Five things we think you’ll really like
By Christian Science Monitor
Jersey Boys
Even if you’re a million miles from Broadway, you can still hear the sounds of “Jersey Boys,” a smash-hit musical based on the high, sweet tones of the young Frankie Valli and his doo-wop quartet, the Four Seasons. The CD, produced by Bob Gaudio, one of the original members of the Four Seasons and its resident songwriter, includes some of the show’s dialogue and more than 30 songs.
Get to know Jack
As much as we love the holidays, it was a dead zone for television (except for that thrilling Rose Bowl). Fortunately, the New Year has brought with it fresh programming, including new episodes of “Lost” and “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” And if you don’t know Jack (Bauer), keep an eye out for “24” for some mayhem-filled days.
Gondolier Glamour
Casanova transforms 18th-century Venice – home of the original love canal – into the staging ground of the most delightful romantic comedy we’ve seen in ages. It’s here that the titular character (Heath Ledger) trades in his womanizing ways to woo a feminist philosopher named Francesca (a beguiling Sienna Miller). The film is rated R, but it’s remarkably chaste considering its subject matter.
Yoohoo for Youtube
If what’s on television doesn’t excite you, take matters into your own hands. Youtube.com allows anyone to post original movies for all the world to see, or to watch what others have created. Channels include sports, humor, education and instructional, and pets and animals (see some of the zaniest cat antics ever). It’s a big world out there. Thankfully there are a lot of people pointing video cameras at it.
Pop music for Adults
Songwriter Imogen Heap is best known as the voice of Frou Frou, the duo who scored a hit with “Let Go” from the “Garden State” soundtrack. Her latest solo CD, “Speak For Yourself,” sparkles with electro-pop that’s by turns playful and forlorn. Catch her on tour (see imogenheap.com).
