Finally, the days of locking in are over. Regardless, unless you're taking online summer classes, it's May, and better days are ahead. Here are The Echo's top picks for you this summer, whether you're getting out and about or catching up on some much-needed rot time.
Album of the summer: Voodoo by D'Angelo
Any "(blank) of the summer" has been too Tiktok-ified to take it seriously these days, but D'Angelo is no joke. "Voodoo" is, simply put, one of the greatest albums of all time and a key influence for the entire genre of neo-soul. An underrated legend, D'Angelo will have you grooving through every minute of the project. Cruise around town with your windows down with "Send It On" and "Spanish Joint," or bask in awe at the vocals on "Untitled (How Does It Feel)."
Whether you've dabbled much into similar music or not, you'll be the coolest around for every moment you listen to this classic.
TV shows to binge over break
There are almost too many notable new shows this summer, but here are our picks of those — and a classic, of course — for you to knock out in a likely quick binge.
"The Bear"
Cooking already might be stressful for you if you're attempting to do so in an ASU dorm, so let "The Bear" take that stress and make it look tiny in comparison. With great performances, storylines and memorable characters, "The Bear" uses speed and pressure to cook up a completely unique series. Season 3 will be released in June on Hulu, so catch up before then.
"The Boys"
For our dystopian realistic fiction fans out there, "The Boys" is the perfect show for you. From its first few minutes, "The Boys" shows you exactly how its world operates, and you'll be both horrified and hooked. Season four looks to build on the terrifying nature of the main villain, Homelander, and how powerful he really is, so be sure to catch up.
"Community"
Arguably the best and most creative comedy of all time, you must watch "Community." Filled with witty jokes, plays on classic movies, impressive character development and emotional moments, the series has a little something for everyone and a community college backdrop. You will also absolutely find your new favorite character ever, Abed.
Local concert picks:
It's hard to find things to do over the summer when it passes 100 degrees, but you can stay indoors by checking out these local concerts in the greater Phoenix area.
21 Savage & J.I.D
Rap fans, visit the Talking Stick Resort Ampitheatre in Phoenix on May 11.
Kamasi Washington
Head to Ikeda Theater at the Mesa Arts Center on June 11 for an evening of jazz.
The Marías
The show will take place at Arizona Financial Theatre in Phoenix on July 20 (genre: indie).
Jhené Aiko
The R&B star will take the stage on Aug. 1 at the Footprint Center in Phoenix.
Summer Playlist:
For the last time until the fall semester, here's The Echo's signature playlist themed for a picture-perfect summer. Filled with tracks from Echo reporters and editors alike, we think you'll find the next jam for your summer soundtrack and some summertime classics.
Edited by Sophia Braccio, Walker Smith and Caera Learmonth.
Reach the reporter at adirst@asu.edu and follow @andrewdirst on X.
Like The State Press on Facebook and follow @statepress on X.
Andrew is a junior studying journalism and mass communication. This is his third semester with The State Press. He has also worked at The Arizona Republic.
