My Best of 2021
For all the things that happened in 2021, there have been plenty of great cultural moments this year. Here are my best music releases, books, movies, and TV shows that I experienced in 2021.
Okay, so not all of these were released in 2021, but I count them because I discovered them or checked them out for the first time in 2021.
Music
Stand for Myself, Yola — I was impressed with her debut album, 2019’s Walk Through Fire, with its sophisticated, rich retro-country style. She added some soul and rock elements to the mix on this album, but she kept that old-school vibe going on Stand for Myself.
I remember reading that Yola was addressing some political and social issues on the album, but the issues she tackles are getting back to life after the pandemic, the fact that politicians look out for themselves at the expense of their constituents, and…well…standing for yourself. No matter what, it’s worth repeated listening.
The Comeback, Zac Brown Band — Probably the most appropriate album title of the year. After 2019’s disappointing The Owl, the band needed to get their music back on track. They came back in spades.
The Comeback sounds like a classic Zac Brown Band album — exactly what fans expect to hear from the guys. The title track not only exemplifies what this album means to the band, but it’s also an anthem about America coming back from COVID-19. It’s new and classic at the same time, and it’s Zac Brown Band at its best.
“Wait on You,” Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music — This worship song grabs me like nothing else did this year. Just click on the video and let the song stand for itself.
Books
Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine, 2nd ed., Wayne Grudem — I tackled a 1,600 page systematic theology, and it was so worth it. Read more about it here.
Hark! The Biography of Christmas, Paul Kerensa — I can’t tell you the last time I learned so much fascinating trivia and was entertained at the same time. This book about Christmas traditions and songs and where they came from was so much fun to read. Check it out next year after Thanksgiving!
Movies
Ok, so I only saw two new movies this year, so the pickings were slim, but I really do recommend these.
The Jungle Cruise — A terrific, fun romp based on the iconic Disney Parks attraction.
No Time to Die — What a terrific way for Daniel Craig to end his run as James Bond. I read so many mixed reviews about this one that I didn’t know what to expect. It was brilliant, which is high praise from a 007 fan like me.
Television
Ted Lasso — I just discovered Ted Lasso this fall, and I’m impressed with how funny and sweet the show is, often at the same time.
The Book of Boba Fett — Ok, so we’ve only seen one episode in 2021, but I’ve got high hopes that this series is going to be satisfying and fun.
American Masters: Flannery — I thought I knew a lot about this Georgia writer until I saw this PBS documentary. So well worth your time to watch this insightful film.
There you go! I’m hoping to enjoy so much more entertaining and enlightening media in 2022.