READ: New Yorker Article - Offensive Play

In "Offensive Play", Malcolm Gladwell delves into the issue of brain trauma for NFL players. Gladwell compares dogfighting to professional football, on the basis that violence, and subsequently injury, may not be removed from each activity. To illustrate his point, Gladwell discusses the post-career tribulations of former NFL lineman, Kyle Turley. Although I do not agree fully with all of his opinions in the article, Gladwell provides great insight into the issue of concussions for professional athletes. This is a must-read for NFL fans. The online article is available HERE.

LISTEN: Basement Jaxx - Scars

Basement Jaxx are a house music duo originating from South London. They have been performing since 1994, and their discography includes notable remixes of Missy Elliott's "4 My People", Justin Timberlake's "Like I Love You" and N.E.R.D.'s "She Wants to Move", as well as their own memorable singles of "Where's your head at?" and "Romeo". Their style is difficult to describe because their creativity is almost unbound. From vocals and samples to synthesizers and live instruments, the breadth of sounds that can be heard on any given Jaxx album is astounding. Their most recent album, Scars, is no exception to the rule. Thus far, my favorite tracks are "Scars" (featuring Kelis) and "Saga" (featuring Santogold). In UK, the first radio single is "Raindrops". For a trippy animated video using "Scars" as the soundtrack, go HERE.

DRINK: Pumpkin-Infused Beverages

It's October, and this means it is time for beverages infused with that oh-so-delicious Pumpkin goodness. From Pumpkin Lattes at Starbcks to Pumpkin Pie Milkshakes at the diner, the bounty of lantern-o-jackings are being used to flavor liquid sensations all over town. Like eggnog lattes in December and Cadbury Mini-Eggs near Easter, drinks infused with this warm-weather squash will not stay in stores for long. Drink up before it's too late!

WATCH: Zombieland

Zombieland is a comedy starring Woody Harrelson and Jesse Eisenberg. It should be noted that, as a comedy, anyone looking for a horror movie is out of luck. With that said, I do feel that Zombie movies are far superior when they are of a comedic nature (for an example, see "Shaun of the Dead") Here, the movie does an admirable job staying light-hearted and taking comedic stabs at the cliches of the genre. Also, the self-deprecating humor of Jesse Eisenberg as nerd-extraordinaire is definitely chuckle-worthy. Without playing spoiler, I will lastly note that a man by the initials B.M. makes a cameo in this movie, and the results are highly entertaining. As a whole, although the movie is not filled with LOL moments, there were enough LTMQ (laughing to myself quietly) moments to warrant a visit to the theater. Overall: 86/100.

LISTEN: Rodrigo y Gabriela's 11:11

Rodrigo y Gabriela is a musical duo consisting of Rodrigo Sanchez and Gabriela Quintero. They are well-known for playing fast, rhythmic songs with classical guitars. Their last album, a self-titled effort in 2006, entered the Irish albums chart at #1 and included outstanding covers of Metallica's "Orion" and Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven". Their new album, 11:11, stays true to the group's distinctive sound, using speed and creative guitar-slapping to generate an illusion of multiple instruments at work, even though there are only two guitars playing. My favorite tracks on the new album are: Santo Domingo, Triveni, and Hora Zero, but the whole album is well-worth a listen. Overall: 89/100.

PLAY: Dirt 2 on PS3/Xbox

DIRT 2 is an off-road racing game featuring officially licensed rally cars and off-road vehicles. X-Games stars such as Ken Block, Travis Pastrana, and Tanner Foust are featured. (If you don't know who Ken Block is, Youtube "Gymkhana"). The game features a perfect balance of arcade-style action with real-life rally car physics. The graphics are outstanding, and the visuals deliver an outstanding sensation of speed. If you're a racing fan, this is a must-have and will satisfy that racing thirst until GT5 hits; even if you don't particularly dig racing, this game will set off your fun-meter. Overall: 94/100.