D’Angelo’s music doesn’t simply sound good; it feels profoundly, almost impossibly, familiar. Listening toBrown Sugaris like reconnecting with a forgotten part of your soul, a melody you’ve always known yet are hearing for the very first time.
Brown Sugarignited the neo-soul movement of the 1990s, masterfully blending the rich textures of 70s soul, gospel, and blues with a distinctly modern, hip-hop infused energy. The arrangements are remarkably intimate, stripped down to their essential core, allowing the music’s inherent smoothness to truly shine.
What truly sets this album apart is its unwavering respect and genuine affection for women, woven into every lyric and nuance of the sound. It’s a quality that elevates the music beyond mere entertainment, making it something truly special.
BeyondBrown Sugar, certain songs resonate with a unique power. Björk’s “Joga” possesses an otherworldly beauty, while Lil Wayne and Babyface’s “Comfortable” offers a surprising and captivating blend of styles.
Robyn’s “Call Your Girlfriend” is a masterclass in emotional honesty, and Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” remains a timeless ballad of devotion. The energy of The B-52’s “Rock Lobster” is infectious, and Public Enemy, Ice Cube, and Big Daddy Kane’s “Burn Hollywood Burn” is a powerful statement.
One album, however, sparked a frustrating debate: Pavement’sSlanted and Enchanted. Its inclusion on a prestigious list feels undeserved, lacking the spark and depth of truly impactful alternative bands like Smashing Pumpkins or Weezer.
The difference is stark. While bands like Smashing Pumpkins and Weezer earned their recognition through genuine artistry, Pavement feels…underdeveloped, like a rehearsal rather than a polished performance. It simply doesn’t reach the same heights.
The issue extends beyond individual albums. Compilations, like some Otis Redding releases, can feel bloated with repetitive tracks, diminishing the impact of truly great songs. A curated selection is always preferable to exhaustive repetition.
Then there’s the complicated matter of artists whose personal failings cast a shadow over their work. The recent actions of Kanye West, specifically his embrace of hateful ideologies, have irrevocably altered the experience of listening to his music, even albums once deeply cherished.
It’s a painful realization: an artist capable of creating profound beauty can also inflict profound harm. The joy once found in his music is now tainted by the weight of his choices, a stark reminder that art and artist cannot be separated.
Elizabeth Strout’s latest novel,Tell Me Everything, isn’t driven by a dramatic plot, but by the quiet observation of human connection. It’s a book that lingers in the spaces between words, exploring the subtle nuances of everyday life in rural Maine.
Strout’s strength lies in her ability to portray characters with unflinching honesty, acknowledging their flaws and celebrating their resilience. It’s a refreshing departure from idealized portrayals, offering a glimpse into the messy, beautiful reality of being human.
Jeff Hiller’s memoir,Actress of a Certain Age, is a delightful and insightful look behind the scenes of a working actor’s life. Hiller, known for his Emmy-winning role in “Somebody, Somewhere,” offers a candid and humorous account of his journey to success.
The book is a masterclass in memoir writing, drawing on the conventions of the genre while remaining uniquely personal. It’s a celebration of perseverance, a testament to the power of embracing one’s own path, and a fascinating glimpse into the world of acting.
December began with a final few days in Curaçao, a vibrant prelude to a journey through the Caribbean. The next stop is Barbados, the 92nd country visited, promising a deep dive into the island’s culture and history.
A small ship cruise with Star Clippers awaits, charting a course through St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, St. Lucia, and Martinique. The intimacy of a smaller vessel promises a more immersive and authentic experience of these stunning destinations.
The adventure continues in Dominica, a haven for nature lovers, followed by a few days on the French side of St. Martin. Finally, a return to Boston for the holidays, filled with time spent with family in Massachusetts, Maine, and Vermont.
Then, a return to Prague, and a welcome period of stillness after months of travel. A chance to reflect on the experiences, the connections made, and the beauty discovered along the way.
