Audi’s “Daughter” Commercial

Accurately gauging many people’s mood across the country, Audi has created a commercial for the Super Bowl that isn’t about speed or luxury—in fact, it doesn’t even advertise one particular car. Instead this TV spot, called “Daughter,” depicts a bunch of kids in a somewhat ramshackle downhill cart race. One participant’s father narrates, contemplating his daughter’s gender and perceived worth. The final message from the …

Future Islands: Ran

Inherently powerful and exuberantly warm, despite the occasional lyrical darkness, the music of Future Islands carries a force that few bands can match. With “Ran,” the first single from their forthcoming album The Far Field, everything we’ve come to love about the band is in place: howling balladry, uplifting synths and a bass-line one can grab ahold of. It’s a strong indicator of what to …

If We Were All Elephants

In describing elephants by their almost mystical elements (like sensing the weather both near and far, using their femurs to listen) “Being a Beast” author Charles Foster builds a profile of profound beauty. Placing this profile in conjunction with one of contemporary urban living, Foster illuminates all that makes the animals gentle, loving and unique. From reciprocal altruism to the depths of consciousness, the giant …