BROAD CITY AND REDMAN

These two projects stand above their piers for reasons that are not obvious. Broad City does not rely on a foundational, gimmicky premise like so many comedies. No odd-couple pairing, no class or culture collision, no wacky behind the scenes of a commonly misunderstood institution. It’s just two complex, young women living in New York. Yet it is so much more rich and engaging.

Redman is often lumped in with other Northeast superstars. In fact, amazing artists like Wu Tang Clan and Busta Rhymes were frequent collaborators, but Redman employs none of the identifiable devices. Wu Tang has an assortment of characters and a kung-fu theme. Busta Rhymes has a unique growling voice and a superpower to deliver syllables at machine gun speed. Redman however does not seem to have any obvious trick that sets him apart. 

Simply by being thoughtful, sincere and very insightful these artists are unforgettable.