Ashley Wang

A&E 10/8/24 10:59pm

Review: Victoria Monet dazzles on ‘JAGUAR II: Deluxe’

By Ashley Wang

A year out from the release of her Grammy-winning album “JAGUAR II,” R&B superstar Victoria Monét is back with a deluxe version that features 10 new tracks. “Jaguar II: Deluxe” explores themes of familial and romantic love, self-confidence and ambition, all presented with Monét’s trademark live instrumentation and vocal versatility.

A&E 9/25/24 12:06am

Houston book clubs to quell your literary longings

By Ashley Wang

As fall begins to set in, it’s the perfect time of year to curl up for hours with a soothing book. To all the literature lovers out there searching for new book recommendations and reading companions, you’re in luck. Houston has a vibrant literary community teeming with book clubs, free of charge.

A&E 4/9/24 11:47pm

Review: “Bryson Tiller re-envisions genre on self-titled album”

By Ashley Wang

Seasoned R&B singer Bryson Tiller has returned with his fourth studio album, a self-titled record that infuses cyberpunk aesthetics into both its visuals and its sound. On the eponymous album, Tiller, best known for hits like “Don’t” and “Exchange,” takes on the challenge of deconstructing his own artistic journey. “Bryson Tiller” is a multi-genre departure from Tiller’s comfort zone. It features pop, dancehall, neo-soul and drill elements next to his signature combination of hip hop and R&B. 

A&E 3/26/24 11:09pm

Review: ‘TYLA’ is a refreshing, self-assured debut

By Ashley Wang

At 22 years old, singer Tyla has already seen a level of success most musicians can only dream of. In the past year, she’s had her viral, platinum-certified hit “Water” top the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, collaborated with Travis Scott and Summer Walker and won the first-ever Grammy for Best African Music Performance. 

A&E 3/19/24 10:24pm

Review: ‘eternal sunshine’ is introspective but fails to take risks

By Ashley Wang

To say that Ariana Grande has had a tumultuous four years since the release of her last album, “positions,” would be an understatement. 

A&E 2/13/24 10:37pm

The Wild Grain returns after an extended hiatus

By Ashley Wang

Prior to this semester, if you asked anyone on campus, English major or not, if they had ever heard of The Wild Grain, you’d probably be met with a puzzled look. Co-editors-in-chief Essence Ratliff and Basma Bedawi are here to change that.

A&E 11/28/23 11:36pm

Houston holiday events to get you through the finals frenzy

By Ashley Wang

December may seem like a dreary time of year on campus, but there are plenty of events happening in Houston to lift your spirits. If you’re hoping to get your mind off your mounting pile of exams to study for and essays to write (or procrastinate on), then look no further.