2013 was a year for the books or rather, the e-readers. We’ve already explained which unusual events, personas, and fads trumped the others before the ball dropped but let’s face it, they were so last year. The coming months are sure to bear uncertainty, change and, in all likelihood, even less clothing.
There is a lot to to anticipate, so without further ado, here are the top whatsits to watch for in 2014:
Springsteen’s “High Hopes”
While it may not be the year’s most jaw-dropping headline, chronologically, it’s one definitely worth acknowledging. Brucey’s 18th studio album is scheduled for a January 14th release date and has, at least among the American legend’s steadfast disciples, caused quite a commotion. The album’s 12 tracks are a collection of musical rarities for Springsteen: All are either cover songs previously performed live or unreleased originals that have been dusted off and revamped. With major accompaniments from the E Street Band on 8 of the anticipated record’s tracks, The Boss just might be able to resurrect rock ‘n’ roll from its grave. Anyone who was “Born In the USA”, “Born to Run” or born into a family of diehard Springsteen fanatics, rejoice.
Via: audiophileparadise.com
Sochi Olympics 2014
Nothing says national pride like the Olympic games. This February, the elite titleholders of winter sports will congregate in Sochi, Russia in hopes of skii, shredding, and triple axelling their ways to Olympic gold. While renowned athletes Lindsay Vonn and Apolo Ohno will be participating as spectators rather than competitors this year, crowd favorites like snowboarders Shaun White and Kelly Clark, and figure skater Ashley Wagner are projected to make Team USA proud. From fast-paced hockey to the more chess-like sport of curling, there’s something for everyone, and with 204 registered Olympic Committees participating, this year’s turnout is sure to be cutthroat. In the spirit of the Polar Vortex, tune in February 7 through February 23 for NBC’s coverage.
Via: forums.newtek.com
The Return of the Troops
Looks like the boys are finally coming home. Since the Bush administration, the fate of our Afghanistan-stationed military has been unclear. However, according to Al Jazeera, all those actively serving will be brought back to American soil no later than December 31, 2014. NATO withdrawal will exclude a handful of foreign advisors, diplomats, and representatives but, according to President Obama’s 2011 address, “By 2014, this process of transition will be complete, and the Afghan people will be responsible for their own security.”
A Whole Lot of Swag
There’s no denying that rap artists hustled the shit out of 2013. With chart-topping albums by Jay-Z, Drake, Kanye West, and Slim Shady, what more could we ask for? The answer may lie in Rick Ross’ highly-anticipated “Mastermind.” Mr. Rozay nixed the scheduled December 17 release date for his sixth studio album in order to primp and polish its tracklist, guest features, and overall vibe. Other records to keep an ear out for include Schoolboy Q’s “Oxymoron,” YG’s Def Jam Debut, “My Krazy Life,” Lil’ Wayne’s “Tha Carter V,” and a rumored sophomore release by Kendrick Lamar. Prefer your sound a little more old school? After various rumors within the festival circuit, Coachella has confirmed that Outkast will, indeed, reunite at the festival this year. If this news doesn’t have you pop, lock and dropping of joy yet, Dr. Dre’s Beats Music record label is sure to unveil a new slew of ear candy to do the trick for you.
Via: asapmob.com
A Beautiful Beer/Cocktail Union
Whether you’re looking to expand the horizons for your refined palate or just looking to get wasted, this year is looking like an intoxicating gamechanger in the alcohol world. Although we’ve seen experimentally boozy combinations in the past (I’m talking to you Four Loko), 2014 is projected to take the bottle to new heights. According to Entrepreneur, major restaurants have seen an increase in demand for innovation behind the bar. “Beer-inspired drink creations” will hopefully bridge the gap between the brewski-enthused bro and those who prefer their libations a little more spirited, restoring pub-wide peace for all of our country’s beautiful drunkards.
Intergalactic Excellence
The stars are scheduled to shine a little brighter in 2014. Celestial delights are in full swing this year, with more planetary, solar, and lunar phenomena gracing the calendar than usual. According to Reader’s Digest, April 14 marks Mars’s closest position to Earth in six years, as well as a total lunar eclipse, allowing for prime telescopic gazing. Later universal events include a May 24 shower of shooting stars left by a burned out comet and an October 23 partial solar eclipse. Purchase a telescope or head to UF’s outer space observatory and let nature do the rest.
FIFA’s Finest
From June 12 to July 13, Brazil will host the twentieth Copa del Mundo across 18 different host cities. Scheduling for later matches is still in the works, but most of matches taking place in the first few weeks are available for viewing and ticket purchasing. FIFA’s current match progress can be seen, as well, on their website. The USA team’s qualifying rounds have been somewhat ominous, losing out early on to Honduras in the finals, but hold a strong 7-10 preliminary win record overall. Top teams to watch include Brazil, Germany, Spain, and Argentina so come summer, trade in that gaming console for the real thing, FIFA fanatics.
Via: dispatch.com
“Mockingjay” – Part 1
If you think you’re too cool for any and all things “Hunger Games,” trust me: You’re not. The second installment of the trilogy grossed a record $400 million in 2013 so you know that profit is going to complement the first installment of “Mockingjay” nicely. The film’s scheduled release date is November 21, 2014, giving director Francis Lawrence and A-List talents Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, and Josh Hutcherson plenty of time to produce another knockout book-to-film representation. Add a little CGI (a lá rabid, mutant monkeys) into the blend and BAM! Box office gold awaits us.
Wearable Tech
Good news, Digital Era. You and your most cherished gadgets are about to get a little closer. Wearable devices are so hot right now and, apparently, we’ve got a lot more exploding onto the market in 2014. We are going beyond the introduction of the futuristic yet antiquated Samsung smartwatch and can expect to see the future of digital technology a little more clearly. The elusive Google Glass is scheduled to move past its beta phase and on to the tech scene later this year, merging your virtual and physical worlds in a completely innovative way. Fitness monitoring devices are due to appear in new accessory forms, making calorie tracking even more stylish than the Nike FuelBand. There’s even talk of clothing/tech hybrids hitting major retailers. Will Apple become the newest designer at Macy’s? We’ll just have to wait and see.
More “Recreational Facilities”
Set a good example for the rest of us, Colorado.
Photo courtesy of: blingcheese.com
