January Watch List
A monthly update on what we're reading, watching and listening to, when we're not making soap that is.
These cold January days can be tough, so we have been easing ourselves into the flow of this quiet month by cosying up and treating ourselves with as much as kindness as possible.
For Donagh, that means burning candles, and filling his days with plenty of inspiring books, shows, music, and podcasts. He has compiled a list of his favourite pieces of media that have brought him joy this month, all of which he thinks you will love too.
READ
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevi - A sweeping novel that follows the lives of three young people across long periods. Beautiful, heartbreaking, inspiring and surprising all at once.
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel - A wonderful book that follows a group of people brought together after an apocalypse, risking everything for art and humanity. A completely immersive page-turner.
The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker - A book I have recommended before and am enjoying just as much upon re-reading! Thoughts on community, coming together, and intentionality-all things I am working hard to bring into my 2023.
WATCH
Pachinko - This beautiful and ethereal drama chronicles the hopes and dreams of a Korean immigrant family across four generations as they leave their homeland in search of a new life in the USA. A wonderful story that will keep you hooked.
Tokyo Vice - The older I get, the more fascinated I become with Japanese culture, art, and media. This show is no exception; a tense crime drama about a committed western journalist investigating the Yazuza organised crime gangs.
The Bear - A young chef from the fine dining world comes home to Chicago to run his family sandwich shop after a heartbreaking death in his family. There's a reason why everyone is raving about this. It's a brilliant portrayal of an intense industry and a particularly gripping depiction of the highs and lows involved trying
to keep a family business alive.
LISTEN
Warm Chris by Aldous Harding - I have been a fan of Aldous Harding's work for a while and her new album does not disappoint. Blending psychedelic folk and moody pop, this album has new gems to discover every time I re-listen.
Fire Draw Near - This is my favourite monthly listen, a podcast and radio show which investigates Irish traditional music and song in all of its myriad forms. Full of fascinating guests, engaging conversations, and brilliant interviews.
Eoghain O'Ceannabhain - One of my most-loved recent discoveries. A Dublin-based singer, songwriter and multi instrumentalist with his musical roots in sean-nos singing. Beautifully pure music from someone excellent at their craft.
I hope these recommendations have given you some motivation to take some me-time this January and engage in things that are
good for your mind, body, and soul.
Happy Lunar New Year!
Donagh