What We’re Loving Right Now

TO LISTEN READY FOR IT

Billing this new release as “A Taylor Swift Inspired Podcast” seems to be rather understating things. It’s ALL about Tay Tay, timed to ride the wave of feverish anticipation that will break once her world-conquering Eras tour arrives Down Under next month. Hosted by friends, Project colleagues and fellow Swifties Georgie Tunny and Kirsten Ploog, it’s a deep dive in analysing each of her eras, rating the albums and picking personal favourites.

TO WATCH ECHO Disney+

This six-part miniseries – a spin-off of 2021’s Hawkeye – is both part of Phase 5 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the first release under the Marvel Spotlight banner, which will be able to feature grittier, more-violent stories, with a focus on “street-level” superheroes such as Daredevil (in a cameo here). Deaf actor Alaqua Cox plays the title character – aka Maya Lopez – who reconnects with her Native American roots while on the run from the villainous Kingpin. It’s action packed and tense – but also brutal and bloody.

TO READ THE REST IS HISTORY Bloomsbury, $34.99

You’ve heard the podcast, you saw the live show, now read the book. Historians Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland prove to be as fun and informative in print as they are in your headphones, meandering through the centuries with strange but notable facts, what-ifs and big questions. The bite-sized chapters – from Australia’s 12 top Prime Ministers to Watergate and the War of the Roses – make for perfect holiday reading.

TO BOOK LUKA BLOOM

Thirty two years after his first tour with his stunning albums Riverside and The Acoustic Motorbike in tow, the Irish troubadour returns for the 15th time – on his first tour in five years. The velvet-voiced singer and acoustic guitar guru has since recorded another four albums and will be here for his 50 Songs In 50 Years tour to cities and regions next March and April. For dates, venues and tickets, visit bohmpresents.com

TO DRINK ALPINE LAGER

After cracking the top half of the GABS Hottest 100 list last year, Bright Brewery will be hoping the revival of Australia’s most popular beer style will push this delicious drop even higher. It’s also your last chance to champion your favourite craft beer at gabshottest100.com. Voting closes on Sunday, with the winner announced January 27.