Logo for Byte Magazine at Ball State University

Byte




Image provided by the American Library Association

Books to read for banned books week 2025

These books and many others encourage people to develop empathy for those whose stories may differ from their own. They also allow young people to see themselves represented in media and help them to feel less alone in a world that often tries to stifle differences.


Album cover of 'Lovesick' by The Happy Fits via Spotify

I’m not sick of 'Lovesick'

The Happy Fits deliver a fresh new sound with some old charm in their romantically charged fourth album, Lovesick. Including two new band members, the record is a brave next step for the New Jersey-based indie rock band.



Album cover of 'Essex Honey' provided by Blood Orange via Spotify.

'Essex Honey' is a sweet and smooth drip of pure art

The swirling reverb of the instrumental and vocals are truly beautiful. The personal message, and even with the lows on the album, such as Hynes' poor execution of lines, this album stands on its own merit, and it's fun to see Hynes uphold his creativity once again.



Movie posters provided by Disney and DC Studios.

Are superhero movies cool again?

Marvel and DC have kick-started new sagas that have audiences interested for what feels like the first time in years. After a dip in quality in superhero movies, is 2025 the year that superhero movies come back in style? 



Album cover for Man's Best Friend via Spotify

When did ‘Man’s Best Friend’ get hot?

A little over a year after Sabrina Carpenter released her smash hit album Short n’ Sweet, her seventh studio album Man’s Best Friend was released. With its cheeky lyricism and dreamy sound, it makes for a pretty solid pop album from Carpenter.