Year: 2022

The Wonder Years officially began traveling the road to their seventh studio album, pairing the announcement with the new video for “Wyatt’s Song (Your Name)” today. The visual shows the band playing in black and white video is highlighted by cartoon illustrations outlining various people or objects throughout its duration. The drawings also pop-out, as children are seen playing different games in between cuts of the band performing in a room.

Prior to “Wyatt’s Song,” The Wonder Years released “Summer Clothes” and “Oldest Daughter.” Their next album, The Hum Goes On Forever, will be 12 tracks long and comes over two and a half years after 2020’s Burst & Decay (Volume II). It also marks the first album the Philadelphia band has made since their vocalist Dan Campbell became a father. In a press statement, it is revealed that the “six members have all grown together as musicians; they know when to be restrained and when to explode, filling in space and emptiness as needed to create a record that mirrors the heart-torn urgency at its core.”

Watch the video for “Wyatt’s Song (Your Name)” above. Below, find the art and tracklist for The Hum Goes On Forever.

1. “Doors I Painted Shut”
2. “Wyatt’s Song (Your Name)”
3. “Oldest Daughter”
4. “Cardinals II”
5. “The Paris Of Nowhere”
6. “Summer Clothes”
7. “Lost In The Lights”
8. “Songs About Death”
9. “Low Tide”
10. “Laura & The Beehive”
11. “Old Friends Like Lost Teeth”
12. “You’re The Reason I Don’t Want The World To End”

The Hum Goes On Forever is out 9/2 via Loneliest Place On Earth/Hopeless Records. Pre-order it here.

The 2022 WNBA All-Star Game will be held in Chicago on Sunday, July 10, as the defending champion Sky will be the host team for the league’s best.

On Wednesday, the starters, as voted on by the fans, players, and media — with the same 50 percent/25 percent/25 percent weighting as in the NBA — were revealed on the NBA Today. Two of the game’s all-time greats headlined the list in their final seasons — Seattle’s Sue Bird and Minnesota’s Sylvia Fowles — and three first time All-Stars in Sabrina Ionescu, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young. The last two of those will be joined by their teammate, A’ja Wilson, on the starting rosters, as the Aces pace the field with three starters, fitting for the league’s best team.

The full starters are as follows, in descending order of the most selections:

Sue Bird
Sylvia Fowles
Candace Parker
Nneka Ogwumike
Breanna Stewart
A’ja Wilson
Jonquel Jones
Sabrina Ionescu
Kelsey Plum
Jackie Young

Parker will get to serve as the unofficial host of All-Star in her home city, and Fowles, who is out indefinitely with a knee injury, will likely get an injury replacement but gets a fitting parting honor in her final season alongside Bird. Now it’s up to the coaches to fill out the rest of the roster pool for the captain’s draft.

Fowles and Stewart will serve as co-captains for one team, while Bird and Wilson will captain the other, as the Storm teammates get to go up against each other in Bird’s final All-Star game.

Kyrie Irving‘s future in Brooklyn appears to be the subject of some consternation. Irving has a player option for the 2022-23 campaign, but there is no guarantee he picks that up, while conversations between the All-Star guard and the franchise about a contract extension are reportedly in a strange place due to Brooklyn’s concern over giving him a long-term extension.

As such, reports have popped up in recent days that indicate other teams are watching the situation with some level of interest should he hit the open market. And on Wednesday, Adrian Wojnarowski reported that one team in particular is at the front of the line, but it comes with a gigantic caveat.

“The Lakers are considered the most significant threat right now for Kyrie Irving,” Wojnarowski said. “But that would essentially entail him taking $30 million less than he can opt into in Brooklyn. There’s a $6 million taxpayer exemption he can sign with the Lakers. Now, most people would say a player’s not gonna give up that much money, but Kyrie Irving gave up nearly $17 million because of his refusal to get vaccinated, he’s in the process of losing a shoe deal with Nike.”

Wojnarowski wrote earlier in the day that the Nets and Irving prefer to get a deal done to keep him teamed up with Kevin Durant
in Brooklyn, and he noted at the end of this hit that “there’s a sweet spot for the Nets and for Kyrie Irving to find a deal.” Whatever that number is, both in terms of money and years, remains to be seen.

Have you ever watched the critically-acclaimed, award-winning classic Paddington and thought “maybe this could work if it was set in NYC, and he was a crocodile who can sing in the same style as Canadian pop singer Shawn Mendes?” Maybe not, but Sony Pictures took that thought and ran with it! Of course, it’s actually based on a children’s book, but the story is the same. Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is an upcoming movie that will likely change the face of cinema for years to come, just like Cats and Minions.

The movie stars Shawn Mendes as the voice of the croc who befriends a child who just wants to show the world how great a singing crocodile can be, naturally. Mendes even told People that he “relates” to the story, which is really telling. And he wears a cute scarf!

It gets better: the movie stars Constance Wu, Javier Bardem, and Scoot McNairy, all of whom look like they are taking the role very seriously. McNairy is known for his serious, dark roles, in movies like Argo and 12 Years A Slave. Bardem is also one to take on more gritty roles, like No Country For Old Men and Mother! It is nice to see them having fun with a crocodile that sings. Here is the official synopsis:

When the Primm family (Constance Wu, Scoot McNairy, Winslow Fegley) moves to New York City, their young son Josh struggles to adapt to his new school and new friends. All of that changes when he discovers Lyle – a singing crocodile (Shawn Mendes) who loves baths, caviar and great music-living in the attic of his new home. The two become fast friends, but when Lyle’s existence is threatened by evil neighbor Mr. Grumps (Brett Gelman), the Primm’s must band together with Lyle’s charismatic owner, Hector P. Valenti (Javier Bardem), to show the world that family can come from the most unexpected places and there’s nothing wrong with a big singing crocodile with an even bigger personality.

Even though the premise is silly, that’s probably what people said about Paddington back in the day. And look at where he is now! The movie will be released in theaters (yes–it’s getting a wide release, not straight to streaming) on October 7th.

We are now just two days away from the release of the Baz Luhrmann biopic Elvis, and therefore two days away from the movie’s soundtrack hitting streaming services. Before that happens, though, we’ve been gifted what will presumably be the final pre-album preview, Kacey Musgraves’ rendition of the Elvis Presley classic “Can’t Help Falling In Love.” Musgraves turned in a beautiful rendition of the frequently covered song, going for a downtempo approach, with just her vocals accompanied by piano.

Musgraves was clearly destined to be involved with this project: She recently re-shared a video of herself from 1995, gleefully opening a gift of a Presley cassette and perfume. Of course, her 2018 album Golden Hour also has a highlight called “Velvet Elvis.” She has also performed a Presley cover or two in her day; Here’s a rendition of “Are You Lonesome Tonight” from 2015.

Aside from Musgraves, the Elvis soundtrack features Eminem, CeeLo Green, Ann Nesby, Alton Mason, Chris Isaak, Denzel Curry, Doja Cat, Gary Clark Jr., Jack White, Lenesha Randolph, Jazmine Sullivan, Kacey Musgraves, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Les Greene, Måneskin, Nardo Wick, Paravi, PNAU, Rufus Thomas, Shonka Dukureh, Stevie Nicks, Swae Lee and Diplo, Tame Impala, and Yola.

Listen to Musgraves’ rendition of “Can’t Help Falling In Love” above.

The blonde ale, also known sometimes as a golden ale, doesn’t really get the respect it deserves in the summery beer world. Despite being frequently overshadowed by IPAs, pale ales, lagers, and pilsners, the blonde ale is a low-bitterness, balanced style that can encompass a wealth of complexity.

Blonde ales can be fermented with lager or even ale yeast. Sometimes simple and citrus-driven, other times they’re spiced, or brewed with fruit or honey. It’s truly a unique, memorable warm-weather beer.

With complexity comes options, and to help you find some of the best takes on this underrated style, we went to our favorite craft beer professionals for help. We asked a handful of craft beer experts and brewers which blondes they prefer for summer refreshment. Keep reading to see all of their picks.

Treehouse Eureka

Eric Martens, founder and owner at Border Brewing Company in Kansas City

ABV: 4.2%

Average Price: $10.99 for a 16-ounce can

Why This Beer?

It’s hard to find in many areas of the country, but Eureka from Treehouse in Massachusetts is a really great beer. It’s light in body, as a blonde ale should be, but has great flavor and citrus hop presence. It’s a great summer beer.

Deep Ellum Dallas Blonde

Hector Cavazos, owner and head brewer at Rebel Toad Brewery in Corpus Christi, Texas

ABV: 5.2%

Average Price: $8.50 for a six-pack

Why This Beer?

Deep Ellum Dallas blonde is great. It’s citrusy and floral. Brewed with Pale, Vienna, and wheat malts as well as a smattering of bright, floral American hops, it’s crisp, light, and easy to drink. It’s the kind of beer you want to drink all afternoon. Especially if it’s a hot day.

Allagash Sixteen Counties

Mike Kelly, senior brewer at Harpoon Brewery in Boston

ABV: 6.5%

Average Price: $12.50 for a four-pack of 16-ounce cans

Why This Beer?

Allagash Sixteen Counties is my go-to golden ale. A flavorful Belgian ale brewed with 100% Maine-grown malt. A delicious beer that also tells a great story about a brewery’s commitment to growing agriculture in their own state.

Firestone Walker 805

Dan Lipke, head brewer at Clown Shoes Beer in Boston

ABV: 4.7%

Average Price: $8.99 for a six-pack

Why This Beer?

Firestone Walker 805 is a great crisp and refreshing blonde ale, slightly citrusy but not in a hoppy way. It’s a smooth refreshing brew for when you want an easy-drinking ale. It’s the kind of beer you drink all summer long.

Maui Brewing Bikini Blonde

Kyle Park, director of marketing at Neshaminy Creek Brewing Co. in Croydon, Pennsylvania

ABV: 5.1%

Average Price: $12.50 for a six-pack

Why This Beer?

Maui Brewing’s Bikini Blonde. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Maui a few times and that beer just brings me right back to early morning poolside happy hours or floating out in a tube watching the sunset, can in hand. It’s a deceptively simple beer with subtle malt sweetness with a crisp and clean finish.

Pure Brewing Tropical Mist

Douglas Hasker, head brewer at Puesto Cerveceria in San Diego

ABV: 5.1%

Average Price: $16 for a four-pack of 16-ounce cans

Why This Beer?

Tropical Mist, Pure Project Brewing is my pick. Lighter beers require a delicate touch and quality ingredients. This blonde ale showcases fresh bready malt character from California-based Admiral Malting, fruity esters from their house hazy strain, and a refreshingly light touch use of locally grown organic Valencia orange. A wonderfully balanced beer with a lot of complexity to keep your interest.

Wynwood La Rubia

Marshall Hendrickson co-founder and head of operations at Veza Sur Brewing Co. in Miami

ABV: 5%

Average Price: $10.50 for a six-pack

Why This Beer?

Wynwood Brewing Co – La Rubia is hard to beat. La Rubia is my go-to blonde ale for many reasons. Wynwood Brewing Co is just a stone’s throw away from our brewery, so I can guarantee it’s always fresh. It’s well balanced with subtle hop bitterness, but most importantly, super crushable.

Tyranena Three Beaches

Chris Wittemann, area sales at Sprecher Brewing Company in Glendale, Wisconsin

ABV: 5.2%

Average Price: $10.99 for a six-pack

Why This Beer?

Three Beaches Honey Blonde Ale by Tyranena Brewing Company in Lake Mills Wisconsin. Like Sprecher, Tyranena perfectly knows how to incorporate honey into its products. Tyranena does an excellent job adding it in the brewing process for a few of their outstanding beers. The honey, citrus, and lemongrass flavors are a perfect combination for a nice, light-drinking, blonde ale.

Waterfront Crazy Lady Honey Blond

Thomas Reese, brewer Ghost Harbor Brewing Co. in Elizabeth City, North Carolina

ABV: 5.6%

Average Price: Limited Availability

Why This Beer?

Crazy Lady Honey Blonde from The Waterfront Brewery in Key West, Florida. What flavors make it great? Crafted with locally sourced honey from up the Keys adding another dimension to an already crushable blonde ale. Light, crisp, citrus, and honey. What’s not to love?

Roughly a week before 2022 NBA free agency is slated to kick off, Pat Connaughton will exercise his $5.7 million player option to remain with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2022-23, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

Following Connaughton’s career-best campaign, there was some speculation he might decline that player option and enter the market, presumably receiving a pay raise from Milwaukee or another team in the process. Yet the 29-year-old swingman will stay put with the Bucks, as they look to deliver a second title in three seasons to Milwaukee.

During 2021-22, he averaged career-highs in points (9.9) and steals (0.9) per game, while shooting 39.5 percent beyond the arc on 370 attempts. His 62 percent true shooting was also the second-highest of his career, only trailing 2016-17, when he played 316 minutes for the Portland Trail Blazers.

Connaughton provides a blend of high-volume floor-spacing and heady off-ball movement for and Milwaukee. He’s an impactful offensive rebounder and cutter, and does not let a few misses or a cold streak rattle his confidence as a 3-point shooter. While the Boston Celtics encountered considerable success against him on switches in this year’s second round, he’s generally a sufficient defender in most contexts as well.

Connaughton and the Bucks will look to rekindle their 2021-22 magic next season, when they won the title, with Connaughton playing a significant role.

The 2022 NBA Draft looks to be as unpredictable a draft as we’ve seen in years, as there’s even a question of who will go No. 1 overall with just over 24 hours until the Orlando Magic are, officially, on the clock.

In some order, the top three picks are expected to be Jabari Smith, Chet Holmgren, and Paolo Banchero, with the most intrigue at the top being what the Kings do at No. 4, with Jaden Ivey as the consensus fourth best player in this class, but the Kings having not even spoken to the Purdue prospect amid rumors they’re looking to trade down (for a steep fee). All four of those prospects will be among the 24 overall that will sit in the green room at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn and wait for their names to be called in person, as the league announced the full list of accepted invites on Wednesday afternoon.

A green room invite isn’t a guarantee of a first round selection, but most of those players figure to hear their name called in the first 30 picks. There are a few who are in that late first/early second projected window, but whether called by Adam Silver or Mark Tatum, all 24 will hit the stage and achieve a lifelong dream on Thursday night.

Thanks to Deadpool becoming a smash hit despite a shoestring budget and a non-supportive studio, Ryan Reynolds has become not just a massive movie star, but a marketing super guru. The actor was extremely hands-on for the aggressive publicity campaigns for both Deadpool movies. His presence was undeniable, which was all part of the decades-long struggle he went through to get the Merc from the Mouth a proper live-action film after the character was practically unrecognizable in X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

Of course, the first Deadpool‘s success would have never been possible had test footage found its way online, and Reynolds recently had some cheeky words for whoever might have been responsible. (If you get the impression from this quote that the leaker might be Reynolds, we had the same thought.) Via Deadline:

“I spent ten years trying to get the film Deadpool made — it was hell,” he told an audience at the Cannes Lions advertising event in France today. “We shot some test footage, some absolute bastard leaked it onto the internet, and that’s what got the movie made.”

Thanks to whoever the leaker might be, Deadpool is one of the few characters to survive the Disney/Fox merger. In fact, a third film that will fully introduce the character into the Marvel Cinematic Universe is on its way, and major stars are already fighting over who gets a cameo.

During a new interview to promote Thor: Love and Thunder, Chris Hemsworth cheekily threatened to use his MCU clout to get himself a Deadpool 3 appearance just to spite Hugh Jackman, who’s been angling to be in the film. “I might make some calls, make sure that doesn’t happen,” Hemsworth joked to BBC Radio 1.

Apparently, there can be only one Australian hero in the MCU.

(Via Deadline, AV Club)

These new Mura Masa tracks are hitting different, straight up. As the Grammy-nominated British glitch-pop producer gears up for the September 26th release of his next album, Demon Time, we’ve heard a slew of excellent singles that push the envelope of expectation, while straddling styles from hyper pop to dance hall, trap, and more.

Now on his latest offering, “Hollaback B*tch,” Mura Masa taps in with vocals from Shygirl and Channel Tres for a splashy summer dance tune. A hammed up steel drum effect cascades along with a silky saxophone for a rhythmic kaleidoscope that Shygirl and Tres soar over. “I won’t be a hollaback b*tch,” they sing in a back and forth vocal approach that hits.

“Hollaback Bitch” follows last month’s release of “Blessing Me,” which featured British rapper Pa Salieu and Jamaican spittah Skillibeng. Shygirl made another appearance on the blooming sounds of “Bbycakes,” which has an all-star cast of guests that also includes PinkPantheress and Lil Uzi Vert. The first offering from Demon Time came out last November, in the “2gether,,” where Mura Masa gorgeously handles all vocal duties himself.

Listen to “Hollaback B*tch” above.

Demon Time is out 9/16 via Polydor Records. Pre-order it here.

Some of the artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.