dawn FM is a solid album and the interjections weaved in captivates you as you feel like you’re listening to a legitimate radio station (Jim Carey’s voice fits perfectly and even the radio commercial?!One of the best pop albums in our time. Every track is a bopper that flows beautifully in every transition; it feels like a whole song and by the end of the album, it kept me wanting more. Dawn FM is a solid album and the interjections weaved in captivates you as you feel like you’re listening to a legitimate radio station (Jim Carey’s voice fits perfectly and even the radio commercial?! Why hasn’t anyone thought of this idea?) Abel’s musical ingenuity and creativity allows him to produce new and different sounds every album and Dawn FM is no exception. In fact, he brings the 80s back following the sounds of Blinding Lights - his best track to date. It wouldn’t be a surprise if his next biggest hit comes from this album. This man’s voice could literally be born in any era and still sound relevant and perfect. What a masterpiece.… Expand
  42. 11shaan123
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    This Album will Change this year and everyone will Enjoy this one. He always Saved his trumph card for later
  43. hossxo
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    Futuristic and 80s at the same time. The Attention to detail and the transitions on this album are impeccable. A complete piece of work. One of the best albums in this decade without a doubt.
  44. AlextasyOfMind
    Jan 9, 2022
    3
    Siento que se está sobrevalorando demasiado este album. Le daría menor puntuación …
  45. Dani3l
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    Perfeito e Impecável novamente The Weeknd chegou num nível
    Divino nesse disco
  46. PariSolunke
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    On my 3rd listen and I honestly believe this is even better than after hours. Love the concept and the execution in equal measure. No skips. And the outro Jim Carrey poem is my favourite thing ever.
  47. Lethalbro
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    It is a very good album, he just keeps on improving his music from album to album. This one is probably going to be one of his best albums, maybe his number 1 album, truthfully. Excellent albu
  48. England8
    Jan 9, 2022
    8
    Was really good, good pacing, great production even if some were similar to other tracks on the album. Lil Wayne was the worst part of the album that should have been cut. He’s not good for his feature and should really stick to rapping. Tyler was an odd feature but for the track he was on it suited him well. Heavenly tone to the album too was nice with the afterlife concept to the album.Was really good, good pacing, great production even if some were similar to other tracks on the album. Lil Wayne was the worst part of the album that should have been cut. He’s not good for his feature and should really stick to rapping. Tyler was an odd feature but for the track he was on it suited him well. Heavenly tone to the album too was nice with the afterlife concept to the album. Great vintage 80’s synths that were executed very well. :)… Expand
  49. Wavy_777
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    The first listen felt mid, but listening to it after a couple of times, soaking in the tracks individually, the album feels much more evolved compared to After Hours. Easily the best album of 2022 so far, I enjoyed the album immensely. Abel uses the proper drum machines of the time, utilizing the LinnDrum (popularized by 80s pop, and used to its max creative potential by Prince), andThe first listen felt mid, but listening to it after a couple of times, soaking in the tracks individually, the album feels much more evolved compared to After Hours. Easily the best album of 2022 so far, I enjoyed the album immensely. Abel uses the proper drum machines of the time, utilizing the LinnDrum (popularized by 80s pop, and used to its max creative potential by Prince), and giving us a modern Off The Wall sound.… Expand
  50. veljko_
    Jan 9, 2022
    7
    The Weeknd owns the 80s sound, good concept, dissapointing features and a few filler songs tho.

    best tracks: Take My Breath and Less Than Zero
    worst track: I Heard You're Married ft. Lil Wayne

    rating: 7.4
  51. Victortuga
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    Once again the best artist of our generation delivers one of his best albums up to date. The Dawn is finally here and it’s **** awesome!! XOTWOD. (I still prefer After Hours since it’s darker than this one)
  52. eliasstergiouu
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    "DAWN FM" is almost an hour of pure feeling. The Weeknd is the best artist the last 2 decades have to offer and this is shown in After Hours & Dawn FM. Get ready to dive into a purgatory & a radio-broadcasting concept with this album.
  53. Mave619
    Jan 9, 2022
    9
    flawless production, insane transitions, angelic vocals from abel.
    the concept is amazing,
  54. BunnyHop
    Jan 9, 2022
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I'm gonna start this with the fact I'm a fan of 80's synth music, vapourwave music and the weeknd but, this is not good let alone like how people are talking about it. Can you enjoy it? Yes but the ideas it display aren't done well especially in the lyrics, the production makes it not uncommon to think that your music is on shuffle or loop and there's albums much better. With similar ideas (DAMN. By Kendrick Lamar for life and death/reflecting on life and other weeknd albums for the other concepts [drugs, love, sex, etc...] for example) and production (anything by whitewoods, IGOR by Tyler, the creator some songs off swimming by Mac Miller)… Expand
  55. RodrigoBaiter
    Jan 9, 2022
    9
    Perfect.......................................................................
  56. ahailu0
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    The haters say The Weeknd always sounds the same, his fans want him to sound like his old stuff.

    Nevertheless, Dawn FM is one of the freshest, cleanest, boldest albums I have heard from a mainstream artist in a long time. The days of trilogy are long gone, xo. Music can bring people out of hard times. Look around everyone! The world has been in the dark too long! THE DAWN IS HERE! In    The haters say The Weeknd always sounds the same, his fans want him to sound like his old stuff.

    Nevertheless, Dawn FM is one of the freshest, cleanest, boldest albums I have heard from a mainstream artist in a long time. The days of trilogy are long gone, xo. Music can bring people out of hard times. Look around everyone! The world has been in the dark too long! THE DAWN IS HERE!

    In all seriousness The Weeknd has always been authentic with his music, this album is a reflection of that. If you wished for another dark album despite this, you are asking for dishonest work.

    Dawn FM is sure to be polarizing. It could be his most well received work or his most underappreciated. To me however, it is a masterpiece.    … Expand
  57. HenriArtPsycho
    Jan 9, 2022
    10
    What a great Album! A Psychadelic Trippy Dream Pop Synth Journey trough the Mind of Abel, "The Weeknd"!
  58. dboni1
    Jan 8, 2022
    6
    I appreciate what he's trying to do with the concept and I like the interludes. But the songs here just aren't his best. I don't see myself going back to the majority of these tracks. As a whole, it's just alright. But I wish he'd take more risks and switch up his sound a little more. These 80s synths start sounding the same after a while.
  59. kormakilla
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Artistic growth is the name of the game. Extremely strong, dazzling disco-pop record and will definitely be high on my year-end list.
  60. ankit123
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Amazing album, the concept made it 10x better with the great synths throughout the album. Definitely a must listen
  61. Elvisfox71125
    Jan 8, 2022
    6
    T'was okay. Star boy still da best doe. I can this becoming a staple of early 2020's music down da line. And that's on that on that on that.
  62. rayzonfire
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    It's an amazing experience to listen to the album from start to finish. Track transitions, vocals and the mix, it's all great!
  63. Hainguyen
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    10/10, this album is so amazing, all the song are consistant, the weeknd never disappoints us!
  64. Insalata2000
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    i don't know maybe is me but when i started first listening to him is like all the other artist become mediocre, i think he is the best male artist alive rn and no one can change my mind this album is just a mind blowing experience i love it.
  65. Stargirl_rafa
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Magnífico! Abel nos leva novamente aos anos 80 e a forma como Jim Carrey nos guia nessa viagem sonora é fascinante!
  66. rezaxo
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Great Album, he did it again
  67. Zieol
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Damn this album is incredible, I didn't expect that !!! TheWeeknd did a really good job !!
  68. Wanesta
    Jan 8, 2022
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Acting a bit like After Hours' little and more experimental sister, Dawn FM features a breathtaking production and an absolute stellar concept, driving down the highway around 4 am off to the soundtrack of random radio stations … but, most parts are total road-kill. Precisely, the entire first half of Dawn FM, and others. Thankfully, from Out of Time to the exquisite Starry Eyes, we are served with excellence that saves the face of Dawn FM, a rather hit or miss station.… Expand
  69. WallySouz
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    perfeitooooooo eu amei. não tem uma música ruim. esse álbum é uma viagem lindaaa. as transições são perfeitas, inpecáveis. a academia comeu poeira agora.
  70. Faboxy
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Most creative album from Abel!
    Not my favorite style of music but Abel makes it special!
  71. 2abol7ooz
    Jan 7, 2022
    10
    I was afraid it won't be as good as after hours, but it might be even better!!! Very nice melodies, good transition, the album continues the story of the weeknd in his journey with love, very nice 80s music, he nailed the radio thing, shifting between different types of music. Great lyrics, great beats, great album but most of all, great artist.
  72. FrogGorf
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    An absolutely surreal musical experience which gets better and better with every listen.
  73. askeeae
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    This is simply an amazing album. The Weeknd knew what he had to do and he delievered.
  74. Michael0510k
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Este nuevo álbum es son como la sangre no podemos vivir sin ella The Weeknd se supero con este nuevo Álbum la Era After Hours sigue en pie eso si
  75. champagnepapi_
    Jan 8, 2022
    8
    Good sound, good instrumentals, appropiate lenght. Very recommended album. The songs indivitually don't stand out as much as the ones from After hours or Starboy, but they work well together and the transitions from one song to another are very smooth. It's a good listen. Nothing mind blowing
  76. nnellyyxo
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    i love it omg , i’ve been expecting this album my favorite song at the moment is starry eyes
  77. BatmanIsLyfe
    Jan 8, 2022
    3
    I love The Weeknd but this album just isn’t it. I can’t think of a single track on this record that wouldn’t sound completely out of place on the radio. Once again, I am a huge fan, but it disappoints me that an album can receive so much hype despite the subject matter just because of the name that is attached. I presume the hype will die rather quickly though as there are no standoutI love The Weeknd but this album just isn’t it. I can’t think of a single track on this record that wouldn’t sound completely out of place on the radio. Once again, I am a huge fan, but it disappoints me that an album can receive so much hype despite the subject matter just because of the name that is attached. I presume the hype will die rather quickly though as there are no standout tracks or moments even on the album. Out of Time is the closest thing.

    The entire album feels like one run-on song consisting of boring arpeggios accompanied by ineffective soft pads that lazily repeat a pattern. I felt like I was listening to Abel sing over funky elevator music for most of the listen. The beats lack the variety and punch that we have grown accustomed to with The Weeknd. I understand it’s necessary to mix things up sometimes, but this album just drones on and never makes any statements musically, and just when you think it may, some stupid radio static and voice line interrupts.

    Lyrically the songs feel generic. Even my favorite, Out of Time, states things in such a literal way that it feels corny at times. The entire thing is a beckon to get Bella back again, but it feels like he ran out of things to say to her after After Hours. The radio concept made no sense whatsoever and didn’t even add to the efficacy of the music. I feel like someone decided it would be cool to have a radio themed album, so they just did it with no actual vision of how it would further express the album’s message. Altogether I just felt robbed of almost everything I expect from The Weeknd. The vocals were talented and clean as usual, I mean come on, it’s Abel. But the leads that grab your attention, the melodies that get stuck in your head, the mind-bending transitions, the cryptic lyricism that leaves a little room for interpretation; those are all missing from this album. Listen to Faith, that song alone contains more complexity and raw soul than the entirety of Dawn FM. I suppose eventually Abel had to release a *miss* album. He’s been killing it since Trilogy, but I really don’t see this album making waves where it truly counts: the listeners. Idk give it a month or two until the album is basically forgotten and people start anticipating the next.

    One positive is that the sexy R&B vibe actually really excited me at the beginning, but then it never really toon it anywhere. But after the initial excitement, the whole album is just a bunch of syncopated noise with very little variety.    … Expand
  78. a_clara
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Um dos melhores trabalhos do the weeknd até então, o álbum é perfeito do início ao fim, muito consistente com transições inacreditáveis de boas. Uma experiência única escutar esse álbum, o ouvinte tem uma imersão magnífica, a sensação de estar escutando o rádio enquanto aguarda chegar em seu destino final parece ser real. Uma sacada de gênio colocar o Jim Carrey para nos guiar durante essa viagem. Realmente um lindo álbum, com uma batida contagiante e letras um tanto quanto macabras, espetacular.… Expand
  79. TrevIMania
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A través de una gran catarsis (comenzada en After Hours)The Weeknd nos entrega una de las obras musicales más importantes de los ultimos años,el viaje hecho a partir de una estacion de radio a través del purgatorio nos da a entender que su camino hacia la luz esta más cerca que nunca.

    Con piezas musicales memorables como Less Than Zero,Sacrifice,Take My Breath,con grandes incorporaciones como el gran Quincy Jones,Jim Carrey como narrador,Tyler The Creator y Lin Wayne,definitivamente este album es el punto más alto en la carrera de Abel,un album perfecto.    … Expand
  80. DaNikeBoy23
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Indeed its not like after hours ,but still a unique experience for a ordinary listener.In my opinion its worth the time ,give it a chance .Many people turn a blind eye to the pioneering artists who try to make sth more creative and different .My first impression wasn't positive of course ,as i said give it chance and it shall be a treasure in our era.
  81. MyleeneFRW
    Jan 8, 2022
    8
    Сильный альбом, несколько филлеров, как по мне, особенно в конце.
  82. yazlara
    Jan 8, 2022
    2
    It was like hearing Take My Breath in different but similar fonts. Although kept his recurring theme of sex, hookup culture, and commitment issues through lyrics, the audios did not connect with the lyrics. The use of pop beats is a good approach from The Weeknd, but the lack of versatility is what made it predictable and hard to keep me entertained.
  83. Damodar_Zehnder
    Jan 8, 2022
    9
    I liked the vibe of this album as a whole. Didn't really like gasoline that much but everything else was fire nonetheless
  84. annazweeknd
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    apenas o melhor álbum de todos os tempos! cativante, magnífico, esplêndido. The Weeknd revolucionou.
  85. starlnder
    Jan 7, 2022
    10
    It´s a really interesting experience. While the concept of a radio station as an album isn´t new, this project manages to deliver a fresh new look at common Weeknd themes (sex, drugs, relationships) and also incorporates the same 80s formula from his previous record, but this time is way more refined, and shows a clearer path to his vision. A really nice experience from start to finish.
  86. Saberkh
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Thoroughly thought out album incredible production One of his best projects.
  87. mitsosk203
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    its a masterpeice by the weeknd who has an influence by the King of pop Michael Jackson
    But Abel Just evovles this music in to another level with synths of 80s with gernres of ours decade. The production the features and the concepts is absolute 10/10 and his angelic vocals.
    This album has the potential to be one of his Best with the transitions and the cohesion to be a part of the success    its a masterpeice by the weeknd who has an influence by the King of pop Michael Jackson
    But Abel Just evovles this music in to another level with synths of 80s with gernres of ours decade. The production the features and the concepts is absolute 10/10 and his angelic vocals.
    This album has the potential to be one of his Best with the transitions and the cohesion to be a part of the success and perfection of this album    … Expand
  88. luociaomsf
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Album magnífico, em cada faixa temos um hit diferente. As referências pop dos anos 80 é a melhor coisa que temos no Dawn FM, Abel iniciou 2022 com chave de ouro.
  89. xomaraj
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    AOTY within the first week of 2020. I loved the album it delivered and the livestream was a whole experience. His sound is unlike anyone else and the things he does like the “please” in Dont Break My Heart are pleasing to the ear. I think Jim Carey was the best addition, Tyler did fine but Lil Wayne wasn’t my favorite.
  90. tychim
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    He manages to exceed himself every single time. A masterpiece, you can feel the passion he puts into every detail and how dedicated he is. It’s always a wonderful experience listening to Abel’s work, he is amazing, splendid, a genius. He takes being an artist to a whole other level. I don’t even need to hear anything else to know it’s the album of the year. Just mind blowing.
  91. abelsgrl
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    abel's music is so timeless & heals my soul ❤️‍
  92. thefizz01
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    A masterpiece, lyrically and sonically and extension of After Hours’ success
  93. Kostakis1
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    It's not just an album. It's an experience. Highly recommended to everyone who wants to discover fresh music.
  94. xadarshz
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    The Weeknd stuns the world yet again and this time in a brilliant fashion. Dawn FM is only here to grow more and more on you. This might just turn out as his best work in a long run.
  95. devinnoonan
    Jan 8, 2022
    7
    First time I listened to this album I didn’t know what to think, I was very mixed and a lot of the songs didn’t land for me. After listening to the album another 5 to 6 times I can gladly say it has grown on me a lot. I don’t think it’s Abel's best work and it doesn't reach the heights of after hours but I can confidently say it’s a worth while experience and it deserves the hype and loveFirst time I listened to this album I didn’t know what to think, I was very mixed and a lot of the songs didn’t land for me. After listening to the album another 5 to 6 times I can gladly say it has grown on me a lot. I don’t think it’s Abel's best work and it doesn't reach the heights of after hours but I can confidently say it’s a worth while experience and it deserves the hype and love it’s deserving. 7/10… Expand
  96. meottijunior
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    É tão bom que você nem vê o tempo passar... Não consigo parar de ouvir! Obrigado, Abel!
  97. downjeth
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    The cohesion of this LP is so perfect! Love Jim Carrey's part of this album too. Each tracks were perfectly produced, it wasn't overproduced nor lacking in terms of production.
  98. dsuleymanov
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    This is the Weeknd at his absolute best. Every single song is a banger and there is no chill from the vibe. It's nearly an hour long and it feels too short, it's that incredible. This year started off to an incredible start, it's going to be incredibly difficult to top this masterpiece.
  99. michaeldokg
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    Que álbum perfeito, do inicio ao fim é uma experiência cinematográfica. Não é um After Hours, é melhor!!
    Se for escutar Dawn Fm, feche os olhos e esqueça o After Hours, pois esse album é bem diferente.
  100. HazardxAsh
    Jan 8, 2022
    10
    the flow and transitions between tracks are just chefs kiss. The production is as good or even better than after hours. a radio experience with having Jim Carrey as a host is like icing on the top. the way this album takes you on an adventure of after life is what it makes superior.
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Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Best Album of 2022
8
#8 Most Discussed Album of 2022

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
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. Resident Advisor
    Jan 24, 2022
    80
    It's invigorating, vulnerable and, at times, uncomfortably raw.
    Read full review
  2. The Observer (UK)
    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.
    Read full review
  3. HipHopDX
    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.
    Read full review
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