The Weeknd shows his more aggressive side on “Party Monster,” one of the final singles released ahead of his highly anticipated album, ‘Starboy.’

Ahead of his third studio album, Starboy, The Weeknd released four singles.  “Starboy” arrived first, followed by the intriguing, if less successful “False Alarm”. A week prior to the release of Starboy, the Canadian R&B musician dropped two more songs: “I Feel It Coming” and “Party Monster.” Of the two new singles, “Party Monster” is the most aggressive.

“Party Monster” opens in a minor key. It has an enigmatic, dark, and, dirty sound. The Weeknd singing an intro, which ultimately ends up being the bridge:

“I’m good, I’m good, I’m great
Know it’s been a while, now I’m mixing up the drink
I just need a girl who gone really understand…”

The title suggests this is a club track. The aforementioned bridge confirms such, with the first verse referencing the pole, drinks, and sex. The Weeknd is no stranger to singing about strippers: “And I’ve seen her get richer on the pole.” “Party Monster” features a catchy hook, which surprisingly eschews profanity:

“I’m like, got up, thank the lord for the day
Woke up by a girl, I don’t even know her name
Woke up by a girl, I don’t even know her name
(Woke up by a girl, I don’t even know her name)
Got up, thank the lord for the day.”

 The second verse mentions popping pills and sex.  First, The Weeknd asserts:  “I’ve been poppin’, just took three in a row / I’m down to do it again, I’m on a roll.” Later he’s cocky – literally – about his performance: “I’m the realest, she said I’m the realest / Head be genius, dick game be the meanest.” The third verse is a variation on the hook:

“Got up, thank the lord for the day
Woke up by a girl, I don’t even know here name
Bitches in my new spot, crowdin’ up my space
Had to check the safe, check the dresser for my chains…”

Final Thoughts

“Party Monster” gives The Weeknd another potential hit.  Interestingly, it’s tamer than past singles by The Weeknd, but still packs a punch. Overall it’s well produced with The Weeknd sounding as consistent as ever.

The Weeknd • Starboy • Republic • Release: 11.25.16

Photo Credit: Republic