Welcome back to campus, Gophers! It’s been awhile. This first week of school will be a nice jolt back into the essence of Before Times. It might be a little disorienting to go back to (or begin) school on campus, away from our bedrooms we’ve been hibernating in for what felt like eternity but has only been around 18 months.

While you re-acclimate to in-person, Zoom-free life, our A&E writers can take care of all of the things you should do for fun to distract yourself from the stresses of in-person, Zoom-free life. Lost on things to do, places to eat, shows to watch and songs to listen to? Fear not! The Minnesota Daily’s A&E desk provides you with all that and more each week through our writers’ top fives.

“Aaliyah”: The late R&B singer’s music is finally being released on streaming services throughout August, September and October. Known for her innovative sound, Aaliyah’s music and iconic style has been cited as an influence by a diverse and eclectic array of artists such as Azealia Banks, Beyoncé, HAIM, The xx, Yeasayer and more. Her 2001 self-titled album is considered her biggest commercial and critical success. It will arrive on streaming services on Friday, Sept. 10. — James Schaak

Candyman (2021): The 2021 “Candyman” is a sequel to the 1992 version, which featured Tony Todd as Candyman and Bernard Rose, a director who didn’t understand the plight of Black people in America. This time around, “Candyman” represents the multiple Black men and boys who have historically been targeted and murdered by white mobs and police in America. Written and directed by Nia DaCosta and co-written by Jordan Peele, “Candyman” forces Black people to deal with the past traumas of their people who have been unjustly killed by lynch mobs throughout American history, while also becoming products of their environment. — Jarrett George-Ballard

“Yelp for Gen Z”: One day I was figuring out how to become a member of the elusive Yelp elite; the next, TikTok had me convinced I actually needed to get on Pao, “an app for the world’s hidden gems.” Self-labeled as “Yelp for Gen Zs,” Pao connects users with a variety of aesthetically pleasing restaurants, exhibits, outdoor spots and more across the globe. For those interested in checking out some of the city’s lesser-known hidden gems while still managing to capture content for the ‘gram, Pao is the place to look. — Sophia Zimmerman

ABBA is back!: The iconic Swedish pop group is back with two new singles, “I Still Have Faith In You,” and “Don’t Shut Me Down.” Both tracks are sonically reminiscent of their older works, embodying that classic ABBA feel. The group also announced that “Voyage,” their first new album since 1981, will come out Nov. 5. If you love the “Mamma Mia!” soundtrack as much as I do, the new singles are right up your alley. — Macy Harder

Korean Fried Chicken Forever: Ever since the Prospect Park food hall, The Market at Malcolm Yards, opened its doors in early August, the new stomping ground for local and tasty fare has gained widespread local media attention — and for good reason. With nine different restaurant vendors, a signature bar and a pour-your-own beverage wall, the new space is trendy and a great place for re-connecting with all your long lost friends you’ve missed throughout the pandemic. Though I can’t pick favorites (just kidding, of course I can), the Korean Style Fried Chicken at Abang Yoli is on the top of my list. Incredibly crisp, tender and the perfect balance of sweet and heat from the kimchi and gochugaru, it might just be the best piece of chicken I’ve had in a minute. If you still want to check out the market but don’t want to opt for a meaty option, the pasta from Joey Meatballs is another home run. — Nina Raemont