The Weeknd released his fifth studio record, Dawn FMIt was released Friday, January 7, 2013. It’s an amazing listen. The record is an eclectic yet cohesive collection of slick, macabre dance pop—narrated, interestingly, by actor Jim Carrey.
The album’s cover is equally interesting. The Weeknd is pictured on the cover wearing makeup and prosthetics that make him look 40 years old. His hair is gray and he has liver spots. His skin is wrinkled and withered. Check out the below image to see how it looks.
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What is The Weeknd’s inspiration? The Weeknd has not explained the details, but there are some nuggets on his album that may give clues. Voice-overs from Carrey confirm much of this album is about death—seeing a light at the end of your time on earth and walking toward it. The Weeknd may be presenting himself at the end by using this album cover.
“You’ve been in the dark for way too long / It’s time to walk into the light / And accept your fate with open arms / Scared? Don’t worry / We’ll be there to hold your hand and guide you through this painless transition,” Carrey says at the end of the album’s title track.
On another song, “Out of Time”—an apt title for this theme—Carrey says, “Because, like the song says, you are out of time / You’re almost there, but don’t panic / There’s still more music to come / Before you’re completely engulfed in the blissful embrace of that little light you see in the distance / Soon you’ll be healed, forgiven, and refreshed / Free from all trauma, pain, guilt, and shame.”
By the end of the album, on a track called “Phantom Regret by Jim,” the “light” is no longer in the distance. It is the end of an era. “When you’re all out of time, there’s nothing but space / No hunting, no gathering, no nations, no race,” Carrey says. “And heaven is closer than those tears on your face. When the purple rain falls, we’re all bathed in its grace.”
This record clearly shows that The Weeknd thinks a lot on death and mortality. Naturally, that comes with thinking about your age. The cover of Dawn FMIt reflects that.
His followers followed his example After HoursThe Weeknd was seen with bloody bandages covering his face to communicate a message. It seems that the artist has another concept album in mind. It’s very enjoyable to dance to. You can stream it here.
Source: Glamour
