2014 seemed to be a pretty epic year in regards to music, films, games, and tv. Obviously, there were way too many things to list, and studying took much of my time over the last year. However, over break, I had some time to sit back and take a look at some really amazing projects. Here were a few of my favorites this year.

Interstellar

Seeing this in 70mm IMAX (at Navy Pier), really made this movie experience extraordinary. The speakers were loud, and the in-your-face score sounded outstanding. Some people thought the music was mixed too loudly over dialogue, but I didn’t think that was an issue at all. The most memorable parts of the score were definitely the huge organ swells, and the lush reverb that follows. This is a new direction for Hans, utilizing woodwinds and organ instead of his go-to brass section. I love this new direction he has taken.

The Lego Movie

One of my favorite animations of the year, The Lego Movie, was a refreshing film. Often times the humor in animated films falls short, but the comedy actually worked in this one. Will Ferrel, Charlie Day, and Liam Neeson helped a lot comedy-wise. The score was by Mark Mothersbaugh (co-founder of Devo), featuring analog synths and orchestra. The electronic side of the score fit very well with the lego characters and effects, while the orchestra seemed to grab the more classic animation aspects of the film. The electronics as well as the orchestra provide some real emotion, and the blend is beautifully done.

Run The Jewels – Run The Jewels 2 (Album)

This is probably my favorite non soundtrack album released in 2014. The amount of unforgettable tracks this duo has made in two years is really remarkable. El-P’s production is unapologetic—a perfect fit for Killer Mike’s raps. These two are on a path to take over the world soon. Make sure to check out “Close Your Eyes” featuring Zach De La Rocha of Rage Against the Machine.

Game of Thrones (Season 4)

The music really seemed to have evolved a lot from the first season. In season four, the score seems to be more thought out, better produced, and not afraid to carry a scene forward. “Breaker of Chains” really caught my attention. The low brassy slide-synth tone on “Rains of Castamere” was a brilliant addition.

Super Smash Bros

This game in combination with Mario Kart 8 has made the Wii U the best system for multiplayer (up to eight players can play at a time). This is a classic game, finally updated with HD, and adding some great new characters. I’ve always loved the music from the Smash Bros series, and this one delivers again. There is a great variety of old Nintendo music remixed, featuring arrangements from Masashi Hamauzu and Masashi Hamauzu.