Object of Sound hosted by Hanif Abdurraqib
No Other Choice is a new South Korean dark comedy that explores the pitfalls of capitalism and advancing technology, with a violent twist.
I recommend poet, author and culture critic Hanif Abdurraqib a lot. Knowing that he was from Columbus gave me some hope when I decided to move to Ohio in 2023.
Object of Sound is Abdurraqib’s podcast where he examines pop culture history through music, often with a sports twist. For example, one of my favorite episodes is about the National Anthem, specifically Whitney Houston’s jaw-dropping performance in 1991. It’s a very special one and as usual, Abdurraqib handles it all with extreme care, and a perspective that only he could give.
If you just honestly cannot even care about something about sports, I hear you, so start with this episode about Biz Markie instead.
“Boundaries” by Durand Bernarr
Durand Bernarr’s latest album, Bloom, won a grammy for Best Progressive R&B album on Saturday, Feb. 1.
I’m so glad that Durand Bernarr won a Grammy, because not only is he supremely talented, but now (hopefully?) people finally know he’s from Cleveland.
Growing up, Bernarr had opportunities to work with legends such as Whitney Houston and Erykah Badu. A few years ago, I had the chance to see him live at The Sinclair in Cambridge, MA. He opened his set in a yellow suit, styled as The Mask, and it was wonderful.
If you’ve already listened to Bloom, check out “Boundaries” from his 2022 album Wanderlust.
“Gotta set these boundaries, if I don't you'll do it for me.”
Friday Night Lights
Friday Night Lights follows a high school football team in the fictional town of Dillon, a small, close-knit community in rural West Texas.
I was so incredibly avoidant of this show from its premiere in 2006 until about a decade ago, when it was recommended to me by people whose taste I trusted. I couldn’t possibly see myself getting attached to a story about high school football in Texas, of all places. But, shocker, I was wrong!
If you’re looking for a multi-season series that can be a bit of an emotional roller coaster, look no further than Friday Night Lights. It starts off a little slow, but I think it has one of my favorite pilots. The soundtrack is great, and if you stick around to the last season, you’ll even see baby Michael B. Jordan and Jurnee Smollett.