The Weeknd -- "House Of Balloons / Glass Table Girls"

The Weeknd (Toronto-based R&B singer Abel Tesfaye) released a mixtape entitled House Of Balloons last Monday to respected critical acclaim. However, being associated with Drake, I was a little hesitant to give The Weeknd's mixtape a listen, but man was I wrong. Put best by a youtube commenter, after hearing this mixtape "my ear wants a cigarette." House Of Balloons doesn't make the ear want a cigarette in a bad way (i.e. to look cool), but rather a cigarette break for the ear. House Of Balloons and this song in particular, is just amazingly euphoric, but yet pulsing. Imagine snorting coke and then partying for what feels like an eternity at the most amazing club in the world. That's kinda the image I conjured in my head. The point in the middle of "House Of Balloons / Glass Table Girls" when the beat switches to a darker, more ominous atmosphere, really hits the mark on what I am talking about. I highly suggest House Of Balloons not just because it's good, but also because it is just so unique and fresh. I have read a few people compare this to the XX's debut album in how distinct this record sounds. Given this mixtape gains more exposure, I think it may possibly become one of the most discussed albums of the year (bold, I know).

-- Greg