my version of art on the net

Writers note: “Study Break” is my weekly reviews round-up and a look at upcoming distractions. Ratings are provided as a scale of how good and worth the break each title is worth.

printed in the Nov. 16th Issue:

Childish Gambino “Camp” 3 stars – worth a couple of spins

Donald Glover is looking to score the hat trick as a comedian, writer and now rapper. Glover stars on NBC’s sitcom “Community,” has written and starred in the film “Mystery Team” with his Internet sketch comedy group, Derrick Comedy, and has laid down many rap bars as Childish Gambino. His raps steer away from the superficial, and he mostly tries to prove himself. “What’s the point of rap if you cant be yourself?” he asks in the laid back “All the Shine.” The album is worth a couple of spins and fits somewhere on your playlist next to Kid Cudi.

“Happy Feet Two” - 4 Stars in anticipation – in theaters Friday

Penguins don’t march, they dance. Mumble, voiced by Elijah Wood, is back again. This time he and his son must help save the colony in this animated feature that’s like the penguin version of “Glee.” Robin Williams once again brings the laughs as a stubby little penguin, Ramon. The voice cast features the talents of Matt Damon and Brad Pitt, Hank Azaria and Pink. The perfect date movie to take your animal-loving significant other if you’ve already seen “Puss in Boots.”

“Assassins Creed: Revelations” – 5 stars – Available now for Ps3 and Xbox 360

Once upon the Renaissance, Ezio Auditore fought for the greater good. In “Revelations” he is noticeably older since his first rooftop leap into homes in “Assassin’s Creed II.” The hooded figure walks in daylight to commit public assassinations of those who are up to no good. Auditore shows he is more than just a pick-pocketing thug and has the weapons and eagle vision to take down enemies in his quest to uncover the truth. “Revelations” is sure to be a good use of the Thanksgiving break.

“Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary” – 4 Stars – Available now for the Xbox 360

Ten years ago, you were probably coming home from elementary school to see your older sibling starting up the Xbox to take aim as Master Chief in the groundbreaking beginnings of an epic franchise. Fighting off the hordes of aliens in combat to solve secrets of the “Halo” world, this anniversary edition has been polished in high definition complete with everything from the original with some beefed up extras and unlockable achievements. This version proves that Microsoft is willing to milk every dime out of the franchise, while also providing an opportunity for new gamers to experience decade-old greatness.

Gym Class Heroes “The Papercut Chronicles II” – Available now on CD and MP3

Travie McCoy stays busy — his 2010 solo project “Lazarus” set him loose to party for the summertime. He’s regrouped with his other Gym Class students to take over the radio — or at least the iPods of alt-rock-loving Warped Tour rejects. “The Papercut Chronicles” was the Heroes’ first album before their Myspace blow up. This sequel of sorts has no real connection to the original, but shows the group’s musical growth. Single “Stereo Hearts” featuring Maroon 5’s Adam Levine is a surefire good addition to any kickback soundtrack.