Editor’s Pick: “The Big C”
Showtime
 
Laura Linney stars in Showtime’s new comedy “The Big C” as a woman trying to break the monotony of her life after she is diagnosed with cancer. The writing is darkly funny, though it does feel contrived at times. But with a skilled cast including Linney, Oliver Platt and Gabourey Sidibe, the series is set to be a captivating character study of a woman trying to make the most of life while coping with death.
 
Entertainment Editor RYAN BUXTON
 
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Arcade Fire
“The Suburbs”
Merge Records
Grade: B+
Arcade Fire’s “The Suburbs” is a metaphoric march down memory lane in the sheltered and conventional suburbs. The piano-led title track fools the listener into thinking this trip through the suburbs will be nonchalant, but as the album progresses, it proves to be dark and sometimes sad. It illustrates the existential crisis of modern man that is stuck in a mediocre life that was once full of potential. This extensive album of 16 songs leaves the listener exhausted, a bit down and yet somewhat hopeful. “The Suburbs” is an impressive album filled with metaphorical lyrics and moving instrumentals.
 
FERRIS MCDANIEL
 
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Iron Maiden
“The Final Frontier”
EMI Records
Grade: D
 
They say all good things must come to an end, and the release of “The Final Frontier,” Iron Maiden’s 15th studio album, is the end of 35 years of face-melting metal. The album suffers from poor song structure, often abandoning melody in favor of spacey arrangements so poorly done it’s hard to believe they were done by a Grammy-nominated band. Perhaps it’s time to establish an age limit for metal and kindly inform Iron Maiden that the world would like to remember them for their 14 good albums and not this geriatric disc of disappointment masquerading as a real album.
 
ANDREW PRICE
 
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Ray Lamontagne & The Pariah Dogs
God Willin’ and the Creek Don’t Rise
RCA Records
Grade: C+
 
Talented singer-songwriter Ray Lamontagne’s new album “God Willin’ and the Creek Don’t Rise” has managed to hit the music scene without making much of a splash on listeners. Lamontagne’s attempt to break out of his mellow, easy-listening melodies and dive, along with his band The Pariah Dogs, into a more bluegrass-influenced sound is successful, but the music doesn’t do much to stir the soul like his previous work. All in all, “God Willin’ and the Creek Don’t Rise” is simply all right.
 
CATHRYN CORE
 
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Mike Posner
31 Minutes to Takeoff
J-Records
Grade: C+
 
Fresh out of college, Mike Posner is breaking into the music scene with his debut album, “31 Minutes to Takeoff.” The catchy single “Cooler than Me” snuck through mainstream radio waves and caught the attention of curious listeners. With a triple-threat combination of singing, songwriting and producing, Posner has the potential to gather a loyal fan base. The album blends trendy synthesized sounds and pleasingly raspy vocals to create a laid-back feel. Unfortunately, the lyrics are trite, and the themes come off as petty or vindictive. With experience and a more mature approach, Posner could have a successful career ahead of him.
 
MORGAN SEARLES
 
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Klaxons
Surfing the Void
Polydor Records
Grade: B-
 
“Surfing the Void,” the second album from the U.K.’s Klaxons, feels like a companion piece to “Congratulations,” the sophomore record from MGMT. Like MGMT, the Klaxons indulge in a prog-rock heavy sound, and the songs often lack clear hooks or direction as a result. The band has traded in the sharp, angular sound of its debut, “Myths of the Near Future,” for a denser, psychedelic feel. Guitars compete with each other for heavier riffs throughout the record, leading to moments of thrilling sound barrages and bloated riffing. Ultimately, it’s a strange turn for a band with a compelling sound.
 
CHRIS ABSHIRE
 
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Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
Big Talk Films
Grade: A-
 
Filled with action sequences and comic book cinematography, “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” is an epic movie based on the graphic novel “Scott Pilgrim.” Michael Cera out-performes his usual teen angst roles, which makes the movie a pleasant surprise. Cera has the support of a great cast, including Kieran Culkin, who steals the show with his one-liners and general behavior with other characters. With allusions to pop culture throughout the movie, viewers can escape to this parallel universe in which Cera’s acting is actually up to par.
 
KITTU PANNU
 
 
 
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