Album Review: Dawn FM

“Dawn FM,” the fifth studio album from Canadian pop star The Weeknd, is a synth-filled dance-pop record that explores multiple ideas both musically and conceptually. Although still bound by the restraints of industry-friendly decisions, The Weeknd, real name Abel Tesfaye, still manages to create an interesting and worthwhile collection of songs.  

“Dawn FM” is a conceptual album, although it does not lean into its story creation as much as it could. This doesn’t belittle the record in any way, but instead, “Dawn FM” serves as a well-made introduction to conceptual albums for fans of more easy listening albums. With narration from actor Jim Carrey and features from Tyler, The Creator and Lil Wayne, Tesfaye creates an interesting narrative to juxtapose the high energy, fun-loving music. The atmosphere Tesfaye creates makes listeners feel like they’re listening to a 1980s R&B radio station.  

While “Dawn FM” is not the most groundbreaking, revolutionary album released in today’s music scene, but not every record needs to be. This album serves a great purpose, which is fun music that tells a story that allows listeners to dive deeper without losing its commercial appeal, which is something Tesfaye has done often throughout his entire career. “Dawn FM” sets a good standard for the quality of albums to be released in 2022.