As far as years go, 2022 went pretty smoothly.

Yes, a horrific war broke out in Europe, inflation skyrocketed across the globe and the world’s most famous person died. Yet, after two years of COVID-19 and four years of Donald Trump, it felt like the most chill year in a while from A&E’s perspective.

“Chill” in the age of internet addictions and late-stage capitalism still means that many headlines read like pre-apocalyptic mad-libs done by Lana Del Rey. Politicians weighed in on popstar ticket sales and about a half-dozen of the English-speaking world’s most famous entertainers beefed on one movie set.

Grab an accidentally-legal THC seltzer or a negroni, sbagliato, with prosecco in it, and settle down for A&E’s full debrief on 2022’s (somewhat) subdued cultural chaos. -James Schaak

The Queen’s death
One cannot overstate the gravity of Queen Elizabeth II’s death. For seven decades, the Queen reigned as the most famous person in the world amid colossal changes in nearly every aspect of humanity’s existence, keeping an admirable, if distant, composure. Now that she’s gone, the British monarchy’s future seems potentially inexistent and definitely uncertain. As Britain faces major socio-economic challenges, young people across the globe have begun pointing out the flippantly racist and classist ideals behind the monarchy. On Sept. 8, the day the Queen died, it felt like the crown’s seismic cultural clout died too. -James Schaak

Taylor Swift’s Ticketmaster debacle
I, like many other Swifities out there, spent most of Nov. 15 stuck in a queue for presale tickets to Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour.” Like many others hoping to see Swift on her first tour in five years, I also didn’t end up getting those tickets. Due to unprecedented demand for tickets and the pure chaos of the presale, Ticketmaster canceled the public sale scheduled later that week in a move that sparked outrage among the general public and drew accusations of a monopoly from prominent politicians. Perhaps the one good thing to come of the great Taylor Swift Ticketmaster debacle will be a necessary revamp of the company’s sales process. Special shoutout to the Swifites suing Ticketmaster. -Sophia Zimmerman

The Oscars slap
Those watching the Oscars from home back in March were caught by surprise when the award show included some uncharacteristically alarming drama. Many of us headed to Twitter for answers over what was going down as ABC attempted to censor the content. Videos quickly began to circulate of Will Smith smacking presenter Chris Rock across the face in response to a distasteful joke made by Rock about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. The event sparked widespread discussion on topics like violence, race and stereotypes. Smith gained one Academy Award for best actor and lost at least a few movie deals within one hour of live television. -Victoria Schutz

The Johnny Depp & Amber Heard lawsuit
Sometimes, unfortunate celebrity gossip rises above the tabloid fodder and into the New York Times’ mobile notifications. Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s incredibly toxic and abusive relationship, which played out in the Depp v. Heard defamation trial, did just that. When celebrity gossip reaches this level of ubiquity, think about why anyone should care about the behavior of abhorrent multi-millionaire celebrities. This matters because Heard’s loss in the case signaled the end of the #MeToo movement in some ways. Whether one believes Heard’s innocence is almost beside the point. For the next few years at least, expect less whistle-blowing from Hollywood’s women.             -James Schaak

“Don’t Worry Darling” drama
Director Olivia Wilde’s sophomore film, “Don’t Worry Darling,” has seen its fair share of headlines since it was first announced in July 2019. Some of the most talked-about bits of drama include highly disputed cast replacements, Wilde’s relationship with Harry Styles and split from ex-husband Jason Sudeikis, “spitgate,” the film’s sex scenes and alleged drama between Wilde and actress Florence Pugh. In spite of (or perhaps because of) its numerous headline appearances, the film still managed to earn $19.2 million at the box office before a swift release on HBO Max.              -Sophia Zimmerman

Lea Michele and the “Funny Girl” casting
Lea Michele, in her relentless pursuit to play Fanny Brice in Broadway’s “Funny Girl,” is living proof that manifestation works. From Rachel Berry’s “Funny Girl” era on “Glee” to that time she sang “Don’t Rain on my Parade” in Central Park, Michele has been publicly campaigning for the role for more than a decade. When Beanie Feldstein opted to leave the production over the summer following poor reviews, theater fans across the country wondered whether Michele would finally nab the role. After the decision was made to cast the infamously unprofessional Michele in her dream role, her first performance as Fanny Brice reportedly received four standing ovations. -Sophia Zimmerman

Negroni sbagliato with prosecco in it
TikTok is nothing if not a landscape for wildly unpredictable trends and this October, an interview with the “House of the Dragon” cast brought a bizarre drink to the forefront of everyone’s FYP. In the original video clip, Olivia Cooke asks co-star Emma D’Arcy, “What’s your drink of choice?” D’Arcy theatrically replies, “Negroni…sbagliato…with prosecco in it.” Olivia exclaims in response, “Oh, stunning!” The sound went viral on TikTok and the cocktail trended on both sides of the pond as viewers indulged their curiosity. -Victoria Schutz

Julia Fox
Julia Fox, the “Uncut Gems” star and NYC it-girl, popped out earlier this year as Kanye West’s rebound girlfriend and quickly displayed why she’s the one who deserves America’s attention. Oddball TikToks, utterly insane outfits and lore from her career-long endeavor to combine the lowbrow with the highbrow turned Fox from a niche celebrity into a household name this year. Well, maybe if your household consists solely of 20-year-olds, but still. As for her thoughts on that problematic ex-boyfriend? Fox told writer Hunter Harris that she only dated Ye early this year to, “give people something to talk about.” -James Schaak

Minnesota accidentally legalizing edibles
Despite their clear position opposing recreational marijuana legalization, the Republican-controlled state Senate passed legislation that legalized the sales of edibles and beverages containing up to five milligrams of THC. Some Republican state senators indicated they were caught off guard and did not know the legislation they voted to pass would broadly legalize THC-containing products. Now that Democrats have control of Minnesota’s state government, former Gov. Jesse Ventura says it’s only a matter of time before more widespread THC legalization occurs, this time intentionally. -Victoria Schutz

Wordle
Everyone and their mother played this New York Times word game at some point this year. Even more so than BeReal, another viral once-a-day app phenomenon, Wordle gripped the nation with an iron fist. There is something indescribably thrilling about getting the day’s word correct in fewer turns than your friends and family. Wordle is something I will continue to forget about and sporadically rediscover over and over again for years to come.                 -Victoria Schutz

Escapist music, like ‘90s house, became a trend among international superstars and indie upstarts alike in a year of reclamation for music. COVID-19 finally subsided enough for dancefloors to reopen and indoor concerts joined those outdoors in a year full of crowded line-ups.

It felt like the year live music fans, karaoke bar singers and night club dancers had long waited for. From indie favorites to global popstars, the artists delivered enough content in 2022 that we can rest assured at least a few Como house parties and frat formals will have some fun “roaring 2020s” themes in about ten years.

Here’s to 10 great albums that reintroduced us to the medium. -James Schaak

1. “Renaissance” by Beyoncé
   Beyoncé’s highly anticipated seventh studio album drew a dance pop through line from ‘70s disco classics and ‘90s ball culture into the present-day. The tracks transition smoothly from one to the next as the album progresses, highlighting the wide scope of Black queer music history with help from a disparate list of contributors including Skrillex, The-Dream, Grace Jones and more. While it may be a far cry from the deeply personal lyricism of her last three solo studio albums, “Renaissance” remains well-deserving of its positive critical reception in all of its club-centric and overwhelming glory. -Sophia Zimmerman
2. “Midnights” by Taylor Swift
   It should come as no surprise that Taylor Swift’s tenth album made it onto this list, as it broke several sales records and reminded fans of prodigal songwriting talent. Taylor Swift became the first artist in history to occupy all of the top 10 spots on the Hot 100 Billboard and her ensuing concert sales became a political flashpoint. “Midnights” includes 20 moody and synthy songs that dissect introspective stories from the singer-songwriter’s life. As always, Swift somehow made the specifics of her superstar life sound weirdly relatable. -Victoria Schutz
3. “Crash” by Charli XCX
   Charli XCX has always flirted with the boundaries and ideas surrounding pop-stardom. With “Crash,” she finally dove headfirst into the trope by reintroducing ‘90s classics and elevating Britney Spears’ catchy tactics. Each track pulses with the kind of urgency of one final night out before the apocalypse ensues. The United Kingdom, Charli’s home, plunged into a recession, dealt with three different prime ministers and mourned a monumental death this year. If Donna Summer in the ‘70s or Lady Gaga in the ‘00s taught us anything, it’s that economic and political uncertainty make for outstanding dance pop records. -James Schaak
4. “Hold On Baby” by King Princess
   Art pop singer King Princess’ second studio album, “Hold On Baby,” offered a new glimpse into the artist’s songwriting and vocal abilities. Her tracks held a much more solemn and introspective tone than previous ones, tackling topics like the complex emotions felt in long-term relationships and the realities of mental illness. -Victoria Schutz
5. “Special” by Lizzo
   Lizzo knows how to have a good time, which is highly evident throughout “Special.” The hotly-anticipated follow-up to 2019’s “Cuz I Love You” is an upbeat assortment of disco-pop and R&B hits. From the quick tempo of TikTok hit “About Damn Time” to the sultrier tune of “Naked,” Lizzo sticks to the themes she knows best throughout “Special” — self-love and the beauty of not caring about what anyone else thinks. -Sophia Zimmerman
6. “Surrender” by Maggie Rogers
   Grammy-nominated folk-pop artist Maggie Rogers’ sophomore album showcases her self-reflection in depth. “Surrender” also happens to be the name of Rogers’ thesis at Harvard Divinity School, where she graduated this past spring with a degree in religion and public life. She co-produced the album in all of its folksy glory with British pop genius Kid Harpoon. Rogers wrote part of the album during the pandemic, and the theme of the turmoil of human emotions in the face of uncertainty remains strong amid the album’s synthy beats and catchy hooks. -Sophia Zimmerman
7. “Nymph” by Shygirl
   London-based DJ Shygirl finally delivered on her years-long run of momentum-building EPs and events with her studio debut, “Nymph.” Deconstructed club, bloghouse and Pharrell-inspired rapping thrive alongside each other in Shygirl’s dark room of an album. No other artist working today can so accurately put a sound to the allure of a Mugler runway or a Berlin afterparty. -James Schaak
8. “MUNA” by MUNA
   MUNA delivered their third studio album this year, featuring a mix of dance cuts and country ballads. After signing onto Phoebe Bridgers’ independent label, Saddest Factory Records, the queer band displayed a newfound confidence. Upbeat tracks like “Silk Chiffon” and “What I Want” will be playing on my car’s stereo for quite some time. -Victoria Schutz
9. “MOTOMAMI” by ROSALĺA
   I have never seen ROSALĺA live and before this year, I don’t think I could have named five of her songs. And yet, the Catalan popstar reached such internet ubiquity with her genre-bending third studio album that I now know ROSALĺA theatrically chews a piece of gum onstage before performing “BIZCOCHITO.” MOTOMAMI sat atop Metacritic’s list of the most critically acclaimed albums of 2022 since just after its release, and for good reason. Somehow both accessible and experimental, ROSALĺA’s vision of pop music lives lightyears ahead of us. -James Schaak
10. “I Love You Jennifer B” by Jockstrap
    Two former London music school students, Georgia Ellery and Taylor Skye, joined forces this year for one of pop’s most interesting albums in recent history. Ellery, who also plays violin in experimental rock band Black Country, New Road, sings and writes the lyrics while Skye, who cites dubstep as an inspiration, produces the wacky collaborations. A violinist and a dubstep DJ? “I Love You Jennifer B” somehow pulls it off in a fantastically weird way. -James Schaak

In a year full of restaurant closures, we ate at our favorite spots like it was our last chance to do so.

Alas, three college kids do not have the time nor the money to eat at every highly-rated restaurant in the metro. The following list’s bias toward Minneapolis speaks more to the realities of student life than to a lack of depth across the Twin Cities’ abnormally strong foodie scene.

In part because of those restraints, we did not vote and rank on our findings, like with our other year-end lists. Instead, we put our favorite restaurants in alphabetical order.

The restaurants and their standout dishes that did rank in our top ten are surefire recommendations we would stand by no matter our logistical restrictions. Bon appétit! -James Schaak

Somali steak sandwich, $8.99 – Afro Deli (multiple locations, including 720 Washington Ave. SE, Minneapolis)
Fans of Somali spaghetti, a popular menu item at East African restaurants around the Twin Cities and beyond, might discover their new favorite sandwich at Afro Deli. The Somali steak sandwich combines “African spices” with the likes of mozzarella and focaccia, byproduct ingredients from Italy’s colonial presence in the Horn of Africa. Much like Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, the Somali steak sandwich showcases the resilience and adaptability of non-Western culinary traditions in the face of colonialism. -James Schaak

Encocado, $17.50 – Chimborazo (2851 NE Central Ave., Minneapolis)
I firmly believe one of the best feelings is finding a dish somewhere that continuously calls your name. Over the last few years, this mahi-mahi in coconut sauce with red peppers, onions, rice and sweet plantains has sung that siren song for me. That and the tres leches cake, among other things, keep me coming back to this Ecuadorian joint time and time again. -Sophia Zimmerman

Thai banana blossom salad, $14.50 – Hai Hai (2121 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis)
My parents love eating at Hai Hai and grabbing a beer at Grumpy’s afterward (spiritually, they’re like trendy Northeast millennials), so every time they visit, we try to do exactly that. The last time we visited Hai Hai, things went wonderfully haywire as the Thai banana blossom salad started to make us sweat, laugh and cry. We love spice and often seek it for our chicken wings, curries, margaritas, etc. but we also raised an eyebrow at the idea of a spicy salad. How is that possible? After one sinus-clearing meal, we now know. -James Schaak

Luxe burger, $21 – Lake and Irving (1513 W Lake St., Minneapolis)
This is easily the best burger I have ever had. I will admit that I am a less-adventurous restaurant patron who usually likes to keep her orders simple, but a friend of mine had spoken quite highly of this beef burger served with black truffle, foie gras butter, cheese and shallot aioli. If you too have no idea what foie gras butter is and probably wouldn’t order this burger because of that, I can assure you, it is nothing to fear. This artfully crafted spin on an American classic did not disappoint. -Victoria Schutz

Chicken pho, $7 – Lotus Restaurant (113 W Grant St., Minneapolis)
As a former rural Minnesotan, I had a delayed introduction to Vietnamese cuisine. But after discovering the chicken pho at Lotus, I immediately became a regular there. There is nothing better than a warm bowl of savory soup served with fresh garnishes during these brutal Minnesota winters. Not to mention the size of the pho bowls they serve. The “small” size usually leaves me with enough leftovers to cover another meal for the following day, perfect for a girl who dislikes cooking. -Victoria Schutz

Literally everything, prices vary – Owamni (420 1st St. S, Minneapolis)
Owamni has earned Sean Sherman, better known as the Sioux Chef, a long list of accolades since its opening in 2021. For better or worse, this means getting a coveted seat at this hotspot requires strategizing. I recommend walking in right at 11 a.m. for lunch or right at 4 p.m. for dinner and asking the host if there are any openings for two. Otherwise, look for midday openings on random weekdays months in advance, gather a group of your best foodie friends and request off of work. That’s what I did and literally everything I ate there made it more than worth the hassle. -James Schaak

Beef carpaccio, $19 – Sanjusan (33 N 1st Ave., Minneapolis)
Head to this Japanese-Italian spot in the North Loop for an intimate, inspired evening out. The beef carpaccio (wagyu, prosciutto, umeboshi, fried garlic) is the ideal small plate to share. Sliced so thin it nearly melts in your mouth, the umeboshi (pickled ume fruits) compliments with just the right amount of tang. Honorable mention goes to the yakitori. -Sophia Zimmerman

Salty caramel ice cream $4.90 – Sebastian Joe’s (multiple locations, including 1007 W Franklin Ave., Minneapolis)
Whenever I crave something sweet, I crave the salty caramel ice cream from Sebastian Joe’s. This ice cream shop delivers the perfect balance of salty and sweet in this flavor. I hate driving down Hennepin Avenue, and there are very few things I would make the drive for. A scoop of this handcrafted sugary goodness is one of them. -Victoria Schutz

Baklava croissant, $5 – Socca Café (245 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis)
Among all of Gavin Kaysen’s contributions to the Twin Cities dining scene over the years, his pastries continue to stand out for me. While I’ve long believed that Bellecour Bakery’s ham and cheese croissant is the one for me, Socca Café’s baklava croissant has given the former a run for its money. Between the oh-so-delicate flaky layers of croissant and its sticky sweetness, the Mediterranean-inspired pastry has made its way into my regular repertoire. – Sophia Zimmerman

Bali ramen, $17 – Tori Ramen (603 7th St. W, St. Paul)
Ground chicken, Szechuan pepper, chili oil, poached egg, fried leeks, green onion and sesame, all swimming in a creamy tahini-based broth? I promise this bowl of ramen is just as good as it sounds. Everything at Tori is made from scratch, and also happens to be pork-free. If you venture over to Tori 44, the Minneapolis location with a slightly more extensive menu, try the fried kimchi. – Sophia Zimmerman

With the Minnesota Daily’s summer publishing session coming to a close, the A&E staff took time to reminisce on the last two months and reflect on what in the pop culture world stood out. Ridiculous New York celebrity personas, Pete Davidson-esque Chicago boys and Southern Californian musicians stood out amid a summer full of record-breaking heat. This one’s for the girls in low-rise jeans with line cook crushes and Twitter addictions. – James Schaak

The “Funny Girl” controversy: For Broadway lovers and those who like to watch drama unfold from afar, the controversy surrounding the recasting of Fanny Brice in the recently-revived Broadway musical, “Funny Girl,” was quite the big deal this summer. After “Booksmart”‘s Beanie Feldstein made the decision to leave the show earlier than anticipated, the rumor mill was abuzz with speculation as to who might take her place — although the top runner was, of course, Lea Michele.

Michele has been publicly vying for the role of Fanny Brice on Broadway for years. However, it seemed like she had ruined any shot at the part and a future in show business amid serious claims that she, among accusations of unprofessional conduct and racism, made a former co-worker’s life a “living hell” on the set of “Glee.” The controversy lies in casting the well-known Michele — problematic past and all — instead of Feldstein’s understudy, Julie Benko, whose name may not hold the same weight despite her success as a stand-in while Feldstein battled COVID-19. Regardless of your own stance on the casting drama, one thing’s obvious here — that’s just showbiz, baby. – Sophia Zimmerman

Julia Fox: Yes, Julia Fox’s moment in the sun was really more a January/February trend, but true Julia Fox stans (we need a name) know that was actually her least interesting era. Aside from the absurd photo shoot accompanying Hunter Harris’ profile of Fox in The Cut, the it-girl’s months with Ye confused her appeal as a performance art project of her own.

The joy of following Fox this summer has been unpacking her contemporary antics (her looks!) without the TMZ saturation and deep-diving into her storied past, even before the “Uncut Gems” role. For example, the way she’s been well-documented “friends” with Jack Donoghue for years (this photo especially) and her (drunk?) singing “Video Games” on TikTok in July before Lana Del Rey hard-launched Donoghue later that month is a narrative deserving of academic research. Maybe Bushwick residents or Hollywood insiders are less impressed with Fox’s constant oddities, but for pop culture-obsessed and hyper-online Midwesterners, this has been peak entertainment. – James Schaak

“MUNA” by MUNA: Drawing in all queer content lovers and Phoebe Bridgers fans like moths to a flame, MUNA’s new self-titled album appropriately dropped during the end of Pride month this summer. Releasing their first album in 2017, the female and non-binary indie pop band shot onto the soundtracks of local coffee shops with their single “Silk Chiffon” featuring Bridgers. The album’s second track, “What I Want,” comes with a early 2000s popstar-esque music video, but more queer, featuring the band dancing in a limo wearing glittery tubetops and surrounded by women. Gentle and slowed down ballads like “Loose Garment” and “Kind of Girl,” round out the album to give us soundtracks to either dance around our bedroom or dig into our angsty energy while staring out a bus window. –Maya Marchel Hoff

“The Bear” and Line Cook Summer: FX’s latest show about a mentally ill (but sexy) chef and his experience revitalizing his family’s Chicago Italian beef restaurant was quick to be credited as one of the most accurate TV portrayals of working in the service industry. It features the constant stress and the excitement of creating something for others to enjoy plus the hot, emotionally unavailable men (Jeremy Allen White) preparing the food behind the scenes.

Thus, as is to be expected, the internet exploded with memes, stories of individuals’ own damaging line cook experiences and even what I would describe as near-religious dogmas explaining the different types of gross-hot (state fair, gas station, etc). One tweet even described Allen White as “the working woman’s Timothée Chalamet.” All in all, everyone’s thirsting after greasy men, and it sure is fun to witness. – Bel Moran

A&E obviously covers local music relentlessly, yet it still feels like there’s a dearth in our desk’s coverage. With the ever-expanding list of bands, DJs, rappers, singers, instrumentalists and every other kind of music act in the Twin Cities, it’s easy for our team of three reporters and one editor to become lost in the fray. Nevertheless, this week’s reporter’s picks aims to resolve a couple of our aforementioned struggles by spotlighting four of the local artists we’ve been digging recently. Admittedly, we seem to have a preference for indie rock, but you know what they say, “write what you know.” – James Schaak

Heart to Gold: Midwest emo band Heart to Gold has made a name for themselves in the Minneapolis DIY scene since their 2018 debut LP, “Comp.” That debut introduced the three-piece act as a yelping, guitar-riffing powerhouse in the same vein as Joyce Manor, Nirvana or The Replacements. The band now serves as the blueprint for countless Como wannabe bands. No shade though, it’s impossible not to find their Bandcamp, Northeast house show, flannel-wearing skater boy aesthetic a bit inspirational as a music-loving college student. This year, Heart to Gold reinvigorated their local fanbase with their second album, “Tom,” an outré improvement on their paradigmatic grunge debut. – James Schaak

Bad Bad Hats: Hailing from St. Paul, local indie-pop band the Bad Bad Hats adds a mellow and lighthearted layer to the Twin Cities music scene. Since forming at Macalester College as students in 2012, the band, composed of Kerry Alexander, Chris Hoge and Connor Davison, has released three albums. Their 2018 standout, “Lightning Round,” earned national praise, including a glimmering review from Rolling Stone. Boasting 255,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, the band’s playful and happy-go-lucky discography is the musical equivalent of a sun soaked summer day. The Bad Bad Hats are currently on a nationwide tour with another local Twin Cities band, the Gully Boys. – Maya Marchel Hoff

Gully Boys: The Minneapolis-based grungy power pop group was conceived during a 2016 conversation shared over thrift bins in a local Ragstock. Their first full-length album “Not So Brave,” a raw and electrifying breakout record with gems like the viral “Neopet Graveyard,” granted them the City Pages (RIP) best new band accolade in 2018. Their “Favorite Son” EP in late 2021 saw the group gain more polish while maintaining the same powerful angst, where their latest single “See You See” features a new, softer sound laden with synth. There’s no feeling like being along for the ride as a new band continues to grow and discover their sound. – Bel Moran

Early Eyes: Twin Cities jazz band Early Eyes first formed in 2016 in a University of Minnesota class of 2020 chat. From their early days stealing moving carts from Middlebrook Hall to their more recent endeavors to support mutual aid efforts in the Twin Cities, the five-member band has kept themselves busy as they’ve grown into their current sound. Their singles, including their mellow hit “Coffee” and the more vibrant “Penelope”, have amassed millions of streams on Spotify, cementing their spot somewhere beyond the Twin Cities scene. Their latest album, “Look Alive!”, is an eclectic assortment of jazz-funk and euphoric-pop produced in part by Caleb Hinz and Jake Luppen of local legends Hippo Campus. – Sophia Zimmerman

Knowing that a famous person was born or raised in Minnesota feels like knowing a little piece of arcane trivia. Even Minnesotans may have an easier time naming five famous people from California or Texas off the top of their head than those from their own state. Some of this is due to the size of those other states, but a large part could also owe to Minnesota’s famously chilled-out demeanor and reluctance for spotlight attention.

Like nearly every other Middle American state, Minnesota celebrities usually move away to chase their dreams and only move back to find solace. For example, actor Josh Hartnett moved back to the Twin Cities at the height of his career so he could take a break from the limelight and recuperate his mental health after an early ‘00s stint as a Hollywood heartthrob. Now that’s a piece of arcane trivia. Here’s four more living Minnesotan celebrities we love and why we love them. – James Schaak

Paul Westerberg: Best known as the lead singer of Minneapolis’ most famous band, The Replacements, Paul Westerberg first formed the raucous and truly chaotic punk rock band with Bob Stinson, Tommy Stinson and Chris Mars in 1979. From there, Westerberg led the band with what he learned from playing in local Twin Cities venues, taking The Replacements from local talent to national sensation. The “Let It Be” album cover, which was shot on the roof of the Stinson brothers’ mom’s house on Bryant Avenue, brought national attention to Minneapolis. Two years later, a different kind of attention was attracted when Westerberg dropped the f-bomb on national television and got The Replacements banned for life from “Saturday Night Live!” Through it all, Westerberg has held an undeniably bittersweet punk legacy in the Twin Cities. Special bonus points for the fact Westerberg still lives in the state, residing in Edina. – Maya Marchel Hoff

Jessica Lange: Everyone’s favorite former “American Horror Story” regular, Jessica Lange was born and raised in Cloquet and briefly attended the University of Minnesota. Through the ups and downs of her career, Minnesota has continued to summon Lange home. The renowned actress even made a point to raise her family here, and in 2016, Architectural Digest took readers on an in-depth tour of the sprawling grounds of her former Stillwater home. Lange also moonlights as a photographer, with her most recently published work, “Highway 61”, being a collection of photographs paying tribute to the route that begins northeast of Minneapolis. “My most powerful connection is to Minnesota, to that part of the land,” Lange said in a 1982 interview with the New York Times. “I have a certain love for it I have for nothing else. I feel better there than anywhere else in the world.” – Sophia Zimmerman

Winona Ryder: After a prolific acting career in her teens and 20s (“Heathers,” “Beetlejuice,” “Girl, Interrupted”) and a brief fall from grace after a 2001 shoplifting scandal, Ryder has practically made a Britney-level comeback in recent years. The star, born in the state and named after the southeastern city of Winona, has quickly become associated with pop culture phenomenon “Stranger Things” through her role as harrowed mother Joyce Byers and lives on as a well-loved figure in Hollywood. Ryder even starred in a 2020 Super Bowl commercial for Squarespace featuring a tongue-in-cheek exploration of the city of Winona in an effort to find herself, creating a website that ultimately serves as a love letter to small town Americana. The site features a collection of photos of interesting people and places throughout the city that Ryder turned into a photobook, with all proceeds going to the American Indian College Fund. – Bel Moran

Kris Humphries: Much like Tristan Thompson, the Chaska-raised Kris Humphries’ name recognition perhaps has more to do with the Kardashian-industrial-complex than with basketball. In 2011, the University basketball star turned NBA player was married to Kim Kardashian for 72 days in a stint so infamous that in 2021 Kim even said she doesn’t “really want to explain, like, who Kris Humphries is” to her kids. Amidst all the reality television mess distracting from Humphries’ legacy as one of Minnesota’s greatest basketball players ever, there’s also a hint at just how great of an athlete the 6 foot 9 inch Humphries was in another sport. In season 6, episode 11 of “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” Kim comments on Humphries’ leg hair and he briefly mentions shaving his legs for big swim meets as a kid. What Humphries did not mention is that he was such a fast young swimmer that he beat Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte at elite competitions before quitting the sport at age 12. There’s more arcane trivia! – James Schaak

Summer music isn’t necessarily more energetic, but it’s certainly thicker, sweatier, bouncier and more nostalgic. Crowds congregate in the summer and the music played on booming speakers creates a collective memory of these events, capable of leaving a greater impression on the culture than tunes from the other seasons.

Summer crowds create an opportunity for artists to prove themselves in front of the masses. Remember when Carly Rae Jepsen introduced herself with “Call Me Maybe?” Outside of the crowded bars, parties and beaches, there’s an intimate escapism to the season.

For young Minnesotans, who don’t get to enjoy rolled-down car windows most of the year, these songs serve as the diegetic sound in one’s own coming-of-age film, setting the tone for late night driving scenes through the pines. Here are the A&E desk’s thoughts on some of the best songs of summer, perfect for that summer heat and humidity. – James Schaak

“Umbrella” by Rihanna ft. Jay-Z: “Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh,” Rihanna sang on this deceptively straightforward earworm in summer 2007, back when the iPod Classic ruled supreme and the Kardashians were a mere sideshow. Before “Umbrella,” Rihanna was another face in the crowd; she couldn’t muster up powerhouse vocals like Mary J. Blige, nor could she dance like Britney Spears, plus Beyoncé’s superhuman ability to perform both simultaneously was beginning to cast a shadow over her peers.

“Umbrella” works as the ecstatic moment that Rihanna set herself apart, harnessed her harsh voice and learned to use her stylish sex appeal for dance party purposes. Upon its release, the song was so popular that some listeners half-jokingly attributed its weather-themed lyrical content to natural disasters as it topped the charts in one country after the other. Every summer since then, this karaoke classic, beach-day-must-play of a summer hit returns with a grandeur unlike any other. – James Schaak

“Perfect Places” by Lorde: Off of her sophomore album, “Melodrama,” “Perfect Places” takes listeners through almost four minutes of chaos, yearning and every other feeling of young adulthood. On its surface, the song may lead listeners to believe it is about finding a long-awaited safe space, but the true intent of “Perfect Places” is to highlight the spectacular bit of perfection within every imperfection. The song’s best quality is its versatile listenability. “Perfect Places” fits any direction a summer night may take, from blasting through crowded house parties where you barely recognize anyone to playing over a car stereo during intimate drives down country back roads with your favorite person. – Maya Marchel Hoff

“Heat Waves” by Glass Animals: There are those of us who have been around since the 2014 “Gooey” days. Then, there are others whose love affair with the English psychedelic pop-rock band began when “Heat Waves” re-introduced the band in the summer of 2020 with their biggest hit yet. It’s moody enough to make you think but still catchy enough for blasting during a late-night car ride. The chorus makes “Heat Waves” a great alternative for those unready to slip into the sort of nostalgia-fueled spiral that “Ribs” by Lorde tends to encourage. Between the electronic bass, guitar loop and mellow vocals, it’s a wonder it took a record-breaking 59 weeks after its release for this sleeper hit to top the Billboard Hot 100.- Sophia Zimmerman

“Silk Chiffon” by MUNA feat. Phoebe Bridgers: Sapphics everywhere collectively breathed a sigh of relief at the release of this bubblegum-pop celebration of women who love women. At a time when most Pharbs were vaccinated and large gatherings were just starting to be safe again, queer pop-rock trio MUNA signed on to indie sad girl icon Phoebe Bridgers’ label, Saddest Factory Records, and released an utterly addictive, saccharine sweet pop love jam. The song always warrants a windows-down-on-the-highway, scream-along moment. – Bel Moran

As everyone’s incredibly well aware, Minneapolis summers are always too short and to be properly relished by participating in as many outdoor activities as possible – not excluding dining. These four outdoor patio situations are staples in the city’s eating and drinking scene, must-gos for anyone looking to properly enjoy the season. Because, let’s face it, in a few months no amount of patio heat lamps and heavy-duty blankets will cut it. – James Schaak

Pryes Brewery: Literally had to Google, “mndaily pyres brewery james schaak” before writing this reporter’s pick because I can’t believe I haven’t gushed about my favorite Minneapolis brewery before. Pryes’ wide array of quality pizzas and an even wider array of quality draft beers turn the brewery’s simple, outdoor picnic tables into a locationally strategic setting before any night out in North Loop or Northeast. Many good stories have been fueled by a Miraculum-based pregame here. Not to mention it’s a fantastic Surly alternative… – James Schaak

Red Cow: Brunch, tater tots and scenic outdoor views of various locations across the Twin Cities; what more could one ask for? Populating five different locations across the metro area, Red Cow is the perfect place to meet up for summer brunch with a friend on their outdoor patio space. My vegetarianism has forced me to often choose between negligible salads and unsatisfactory black bean burgers at many Midwestern burger restaurants. However, Red Cow sets itself apart from its peers by offering many meatless options alongside their locally-famous burgers. Yet, in the end, it’s Red Cow’s milkshakes that steal the limelight away from their vegetarian-friendly main menu, especially my personal favorite: the birthday cake flavor. – Maya Marchel Hoff

Psycho Suzi’s Motor Lounge: It’s not often we grizzled Minnesotans get to enjoy a beverage adorned with a tiny umbrella. Where better to do it than at a deliciously weird, campy-as-hell retro tiki bar on the Mississippi? Northeast’s own Psycho Suzi’s is, well, the only one I can think of, but that doesn’t make their exquisitely boozy theme cocktails any less delicious, nor does it take away from their utter mastery of tacky tiki decor. Adorned with Moai statues, palm thatch umbrellas and enough distressed driftwood to sustain a small island, their absurdist patio sets the perfect atmosphere for getting absolutely blasted on syrupy, fruity goodness. Not to worry, their wide selection of fried foods and tasty apps will soak it up (mostly). The waterfront view only makes it easier to imagine yourself on a white sandy beach as you guzzle down your fifth Mai Tai. – Bel Moran

Hai Hai: On a corner in Northeast Minneapolis, housed in the space that was formerly home to a beloved dive bar and strip club, sits my favorite patio in the city – Hai Hai. Serving Southeast Asian street food, the space exudes the same vibe as the dishes that decorate its menu: bright, colorful and spirited. It’s an ideal spot to snag a table for a small group or to spend an evening sitting at the bar, perched atop a turquoise stool and taking in the scenery while that Northeast summer breeze oh-so-gently runs through your hair. Order the Water Fern Cakes, Thai Banana Blossom Salad and Hanoi Sticky Rice for a meal that’ll leave you dreaming about the myriad of places that inspired its creation. – Sophia Zimmerman

Minneapolis summers offer enough renowned parks, restaurants and festivals to keep any college kid busy but, alas, one does become wanderlust. A drive with the windows down or a bike ride with friends simply hits differently when Interstate-35 isn’t screeching in the background; hence, an hour journey outside of the city bustle feels essential at times.

These three A&E selections intend to spur epiphanies for those looking for something less than a day trip and more than a late lunch in Uptown. Check out what our desk recommends for an hour-long journey away from campus

Forgotten Star Brewery: I’m one of many car-less college students, so last fall when I interviewed a local muralist named Allison Hunsley at Forgotten Star Brewery, I biked my little self up through Northeast and into the first ring suburb of Fridley. Outside of being a fun work assignment, the approximately 45-minute ride from campus to the brewing company provided me with a new favorite brew spot and a fresh look at Northeast’s riverside bike path. Passing by Boom Island Park and Psycho Suzi’s, the trek to Forgotten Star was half the fun of grabbing a local pint, plus it made drinking a beer feel oddly healthy. Any University of Minnesota student looking to grab a group and take a long bike ride to a brewery (prototypical Minneapolis summer behavior) should definitely keep Forgotten Star’s spacious digs in mind. – James Schaak

Marine on St. Croix: Looking for a picturesque river town that is less than an hour away from the Twin Cities? Look no further than Marine on St Croix. Just 45 minutes northeast of campus, the sleepy little town offers comfort food, cozy storefronts and beautiful closeup views of the St. Croix River. Start off the day two miles north of the town by taking a hike in William O’Brien State Park. When you are ready for a rest, head into town for a filling meal at the Marine Cafe and a scoop of ice cream from ‘Nita Mae’s Scoop. Before you head home, make sure to check out the historic Marine Mill site right off of the main street for a look back into the past. – Maya Marchel Hoff

Franconia Sculpture Park: Located just under an hour from campus, Franconia Sculpture Park pulls its weight as more than a brief pitstop on the way to nearby Taylors Falls. The park is situated on 50 acres and features a space to focus on contemporary sculpture, installation and land art in addition to its artist residency program and community programming. Admission is free, rendering the open-air museum the perfect place for an aimless wander. Leave early on your way up and swing into Lindstrom for breakfast at the Swedish Inn or just a glimpse of the town’s coffee-pot-shaped water tower. – Sophia Zimmerman

The national divide in our media landscape has never been more stark: There are those who have binged “Stranger Things” season four and those who have not. The powerhouse Netflix sensation is pushing forward this summer with a noticeably-aged cast and the backing of a certain ‘80s musical masterpiece.

Fear not, if ‘80s nerdcore nostalgia isn’t your vibe, there are plenty of other exciting happenings in the world of arts and entertainment. Here’s a look at what the A&E desk is recommending this week:

“Come for Me” by Shygirl: Shygirl, the South London rapper and electronic music producer, has steadily risen through the ranks of dance pop music’s murkiest edges the last few years by cultivating a steamy club afterparty it-girl persona and crafting a sound reminiscent of a fetish club DJ remixing Rihanna. Despite boasting an astir list of collaborators (FKA twigs, Lil Uzi Vert, SOPHIE) and live shows (Berghain in Berlin, Primavera Sound in Los Angeles, many-a-club in London), Shygirl has left her growing fanbase bereft of a proper full-length studio album—until now. “Come for Me” is the latest single ahead of Shygirl’s debut this September and it takes the futurist to more experimental territory than most of her recent output. Clocking in at about seven minutes, the deconstructed club beat and disembodied vocal fades underline the studio chemistry between Shygirl and her friend/producer Arca, packing promise for the approaching album, titled “Nymph.” – James Schaak

“Conversations with Friends”: For those of you still suspended somewhere in a post-semester streaming slump, look no further than Hulu’s TV adaptation of Sally Rooney’s debut novel, “Conversations with Friends.” Centered on a pair of twenty-something former lovers and their increasingly complex interpersonal relationships, the series attempts to cover vast ground that includes an extramarital affair, reproductive-related illness and quarter-life-crisis-induced plight. While the series falls flat in many of the ways that “Normal People” seemed to soar (less chemistry in the tenderly awkward sex scenes, lackluster dialogue, etc.), it’s worth a watch for fans of Rooney’s slow-burn, realistic portrayal of modern relationships or those who find themselves enthralled by Joe Alwyn’s dry charm. – Sophia Zimmerman

“Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” by Kate Bush: If you hadn’t already known the name Kate Bush, you surely do by now. Since the release of the fourth season of “Stranger Things” late last month, the 1985 song “Running Up That Hill (Make a Deal With God)” by the British art-popstar has flown to the top of the charts for the first time in 37 years, setting records for Bush decades into her career. In the new season of “Stranger Things,” Bush’s song is used in arguably one of the best scenes of the series: the red-haired tomboyish character, Max (Sadie Sink), runs from the monstrous Dungeons & Dragons-inspired villain Vecna’s clutches toward the safety of her friends, as Bush’s heart-racing beats and psychedelic synth elevate the tension. The song’s themes of isolation easily resonate with its many new Gen-Z listeners, a demographic considered by some metrics to be the loneliest living generation. Bush’s well-deserved chart recognition and her wistful music’s reintroduction to a younger audience is perhaps the most pleasantly surprising “Stranger Things” plot twist yet. – Maya Marchel Hoff

“Stranger Things” Season 4, Volume 1: In the long-awaited fourth installment of the Duffer Brothers’ supernatural sci-fi thriller, the ode to all that is nerdy and nostalgia-worthy about the ‘80s, nothing comes easy for the zany bunch of characters, whom audiences have grown to love since the show first premiered in 2016. After a significant (pandemic-induced) delay, in the wake of the previous season’s hefty cliffhangers, the show returned with its latest edition in late May after nearly three full years without a new episode. Still, their storytelling doesn’t falter in the first half of the season (Volume 2 is slated for release this July), though it hinges on an addictive but infuriating slow burn throughout as characters, now separated due to the events of last season, struggle to reunite to accomplish their united goal to finally put a stop to the “curse” on their beloved hometown of Hawkins, Indiana. Keeping to tradition, even this volume (satisfying and explanatory as it is) ends abruptly, leaving viewers in nail-biting suspense and anticipation for a resolution that increasingly becomes more necessary throughout the release’s seven episodes. At least this time we won’t have to wait so long; I’m already dying for more. – Bel Moran