This week’s new entertainment releases include Mariah Carey in concert on CBS singing Christmas songs, a free stream of the beloved 1965 animated special “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and megahit “Top Gun: Maverick” lands on Paramount+ on Thursday. Coming to Netflix is the movie “Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical,” which stars Emma Thompson and follows a young girl with a big imagination who decides to take a stand against her tyrannical keepers. And comedian Michael McIntyre brings his hit British game show “The Wheel” stateside for a two-week stretch on NBC beginning Monday.
Here’s a collection curated by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists of what’s arriving on TV, streaming services and music platforms this week.
MOVIES
— At long last, “Top Gun: Maverick” is coming to a streaming hub. The biggest film of the year is gearing up to land on Paramount+ as of Thursday after its high-flying run in theaters in which it became the highest grossing film of the year with over $1.4 billion in worldwide ticket sales. In the unlikely chance you’ve been holding out for this moment to finally watch the film which finds Tom Cruise back in the cockpit, the AP’s Mark Kennedy, in his review, wrote that “Top Gun: Maverick” is “a textbook example of how to make a sequel.”
HONS
This image released by Paramount Pictures shows Tom Cruise as Capt. Pete "Maverick" Mitchell in "Top Gun: Maverick." (Paramount Pictures via AP)
— Netflix also saved a big gun for the holiday corridor with Rian Johnson’s “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” hitting the service on Friday. The crowd-pleasing whodunnit brings back Daniel Craig’s honey-voiced detective Benoit Blanc and puts him on a private Greek island with a group of self-styled disruptors to solve a new mystery (what the mystery is is even part of the mystery this time). The star-studded cast includes Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe, Kate Hudson and Dave Bautista. With its wealthy protagonists, intrigue and enviable vacation fashions, it’s a terrific chaser for those mourning the loss “White Lotus” season 2.
HONS
This image released by Netflix shows, from left, Edward Norton, Madelyn Cline, Kathryn Hahn, Dave Bautista, Leslie Odom Jr., Jessica Henwick, Kate Hudson, Janelle Monae, and Daniel Craig in a scene from "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery." (Netflix via AP)
— Also coming to Netflix is “Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical,” which will be available to watch Christmas Day. The adaptation of the 2011 stage musical (itself an adaptation of the 1988 children’s classic) follows a young girl with a big imagination who decides to take a stand against her tyrannical keepers. Emma Thompson plays Miss Trunchbull and Lashana Lynch is Miss Honey, while Alisha Weir takes on the title role in this well-reviewed romp that doesn’t shy away from the source material’s darker themes.
— AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr
MUSIC
— How better to celebrate the holidays than with The Queen of Christmas herself? Mariah Carey is offering a two-hour primetime concert special on CBS on Tuesday. “Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas to All!” will also be available to stream live and on demand the next day on Paramount+. Filmed in New York City at Madison Square Garden, the concert special will feature the singer-songwriter performing a repertoire of her festive holiday hits, including the perennial favorite, “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
— A more somber event happens online on Wednesday when Theater of War presents Sophocles’ “Antigone” outdoors on a burial ground for enslaved Africans in downtown Savannah, Georgia, alongside choirs and singers from Savannah, St. Louis and New York City. Performers at the free event include Kara Young, Jesse Eisenberg, Ato Blankson Wood, Krista Tippett and the Rev. Leonard Small. Live choral and gospel music will help frame the audience-driven dialogue after the play. A Zoom link will be distributed via email and available to registered attendees.
— AP Entertainment Writer Mark Kennedy
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Paramount Pictures
It's that time of the year again when the cool air is nipping, and life is all about family and friends. Some people may have already started (or even finished) their Christmas shopping. Others may have already begun planning their holiday gatherings—travel included. Hollywood may be able to offer up some inspiration as you're firming up your holiday plans. Whether it is taking a magical journey into a snow-covered village or spending time with unexpected company in strange small towns, a few fan-favorite films come to mind.
Bounce researched films that take place during the holidays, involving travel as a significant element, and highlighted 10 of the best. Each film had to have at least a 6.5 on IMDb with over 10,000 user votes to qualify.
Keep reading for some travel-inspired holiday films. Be prepared for some holiday cheer.
Paramount Pictures
It's that time of the year again when the cool air is nipping, and life is all about family and friends. Some people may have already started (or even finished) their Christmas shopping. Others may have already begun planning their holiday gatherings—travel included. Hollywood may be able to offer up some inspiration as you're firming up your holiday plans. Whether it is taking a magical journey into a snow-covered village or spending time with unexpected company in strange small towns, a few fan-favorite films come to mind.
Bounce researched films that take place during the holidays, involving travel as a significant element, and highlighted 10 of the best. Each film had to have at least a 6.5 on IMDb with over 10,000 user votes to qualify.
Keep reading for some travel-inspired holiday films. Be prepared for some holiday cheer.
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The Weinstein Company
- Director: Todd Haynes
- IMDb user rating: 7.2
- Metascore: 94
- Runtime: 118 minutes
In this romantic film adapted from the 1952 novel "The Price of Salt," authored by Patricia Highsmith, a lesbian romance unfolds in New York City.
One day while doing some last-minute holiday shopping, New York City shopgirl and aspiring set designer Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara) meets a sophisticated older woman named Carol Aird (Cate Blanchett). Even though Therese and Carol have men in their lives, they struggle to live up to society's conservative 1950s expectations as they explore their deep connection with each other.
The Guardian's Peter Bradshaw described the film as "handsomely detailed and furnished," whisking viewers into a luxurious past of perfectly coiffed women, train carriages, and record players. "Carol" received many nominations for cinematography, costume design, hair and makeup. It also won Rooney Mara the Best Actress in a Supporting Role award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2015.
The Weinstein Company
- Director: Todd Haynes
- IMDb user rating: 7.2
- Metascore: 94
- Runtime: 118 minutes
In this romantic film adapted from the 1952 novel "The Price of Salt," authored by Patricia Highsmith, a lesbian romance unfolds in New York City.
One day while doing some last-minute holiday shopping, New York City shopgirl and aspiring set designer Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara) meets a sophisticated older woman named Carol Aird (Cate Blanchett). Even though Therese and Carol have men in their lives, they struggle to live up to society's conservative 1950s expectations as they explore their deep connection with each other.
The Guardian's Peter Bradshaw described the film as "handsomely detailed and furnished," whisking viewers into a luxurious past of perfectly coiffed women, train carriages, and record players. "Carol" received many nominations for cinematography, costume design, hair and makeup. It also won Rooney Mara the Best Actress in a Supporting Role award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2015.
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New Line Cinema
- Director: Jon Favreau
- IMDb user rating: 7.0
- Metascore: 64
- Runtime: 97 minutes
In this Christmas comedy, a human baby crawls into one of Santa's toy sacks, but St. Nick doesn't realize it until he reaches the North Pole. Santa and the elves decide to keep the infant, naming him Buddy (Will Ferrell).
As time passes, Buddy becomes knowledgeable in the elfin way of life but isn't aware of his human origins until he overhears his elven peers discussing his distinctive traits. Buddy soon seeks out his biological father in New York City, which comes with its own set of obstacles. The film features a magical New York City during Christmas, complete with prominent Gimbels department store appearances, which may inspire nostalgia in some viewers.
New Line Cinema
- Director: Jon Favreau
- IMDb user rating: 7.0
- Metascore: 64
- Runtime: 97 minutes
In this Christmas comedy, a human baby crawls into one of Santa's toy sacks, but St. Nick doesn't realize it until he reaches the North Pole. Santa and the elves decide to keep the infant, naming him Buddy (Will Ferrell).
As time passes, Buddy becomes knowledgeable in the elfin way of life but isn't aware of his human origins until he overhears his elven peers discussing his distinctive traits. Buddy soon seeks out his biological father in New York City, which comes with its own set of obstacles. The film features a magical New York City during Christmas, complete with prominent Gimbels department store appearances, which may inspire nostalgia in some viewers.
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Warner Bros.
- Director: Alfonso Cuarón
- IMDb user rating: 7.9
- Metascore: 82
- Runtime: 142 minutes
People don't generally consider Harry Potter films to be "holiday movies," but several make the cuts—including "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban." Yes, the plot centers on a mass murderer's prison escape—but it's full of wintry wonderland scenes.
In one scene, the characters visit Hogsmeade, a magic-filled and quaint snow-covered village, complete with an old-fashioned sweets shop.
Warner Bros.
- Director: Alfonso Cuarón
- IMDb user rating: 7.9
- Metascore: 82
- Runtime: 142 minutes
People don't generally consider Harry Potter films to be "holiday movies," but several make the cuts—including "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban." Yes, the plot centers on a mass murderer's prison escape—but it's full of wintry wonderland scenes.
In one scene, the characters visit Hogsmeade, a magic-filled and quaint snow-covered village, complete with an old-fashioned sweets shop.
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Visiona Romantica
- Director: Quentin Tarantino
- IMDb user rating: 7.8
- Metascore: 68
- Runtime: 168 minutes
"The Hateful Eight" has become an unusual Christmas favorite for those in the mood for something less saccharine. The story follows eight strangers in post-Civil War Wyoming as they seek refuge in a lodge from a blizzard. Humorous but violent scenes ensue. Once Bob (Demián Bichir) starts to play "Silent Night" on the piano, as Maj. Marquis Warren (Samuel L. Jackson) and Gen. Sandy Smithers (Bruce Dern) eat around the fireplace with blankets on their laps, it begins to feel a little like Christmas—albeit menacingly.
The film won an Academy Award for Best Music and a BAFTA Award for Best Original Music.
Visiona Romantica
- Director: Quentin Tarantino
- IMDb user rating: 7.8
- Metascore: 68
- Runtime: 168 minutes
"The Hateful Eight" has become an unusual Christmas favorite for those in the mood for something less saccharine. The story follows eight strangers in post-Civil War Wyoming as they seek refuge in a lodge from a blizzard. Humorous but violent scenes ensue. Once Bob (Demián Bichir) starts to play "Silent Night" on the piano, as Maj. Marquis Warren (Samuel L. Jackson) and Gen. Sandy Smithers (Bruce Dern) eat around the fireplace with blankets on their laps, it begins to feel a little like Christmas—albeit menacingly.
The film won an Academy Award for Best Music and a BAFTA Award for Best Original Music.
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Columbia Pictures
- Director: Nancy Meyers
- IMDb user rating: 6.9
- Metascore: 52
- Runtime: 136 minutes
In the romantic comedy "The Holiday," two women who meet online find themselves similarly unlucky in love and agree to swap homes for the holidays. Amanda Woods (Cameron Diaz), a hardworking businesswoman in the movie industry who lives in Los Angeles, will soon exchange locales with society columnist Iris Simpkins, who lives in a cozy stone cottage in England's countryside.
The change of scenery is positive for both women, not only in terms of romantic possibilities but also in sheer beauty. Iris' cottage is decorated in shabby chic fashion, complete with ivy and a freestanding tub, while Amanda's is a two-story bougainvillea-laden dream. Sceneries will have viewers itching to book the next flight across the Atlantic. The film won a Teen Choice Award in 2007 for Choice Movie: Chick Flick.
Columbia Pictures
- Director: Nancy Meyers
- IMDb user rating: 6.9
- Metascore: 52
- Runtime: 136 minutes
In the romantic comedy "The Holiday," two women who meet online find themselves similarly unlucky in love and agree to swap homes for the holidays. Amanda Woods (Cameron Diaz), a hardworking businesswoman in the movie industry who lives in Los Angeles, will soon exchange locales with society columnist Iris Simpkins, who lives in a cozy stone cottage in England's countryside.
The change of scenery is positive for both women, not only in terms of romantic possibilities but also in sheer beauty. Iris' cottage is decorated in shabby chic fashion, complete with ivy and a freestanding tub, while Amanda's is a two-story bougainvillea-laden dream. Sceneries will have viewers itching to book the next flight across the Atlantic. The film won a Teen Choice Award in 2007 for Choice Movie: Chick Flick.
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Twentieth Century Fox
- Director: Chris Columbus
- IMDb user rating: 6.8
- Metascore: 46
- Runtime: 120 minutes
In "Home Alone 2," 10-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) and his family are supposed to go on a Christmas trip to Florida, but Kevin ends up lost at the airport and ends up getting on the wrong plane—to New York. With his father's credit card and wallet in tow, Kevin books a luxurious suite in a Manhattan hotel, which include a massive bed and an extra-extra-large sundae.
It sounds like a perfect holiday until he's kicked out of the hotel and must face the same burglars he confronted in the first installment. "Home Alone 2" takes Kevin across many New York sights, including Radio City Music Hall, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and even a Santa on stilts outside the Empire Diner.
Twentieth Century Fox
- Director: Chris Columbus
- IMDb user rating: 6.8
- Metascore: 46
- Runtime: 120 minutes
In "Home Alone 2," 10-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) and his family are supposed to go on a Christmas trip to Florida, but Kevin ends up lost at the airport and ends up getting on the wrong plane—to New York. With his father's credit card and wallet in tow, Kevin books a luxurious suite in a Manhattan hotel, which include a massive bed and an extra-extra-large sundae.
It sounds like a perfect holiday until he's kicked out of the hotel and must face the same burglars he confronted in the first installment. "Home Alone 2" takes Kevin across many New York sights, including Radio City Music Hall, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and even a Santa on stilts outside the Empire Diner.
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Focus Features
- Director: Martin McDonagh
- IMDb user rating: 7.9
- Metascore: 67
- Runtime: 107 minutes
In this comedy-drama thriller, assassins Ray (Colin Farrell) and Ken (Brendan Gleeson) travel to Bruges in Belgium around Christmastime to hide after a failed assassination. Ray, filled with guilt about the botched first job for his crime boss, wants to leave Bruges, while Ken views the trip as a mini-vacation.
The film treats viewers to picturesque locations in Bruges, including the Market Square and Belfry (which appears on UNESCO's World Heritage list) and Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce, the boutique hotel where the killers stay. The film received several awards, including a BAFTA Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Focus Features
- Director: Martin McDonagh
- IMDb user rating: 7.9
- Metascore: 67
- Runtime: 107 minutes
In this comedy-drama thriller, assassins Ray (Colin Farrell) and Ken (Brendan Gleeson) travel to Bruges in Belgium around Christmastime to hide after a failed assassination. Ray, filled with guilt about the botched first job for his crime boss, wants to leave Bruges, while Ken views the trip as a mini-vacation.
The film treats viewers to picturesque locations in Bruges, including the Market Square and Belfry (which appears on UNESCO's World Heritage list) and Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce, the boutique hotel where the killers stay. The film received several awards, including a BAFTA Award for Best Original Screenplay.
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Hughes Entertainment
- Director: Jeremiah S. Chechik
- IMDb user rating: 7.5
- Metascore: 49
- Runtime: 97 minutes
In this slapstick comedy film, everything seems to go awry for the Griswold family as they prepare for their holiday celebration. Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) is determined to have a fun, traditional family Christmas with his wife Ellen (Beverly D'Angelo) and two kids, but having both sets of inlaws and Clark's grumpy uncle and nutty aunt complicate things.
With floors collapsing, ladders falling, and a moment in which Clark must swerve the car to avoid a collision with a snowplow and an epic sledding scene super-powered by an experimental "non-caloric silicon-based kitchen lubricant," viewers will enjoy more than a few chuckles. Scenes of the Griswold home were filmed in Los Angeles, with most outdoor scenes filmed in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Hughes Entertainment
- Director: Jeremiah S. Chechik
- IMDb user rating: 7.5
- Metascore: 49
- Runtime: 97 minutes
In this slapstick comedy film, everything seems to go awry for the Griswold family as they prepare for their holiday celebration. Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) is determined to have a fun, traditional family Christmas with his wife Ellen (Beverly D'Angelo) and two kids, but having both sets of inlaws and Clark's grumpy uncle and nutty aunt complicate things.
With floors collapsing, ladders falling, and a moment in which Clark must swerve the car to avoid a collision with a snowplow and an epic sledding scene super-powered by an experimental "non-caloric silicon-based kitchen lubricant," viewers will enjoy more than a few chuckles. Scenes of the Griswold home were filmed in Los Angeles, with most outdoor scenes filmed in Breckenridge, Colorado.
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Paramount Pictures
- Director: John Hughes
- IMDb user rating: 7.6
- Metascore: 72
- Runtime: 93 minutes
In this comedy flick, easily frustrated Neal Page (Steve Martin) is trying to get home to Chicago to spend Thanksgiving with his wife Susan (Laila Robins) and kids. But of course, everything that can go wrong does.
The heavy snow in Chicago causes Neal's flight to get rerouted to a city in Kansas. With the hotels already booked, he has no choice but to share a room with Del Griffith (John Candy), the friendly, easy-going, quirky traveling salesman. The two go on adventures while viewers get treated to homey small-town locations, including the classic gazebo in the middle of the square.
Paramount Pictures
- Director: John Hughes
- IMDb user rating: 7.6
- Metascore: 72
- Runtime: 93 minutes
In this comedy flick, easily frustrated Neal Page (Steve Martin) is trying to get home to Chicago to spend Thanksgiving with his wife Susan (Laila Robins) and kids. But of course, everything that can go wrong does.
The heavy snow in Chicago causes Neal's flight to get rerouted to a city in Kansas. With the hotels already booked, he has no choice but to share a room with Del Griffith (John Candy), the friendly, easy-going, quirky traveling salesman. The two go on adventures while viewers get treated to homey small-town locations, including the classic gazebo in the middle of the square.
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Castle Rock Entertainment
- Director: Robert Zemeckis
- IMDb user rating: 6.6
- Metascore: 61
- Runtime: 100 minutes
In this animated film based on the bestselling book by Chris Van Allsburg, a young boy goes on an adventurous trip, leaving on Christmas Eve. The boy travels via train from his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the North Pole. Along with other children, he is treated to a literal song and dance by the servers and chefs, which ends with a steaming cup of hot chocolate; sights of the otherworldly northern lights shimmering high above; and, of course, a majestic North Pole.
Once the train stops, the conductor informs the children about the elves gathered in the magical city and how Santa awaits them to give them gifts. Grand gestures notwithstanding the film's message—that true Christmas lies in one's heart—is one that will leave viewers reaching for their loved ones.
This story originally appeared on Bounce and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
Castle Rock Entertainment
- Director: Robert Zemeckis
- IMDb user rating: 6.6
- Metascore: 61
- Runtime: 100 minutes
In this animated film based on the bestselling book by Chris Van Allsburg, a young boy goes on an adventurous trip, leaving on Christmas Eve. The boy travels via train from his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the North Pole. Along with other children, he is treated to a literal song and dance by the servers and chefs, which ends with a steaming cup of hot chocolate; sights of the otherworldly northern lights shimmering high above; and, of course, a majestic North Pole.
Once the train stops, the conductor informs the children about the elves gathered in the magical city and how Santa awaits them to give them gifts. Grand gestures notwithstanding the film's message—that true Christmas lies in one's heart—is one that will leave viewers reaching for their loved ones.
This story originally appeared on Bounce and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
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Handout // Getty Images
Some could call 2022 the comeback year for music artists. Others might even dub it the year COVID-19 seemingly backed down, no longer thwarting the thrill live music concertgoers have longed for since the world was brought to a momentary halt thanks to the global pandemic.
We're calling it one of the most inspiring years in music yet.
Beyoncé emerged for the first time in six years with a house-themed LP chock full of Grammy-nominated club hits; armed with her guitar, indie crooner Angel Olsen returned with one of her most sobering and ambitious projects yet; and the Weeknd took us all on a supersonic radio road trip with an '80s-inspired endeavor narrated by the one and only Jim Carrey.
Needless to say, many artists produced some of their most cathartic, retrospective work this year. Some analyzed the impacts of isolation and mourned loss, while others chose nostalgia and escapism. But no matter how they decided to express themselves, 2022 gave us some exceptionally emotional, experimental, and captivating music from some of the biggest names in music and also introduced us to new artists who are making music unlike anyone else right now.
Stacker looked at all 2022 albums on Metacritic and highlighted the top 25, according to Metascore. Only albums with at least 7 reviews were considered. Ties were broken internally at Metacritic, where Metascore data goes two decimal points beyond what's published. This list covers genres from hip-hop and pop to rock and country; there's even an instrumental electro-jazz album.
Read on to see how many of these albums you've listened to already—and more importantly, perhaps, what to add to your queue.
You may also like: Top 100 country songs of all time
Handout // Getty Images
Some could call 2022 the comeback year for music artists. Others might even dub it the year COVID-19 seemingly backed down, no longer thwarting the thrill live music concertgoers have longed for since the world was brought to a momentary halt thanks to the global pandemic.
We're calling it one of the most inspiring years in music yet.
Beyoncé emerged for the first time in six years with a house-themed LP chock full of Grammy-nominated club hits; armed with her guitar, indie crooner Angel Olsen returned with one of her most sobering and ambitious projects yet; and the Weeknd took us all on a supersonic radio road trip with an '80s-inspired endeavor narrated by the one and only Jim Carrey.
Needless to say, many artists produced some of their most cathartic, retrospective work this year. Some analyzed the impacts of isolation and mourned loss, while others chose nostalgia and escapism. But no matter how they decided to express themselves, 2022 gave us some exceptionally emotional, experimental, and captivating music from some of the biggest names in music and also introduced us to new artists who are making music unlike anyone else right now.
Stacker looked at all 2022 albums on Metacritic and highlighted the top 25, according to Metascore. Only albums with at least 7 reviews were considered. Ties were broken internally at Metacritic, where Metascore data goes two decimal points beyond what's published. This list covers genres from hip-hop and pop to rock and country; there's even an instrumental electro-jazz album.
Read on to see how many of these albums you've listened to already—and more importantly, perhaps, what to add to your queue.
You may also like: Top 100 country songs of all time
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David A. Smith // Getty Images
- Metascore: 86
- Release date: Sept. 23
After delivering the fan-favorite "House of Sugar," chock full of folk cafe jams like "Hope" and "Near," Alex G returned with yet another critically acclaimed offering in "God Save the Animals." Writing for Pitchfork, Arielle Gordon remarked that the Bandcamp star's latest effort "wrings strange beauty from our non-human companions, grappling with innocence and its discontents through their saucer-eyed stares."
David A. Smith // Getty Images
- Metascore: 86
- Release date: Sept. 23
After delivering the fan-favorite "House of Sugar," chock full of folk cafe jams like "Hope" and "Near," Alex G returned with yet another critically acclaimed offering in "God Save the Animals." Writing for Pitchfork, Arielle Gordon remarked that the Bandcamp star's latest effort "wrings strange beauty from our non-human companions, grappling with innocence and its discontents through their saucer-eyed stares."
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Jordi Vidal // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: Feb. 18
Alynda Segarra has released eight albums under the moniker Hurray for the Riff Raff, and as the singer continues to evolve, so does her sound. What began as a folk project has become a sparkling homage to 1980s music heroes ranging from Bruce Springsteen to David Bowie.
Jordi Vidal // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: Feb. 18
Alynda Segarra has released eight albums under the moniker Hurray for the Riff Raff, and as the singer continues to evolve, so does her sound. What began as a folk project has become a sparkling homage to 1980s music heroes ranging from Bruce Springsteen to David Bowie.
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Joseph Okpako // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: Oct. 21
Loyle Carner is back at it—this time with his third studio album, "Hugo." Across the album's 10 tracks, the London rapper touches on themes of race, police brutality, and his personal struggles with dyslexia, and ADHD.
Joseph Okpako // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: Oct. 21
Loyle Carner is back at it—this time with his third studio album, "Hugo." Across the album's 10 tracks, the London rapper touches on themes of race, police brutality, and his personal struggles with dyslexia, and ADHD.
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Lorne Thomson // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: April 8
Wet Leg became viral sensations in 2021, thanks to their single "Chaise Longue." That kind of attention may frighten some, but not Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers. The indie rock duo's self-titled debut exudes that same kind of catchy crudeness and garnered them some famous fans, including Harry Styles, who covered their song "Wet Dream" in the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge.
Lorne Thomson // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: April 8
Wet Leg became viral sensations in 2021, thanks to their single "Chaise Longue." That kind of attention may frighten some, but not Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers. The indie rock duo's self-titled debut exudes that same kind of catchy crudeness and garnered them some famous fans, including Harry Styles, who covered their song "Wet Dream" in the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge.
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Joseph Okpako // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: March 25
"Electricity" is the first album by Ibibio Sound Machine made in collaboration with other producers. The troupe, led by vocalist Eno Williams, enlisted electropop masterminds Hot Chip for the project, and the result is a remarkable melding of West African funk, post-punk, disco, and pop.
You may also like: 50 best live albums of all time
Joseph Okpako // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: March 25
"Electricity" is the first album by Ibibio Sound Machine made in collaboration with other producers. The troupe, led by vocalist Eno Williams, enlisted electropop masterminds Hot Chip for the project, and the result is a remarkable melding of West African funk, post-punk, disco, and pop.
You may also like: 50 best live albums of all time
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Roberto Ricciuti // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: April 22
Kathryn Joseph's first two albums are painfully personal and speak on individual stories of trauma and loss. On her latest album, "For You Who Are the Wronged," the Scottish singer-songwriter takes those concepts and delivers them in a more general sense, reaching out a hand to whoever might need it.
Roberto Ricciuti // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: April 22
Kathryn Joseph's first two albums are painfully personal and speak on individual stories of trauma and loss. On her latest album, "For You Who Are the Wronged," the Scottish singer-songwriter takes those concepts and delivers them in a more general sense, reaching out a hand to whoever might need it.
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Mariano Regidor // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: May 13
"This Is a Photograph" sees Kevin Morby grappling with the concept of death. The subject matter may be dark, but the singer-songwriter has such a way with words that makes his seventh studio album stand out from the rest.
Mariano Regidor // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: May 13
"This Is a Photograph" sees Kevin Morby grappling with the concept of death. The subject matter may be dark, but the singer-songwriter has such a way with words that makes his seventh studio album stand out from the rest.
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Peter Van Breukelen // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: Sept. 23
Jazz drummer Makaya McCraven draws on inspiration from 1970s jazz funk beats for "In these Times." On the song "Dream Another," there's snippets of the flute sound while Brandee Younger's harp plays fluidly over the tracks. McCraven released his debut album, "Yesterday's Gone," in 2017.
Peter Van Breukelen // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: Sept. 23
Jazz drummer Makaya McCraven draws on inspiration from 1970s jazz funk beats for "In these Times." On the song "Dream Another," there's snippets of the flute sound while Brandee Younger's harp plays fluidly over the tracks. McCraven released his debut album, "Yesterday's Gone," in 2017.
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The Washington Post // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: Feb. 11
"Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You" is as ambitious in its sound as it was to make. Big Thief's 20-song double album was recorded throughout five months in four different locations. It's a lot to take in, and while that might be a negative for other acts, the folk rockers are able to keep your attention for the full 80 minutes.
The Washington Post // Getty Images
- Metascore: 87
- Release date: Feb. 11
"Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You" is as ambitious in its sound as it was to make. Big Thief's 20-song double album was recorded throughout five months in four different locations. It's a lot to take in, and while that might be a negative for other acts, the folk rockers are able to keep your attention for the full 80 minutes.
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Scott Dudelson // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: July 22
Through the pain of losing their bandmate, Dallas Good, who died earlier this year from a coronary condition, the Sadies still pulled together to create "Colder Streams," a tribute to Good, who co-founded the group in 1994 with his brother Travis. In "Colder Streams," the quartet displays their already diversified musical sound—comprised of rock, pop, country, and psychedelic beats. Dallas' penned words can be heard across several tracks, including "More Alone."
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Scott Dudelson // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: July 22
Through the pain of losing their bandmate, Dallas Good, who died earlier this year from a coronary condition, the Sadies still pulled together to create "Colder Streams," a tribute to Good, who co-founded the group in 1994 with his brother Travis. In "Colder Streams," the quartet displays their already diversified musical sound—comprised of rock, pop, country, and psychedelic beats. Dallas' penned words can be heard across several tracks, including "More Alone."
You may also like: Songs that dominated Billboard charts the longest
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Kevin Mazur // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: Jan. 7
The Weeknd's fifth album, "Dawn FM," was conceptualized around listening to a retro-pop radio station in purgatory. That concept was executed with precision—complete with parody commercials and the R&B star's real-life neighbor Jim Carrey playing a DJ—and resulted in the Weeknd's most thoughtful and melodic project to date.
Kevin Mazur // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: Jan. 7
The Weeknd's fifth album, "Dawn FM," was conceptualized around listening to a retro-pop radio station in purgatory. That concept was executed with precision—complete with parody commercials and the R&B star's real-life neighbor Jim Carrey playing a DJ—and resulted in the Weeknd's most thoughtful and melodic project to date.
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Frank Hoensch // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: Oct. 14
In his latest musical endeavor, "Ytilaer"—"reality" spelled backwards—Bill Callahan renders a range of emotions: from introspection and raw emotion on songs like "Lily," about a dying mother, to more lighthearted tunes like "Natural Information," about his infant daughter and the creation of how the song was made. Callahan's previous album, "Gold Record," was released in 2020.
Frank Hoensch // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: Oct. 14
In his latest musical endeavor, "Ytilaer"—"reality" spelled backwards—Bill Callahan renders a range of emotions: from introspection and raw emotion on songs like "Lily," about a dying mother, to more lighthearted tunes like "Natural Information," about his infant daughter and the creation of how the song was made. Callahan's previous album, "Gold Record," was released in 2020.
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Tim Mosenfelder // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: June 3
On her first five albums, fans have seen Angel Olsen transform from a folk rock darling to baroque poet. On her sixth effort, "Big Time," the singer-songwriter transforms herself once more, letting her country influences shine like never before.
Tim Mosenfelder // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: June 3
On her first five albums, fans have seen Angel Olsen transform from a folk rock darling to baroque poet. On her sixth effort, "Big Time," the singer-songwriter transforms herself once more, letting her country influences shine like never before.
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Erika Goldring // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: Nov. 18
Natalie Mering, better known as Weyes Blood, released her first single, "It's Not Just Me, It's Everybody," and already has tour dates scheduled for December. Among the songs on the LP is "Grapevine," a personal story for Mering inspired by her breakup with a narcissist during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Erika Goldring // Getty Images
- Metascore: 88
- Release date: Nov. 18
Natalie Mering, better known as Weyes Blood, released her first single, "It's Not Just Me, It's Everybody," and already has tour dates scheduled for December. Among the songs on the LP is "Grapevine," a personal story for Mering inspired by her breakup with a narcissist during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Avalon // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: July 22
After a 12-year music hiatus, Nina Nastasia has returned with her seventh studio album, "Riderless Horse." The project somewhat fills her listeners in on what's been going on in her life—from her abusive relationship with former manager and musical collaborator Kennan Gudjonsson, who is no longer alive, to coping with grief in other areas of her life. In August, the alternative indie artist performed for the first time in over a decade at Union Pool in Brooklyn, New York.
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Avalon // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: July 22
After a 12-year music hiatus, Nina Nastasia has returned with her seventh studio album, "Riderless Horse." The project somewhat fills her listeners in on what's been going on in her life—from her abusive relationship with former manager and musical collaborator Kennan Gudjonsson, who is no longer alive, to coping with grief in other areas of her life. In August, the alternative indie artist performed for the first time in over a decade at Union Pool in Brooklyn, New York.
You may also like: History of rock 'n' roll
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Andy Sheppard // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: Feb. 25
"Feeding the Machine" sees free-jazz saxophonist Binker Golding and drummer Moses Boyd team up with modular synth manipulator Max Luthert. The result is an atmospheric collection of six instrumental songs that clocks in at nearly 50 minutes in length.
Andy Sheppard // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: Feb. 25
"Feeding the Machine" sees free-jazz saxophonist Binker Golding and drummer Moses Boyd team up with modular synth manipulator Max Luthert. The result is an atmospheric collection of six instrumental songs that clocks in at nearly 50 minutes in length.
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Burak Cingi // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: Sept. 9
Brittney Parks, known under the stage name Sudan Archives, takes listeners on a ride of myriad sounds with her second album, "Natural Brown Prom Queen." Inspired by a range of musical genres such as hip-hop, R&B, and Afro Beats, the Ohio native is determined to create music on her terms. While in Los Angeles, the songwriter and violinist landed a meeting with a Stones Throw Records record executive and has been freely experimenting with her musical style ever since.
Burak Cingi // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: Sept. 9
Brittney Parks, known under the stage name Sudan Archives, takes listeners on a ride of myriad sounds with her second album, "Natural Brown Prom Queen." Inspired by a range of musical genres such as hip-hop, R&B, and Afro Beats, the Ohio native is determined to create music on her terms. While in Los Angeles, the songwriter and violinist landed a meeting with a Stones Throw Records record executive and has been freely experimenting with her musical style ever since.
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Mariano Regidor // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: May 27
It took Just Mustard four years to release the follow-up to their debut album, "Wednesday," but "Heart Under" picks up where it left off. The Irish shoegaze quintet build a wall of sound on their sophomore album, broken only by singer Katie Ball's hypnotizing voice.
Mariano Regidor // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: May 27
It took Just Mustard four years to release the follow-up to their debut album, "Wednesday," but "Heart Under" picks up where it left off. The Irish shoegaze quintet build a wall of sound on their sophomore album, broken only by singer Katie Ball's hypnotizing voice.
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Silvia Josefina Lombardo // Wikimedia Commons
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: July 29
Folk band Florist are continually inspired by their decadelong friendship. The foursome—comprised of members Emily Sprague, Felix Walworth, Rick Spataro, and Jonnie Baker—released their self-titled album, "Florist," featuring such singles as "43," a calming melody (the group's signature style) where Sprague's voice floats over the track. Florist also caught the attention of megastar Beyoncé, who used the instrumentals of the band's 2016 song "Thank You" for her "Homecoming" Netflix documentary.
Silvia Josefina Lombardo // Wikimedia Commons
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: July 29
Folk band Florist are continually inspired by their decadelong friendship. The foursome—comprised of members Emily Sprague, Felix Walworth, Rick Spataro, and Jonnie Baker—released their self-titled album, "Florist," featuring such singles as "43," a calming melody (the group's signature style) where Sprague's voice floats over the track. Florist also caught the attention of megastar Beyoncé, who used the instrumentals of the band's 2016 song "Thank You" for her "Homecoming" Netflix documentary.
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Lorne Thomson // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: Sept. 9
London-based duo Jockstrap released their debut studio album, "I Love You Jennifer B," with the first single, "Glasgow," showcasing bandmember Georgia Ellery's vocals and violin strings fusing with fellow bandmate Taylor Skye's acoustic beats. The album, as suggested in the title, is a series of love letters with open-hearted emotions and a range of sounds.
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Lorne Thomson // Getty Images
- Metascore: 89
- Release date: Sept. 9
London-based duo Jockstrap released their debut studio album, "I Love You Jennifer B," with the first single, "Glasgow," showcasing bandmember Georgia Ellery's vocals and violin strings fusing with fellow bandmate Taylor Skye's acoustic beats. The album, as suggested in the title, is a series of love letters with open-hearted emotions and a range of sounds.
You may also like: Most covered songs of all time
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Kevin Mazur // Getty Images
- Metascore: 91
- Release date: July 29
Beyoncé, known for her R&B and hip-hop sound, took a different approach with her seventh studio album, "Reanissance." On "Renaissance," Beyoncé fuses elements of disco and house music, with the album's leader, "Break My Soul," extracting Robin S.'s '90s classic "Show Me Love." "Break My Soul" reached #1 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart, becoming Beyoncé's first solo chart-topper in 14 years since 2008's "Single Ladies."
Kevin Mazur // Getty Images
- Metascore: 91
- Release date: July 29
Beyoncé, known for her R&B and hip-hop sound, took a different approach with her seventh studio album, "Reanissance." On "Renaissance," Beyoncé fuses elements of disco and house music, with the album's leader, "Break My Soul," extracting Robin S.'s '90s classic "Show Me Love." "Break My Soul" reached #1 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart, becoming Beyoncé's first solo chart-topper in 14 years since 2008's "Single Ladies."
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Daniel Knighton // Getty Images
- Metascore: 92
- Release date: Nov. 11
For his 15th studio album, "King's Disease III," and fourth consecutive LP produced by Hit-Boy, Nas raps in typical New York fashion about being the King of New York. The effort also sees the emcee spitting knowledge while delving into history, giving nods to historical icons and change agents like Maya Angelous. Elsewhere on the project, on tracks like "Ghetto Reporter," Nas raps about the frustrations of the music industry and his evolution as an artist. His 2021 prequel, "King's Disease," won the recording artist his first Grammy Award, claiming the trophy for Best Rap Album.
Daniel Knighton // Getty Images
- Metascore: 92
- Release date: Nov. 11
For his 15th studio album, "King's Disease III," and fourth consecutive LP produced by Hit-Boy, Nas raps in typical New York fashion about being the King of New York. The effort also sees the emcee spitting knowledge while delving into history, giving nods to historical icons and change agents like Maya Angelous. Elsewhere on the project, on tracks like "Ghetto Reporter," Nas raps about the frustrations of the music industry and his evolution as an artist. His 2021 prequel, "King's Disease," won the recording artist his first Grammy Award, claiming the trophy for Best Rap Album.
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Burak Cingi // Getty Images
- Metascore: 92
- Release date: Feb. 4
Black Country, New Road's sophomore album, "Ants from Up There," is a chamber pop masterpiece—think Arcade Fire's "Funeral" but with a jazz influence. However, just days before its release, singer-guitarist Isaac Wood announced his departure from the group. Though it's unclear how the now six-piece band plans to continue without him, there's been no talk of a full disbandment.
Burak Cingi // Getty Images
- Metascore: 92
- Release date: Feb. 4
Black Country, New Road's sophomore album, "Ants from Up There," is a chamber pop masterpiece—think Arcade Fire's "Funeral" but with a jazz influence. However, just days before its release, singer-guitarist Isaac Wood announced his departure from the group. Though it's unclear how the now six-piece band plans to continue without him, there's been no talk of a full disbandment.
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Leon Neal // Getty Images
- Metascore: 92
- Release date: June 17
Nova Twins bring nu metal to a whole new level on their sophomore album, "Supernova." The English rock duo, consisting of vocalist-guitarist Amy Love and bassist Georgia South, dared to experiment more this time around—and it paid off.
Leon Neal // Getty Images
- Metascore: 92
- Release date: June 17
Nova Twins bring nu metal to a whole new level on their sophomore album, "Supernova." The English rock duo, consisting of vocalist-guitarist Amy Love and bassist Georgia South, dared to experiment more this time around—and it paid off.
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Arturo Holmes // Getty Images
- Metascore: 94
- Release date: March 18
Rosalía soared to international fame after releasing her Grammy-winning sophomore album, "El Mal Querer," in 2018. Her genius struck again with "Motomami," a 16-track project packed with bops, from the sticky-sweet "Candy" to the risque and sensual "Hentai." After sweeping the Latin Grammys earlier this year, "Motomami" may just secure the Spanish chanteuse's first Grammy Award (Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album) at next year's ceremony.
You may also like: 50 great albums by queer artists of color
Arturo Holmes // Getty Images
- Metascore: 94
- Release date: March 18
Rosalía soared to international fame after releasing her Grammy-winning sophomore album, "El Mal Querer," in 2018. Her genius struck again with "Motomami," a 16-track project packed with bops, from the sticky-sweet "Candy" to the risque and sensual "Hentai." After sweeping the Latin Grammys earlier this year, "Motomami" may just secure the Spanish chanteuse's first Grammy Award (Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album) at next year's ceremony.
You may also like: 50 great albums by queer artists of color
TELEVISION
— The U.S. has remade a number of modern-day competition shows that first aired in the UK. “American Idol” came from “Pop Idol,” “Dancing with the Stars” is inspired by “Strictly Come Dancing.” The UK also had “Dragons’ Den” before we began airing “Shark Tank.” Now, comedian Michael McIntyre brings his hit British game show “The Wheel” stateside for a two-week stretch on NBC beginning Monday. Hosted by McIntyre, each episode features six celeb guests (including Bobby Berk of “Queer Eye,” Chrissy Metz of “This is Us,” and “Yellowjackets” actor Christina Ricci) who help everyday people win money.
— The 1965 animated special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” about the plucky Chuck who is pulled out of a seasonal funk by a tiny eyesore of a Christmas tree, remains a holiday favorite year after year. Apple TV+ will exclusively stream the cartoon this year, but good news, between Thursday and Christmas Day, it’s free. Subscribers will have more time to watch.
— “The Best Man,” a romantic comedy released in 1999 featuring an all-star cast of young, attractive Black actors including Taye Diggs, Nia Long and Terrence Howard, was a box office hit, cementing it in pop culture. A long-awaited sequel in 2013 called “The Best Man Holiday” was also successful. Director-writer Malcom D. Lee wraps up the franchise with a new limited series on Peacock. To underscore the finality of it all, the title of the series is “The Best Man: The Final Chapters.” All eight episodes drop Thursday on the streaming service.
— A new six-episode anthology series called “Snap” coming to ALLBLK has been compared to “Black Mirror” in that it tackles social and ethical questions through storytelling. Eric Benet created and acts in “Snap” alongside Michael Buscemi, Clifton Powell and Tisha Campbell. It debuts Thursday. ALLBLK is a subscription video on demand (SVOD) service dedicated to Black entertainment.
— Alicia Rancilio
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