Lectures, projects and deadlines may be back, but so is A&E. Kick off this semester right with some of this week’s heat.
Something to watch:
“Lupin:” This re-creation of a classic 1905 French story by Maurice Leblanc is the latest gem to hit Netflix. Master thief Assane Diop attempts to repay his debts, and clear his father’s name by attempting a daring heist, stealing a necklace once belonging to Marie Antoinette. The series is suspenseful, clever and entirely fresh as the heist unfolds over five exciting episodes. The impeccable acting from the likes of Omar Sy and Ludivine Sagnier brings these characters to life, while the direction and cinematography are nothing short of superb. “Lupin” is an instant classic that will leave you wanting more.
“History of Swear Words:” Class is back in session, so it’s time to get back to business. As you switch back into your professional mode you may find yourself in need of a mental break. “History of Swear Words” is the perfect series for a college brain that has hit its capacity for textbooks, and is in need of some good old-fashioned foul-mouthed humor. Hosted by none other than Nicolas Cage, this six-episode series focuses each episode on a different swear word, diving deep into its origins and societal uses. Featuring professional linguists along with modern comedians, each episode will have you not only laughing, but also learning something new.
Something to tap your foot to:
“Roaring 20s” by Flo Milli: On her new single “Roaring 20s,” Flo Milli meshes her hard hitting pop-rap style with a Broadway classic. With production from Kenny Beats sampling “If I Were a Rich Man” from “Fiddler on the Roof,” Milli’s latest track is a dose of serotonin amid trying times. With energetic bars and confident delivery, Milli’s flows are the highlight of this endlessly fun track. It is a great introduction to her style if you have yet to dive into her music.
“Bad Boy” by Juice WRLD: Following the release of his posthumous 2020 album “Legends Never Die,” we have been gifted with a Juice WRLD single that takes us back to when we first fell in love with his sound. Alongside Young Thug, the two each brought their unique vocal stylings which blend with perfection. Juice’s passionate singing on both the hook and the verse followed by Thugger’s jarring, yet iconic delivery on the bridge, prove to us that we could not ask for a better trap pop duo. With hyperactive production and heavily distorted guitar sounds, make sure to watch your speed while playing this in the car before you find yourself accelerating with the track.
“Blame Game” by Beach Bunny: The latest EP from four piece Chicago indie rock group Beach Bunny is a strong follow up to their 2020 debut album, “Honeymoon.” Four tracks in length, “Blame Game” explores new areas of the group’s sound with clear pop punk influences on the opening track “Good Girls (Don’t Get Used).” The EP also features more laid back, groove-based material as seen on “Love Sick.” The band is on point as always, with punchy bass lines, crunchy guitars and intricate drum parts that never disappoint. The vocals, which fluctuate between hype and heartbreak, combine perfectly with the group’s instrumental style, creating an all-around sound that is palatable to say the least.
Something to try:
Gray’s – Dinkytown: The former Loring Bar and Restaurant has reimagined their space, making way for a cafe/restaurant that will be more suited to the local student population. Now open for socially-distanced dine-in seating, Gray’s hopes to preserve their history as a staple of Dinkytown, while also establishing themselves as a local study hub. With their cafe open every day from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. and dining available 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. on weekdays and 3 p.m.– 9 p.m. on weekends, Gray’s is the perfect spot to check out as we roll into our first week of assignments.
