Sunday, August 25, 2019

Review Roundup, Edition 2

Editor's Note: This a weekly collection of mini-reviews of music, books, comics, movies, and more that I've enjoyed. Not everything here is new, but it may be new to you, and I hope you check out the work, which can be found via the links included.
Unless indicated, no one has requested a review, but I am open to submissions or suggestions, which can be sent to citywidemax@yahoo.com.


Music 
Nordic Daughter—The One
The latest release from Nordic Daughter blends incredible drumming, stellar violin, and beautiful vocals to take the listener on a wonderfully melodic trip, the kind you'll want to repeat. The violin is downright surgical, standing out amidst the strong rock notes, but not so much that it buries the rest.

“Born to Be a Valkyrie” is without a doubt my favorite. Listening to this, I see a grand battle unfold, with warriors of legend striding across the field, weapons held high as they meet their foes. If you're a fan of Celtic rock, or are just looking for something walking a different step, this one's for you.


Separate Charm—Me Time
Country's a genre that I've only recently gotten into, but this duo of Melissa Ramski and Lizzie Miller have me very curious to explore it some more. This new single is a powerhouse tune, moving smoothly from the quiet opening to a punchy tempo. This song is catchy as hell, speaking to getting out of the normal rut and having some fun. In a world where it's become easier to work your life away, some Me Time is something we could all use more of.


Audiobooks
Alien III—An Audible Original Drama
I'm a big fan of the film series, and when I heard of this recent release, which brings William Gibson's uncovered Alien III script to life, I knew I had to get it. Alongside a full cast, Michael Biehn and Lance Henriksen reprise their iconic roles as Corporal Hicks and Bishop from the 1986 film “Aliens.” The rest of the cast is amazing, and the music and sounds effects really complete the experience. And frankly, this would have made a much better movie. Hey, I said I'm a fan of the series, I didn't say I loved them all equally.


Movies 
Well Water Filmmaker Sharisse Zeroonian tackles youth and the desire to grow up immediately in this wonderful comedic drama. Cora and Ben are a young couple in the midst of planning their future. While Ben wishes for a simple, stable life, Cora looks to a photography degree in New York City. The two find themselves at an impasse, unable to find a lot of common ground. It's a place familiar to many—being so young, but wanting all the trappings of adulthood. Sharisse's writing is clever, emotional, and draws the viewer into the story. The cast really gets into the roles, and it's clear they've been here before. The film is available on Opprime.tv.


Comics 
Let's Play
Another great comic from the folks at Webtoon, this series (which just kicked off its second season) centers on Sam, an aspiring game designer who publishes her first game, only to have it torn apart by a popular reviewer, one she's a big fan of. Not only that, but said reviewer becomes her new neighbor!

That alone would be enough to craft a great story, but this comic is chock-full of many characters, from Link, Sam's longtime friend (and maybe more!), her somewhat overprotective father, and of course, her faithful canine companion Bowser. There's a lot more, and each have earned their place in this series. This one had me from the first episode, and I've been hooked ever since.

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