“Circles (Deluxe)” | Mac Miller

This album ruled my life for about two months straight, and I could not listen to anything else. Words are hard for this project because it is so close to my heart. If I could describe this album in one word, I would use the word “peace,” but luckily I have the space to use more. 

"Circles" (Deluxe) is a haunting and introspective masterpiece, showcasing Mac Miller’s growth and artistic vision.

Circles (Deluxe) was released on Jan. 17, 2020, posthumously, following Miller’s death in late 2018. The album is a perfect reflection of his journey and growth as a musician. 

Its emotional depth is highly regarded by critics and gives listeners an inside look at Miller’s thoughts. His smooth and soulful voice weaves in and out of the album's ethereal production. The songs are personal and devastating, exploring themes of love, loss and self-discovery with a raw honesty that is both deeply moving and cathartic.

There are many songs that I could talk about, but my absolute favorite is “Once a Day.” It is a reflection of the ups and downs of life, grappling with the struggles of mental health and the complexities of relationships. He raps about the desire to escape the pressures of the world and the longing for a simpler, more peaceful life. 

"I just keep waiting for another open door / To come up soon / Don't keep it all in your head / The only place that you know nobody ever can see" are some of the most impactful lyrics from the song. It is devastating to think about Miller’s future but also interesting to hear his struggles and just how vulnerable he is being in the song. 

The reason I recommend the deluxe version of this album is because you get the pleasure of enjoying three more songs, "Right," "Floating" and "Hand Me Downs." They each provide a fresh perspective on Miller's musical sound while fitting the tone of the album. They are strong, wonderful additions.

The album is very depressing once you understand Miller’s future, but it is such a beautiful piece of art that I wish he was here to enjoy it with us. The album's emotional depth, honesty and vulnerability make it a perfect tribute to Miller’s career and a reflection of who he was as a person. 

“My Way” | Frank Sinatra 

I chose this song because I wanted to stay true to what I have been listening to recently, and Frank Sinatra has been on a lot. This 1969 timeless classic is one of the most powerful performances I have ever heard. 

It is uplifting, motivating and a confidence booster all in one. Sinatra’s booming voice will have you ready to climb Mount Everest. It makes you feel like you can accomplish anything. Sinatra is one of the most prolific performers of all time, with most of his catalog being widely accomplished songs. 

Paul Anka, who would eventually make a name for himself in performing with songs such as “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” and “Diana,” wrote “My Way” for Sinatra. He was initially hesitant to record it, but was ultimately convinced and recorded it in 1969. It was released on an album, also entitled “My Way,” but the song quickly outshined the rest. 

I love this song for its jaw-dropping performance, beautiful lyrics and the song’s message. The song is about a person reflecting on their life as they are nearing the end of it. It’s about having no regrets about how he lived because he did it his way. Sinatra looks back on his experiences with a sense of satisfaction, despite any mistakes or hardships he had to face. 

As the song continues, the passion in his performance shines through more and more. By the end, you are crying and yelling, “I did it my way" right alongside Sinatra. The song is a masterclass in storytelling and lyricism, telling a nuanced brilliant story of this man’s reflection on his life. 

Recently the song has found its resurgence in today’s generation as it has been going viral on TikTok with inspirational videos, but it is so much more than a TikTok sound. 

Some of my favorite lyrics from the song are, “For what is a man, what has he got? / If not himself, then he has naught / To say the things that he truly feels / And not the words of one who kneels.” It is abundantly clear that through living his life, he has learned that it is better to say how to speak his truth than to live his life pleasing people. 

The song is a triumph in itself, but I promise after a listen, you won’t be able to stop. 

“The Banshees of the Inisherin” 

I have a theory, or more so a belief that to properly judge a movie, you have to see it twice. This movie is a perfect reflection of that, for me. I like to go into movies completely blind, so I had no idea what this was about when I watched it the first time. Due to that, a lot got past me. I missed out on key humor, basic story beats and all the predisposed knowledge you would get from trailers. 

I can’t believe I’m admitting this, but after my first watch, I thought, “Eh, it’s another slow movie based in the 1920s that is kind of funny?” That opinion dramatically changed after watching it for the second time. 

I understood everything, the jokes were hilarious, the relationships were much more nuanced than I realized and the plot made sense to me. 

The story is simple. It is about a “dull” man named Pádraic whose best friend Colm decides he no longer wants to be friends.  Colm claims he longs for more complexity in his life that Pádraic can’t give him and wants to be remembered by some kind of legacy. He tells the Pádraic that if he continues to spend time with him, he won’t get that. 

Director Martin McDonagh managed to turn a universal story of loss into a unique, powerful, Oscar-nominated movie with such nuanced relationships and dynamics. Colin Farrell plays Pádraic incredibly well, in what might be his best performance yet as a deeply hurt, simple man who just wants his friend back. 
While the film sounds sad, and it is at times, it is also incredibly comical and has some hilarious moments between the characters. It is a beautiful slice of life filled with characters you really care about and want to see more of. Give it a watch, and tell my parents they’re wrong for thinking it’s bad.

“Ted Lasso”

This show has been one of the biggest surprises to me. I initially saw all of the promo for it and did not want to watch it all. It looked like it was about soccer and was super corny and cheesy, but after glowing reviews and countless Emmy awards it received, I had to check it out. 

Upon watching it, it has quickly become one of my favorite shows on the air right now. The show is a perfect blend of humor, heart and humanity that showcases talented acting and even better writing. 

Jason Sudeikis plays a man named Ted Lasso, an upbeat, cheery American college football coach who is hired to run an English soccer team into the ground, but he intends to do everything but that. Sudeikis is wonderful in the role as the lovable and clueless Ted Lasso, bringing a mix of innocence and optimism to the role that is both endearing and entertaining. 

The show, which is released through Apple TV+, is not cheesy at all but instead makes your heart feel warm, fuzzy and overall happy while watching it. Make no mistake though, it is not all cherries and rainbows. They tackle serious themes, such as failure and loss, still with a light and humorous touch. The show never shies away from touching on the emotional struggles that the characters face, but it always manages to do so in a way that is relatable and doesn’t feel preachy.

Ted Lasso is a must-watch for fans of sports comedies, heartwarming dramas and just good television in general. The show is a joy to watch and a true feel-good hit that will leave you smiling, laughing and rooting for its lovable cast of characters.