House of Balloons by The Weeknd is a defining debut mixtape that introduced the world to his dark, enigmatic style and helped shape the sound of alternative R&B. Originally released in 2011, this iconic project blends haunting melodies, atmospheric production, and introspective lyrics that explore themes of love, hedonism, and heartbreak.
With tracks like the hypnotic "High for This," the sultry "Wicked Games," and the genre-bending title track "House of Balloons / Glass Table Girls," The Weeknd masterfully weaves together a narrative of excess and vulnerability. Songs like "The Morning" and "The Party & The After Party" highlight his ability to pair emotional depth with intoxicating rhythms, while "Loft Music" and "The Knowing" further solidify the mixtape's lush, cinematic quality. The inclusion of "Twenty Eight," added for later re-releases, serves as a poignant and reflective conclusion to this groundbreaking body of work.
House of Balloons is a timeless classic that not only launched The Weeknd’s career but also redefined the boundaries of contemporary R&B. Its raw emotion and moody, atmospheric production continue to resonate with fans and influence artists worldwide.
Tracklist:
Side A:
A1. High for This
A2. What You Need
Side B:
B1. House of Balloons / Glass Table Girls
B2. The Morning
B3. Wicked Games
Side C:
C1. The Party & The After Party
C2. Coming Down
Side D:
D1. Loft Music
D2. The Knowing
D3. Twenty Eight
Island
2023
2LP
Black
4726475
N/A