“Moana” Review: A Worthy Voyage That Mildly Justifies Its Existence
The first Disney cartoon I remember receiving the live-action treatment was 1994’s “The Jungle Book”. Since then, the studio has revisited 14 more animated classics, with results ranging from inspired reinterpretations to lavish exercises in brand recognition.
Second Listen Sunday: Prince and the Revolution’s Parade: Music from the Motion Picture Under the Cherry Moon
As many of you know, I had the opportunity to visit Paisley Park earlier this week while vacationing in Minnesota. During the tour, our guide shared that an expanded edition of Prince’s album “Parade” is expected to be released to celebrate its 40th anniversary. After spending the day exploring the Twin Cities, it felt like the perfect excuse to revisit one of the most fascinating and underrated albums in Prince’s legendary catalog.
Slow Jam Saturday : Prince, “She Loves Me 4 Me”
One of the reasons I’ve always considered Prince to have the edge over Michael Jackson is his remarkable collection of ballads and slow jams. While Michael delivered unforgettable love songs, Prince seemed to have an endless supply tucked away on his albums. His greatest hits only scratch the surface of what made him such a […]
Lockbox Review: Carla Gugino Can’t Save This Disjointed Supernatural Thriller
Horror director Daniel Stamm adds another supernatural thriller to his résumé with “Lockbox” from Aura Entertainment. Written by Justin Yoffe and based on the “Knifepoint Horror” stories, the film follows Ellen (Carla Gugino) as she retreats to a rural town after her mother’s death in search of peace.
Survival of the Thickest Season 3 Review: Michelle Buteau Delivers a Heartfelt Final Bow
In-demand comedian Michelle Buteau continues to shine in the third and final season of Netflix’s “Survival of the Thickest.” The directors for Season 3 include Amy Aniobi, Kim Nguyen, Danielle Sanchez-Witzel (episode 3), and Michelle Buteau (episode 5), who also handles the writing.
Usher and Chris Brown Concert Review: Raymond & Brown Tour Hits Minneapolis
R&B music made its way to the Land of 10,000 Lakes on Tuesday, June 30, when Usher and Chris Brown’s “Raymond & Brown” tour made its way to Minneapolis’ U.S. Bank Stadium. I’ve been blessed to see both men live before, and since a Verzuz is unlikely to happen, the two decided to do the next best thing: tour together.
Second Listen Sunday : Chris Brown, Fortune
As fans eagerly await the start of the R&B tour featuring co-headliners Usher and Chris Brown, I decided to revisit the latter’s fifth album, “Fortune,” which hit record stores on July 3, 2012. To the surprise of many, Brown quickly bounced back from the 2009 incident with his fourth album, “F.A.M.E,” which went triple platinum and featured a highly successful tour of the same name.
Slow Jam Saturday : Tevin Campbell, Alone with You
For this week’s Slow Jam Saturday, I want to spotlight “Alone with You,” one of the standout tracks from Tevin Campbell’s debut album, *T.E.V.I.N.*. I had the opportunity to check off an interviewee from my bucket list this week when I spoke with Mr. Kyle West, who co-wrote and co-produced the song alongside Al B. Sure!
Lucky Strike Review: Scott Eastwood Carries This Battle of the Bulge Drama
Scott Eastwood reunites with director Rod Lurie, who previously worked with him on *The Outpost*, for another military drama titled *Lucky Strike*, produced by Roadside Attractions. Lurie co-wrote the screenplay with Marc Frydman, based on a true story from World War II history.
Couture Review: Angelina Jolie Shines in an Underwhelming Fashion Week Drama
Academy Award winner Angelina Jolie follows up her 2024 biopic “Maria” with the heavy-handed drama “Couture,” produced by Vertical. Directed by Alice Winocour, who also wrote the script, the film centers on Maxine (played by Jolie), an American filmmaker who arrives in Paris during the excitement of Fashion Week to direct the show’s opening segment.
Concert Review: Jill Scott Brings Soul, Swagger, and Grown-Woman Truth to MGM National Harbor
The incomparable Jill Scott is taking her “To Whom This May Concern World Tour” around the globe. On Tuesday, June 23, she brought her powerful performance back to The Theater at MGM National Harbor. After three previous sold-out shows at the venue, Scott returned to the DMV with a performance that felt less like another tour stop and more like a triumphant celebration.
Second Listen Sunday: Christina Milian, “So Amazin”
This week’s Second Listen Sunday pick takes us back to 2006 to revisit “So Amazin’,” the third album from Christina Milian. Arriving in stores on April 19 of that year, the project was produced largely by Cool & Dre, sans one song, and saw the singer earn writing credits on nine of the album’s songs.