The Weeknd - After Hours (2LP) - Clear w/ Red Splatter Vinyl

The Weeknd's latest chapter via XO/Republic Records, After Hours, features global hits like "Heartless" and "Blinding Lights". Filtering R&B, pop, and hip-hop through an ambitious widescreen lens, quietly took over popular music and culture on his own terms. As a result, the multi-platinum two-time GRAMMY® Award winner has emerged as one of the most successful and significant artists of the 21st century. Limited Edition double LP set pressed on Clear W/ Red Splatter Vinyl.

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"After Hours," released on March 20, 2020, is The Weeknd's fourth studio album, and it marks a significant moment in his career. The album was met with widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying The Weeknd's status as a leading figure in contemporary music.

One of the most striking aspects of "After Hours" is its cohesive narrative and aesthetic. The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, takes listeners on a journey through themes of heartbreak, excess, and redemption, all wrapped in a moody, synth-heavy soundscape that draws heavily from 1980s pop and R&B influences. The album's production is lush and cinematic, with contributions from a range of producers including Max Martin, Metro Boomin, and Illangelo, who have helped craft a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

The lead single, "Blinding Lights," became a cultural phenomenon, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the most successful songs of 2020. Its infectious melody and driving beat, reminiscent of 80s synth-pop, captured the attention of listeners across the globe. The song's success was further cemented by its viral presence on platforms like TikTok, where it inspired countless dance challenges and memes.

Another standout track is "Heartless," which showcases The Weeknd's ability to blend introspective lyrics with catchy hooks. The song delves into themes of hedonism and emotional turmoil, a recurring motif throughout the album. "In Your Eyes" and "Save Your Tears" are also highlights, each offering a unique blend of melancholy and pop sensibility that has become a signature of The Weeknd's music.

Critically, "After Hours" was praised for its cohesive vision and Tesfaye's vocal performance. Major publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork lauded the album for its production quality and thematic depth. The album's ability to balance mainstream appeal with artistic integrity was a common point of praise among reviewers.

Despite its critical acclaim and commercial success, "After Hours" was notably snubbed at the 2021 Grammy Awards, receiving no nominations. This omission sparked widespread controversy and discussions about the transparency and fairness of the Grammy nomination process. The Weeknd himself expressed his disappointment and called for more transparency in the awards process.

Beyond its musical achievements, "After Hours" also had a significant cultural impact. The album's visual aesthetic, characterized by The Weeknd's red suit and bandaged face, became iconic. This imagery was used extensively in music videos and live performances, including his memorable halftime show at the Super Bowl LV, which further cemented the album's place in pop culture.

In conclusion, "After Hours" is a masterful work that showcases The Weeknd's evolution as an artist. Its blend of introspective lyrics, innovative production, and cultural resonance make it a standout album in his discography. Despite the Grammy snub, "After Hours" remains a testament to The Weeknd's artistry and his ability to captivate audiences worldwide.