Monday, January 02, 2017

2016: A Year in Review

Top 3 Favorite Albums

3. Future Present Past EP - The Strokes

I know this one’s just a little 4 track EP, but I wore it out on my walks to and from Grand Central. Standout track: Oblivius (Moretti Remix)

2. Cleopatra - The Lumineers

Definitely got my fix of Hey’s and Ho’s with The Lumineers’ next big album. Standout track: Gun Song

1. Original Motion Picture Soundtrack - Sing Street
This was tough. This flick was easily one of my faves, but its music is what took it to the top of this particular top 3 list. Standout track: Drive It Like You Stole It

Top 3 Favorite Movies

3. La La Land
I’d pretty much follow these two anywhere, even into a musical stroll through an insider’s view of Los Angeles. Standout feature: 2.55:1 CinemaScope Aspect Ratio

2. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

The first time I saw this, I had some mixed feelings. On my second viewing I was sold. Standout feature: Cassian’s Coat

1. Arrival
This movie came just when we needed it most. It’s an alien invasion flick with a promise of peace. Standout feature: The Heptapod Logograms

Top 3 Favorite TV Shows

3. Last Man on Earth
With cameos by some of my favorite tv stars and movie cars, my number one pick from last year easily continued to earn a spot on this year’s list. Standout episode: General Breast Theme with Cobras

2. Black Mirror

So glad that Netflix is now helming this series. You’ll never look at your mobile phone the same way. Standout episode: Playtest

1. Stranger Things
I seriously don’t care how many member berries are packed into this one. It feels tight and fresh despite referencing films I know and love. Standout episode: Holly, Jolly

Top 3 Favorite Cars

3. Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
Hopefully this rig will help usher in a new era for the post-dieselgate VW.  Standout features: long roof lines and a gravel-tackling stance.

2. BMW M2
You knew this would be here. It’s a treat to the eyes and the ears. Standout feature: wide-bodied wildness.

1. Porsche 911 R
There’s no doubt about it, Porsche tapped right into the whole Magnus Walker fanboy vibe with this one—creating the most driver-centric modern car of all time. Standout feature: throwback minimalist design philosophy.