Though we don’t have a release date on The Weeknd’s upcoming debut album Kiss Land (Republic) as yet, the Toronto native and former OVOXO rep has released the title track jointly with the full version of the “John Carpenter” song he previewed at the start of this week. We expect Kiss Land to be one of the most talked about albums of the year across all genres, so here are our thoughts on the first official releases from the LP.

Virgilio Mendez (@RegularGuyV)
Intern

“More make-out music from The Weeknd. Doesn’t he know cuffing season ends after Coachella. If this is a preview to the album, I hope it comes with a bib.”

Rating: 2.5/5

Shenae Craig (@xCurry08)
Intern

“I like how deep the production is & the story line on “Kiss Land”, the chorus, or lack there of, had to grow on me though. I feel like “John Carpenter” is a typical song from The Weeknd. 3.5 stars for both”.

Rating: 3.5/5

Danitha Jones (@LifeLikeJones)
Online Editor

“I can’t seem to get into The Weeknd’s music. This new track “Kiss Land” sounds very similar to most of the tracks he’s released in the past. The preview of “John Carpenter” picks up towards the end but his sound still drags. I’m sleep though.”

Rating: 2/5

Khari Nixon (@KingVanGogh)
Intern

“The Weeknd never really makes bad music, some of it doesn’t just connect with some. This seemed to be one of those times at first, but he picked it up towards the end of “Kiss Land”, and “John Carpenter” was a winner from jump. Will press play on next release”.

Rating: 3/5

Ben Lester (@BJams11)
Online Editor

“The Weeknd’s “Kiss Land” finds its strength when transitioning into “John Carpenter,” as subtle as that was.”

Rating: 3/5

Don Morris (@OfficialDon)
Creative Director

“I don’t have enough estrogen in my blood to appreciate this track, it reminds me of whales singing R&B to fairies in the woods.”

Rating: 2/5