What a summer for new art. We got albums from some of the biggest artists, from “Gemini Rights” by Steve Lacy to “Special” by Lizzo to “Renaissance” by Beyoncé. We’ve seen the return of the summer blockbuster with films like “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Nope.” T.V. series have also been increasing in size and scale, with new seasons of “The Boys” and “Stranger Things” cementing the shows in pop culture history, and new shows like “The Bear” and “The Rehearsal” building a dedicated fanbase. This summer goes to show that we’re returning to a vibrant and expansive arts scene.
With the end of the summer rapidly approaching, we asked our A&E staff to tell us about their favorite releases of the summer.
‘Apocalypse After’ (Altered Innocence, 1988-2018)
From the Criterion Collection’s restoration of John Waters’ filthy magnum opus to Vinegar Syndrome’s 4K UHD release of “Miami Connection,” this summer has been a big one for cult film and B-movie fans. However, one of my favorite blu-rays to come out this summer is “Apocalypse After,” a collection of short films by French director Bertrand Mandico. Released through Altered Innocence, a blu-ray distributor that focuses on queer, independent cinema, “Apocalypse After” contains eleven short films that highlight the range and absurdity of Mandico’s film career. From the experimental, stop-motion fantasy of “The Blue Cavalier” (1999) to the grotesquely sensual “Prehistoric Cabaret” (2013) to the surreal, fabricated history of French director Walerian Borowcyzk in “Boro in the Box” (2011), there is something for everyone. With over three hours worth of footage, “Apocalypse After” is a collection that will shock you and make you wonder in a brief span of time.
– Eythen Anthony, Arts and Entertainment Editor
‘Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers’ by Kendrick Lamar
“Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers,” released on May 13, has a strong possibility of being the album of the year. The more listens I give to Kendrick Lamar’s newest project, the more the onion that is Mr. Morale peels apart its many layers. The album’s cultural relevance is undeniable, as Lamar is arguably the most essential hip hop artist of our generation. Lamar’s maturing from a “Good Kid” to a “Mr. Morale” is a testament to the canonical nature of his discography. If “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” is the wide-eyed experience of an adolescent trapped in their environment, then “Mr. Morale” is the idea that coming to peace with generational pain is a necessary step in ultimate self-acceptance.
–Ben Brodsky, Staff Writer
‘RRR’ (dir. By S.S. Rajamouli)
S.S. Rajamouli’s film, “RRR,” was the most fun I’ve had with any movie released this year. “RRR,” released in March on Netflix, is an action-comedy set in 1920s India under British imperialism. Over the course of three hours, the movie explores themes of friendship, revenge, Indian nationalism and romance, while also interpolating religious Hindu epics. The dance sequences are catchy and expressive, and the action scenes are inventive and ornately choreographed, while still easy to follow.
The performances given by N.T. Rama Rao Jr. and Ram Charan in this film are stellar and the actors’ chemistry and energy flowed from every gesture in their performance. There is also an awesome dance battle. Don’t let the runtime discourage you from checking out one of the most wholly entertaining films in years.
–Jeffrey Rosen, Music Desk
‘Reflexions’ by Tony Shhnow
Atlanta’s own Tony Shhnow has been a titan of the plugg scene for some time now, but his June 6 release, “Reflexions,”showcases his colorful artistry and evolution from the average plugg rapper. The 18-track album is, in a word, diverse, from its flow to production to features. Seeing names like Matt Ox, OJ Da Juiceman, Bear1Boss and Zelooperz all on one project, Shhnow’s ability to tie these verses into a cohesive piece is just another testament to his versatility. What’s more, with composers like 454, Dilip and Popstar Benny on production, the album is nothing short of spacey synths and sample flips.
Shhnow is a storyteller; he truly puts his chest into every word. On a project with varying rhythms and sounds, his braggadocious bars flow over any cadence, yet never lacks vitality. Lines like, “I Velcroed all my shoes/ it ain't no day that I'm gon' trip” and “I'm skinny but I'm putting weight on that clock” reflects Shhnow’s capacity to flex tastefully.
“Reflexions”is a dynamic and duly refreshing project for this Atlanta heat.
– Elaine Zhou, Contributing Writer
