We missed the month of April in our monthly recommendations, so here’s a quick post to catch-up on everything we might have recommended. Plus some early May knockouts. Plus a cultural shift or two.
Cowboy Carter – Beyoncé
Cowboy Carter dropped at the tail end of March, and it would’ve been my rec for April had I written one. Nevertheless, the phrase “instant classic” has never been more applicable. This album is truly a Beyoncé album over a country album, but what she creates and redefines within the country genre is remarkable. The run from “Texas Hold ‘Em” to “Alligator Tears” alone is sheer perfection.
Rupaul’s Drag Race: Season 16
This season finally made Drag Race exciting again. Despite usual production shenanigans, the overwhelming charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent of the cast created one of the best seasons in years, such that even early outs were emotional and surprising. Stream “She’s Such a Bitch” by Mirage.
Shōgun
In episode two, Lord Toranaga, played by the iconic Hiroyuki Sanada, tells Englishman John Blackthorn to draw a map of the world as he knows it. What follows is one of the most compelling scenes of television this year, a microcosm of how well-written the show is. Shōgun makes the act of translation itself a gripping drama, understanding the deep political and cultural implications underneath.
Kendrick Demolishing Drake
Megan Thee Stallion’s “Hiss” set the tone for music this year: this is the year for rap beef. None has been more entertaining, cutthroat, and catchy than Kendrick Lamar’s tracks, especially “euphoria” and “Not Like Us.” At this point, saying he defeated Drake is an understatement. These tracks are not only guaranteed to be songs of the summer (especially in Los Angeles); it will also genuinely be in the history books.
A Room with a View by E. M. Forster
This is by no means Forster’s deepest, most thought-provoking novel. But my goodness is the romance, led by sudden love-triangle protagonist Lucy, charming and delightful. It reminds you what a good, classic love triangle can accomplish. Next time someone wants a light beach read, suggest this one instead!
“Boa” – Megan Thee Stallion
As if “Hiss” wasn’t already going to be one of the definitive songs of 2024, Megan creates something sonically and visually special in “Boa.” The Gwen Stefani sample “What You Waiting For?” is insanely catchy and lays the foundation for Megan to spit on: Bitch, your time’s up. Game Over.
