The CR Recommends

The turning of the calendar to a new year often inspires us to try new things.

But what to try?

This marks the seventh year of The CR Recommends, which is our answer to that question.

Each year since 2019, we’ve invited our writers to share some of their favorite things. There is really no limit to what that might involve. It could be anything from the buzziest TV show or the award-winning movie to a specific meal at a local restaurant.

Our goal is to provide readers with variety — some items they may be familiar with and some that probably would never cross their path. Our hope from there is that you will take the opportunity to check out something new.

If one of the books, TV shows, podcasts, video games, musical artists or sandwiches below becomes a favorite of yours, great. If not, that’s OK too. There’s great benefit from trying new things and expanding our horizons.

Music

“GNX”

If you love hip-hop, Kendrick Lamar’s latest album is a must-hear. Following a summer during which he dominated with a rap feud with Drake and a Super Bowl performance announcement, Lamar dropped his sixth studio album. It’s a masterpiece. Featuring rising artists like Left Gunplay and Dody 6, tracks like “squabble up” and “tv off” are catchy standouts. Lamar’s signature style shines through, blending unique production and deep lyricism. Once again, he delivered a classic album that can be taken from 2024 into 2025. — Will Cash 

“Killing Floor”

One of the more interesting musical collaborations I encountered recently was a recording of Howlin’ Wolf’s blues classic “Killing Floor.” It is featured on an album from Slash of Guns N’ Roses fame. The album has a number of blues and R&B classics played by the famed guitarist with special guests such as Demi Lovato, Chris Stapleton, Billy Gibbons and Iggy Pop. In addition to Slash, “Killing Floor” features Brian Johnson of AC/DC on vocals and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith on harmonica. If you are a fan of blues or classic rock, this song is worth a listen. — Scott Shaffer

Watchhouse

This folk duo is not new. But in the last couple of years, they were new to me. Formed in 2009 and known for years as Mandolin Orange, the duo of Andrew Marlin and Emily Frantz is quite simply easy to listen to. The voices of Marlin and Franz blend together in a sound it’s possible to imagine hearing while gathered on a front porch or around a backyard bonfire. There are plenty of great songs, including “The Wolves” and “Golden Embers” but my favorite is their cover of Bob Dylan’s “Boots of Spanish Leather.” — Ray Cooney

Movies

The Fall Guy

One of the most enjoyable experiences I had at the movie theater in 2024 was watching this flick starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt and based loosely on the 1980s TV series that starred Lee Majors as a stuntman who moonlighted as a bounty hunter. I was not really expecting much from this movie, but it surprised me. Comedy, action, romance — it has a little something for everyone and is a fun watch. Majors even makes a cameo. Even if you’re too young to remember the TV show, there is much to enjoy with this film. — Scott Shaffer

The Wild Robot

My fiancé and I had been anticipating “The Wild Robot” with high hopes since they started airing previews for the film in spring, and it certainly delivered. “The Wild Robot,” based on the children’s book by Peter Brown, follows a robot, Roz, who becomes stranded on a deserted island. She must adapt to her new surroundings, which include a plethora of wild animals and braving the elements. Along the way Roz forms strong bonds as she discovers her full potential. The DreamWorks film’s animation style is also breathtaking — according to director Chris Sanders, matte painters colored the entire film. — Bailey Cline

Video games

Fields of Mistria

A new contender in the farming simulator genre, “Fields of Mistria” is now available in early access form on digital computer game distributor Steam. Although farming, ranching, cooking, mining and other “cozy game” essentials are a neat aspect in this game — the ability to wield magic for carrying out tasks is also handy — what makes “Fields of Mistria” stand apart from its competitors are its ’90s anime-style characters and its clothing mechanics. The former perk is reminiscent of shows like “Sailor Moon.” There’s also an unfathomable amount of outfits you can create with the number of accessories available. — Bailey Cline

College Football 25

EA finally brought the ultra-popular game back in July, and they delivered a super fun experience. The gameplay is smooth, with realistic animations, lifelike audibles and play calling, and an amazing college atmosphere. This year's edition features every player on all 134 FBS teams, marking the first time that has been the case in the game's history. If you're a sports fan who enjoys video games, this is a must-play for the new year. — Will Cash

Books

Agatha Christie

Although Agatha Christie died almost 50 years ago, her mysteries are as fresh as ever. In the busy weeks before Christmas, I picked up a book containing three Miss Marple stories originally published in the 1930s and ’40s. Of course, the details of the crime are old-fashioned and quaint, but Christie’s fast, fun storytelling keeps things lively. I read all three in high school — yes, they were already old then — and have thoroughly enjoyed rediscovering them. I’m on the lookout for more. And I envy anyone who might be encountering Christie’s writing for the first time. — Louise Ronald

Echo Mountain

Admittedly, 2024 was a slow reading year — that’s something I plan to rectify in 2025 — so I reached back a bit for “Echo Mountain” by Lauren Wolk. This beautifully written book tells the story of a family seeking to start over by moving to the mountains of Maine after the ruin of the Great Depression. Life remains difficult in the mountains, especially after the patriarch is injured in an accident. Daughter Ellie thrives in the freedom of the landscape. Through her exploration of the mountain and general fearlessness, she finds ways to help her family. — Ray Cooney

Podcasts

Against The Odds

Every once in a while I’ll find myself searching the internet or my podcast app for something new, something different from the sports and news and trivia offerings that are typically in my feed. That’s what brought me to this podcast from “host-adventurers” Mike Corey and Cassie De Pecol. They share stories of survival, mostly, in harsh situations, shared in a reenactment style. Topics range from wildfires to polar exploration to cave rescues. My favorites have been about mountain climbing, from the tallest peaks of the Himalayas to Oregon’s Mount Hood. — Ray Cooney

    Against The Odds

Local

Gilbert Station beer cheese

We’ve been venturing into new places for some different tastes. Sports writer Andrew and I  recently discovered Gilbert Station in Burkettsville, Ohio. While I’m not one who usually prefers burgers on a menu, Gilbert Station’s beer cheeseburger is delectable. The secret is the beer cheese — who doesn’t love a savory cheese? It’s also fabulous with the appetizers. Gilbert Station prides itself on its “Spank Burger,” a sandwich I have yet to try. Still, it’s hard for me to turn my eyes away from that burger loaded with golden goodness. Cheese, please. — Bailey Cline

Your local newspaper

Here’s a self-serving recommendation: Read your local newspaper. Did you know about the medieval castle made of balloons last Mother’s Day in Randolph County? Did you go to any of the free concerts at Hudson Family Park last summer? Try the new barbecue place in Dunkirk? Check out what’s happening at Arts Place in Hartford City? There are all kinds of local opportunities to expand your horizons, learn something new or simply have some fun. Graphic Printing Newspapers are a great resource for finding them. — Louise Ronald