Phoenix: J-Boy

Perhaps not immediately recognizable as Phoenix, the French band’s new track “J-Boy” is a sparkly synth-pop treat. The song is from the upcoming Ti Amo which is set for release 9 June—their first album since 2013’s Bankrupt!. Lead vocalist Thomas Mars’ lyrics mention everything from disco lights, to Michelangelo and masquerade balls, but the song’s message is deeper than it first seems. The swirling, irresistible …

Perfume Genius: Die 4 U

Last week, Perfume Genius (aka Mike Hadreas) released his fourth record No Shape and today, the video for “Die 4 U“—directed by the remarkably talented Floria Sigismondi. The song alone is a slinky, dark and minimal tune that Hadreas’s sultry voice teeters over. Subtle erotic asphyxiation, the lyrics don’t give much away. The music video is equally full of contrasts: an almost abandoned warehouse space …

Cooper Hewitt’s 2017 National Design Award Winners

Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum has announced their 18th annual design award winners—those who embody excellence and innovation in 11 design categories. “In an era of tumultuous change, design is asking deep questions about its purpose and contributions to a better society,” explains Caroline Baumann, director of Cooper Hewitt. Among this year’s winners, internationally acclaimed industrial designer Hartmut Esslinger has been honored with a lifetime …