Essential October

Essential viewing this October:
- The Soloist is the true story of a former student at the Julliard music academy who now lives on the streets of Los Angeles. Based on the book by Steve Lopez, here played by Robert Downey, jr. it also features Jamie Foxx as the troubled genius. On paper it's this years clearest chaser of Oscar glory, but there's more to this picture than just that. The two central performances are great, top marks going to Downey, jr. surprisingly. There is a clean-cut and sober style that suits the story well accompanied with beautiful music. A real joy also is the cinematography which really does make L.A. look like the city of angels.
- Something completely different would be Observe and Report. A moronic and filthy comedy with a terrific performance from Seth Rogen. Definitely not for everyone but if you're willing to leave your good taste at the door, there is much fun to enjoy here. And director Jody Hill shold be resptected for assisting in bringing the old balls out comedy back to Hollywood.
- This past decade has not been Woody Allen's best years, but there is still some excitement to be found in his new movies. This time it is called Whatever Works and Allen has handed the acting duties over to, my favorite comedy writer, Larry David. It is certainly an acquired taste but Allen's straightforward and simplistic style, and genuine love of storytelling is bound to make you smile. With great dialogue and terrific performances all around (it is a true delight to catch David outside his more comfortable and usual TV format) with a hilarious turn from the always wonderful Patricia Clarkson.

Essential listening this October:
- British indie rockers Editors return with their third album In This Light And On This Evening and it is a real gem. A bit more electronic and dancefloor friendly than their previous outings but the quality of the songs is still stellar. Proving their worth and still willing to go new ways they are one of the more exciting bands the brits have produced in a while. And I suspect this album will only grow with each listen.
- The frontman of Madrugada, the now disolved legendary norwegian rock band, Sivert Høyem has turned out his third solo album, and this time it is finally his main project. To call it a departure from his previous work (both with Madrugada and on his own) would be an overstatement, but there is still much to collect from his musical abilities. The title of the album is Moon Landing and even though it will not send you all the way there, it is certainly strong enough to keep you satisfied as winter creeps closer by the minute.
- The idea of a second Wolfmother album seemed hopeless for a long time as the band split up a few years ago due to the classic "irreconcilable differences" problem. But one of the original three founding members has stuck around and replaced his lost friends positions around the stage, and the result is Cosmic Egg. Not nearly as good as their self titled 2005 debut, but sticking to vintage rock & roll recipes there is plenty here to enjoy. Still in the spirit of Led Zeppelin and 70's style riffs you'll struggle to find a more respectful album to the rock genre. In a word: fun.