Best of the Month is decided by a number of different variables; voter counts from preceding posts, reader reaction ratings, gut feelings, and lots and lots of heated discussions.
Album of the Month
It took almost 20 years for this album to finally come to fruition. But after some much needed reconciliation and following the untimely death of the enigmatic Phife Dawg, We Got It From Here…Thank You 4 Your Service finally saw the light of day. A Tribe Called Quest have never truly gotten as much credit as they deserve for the massive influence they’ve had on not only the music but the culture. Q-Tip gave a master class on production with his layered, intricate instrumentation and sounds and grooves that defy description. Their sharp social insights could only be described as timely and were complimented by some fantastic guest features from the likes of Jack White, Busta Rhymes, Kendrick Lamar, and others.
It’s about as close to perfect as an album can get and it serves as a bittersweet farewell from the legendary group.
Runner-ups
Trailer of the Month
I don’t care what movie you are, you’re going to have a hard time competing against a film starring both Denzel Washington and Viola Davis. Originally adapted from the play of the same name, Fences looks like it will be an intense drama with some heavy themes. From the few minutes of screen time, it quickly becomes clear why this movie and their performances are already being talked about as Oscar worthy. Could be performances of a lifetime, which is saying a lot for these already highly distinguished actors.
Runner-ups
Video of the Month
OK Go have become quite infamous for their large, intricate, Rube Goldberg-esque set pieces they develop for their music videos. It’s a calling card at this point, and each and every time they still somehow manage to find creative new ways to execute this concept. The sheer amount of work and precision that was needed into getting this one just right had to be maddening, but the end result is one of their most well choreographed and visually captivating videos yet.
A music video is only as good as it’s song however, and “The One Moment” is just as satisfyingly high energy and rhythmic as the video itself.
Runner-ups
