Canadians (Toronto specifically) Abel Tesfaye (vocals), Doc McKinney (producer), and Illangelo (producer) have spawned something truly special here. Our friend James over at ooh Brilliant said it best, “Every so often something of such immeasurable immense musical brilliance pops up and changes everything.” Over the past couple of months The Weeknd have been championed by DJs (of all genres), taste makers, music PR folks, fellow bloggers, and of course Kanye West. “House of Balloons” mass appeal is it’s special sauce. The central nervous system is Tesfaye’s vocals which may not sound unique on their own but….it’s how they float over the top of the dubstep, trip-hop, hip-hop, pop, and R&B inspired electronic beats is what makes the release so irresistible.
Here’s Joy Orbison heating up the already blistering desert temperature with our personal favorite, “The Morning” at Coachella last weekend. Beautiful selection for the intro to his set.
Give it a listen, download, and enjoy for free. Good luck taking this off repeat for a couple of days.
The Weeknd – House Of Balloons
While you’re at it, check out these narcotic infused ‘chopped and screwed’ versions here and here.
