Saturday Night Live‘s season premiere yesterday evening was hosted by actress Margot Robbie and musical guest The Weeknd, fresh off of the debut of his upcoming album’s leading single with Daft Punk, “Starboy.” His two performances during the show covered all new material for the new-age R&B vocalist, giving him the opportunity to give new listeners a peek at what’s to come on his album.
In the first clip, The Weeknd performs “Starboy” in front of a blinding white cross and a sea of fog alongside a live band who plays live versions of Daft Punk’s production. The live performance definitely gives a different feel for the track and it’s clear now that Daft Punk produced it with the intention of it being replayed with live instruments.
For “False Alarm,” the cross was swathed in a deep red/magenta, providing a more visceral and intense setting for the upbeat, adrenaline-fueled number.
Watch each of the performances below.