As we get back into the swing of school, take a break from classes and treat yourself to some of A&E’s top pop culture recommendations for the week.
Something to watch:
“The White Tiger”: Based on the Booker Prize-winning novel by Aravind Adiga, “The White Tiger” is a dark and satirical look into India’s class struggle. The film follows Balram Halwai as he accounts his rise from a life of poverty to financial success as an entrepreneur and the corruption and perils that ensue along the way. Beautifully shot, written and directed, this film is engaging to no end. With fantastic lead performances from Adarsh Gourav and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, “The White Tiger” might be one to look out for as we move closer to award season.
“Disenchantment”: Back with its third season, this fantasy comedy cartoon from the creators of “The Simpsons” and “Futurama” hasn’t lost its touch. The social commentary and creative world-building are bonuses to the show’s raunchy dialogue and dark sense of humor. With 10 episodes per season and episodes running roughly 30 minutes each, “Disenchantment” is ideal for some between-lecture binge-watching.
Something to tap your foot to:
“Not Your Muse” by Celeste: Considering it’s Celeste’s debut album, the 21-song tracklist on “Not Your Muse” is nearly flawless. Blending sounds and jazz styles, neo-soul and funk, the project hits you with one jaw-dropper after the other. Whether it’s the endlessly catchy anthem “Tonight Tonight” or one of the slower and more vulnerable ballads like the title track, “Not Your Muse,” the production and performances are consistently brilliant. Celeste’s voice is spellbinding, drawing the listener in for more on every track. A master of her instrument, she proves that you can never have too much of a good thing over the album’s hour and 18-minute run time.
“Sound Ancestors” by Madlib: Legendary beatmaker and California native, Madlib has graced us with another addition to his revered discography with an avant-garde instrumental project. Combining his hip-hop background with samples and synths from all across the sound spectrum, the renowned producer poured his eclectic musical tastes and abilities over this 41-minute listening experience. While there may not be many lyrics outright, Madlib speaks to the listener in a language of his own with hard-hitting beats, groovy bass lines and memorable samples.
Something to try:
ViV!R Mexican Cafe, Market and Bakery: From the same team that brought you the Mexican fine dining restaurant Popol Vuh: a new Mexican cafe, market and bakery called ViV!R opened in northeast Minneapolis. Located in the former Popul Vuh location on Quincy Street, V!VIR opened its doors in late November. Offering a wide array of “mornin’ stuff,” like chorizo torta; “lunch stuff,” like mushroom cemita; and sweets, like mole chocolate cupcakes, ViV!R has a little something for everyone. In addition to the cafe and bakery, ViV!R includes a market that sells Mexican cookbooks, snacks, home goods crafted by local artists and more. Closed on Monday, ViV!R is open Tuesday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
