Slow Jam Saturday : A Few Good Men, “Merry Christmas My Dear”
Vocal quartet A Few Good Man contributed two songs to the project: a cover of “Silver Bells” and the ballad “Merry Christmas My Dear,” both of which were produced by Daryl Simmons. Demail Burks, David Morris, Aaron Hilliard, and Tony Amey were the members of the group, and after introducing themselves in the festive video for “Silver Bells,” it was only fitting that they delivered a ballad on the album.
“Red One” is a solid holiday flick for the family
Hollywood superstar Dwayne Johnson teams up with director Jake Kasdan for the third time in “Red One” from Amazon MGM Studios. Chris Morgan pens the film’s script from a story by Hiram Garcia. Callum Drift (Johnson) has spent the last few centuries guarding Nick, a.k.a Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons), as the North Pole’s Head of Security. Due to the selfishness in the world, Callum has become disillusioned with the holiday and is ready to retire.
Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong shine in “The Apprentice”
After directing two episodes of HBO’s “The Last of Us,” director Ali Abbasi shifts to the biopic genre with “The Apprenticeship” from Briarcliff Entertainment. Gabriel Sherman pens the film’s script, which focuses on a young Donald Trump (Sebastian Stan), eager to make his name as a hungry second son of a wealthy family in 1970s New York.
“Y2K” uneven tone fails to drum up nostalgia
Director Kyle Mooney transports audiences to 1999 with his debut feature film, “Y2K,” from A24. Mooney directs, takes on a supporting role, and collaboratively writes the script with Evan Winter.
Album Review : Coco Jones, “Coco By The Fireplace”
Coco Jones, a gifted songstress known for her captivating vocals, delights her fans with an early holiday gift from her enchanting EP, “Coco By The Fireplace.”
Second Listen Sunday : Luther Vandross, “This Is Christmas”
R&B legend Luther Vandross had already solidified his place in R&B when he released his first holiday album, “This Is Christmas. Arriving in stores on October 24, 1995, “This Is Christmas” validates Vandross’s ability to sing anything.
Slow Jam Saturday : Jagged Edge, “This Is Christmas”
As the 2024 holiday season kicks off, I wanted to highlight R&B tunes with a festive feel for Slow Jam Saturday in December. First is Jagged Edge and their contribution to the compilation album “Jermaine Dupri Presents 12 Soulful Nights Of Christmas.”
“Beatles 64” hits all the right notes
Director David Tedeschi collaborates with esteemed producer Martin Scorsese to examine the significant impact of The Beatles’ inaugural visit to the United States in the documentary “Beatles ’64,” available on Disney+.
Colman Domingo continues to excel as a thespian in the engaging series, “The Madness”
Colman Domingo, an Academy Award nominee, is experiencing a noteworthy year as he collaborates once again with Netflix to lead the limited series “The Madness.”
“She Taught Love” exemplifies the beauty of black love
Director Nate Edwards transitions from short films to narrative features with the compelling black love story “She Taught Love,” available on Hulu. Darrell Britt-Gibson, who also occupies the leading role, authored the screenplay.
“The Substance” is a glorious gore fest
Director and writer Coralie Fargeat has partnered with the esteemed actress Demi Moore for her second feature film, “The Substance,” which has been released by Mubi.
Second Listen Sunday : Qunicy Jones, “The Dude”
Released on March 26, 1981, the album features the prominent track “Ai No Corrida,” which immerses listeners in a novel sonic environment characterized by an impactful opening and memorable melodic hooks. This record is a compelling amalgamation of rhythmic nuance and musical appeal, underscored by sophisticated production that showcases Quincy Jones’s exceptional abilities as a producer. It is a significant artistic statement that lays the groundwork for an extraordinary auditory journey.