How we're spending our leisure time.
Everyone has a bit of quiet downtime once in a while. Whether you're sitting quietly at home or trying to relax on a plane or just giving your busy mind and hands a break, it's important to relax.
A good way to do that is to read a book, listen to some music or watch a movie or show. See what's caught our attention for the week of December 1.
Daniel Bader
I've been regularly listening to podcasts for a while now, but the New York Times' The Daily podcast has become part of my morning routine. There's a reason it's garnered so much attention over the past few months: it presents cogent, interesting narratives about the most important news items of that day or week, with first-party sources and the journalists that wrote the stories.
The Daily is fascinating because it takes pains to present both sides of an argument. It tries to capture the human elements of opposing sides, seamlessly weaving in with brilliantly-curated commentary.
It's brilliantly edited and expertly hosted, and because episodes are usually under 20 minutes long, they're easy to consume in one sitting.
Tom Westrick
This week, I've mostly focused on watching movies and TV shows I copied to my home library long ago rather than try to find anything "new." Among these are The Founder, Get a Job, and Superstore. The Founder is fantastic, Get a Job is a great way to kill two hours, and Superstore is hilarious.
As for music, Google tells me I've been listening to a lot of Amy Winehouse, Radiohead and Macy Gray. Make of that what you will.
Jen Karner
I've been spending a lot more time listening to music, and less time with my nose in a book, or a show on Netflix. While I certain albums have always put me in a particular headspace, I've rarely gotten hung up on a band. Until Delta Rae.
They just released a new EP this year, and while it's only got four songs, they're all amazing. Since I'm listening to new stuff, it also means I've been going back through their discography to belt my favorites out at the top of my lungs. From the creepy Southern Gothic vibes of 'Down by the River' to the powerhouse of 'Chasing Twisters' there is so much to love about Delta Rae.
Marc Lagace
So for the past couple weeks, I've been hearing ads for this new movie Lady Bird in many of my favorite podcasts. And of course, it was getting rave reviews from critics including a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
So I decided to go to see it this week without watching any trailers or actually reading any of those positive reviews and oh boy does this movie ever deliver. If you haven't seen or read too much about this movie that's perfect — go in blind and just let the film hit you. Like don't even watch the trailer above, just take my word for it and go buy your tickets right now. You'll relate to the story if you ever butted heads with your parents as a teenager. It features a great mix of comedy and drama with a cast of characters that are all so endearing in their own ways.
If you're looking for plans this weekend, check out Lady Bird… And then call your mother and thank her for all that she's done for you.
Hayato Huseman
During a road trip earlier this week, my friend Jules put on a podcast from Gimlet Media called Crimetown and even though I'm only two episodes in, I'm really enjoying it so far. It's a documentary-style podcast that explores some incredibly complex organized crime rings in America, with a steady mix of narration and interviews.
As far as music goes, I can't remember the last time I was as excited about a release as when Glassjaw came out of nowhere and announced their first new album in 15 years, which comes out tomorrow. My dudes in Intervals are also dropping a new album on the same day, so it's a great time to be into post-hardcore and instrumental rock.
Your turn
What are YOU reading, watching, or listening to this week? Let us know in the comments!
Update, December 1, 2017: This is a weekly series where we tell you what we're into, so check back every Friday or Saturday!
