I'm in dire need of sleep (ironically my skin looks much better than it's been for a while! It's nice to feel good about my face ONCE in a while), so I'm going to write dot points and elaborate (read: edit) later.
Friday
- End of exams
- Pre-dinner dessert @ Passionflower
- Dinner @ SeoulRia for a Trainee reunion, followed by karaoke at Redbox
- Caught up with my bf at another friend's birthday dinner, which was then followed by karaoke at Redbox
Saturday
- Woke up @ 11am; out of the house by 12 for golf practice
- Rush back home and get ready to go out
- Hot & Spicy KFC for dinner
- Ladysmith Black Mambazo concert: Got to dance on stage with the singers & shake Joseph Shabalala's hand :)
- Sleepover at May's place: Tried to watch The Aristocats and make jewellery but only partly succeeded on both accounts
- NOT ENOUGH SLEEP
Sunday
- Damn dryer invaded my sleep and dreams!
- Brisk morning walk to Maccas to buy breakfast for everybody
- Attended a singing workshop with The Idea Of North: Learnt more about the vocal chords and colours in music. Short workshop but REALLY worth it.
- Sydney Trapeze School: Learned how to do some cool moves on the trapeze!
- Golf practice and got lots of socks
- Attempted for early night sleep but it's already 10.30, sigh!
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
artful and amazing
I don't know about you, but when I read others' blogs I generally can't be bothered to click on links that take me to other websites unless I already know who/what the link is about and am therefore interested, or I've seen a picture or screenshot that makes me interested in the content. So it's a bit ironic that I'm about to just post a link and recommend that you check it out.
http://drawn.ca/2009/06/16/todd-schorr-american-surreal/
Drawn.ca is another of the blogs that I've very recently started following (Google Reader has changed my life and increased my subscriptions/random site-visiting dramatically), and the link above contains a string of YouTube videos (5, to be precise) about an American artist named Todd Schorr.
I've never heard of him until now, but I have to say that watching these short 2-min videos and seeing his artworks was eye-opening. I'm fairly picky when it comes to types of artworks I do or don't like, and although I don't think Schorr's artworks are 'pretty', they are definitely mind-bogglingly skilled and detailed and educational (to a degree).
Based on the videos I watched, he mixes American pop history references and his own personal childhood favourites/experiences to come up with ideas for his artworks.
This is a piece from his website (www.toddschorr.com):
"A Date With Mr. Big Bad"
http://drawn.ca/2009/06/16/todd-schorr-american-surreal/
Drawn.ca is another of the blogs that I've very recently started following (Google Reader has changed my life and increased my subscriptions/random site-visiting dramatically), and the link above contains a string of YouTube videos (5, to be precise) about an American artist named Todd Schorr.
I've never heard of him until now, but I have to say that watching these short 2-min videos and seeing his artworks was eye-opening. I'm fairly picky when it comes to types of artworks I do or don't like, and although I don't think Schorr's artworks are 'pretty', they are definitely mind-bogglingly skilled and detailed and educational (to a degree).
Based on the videos I watched, he mixes American pop history references and his own personal childhood favourites/experiences to come up with ideas for his artworks.
This is a piece from his website (www.toddschorr.com):
"A Date With Mr. Big Bad"
"otter" this world...
Amongst other animals,
I love OTTERS.
I saw this video on a blog that I follow (http://cuteotters.com). I think it's super cute - the random otter zipping by in the background is funny too!
Awww :)
I love OTTERS.
I saw this video on a blog that I follow (http://cuteotters.com). I think it's super cute - the random otter zipping by in the background is funny too!
Awww :)
Sunday, June 14, 2009
yearning for freedom
So I randomly decided to search for Donny Hathaway on Facebook so I could become a fan, and then I decided to try YouTube for live footage of the man in performance, but I came across a musician who performs a cover of Hathaway's "Someday We'll All Be Free".
Post-blog edit: YouTube video has since been deleted :(
A bit more research on the fellow indicates that Raul Midon was born blind. There is a Stevie Wonder-esque feel to him in the video, and Midon certainly has a great soul sound in his voice, so I'm definitely going to have a listen to his original material when I get a chance.
And from that, I found this. The first big wail in this video literally gave me chills. What a beautiful voice. (Oddly enough it was earlier today that I was thinking about A.Keys in the shower and how I hadn't listened to her music in a while because I'd 'grown tired' of her).
You definitely need to get your hands on a copy of the recording by Donny Hathaway, so you can appreciate the original in all its retro glory.
Post-blog edit: YouTube video has since been deleted :(
A bit more research on the fellow indicates that Raul Midon was born blind. There is a Stevie Wonder-esque feel to him in the video, and Midon certainly has a great soul sound in his voice, so I'm definitely going to have a listen to his original material when I get a chance.
And from that, I found this. The first big wail in this video literally gave me chills. What a beautiful voice. (Oddly enough it was earlier today that I was thinking about A.Keys in the shower and how I hadn't listened to her music in a while because I'd 'grown tired' of her).
You definitely need to get your hands on a copy of the recording by Donny Hathaway, so you can appreciate the original in all its retro glory.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
girl power!
Here's an article worth reading. This girl sounds like she has a LOT of spunk and determination. A noteworthy role model for young students across the world.
Fatuma Omar Ismail: A scholar born into squalor
Quoted from the text:
"School is not a priority at Dadaab – girls don't have an equal chance," says Ms Wachuka. "Fatuma has triumphed in very difficult circumstances."
From the age of 12 she "had a dream" of going to a national school in her host country and wasn't going to be put off by naysayers who told her that refugee girls could not go. "It can be done," she says. "I've done it."
Her eventual aim is to study medicine and one day return to Dadaab as a doctor. "If there is peace in Somalia," she adds, she would like "to go and help people there where there are not enough qualified people."
The teenager understands that she is a role model and has a simple message for other young Somalis.
"You know education is the key to success. First go to school, work hard and choose a career. Work hard, aim higher and be nice to people."
...
She admits that her new life is not always easy. She misses her seven brothers and sisters and speaks to her mother by telephone only once a month. Her scholarship pays for boarding fees and uniforms but nothing more. There was no money to pay for the nine-hour bus ride to Dadaab during the Easter holiday, so she stayed in Nairobi.
Faced with the brightest girls in Kenya Fatuma is no longer "number one". In her first term, she lagged behind in the two national languages, English and KiSwahili.
But there is plenty of reason to think she will catch up. Remarkably, she came near the top of her class in computer education, having never seen one before; and has taught herself to swim butterfly, having never been in a pool before reaching Nairobi. But it's not enough for her.
"I don't feel good. In my school I used to be the best," she says. This is followed by a note of polite defiance that lands somewhere between a promise and a warning: "They are not brighter than me. They are just better at the moment."
Fatuma Omar Ismail: A scholar born into squalor
Quoted from the text:
"School is not a priority at Dadaab – girls don't have an equal chance," says Ms Wachuka. "Fatuma has triumphed in very difficult circumstances."
From the age of 12 she "had a dream" of going to a national school in her host country and wasn't going to be put off by naysayers who told her that refugee girls could not go. "It can be done," she says. "I've done it."
Her eventual aim is to study medicine and one day return to Dadaab as a doctor. "If there is peace in Somalia," she adds, she would like "to go and help people there where there are not enough qualified people."
The teenager understands that she is a role model and has a simple message for other young Somalis.
"You know education is the key to success. First go to school, work hard and choose a career. Work hard, aim higher and be nice to people."
...
She admits that her new life is not always easy. She misses her seven brothers and sisters and speaks to her mother by telephone only once a month. Her scholarship pays for boarding fees and uniforms but nothing more. There was no money to pay for the nine-hour bus ride to Dadaab during the Easter holiday, so she stayed in Nairobi.
Faced with the brightest girls in Kenya Fatuma is no longer "number one". In her first term, she lagged behind in the two national languages, English and KiSwahili.
But there is plenty of reason to think she will catch up. Remarkably, she came near the top of her class in computer education, having never seen one before; and has taught herself to swim butterfly, having never been in a pool before reaching Nairobi. But it's not enough for her.
"I don't feel good. In my school I used to be the best," she says. This is followed by a note of polite defiance that lands somewhere between a promise and a warning: "They are not brighter than me. They are just better at the moment."
a poem for a friend.
Brother, friend,
What’s it like there?
Maybe you can touch the horizons
And soar through the stars.
Brother, friend,
What’s it like there?
Maybe you can breathe water
And discover Atlantis for me.
Brother,
Friend.
Don’t miss us while you’re there
For in time we’ll come to visit
Perhaps together,
perhaps alone.
Brother,
Friend.
Save me a seat in your home
So when I come to join you
We can share memories of warmth and laughter,
Of friends found and sights seen,
Of lives lived and loves lost.
Friend,
Don’t miss us while you’re gone
Rest assured
That distance will not break this friendship’s bond.
Friend,
You left too soon for me.
Too soon you became a casualty
in this ongoing battle of life.
Mornings will come and go,
But I will keep you in my mind and soul.
Brother, friend,
do not forget me.
Sleep peacefully.
---
Volkan, we will all miss you so very much. Peace be with you.
What’s it like there?
Maybe you can touch the horizons
And soar through the stars.
Brother, friend,
What’s it like there?
Maybe you can breathe water
And discover Atlantis for me.
Brother,
Friend.
Don’t miss us while you’re there
For in time we’ll come to visit
Perhaps together,
perhaps alone.
Brother,
Friend.
Save me a seat in your home
So when I come to join you
We can share memories of warmth and laughter,
Of friends found and sights seen,
Of lives lived and loves lost.
Friend,
Don’t miss us while you’re gone
Rest assured
That distance will not break this friendship’s bond.
Friend,
You left too soon for me.
Too soon you became a casualty
in this ongoing battle of life.
Mornings will come and go,
But I will keep you in my mind and soul.
Brother, friend,
do not forget me.
Sleep peacefully.
---
Volkan, we will all miss you so very much. Peace be with you.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
happiness is..
- listening to the BLACKstreet album "Another Level" for the first time in a long time
- a good evening of food and drink shared with good friends and new friends
- being in love.
- a good evening of food and drink shared with good friends and new friends
- being in love.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
how funny!
Last night, while I was waiting for a friend to pick me up on the way to a 21st, I was watching the Eurovision song contest.
#06, Norway really caught my eyes and ears.
The song was quite catchy in melody and lyrical content, and I couldn't stop tapping my foot in time with the music. I probably only saw 3 or 4 songs but this was my definite favourite.
And just then, I discovered that Norway had won the competition! How fantastic!
I don't normally watch Eurovision, but this year's stage in Russia looked pretty good, and I'm going to try and source an mp3 for this song. :)
Update: Found the mp3, yay! But the Eurovision clips are fun to watch.
#06, Norway really caught my eyes and ears.
The song was quite catchy in melody and lyrical content, and I couldn't stop tapping my foot in time with the music. I probably only saw 3 or 4 songs but this was my definite favourite.
And just then, I discovered that Norway had won the competition! How fantastic!
I don't normally watch Eurovision, but this year's stage in Russia looked pretty good, and I'm going to try and source an mp3 for this song. :)
Update: Found the mp3, yay! But the Eurovision clips are fun to watch.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
just before midnight.
Tired because I've been trying to do my tax assignment for most of the day. Just before I hit the metaphorical hay, I thought I had better post my angel card divinations from the last two days at work:
Thursday
- Emerging
- Daniel: "I am the Angel of Marriage, and I am assisting you right now."
- Aeracura: Blossoming. "You are just getting started, so have patience with yourself and the process, and do not give up."
- Positive Expectations
Well I'm not getting married anytime soon, but I did find out the next day that a couple we know got engaged on Tuesday.. so maybe I was tapping into that somehow. The other cards I took as positive signs for the weekend ahead, as I've been stressed about the tax assignment and its completion.
Friday
- Azure: "Your desired outcome will occur in the very near future. Have patience and faith, and don't try to force it to happen."
- Athena: Inner Wisdom. "You know what to do. Trust your inner wisdom, and take appropriate action without delay."
- Friendship
- Make Music
Oddly enough I haven't made any music yet - unless you count the rapping I've been doing the last couple of nights. I've been trying to learn the rap parts from two favourite songs of mine - Turn Your Lights Down Low by Lauryn Hill feat. Bob Marley and Got Til Its Gone by Janet Jackson feat. Q-Tip - and I also discovered that I know almost all of the rap to another favourite song (I thought I only knew a couple of lines), Rock the House by Gorillaz, once I heard the song playing on iTunes.
Anyways, time for some sleep so I can finish off my tax assignment tomorrow. Can't wait until it's all done!
Thursday
- Emerging
- Daniel: "I am the Angel of Marriage, and I am assisting you right now."
- Aeracura: Blossoming. "You are just getting started, so have patience with yourself and the process, and do not give up."
- Positive Expectations
Well I'm not getting married anytime soon, but I did find out the next day that a couple we know got engaged on Tuesday.. so maybe I was tapping into that somehow. The other cards I took as positive signs for the weekend ahead, as I've been stressed about the tax assignment and its completion.
Friday
- Azure: "Your desired outcome will occur in the very near future. Have patience and faith, and don't try to force it to happen."
- Athena: Inner Wisdom. "You know what to do. Trust your inner wisdom, and take appropriate action without delay."
- Friendship
- Make Music
Oddly enough I haven't made any music yet - unless you count the rapping I've been doing the last couple of nights. I've been trying to learn the rap parts from two favourite songs of mine - Turn Your Lights Down Low by Lauryn Hill feat. Bob Marley and Got Til Its Gone by Janet Jackson feat. Q-Tip - and I also discovered that I know almost all of the rap to another favourite song (I thought I only knew a couple of lines), Rock the House by Gorillaz, once I heard the song playing on iTunes.
Anyways, time for some sleep so I can finish off my tax assignment tomorrow. Can't wait until it's all done!
Friday, May 8, 2009
tired musings
Writing because I can't be bothered starting my tax assignment tonight. I'll get some rest, try not to get any more sick than I am (otherwise that will make me actually sick, not almost-sick), and start it in the morning.
---
The funny thing?
The reason for which I dislike a handful of girls I know, actually exists within me too. Funny how you can hate somebody or have less respect for somebody because of what they do, even though you've been there yourself. I tolerate them because I'm no better than they are, and I know the kind of mindset they have; and one of the key reasons I can restrain myself is because I'm sick of fucking up my life. I really am.
Anyway.
I'm actually not depressed!
I had a wonderful day today actually. Really productive day at work, despite all the distractions, which were also a lot of fun.
Had a lovely lunch with my boyfriend at a restaurant/cafe called Rosebud. We had a sharing platter which was quite tasty, and I had an Egyptian tea with rose water and actual mint leaves in the glass. Easily the best thing I've tasted all year.
I'd like to live in Balmain. The whole area seems peaceful and friendly; there are lots of dogs being walked all the time; it's near the city but not bustling like the city; it's near the water; and it feels a little like a quiet semi-busy street in Melbourne but with better weather.
Bought a box of Belle Fleur chocolates for Mum as an early Mother's Day gift, and bought a couple for myself as a small treat. I felt that 2 chocolates was enough self-indulgence, so I shared the other 2 with my boyfriend.
The weather was also fantastic - radiant blue skies in the day, glowing full moon in clear skies at night.
What a wonderful day :)
TBTTHTMT: Egyptian mint tea with rose water. Incredible.
---
The funny thing?
The reason for which I dislike a handful of girls I know, actually exists within me too. Funny how you can hate somebody or have less respect for somebody because of what they do, even though you've been there yourself. I tolerate them because I'm no better than they are, and I know the kind of mindset they have; and one of the key reasons I can restrain myself is because I'm sick of fucking up my life. I really am.
Anyway.
I'm actually not depressed!
I had a wonderful day today actually. Really productive day at work, despite all the distractions, which were also a lot of fun.
Had a lovely lunch with my boyfriend at a restaurant/cafe called Rosebud. We had a sharing platter which was quite tasty, and I had an Egyptian tea with rose water and actual mint leaves in the glass. Easily the best thing I've tasted all year.
I'd like to live in Balmain. The whole area seems peaceful and friendly; there are lots of dogs being walked all the time; it's near the city but not bustling like the city; it's near the water; and it feels a little like a quiet semi-busy street in Melbourne but with better weather.
Bought a box of Belle Fleur chocolates for Mum as an early Mother's Day gift, and bought a couple for myself as a small treat. I felt that 2 chocolates was enough self-indulgence, so I shared the other 2 with my boyfriend.
The weather was also fantastic - radiant blue skies in the day, glowing full moon in clear skies at night.
What a wonderful day :)
TBTTHTMT: Egyptian mint tea with rose water. Incredible.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
a bit of procrastinatory blogging.
I bought two Twix bars today and won another two free bars from their wrappers. Talk about lucky!
Maybe I was 'rewarded' for my good naturedness - my friend Melody forgot her wallet and had no money to buy lunch during our break for French, so I lent her some money and she bought a snack to tide her over.
I then decided on impulse that I would satisfy my chocolate craving with some Twix, as I love the stuff but haven't had it in a while.
On a tangent, I really enjoy my French classes. I'm not great at the speaking component, but my grammar's not too bad. And our class is good fun.
---
I'm currently reading a book that is just over 200 pages, and I'm flying through it - I have less than half to go and it's only been a couple of days. Although any book would feel quick after the 800-page monster that was Anna Karenina (Leo Tolstoy). It might be a while before I try to attempt A Suitable Boy (Vikram Seth). I think that book's even bigger. It's one of the books in a set of 5 that I received for my birthday - all 5 books are travel-related in some way, and they cover India, France (x2), Spain and Asia (I can't remember which country). The book I'm reading now is called True Pleasures: A Memoir of Women in Paris, by Lucinda Holdforth. I like the Aussie flavour it has, because the author is a Sydneysider and she mentions USyd and Surry Hills, etc.
Maybe I was 'rewarded' for my good naturedness - my friend Melody forgot her wallet and had no money to buy lunch during our break for French, so I lent her some money and she bought a snack to tide her over.
I then decided on impulse that I would satisfy my chocolate craving with some Twix, as I love the stuff but haven't had it in a while.
On a tangent, I really enjoy my French classes. I'm not great at the speaking component, but my grammar's not too bad. And our class is good fun.
---
I'm currently reading a book that is just over 200 pages, and I'm flying through it - I have less than half to go and it's only been a couple of days. Although any book would feel quick after the 800-page monster that was Anna Karenina (Leo Tolstoy). It might be a while before I try to attempt A Suitable Boy (Vikram Seth). I think that book's even bigger. It's one of the books in a set of 5 that I received for my birthday - all 5 books are travel-related in some way, and they cover India, France (x2), Spain and Asia (I can't remember which country). The book I'm reading now is called True Pleasures: A Memoir of Women in Paris, by Lucinda Holdforth. I like the Aussie flavour it has, because the author is a Sydneysider and she mentions USyd and Surry Hills, etc.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
time for some soul.
I love the music of Al Green. This is a fantastic song, plenty of smooth groove and beautiful singing.
Let's stay together
I, I'm so in love with you
Whatever you want to do
Is all right with me
'Cause you make me feel so brand new
And I want to spend my life with you
Do you say the same baby
Since, since we've been together
Loving you forever
Is what I need
Let me be the one you come running to
I'll never be untrue
Ooh baby
Let's, let's stay together
Lovin' you whether, whether
Times are good or bad, happy or sad
Wooooooo
Whether times are good or bad, happy or sad
Why, somebody
Why people break up
Then turn around and make up
I just can't see
But you'd never do that to me (would you, baby)
Staying around you is all I see
Here's what I want us to do
Let's, we oughta stay together
Loving you whether, whether
Times are good or bad, happy or sad
Come on
Let's, let's stay together
Loving you whether, times are good or bad, happy or sad
Here's Guy Sebastian performing a cover:
And now, the original.. Al Green himself. There's something really sexy about guys who can sing like this.
Let's stay together
I, I'm so in love with you
Whatever you want to do
Is all right with me
'Cause you make me feel so brand new
And I want to spend my life with you
Do you say the same baby
Since, since we've been together
Loving you forever
Is what I need
Let me be the one you come running to
I'll never be untrue
Ooh baby
Let's, let's stay together
Lovin' you whether, whether
Times are good or bad, happy or sad
Wooooooo
Whether times are good or bad, happy or sad
Why, somebody
Why people break up
Then turn around and make up
I just can't see
But you'd never do that to me (would you, baby)
Staying around you is all I see
Here's what I want us to do
Let's, we oughta stay together
Loving you whether, whether
Times are good or bad, happy or sad
Come on
Let's, let's stay together
Loving you whether, times are good or bad, happy or sad
Here's Guy Sebastian performing a cover:
And now, the original.. Al Green himself. There's something really sexy about guys who can sing like this.
words for thought
Found this in a really old email from a friend, who had this as a quote/signature at the end of their message:
The capacity to learn is a gift
The ability to learn is a skill
The willingness to learn is a choice
Watch your thoughts, they become your words.
Watch your words, they become your actions.
Watch your actions, they become your habits.
Watch your habits, they become your character.
Watch your character, it becomes your destiny.
Definitely something worth thinking about.
The capacity to learn is a gift
The ability to learn is a skill
The willingness to learn is a choice
Watch your thoughts, they become your words.
Watch your words, they become your actions.
Watch your actions, they become your habits.
Watch your habits, they become your character.
Watch your character, it becomes your destiny.
Definitely something worth thinking about.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
just a couple of things i've been thinking about
My dream life (or at least the aspects I've thought about so far):
- I will live in a moderately spacious apartment or town house, ie. somewhere in a complex, because it makes me feel safer than just being in a house;
- The house will let in a lot of natural light, especially the bedroom so I can wake up with the sun;
- I might have one or two pets - dogs and/or cats;
- The house will have a good sound system;
- I will be able to host occasional dinner parties or games nights at my place, so I can catch up with my friends on a regular basis;
- I will have a large comfortable sofa that is great for snuggling and cuddling :)
Things I appreciate in people, and also in a relationship (in no particular order):
- Musical & artistic creativity
- Sportiness
- Inner strength
- An appreciation of the natural world, the flora and fauna
- A willingness to listen to and learn from others
- A thirst for all kinds of knowledge
- A deep interest in world cultures
- Tact & awareness, generally being alert of one's surroundings
- The ability to laugh at yourself as well as others
- Openness, including a natural inclination to share, or "show and tell"
- Humility
- Patience
- Understanding
- Energy
- Gratitude
- Acceptance (being non-judgmental)
- A natural generosity towards others, friends and strangers alike
- The desire to self-improvement
- Level-headedness
- A good sense of humour
- Honesty
Even I don't have all of the above. But maybe I'll get there one day..
- I will live in a moderately spacious apartment or town house, ie. somewhere in a complex, because it makes me feel safer than just being in a house;
- The house will let in a lot of natural light, especially the bedroom so I can wake up with the sun;
- I might have one or two pets - dogs and/or cats;
- The house will have a good sound system;
- I will be able to host occasional dinner parties or games nights at my place, so I can catch up with my friends on a regular basis;
- I will have a large comfortable sofa that is great for snuggling and cuddling :)
Things I appreciate in people, and also in a relationship (in no particular order):
- Musical & artistic creativity
- Sportiness
- Inner strength
- An appreciation of the natural world, the flora and fauna
- A willingness to listen to and learn from others
- A thirst for all kinds of knowledge
- A deep interest in world cultures
- Tact & awareness, generally being alert of one's surroundings
- The ability to laugh at yourself as well as others
- Openness, including a natural inclination to share, or "show and tell"
- Humility
- Patience
- Understanding
- Energy
- Gratitude
- Acceptance (being non-judgmental)
- A natural generosity towards others, friends and strangers alike
- The desire to self-improvement
- Level-headedness
- A good sense of humour
- Honesty
Even I don't have all of the above. But maybe I'll get there one day..
odd.
Something's strange
I don't know what it is
But it keeps coming and coming
Running through my head
Pulsing through my body like a heartbeat
The melodies they move me, they get me on my feet
Something's strange
I don't know what it is
But it won't stop flowing
Through me
I'm beyond this world now
Take me where you will
I will run and you will follow
Chase me to the end
Something's strange
And I don't know what it is
But it's fascinating me
I don't want to leave
That took me less than five minutes to write. The last time I tried to write a song was in Year 8 and it was embarrassing to perform, I hated it that much.
This song has no music yet.. but that will come to me when it's ready.
I don't know what it is
But it keeps coming and coming
Running through my head
Pulsing through my body like a heartbeat
The melodies they move me, they get me on my feet
Something's strange
I don't know what it is
But it won't stop flowing
Through me
I'm beyond this world now
Take me where you will
I will run and you will follow
Chase me to the end
Something's strange
And I don't know what it is
But it's fascinating me
I don't want to leave
That took me less than five minutes to write. The last time I tried to write a song was in Year 8 and it was embarrassing to perform, I hated it that much.
This song has no music yet.. but that will come to me when it's ready.
Monday, April 27, 2009
best exercise ever.
I love to dance.
Dancing to a groove-filled song in the comfortable privacy of my bedroom makes me sweat and puff like mad even though it's only for 10-15 minutes.
Well at least I think the people in the other apartment complex aren't watching me from their kitchen window.. they're a moderate distance away but they have a direct view of my bedroom so I do wonder whether they've ever seen me dancing, because I can certainly see them moving around occasionally.
I keep moving and I dance hard, and it makes me feel so good.
I also use it as an opportunity to stretch out my muscles, as they tend to get used to being in certain positions (read: sitting at the computer, standing in a golfing position) as time goes by.
Time for some water and then some more grooving!
Dancing to a groove-filled song in the comfortable privacy of my bedroom makes me sweat and puff like mad even though it's only for 10-15 minutes.
Well at least I think the people in the other apartment complex aren't watching me from their kitchen window.. they're a moderate distance away but they have a direct view of my bedroom so I do wonder whether they've ever seen me dancing, because I can certainly see them moving around occasionally.
I keep moving and I dance hard, and it makes me feel so good.
I also use it as an opportunity to stretch out my muscles, as they tend to get used to being in certain positions (read: sitting at the computer, standing in a golfing position) as time goes by.
Time for some water and then some more grooving!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
jack johnson.
The first time I ever heard Jack Johnson was when the (pop-)world didn't know who he was. I think I was listening to Triple J, and there was a groovy song with odd lyrics. I listened to the end of the song, and discovered the title to be "The Horizon Has Been Defeated", by Jack Johnson. I thought it was the strangest song title at the time. Admittedly I still think it's strange, but now Jack Johnson is world famous.
In the last year or so I went through a phase where I thought all his songs sounded the same, and so I didn't really pay attention to any albums after the release of Curious George. I haven't listened to his music in a long time.. until today.
I was playing guitar during my lunch break (today is meant to be a day full of study.. I'm trying to make it work), and having exhausted a couple of Bic Runga, Colbie Caillat and Priscilla Ahn songs, I decided to search Jack Johnson. I couldn't remember how some of the melodies went, so I searched the songs on YouTube.. and then I ended up watching the music videos for Taylor and Upside Down, as well as The Horizon Has Been Defeated. I was reminded of how I first discovered Jack Johnson, and I wanted to write about it, hence this post. :)
In the last year or so I went through a phase where I thought all his songs sounded the same, and so I didn't really pay attention to any albums after the release of Curious George. I haven't listened to his music in a long time.. until today.
I was playing guitar during my lunch break (today is meant to be a day full of study.. I'm trying to make it work), and having exhausted a couple of Bic Runga, Colbie Caillat and Priscilla Ahn songs, I decided to search Jack Johnson. I couldn't remember how some of the melodies went, so I searched the songs on YouTube.. and then I ended up watching the music videos for Taylor and Upside Down, as well as The Horizon Has Been Defeated. I was reminded of how I first discovered Jack Johnson, and I wanted to write about it, hence this post. :)
Saturday, April 25, 2009
purgation.
Random fact:
Consciously or not, I seem to naturally maintain an element of detached-ness in my life.
As a result, I will periodically purge my sent/received messages folders on my phone, my Facebook sent/received messages, and my auto-saved Gmail chats.
In the rare event that I've stopped talking to somebody or had a falling out with them, I also eventually go through my email account and delete all related messages. That way, I'll forget whatever emotions I originally associated with that person, and I am able to move on completely. That doesn't mean I don't think about them occasionally (I don't often forget people who have entered my life at some stage), but the important part is that I don't recall what was said between us, which is usually the sparking factor for emotional attachment.
Out of sight, out of mind.
Consciously or not, I seem to naturally maintain an element of detached-ness in my life.
As a result, I will periodically purge my sent/received messages folders on my phone, my Facebook sent/received messages, and my auto-saved Gmail chats.
In the rare event that I've stopped talking to somebody or had a falling out with them, I also eventually go through my email account and delete all related messages. That way, I'll forget whatever emotions I originally associated with that person, and I am able to move on completely. That doesn't mean I don't think about them occasionally (I don't often forget people who have entered my life at some stage), but the important part is that I don't recall what was said between us, which is usually the sparking factor for emotional attachment.
Out of sight, out of mind.
extremely excited / a quick reflection
Just then I ordered a super deluxe package of the new Dave Matthews Band album Big Whiskey & the Groogrux King (such a strange name, yet SO awesome), which means everything will arrive in a special box which includes the album itself, a 2nd CD with 4 extra tracks, a DVD, a 40-page Photo book, 14 lithographs featuring the drawings/artwork by Dave Matthews and a 24-page photo booklet.
I also recently purchased tickets to see Ladysmith Black Mambazo live at the State Theatre at the end of June. I've never seen them performing live before, so I'm looking forward to this concert. They've been around for such a long time now, i.e. over 20 years. It'll be unreal.
I'll be taking my boyfriend along, but I don't know how much he'll enjoy it. We've been to a number of concerts lately, and each performance was by artists that I really respect and adore, so he wasn't really as excited as I was. Fair enough - it's always harder to be equally excited as somebody else when it's not your thing. But as a result, I felt as though I wasn't able to fully enjoy the experience because he was either bothered by something/somebody there, or I'd look back at him and he'd have an unimpressed look on his face. But I can't blame him for his expression - I'm probably the same when I'm listening to music. Unless you're in an extended state of sheer excitement and happiness, it's hard to look happy while you're concentrating on something else, such as watching the performers.
Take for instance the Ben Harper concert we recently went to. I know I wasn't smiling for a lot of the show, and I kept looking at certain people around me, to see what their reactions were. Looking back, I feel like I wasted the experience a bit because I kept looking at other people. And then my brain would wake up and tell me "Ben Harper's right in front of you". with that thought, the excitement would begin to seep through my mind again, and a smile would spread itself across my face.
I can't believe I saw Ben Harper live.
Oh man.
:)
But back to my original reason for posting. The two recent musical purchases have each cost me over $100. And I don't like to spend a lot of money these days, so I don't know what compelled me to make those purchases. I can say with confidence though, when it comes to these kinds of things I am usually faced with two extreme opinions: Completely forget about the item altogether and be perfectly okay with not having bought it, or be fully committed to the item and buy it with little to no regard of the cost. When I'm fully committed, I am 100% sure about the purchase and I really enjoy the experience that the item provides, through and through.
I like the fact that I can do that - I cherish every [relatively expensive] item I purchase with a sense of love and gratefulness. I don't ever want to become a person who gets used to being able to buy expensive things, and fills their life with such goods. I doubt I'll ever have the capacity to do that anyway, but living life with lots of thankful thoughts makes everything feel much better and more positive.
I'm currently listening to the new Ben Harper album White Lies for Dark Times online. The whole album is being streamed on Myspace before its release in early May, and it is definitely a great set of tracks. One of the songs sounds A LOT like the Paul Winn Band which I think is kind of cool! I should probably do an album review later..
---
So far, I think my life can be summed up like this:
1988-1992: The Hazy Years or The Photographic Years (because I hardly remember anything from this period, and my memory is stimulated by the plethora of photo albums)
1993-1999: The Primary School Years
2000-2005: The High School Years
2006: the Year of Work & Uni
2007: the Year of Much Doubt
2008: the Year of Life-Changing Relationship Mistakes
And so far, 2009 has been the Year of New Friends and Musical Experiences.
---
Life's crazy. It's too short, but there's so much time that gets wasted too.
But you know what the best thing about life is?
Music.
I also recently purchased tickets to see Ladysmith Black Mambazo live at the State Theatre at the end of June. I've never seen them performing live before, so I'm looking forward to this concert. They've been around for such a long time now, i.e. over 20 years. It'll be unreal.
I'll be taking my boyfriend along, but I don't know how much he'll enjoy it. We've been to a number of concerts lately, and each performance was by artists that I really respect and adore, so he wasn't really as excited as I was. Fair enough - it's always harder to be equally excited as somebody else when it's not your thing. But as a result, I felt as though I wasn't able to fully enjoy the experience because he was either bothered by something/somebody there, or I'd look back at him and he'd have an unimpressed look on his face. But I can't blame him for his expression - I'm probably the same when I'm listening to music. Unless you're in an extended state of sheer excitement and happiness, it's hard to look happy while you're concentrating on something else, such as watching the performers.
Take for instance the Ben Harper concert we recently went to. I know I wasn't smiling for a lot of the show, and I kept looking at certain people around me, to see what their reactions were. Looking back, I feel like I wasted the experience a bit because I kept looking at other people. And then my brain would wake up and tell me "Ben Harper's right in front of you". with that thought, the excitement would begin to seep through my mind again, and a smile would spread itself across my face.
I can't believe I saw Ben Harper live.
Oh man.
:)
But back to my original reason for posting. The two recent musical purchases have each cost me over $100. And I don't like to spend a lot of money these days, so I don't know what compelled me to make those purchases. I can say with confidence though, when it comes to these kinds of things I am usually faced with two extreme opinions: Completely forget about the item altogether and be perfectly okay with not having bought it, or be fully committed to the item and buy it with little to no regard of the cost. When I'm fully committed, I am 100% sure about the purchase and I really enjoy the experience that the item provides, through and through.
I like the fact that I can do that - I cherish every [relatively expensive] item I purchase with a sense of love and gratefulness. I don't ever want to become a person who gets used to being able to buy expensive things, and fills their life with such goods. I doubt I'll ever have the capacity to do that anyway, but living life with lots of thankful thoughts makes everything feel much better and more positive.
I'm currently listening to the new Ben Harper album White Lies for Dark Times online. The whole album is being streamed on Myspace before its release in early May, and it is definitely a great set of tracks. One of the songs sounds A LOT like the Paul Winn Band which I think is kind of cool! I should probably do an album review later..
---
So far, I think my life can be summed up like this:
1988-1992: The Hazy Years or The Photographic Years (because I hardly remember anything from this period, and my memory is stimulated by the plethora of photo albums)
1993-1999: The Primary School Years
2000-2005: The High School Years
2006: the Year of Work & Uni
2007: the Year of Much Doubt
2008: the Year of Life-Changing Relationship Mistakes
And so far, 2009 has been the Year of New Friends and Musical Experiences.
---
Life's crazy. It's too short, but there's so much time that gets wasted too.
But you know what the best thing about life is?
Music.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
a music-infused lifestyle.
I've been listening to so much music these days. It's as though my brain has suddenly undergone some kind of neuron(?) reconstruction. In the last week or so I have cycled through a ridiculous number of different genres. I feel like I wrote about this not too long ago, but today I listened to R&B tunes, then Duffy's album, some of Jehro's album, then some John Coltrane jazz, and now I'm onto soul music.
I originally had a plan of study tonight, and I was also going to sleep early (around 9.30 or 10pm). Unfortunately this all went out the window when I decided that I should spend some time catching up on a couple of mp3blogs that I follow.
Music is just fantastic. I've yet to meet somebody with similar tastes to mine, but if I ever do.. well I don't know what would happen. But I'd hope for the development of a musically rich friendship.
Ben Harper and the Dave Matthews Band are my two most favourite artists. I have a big poster of Ben Harper on my wall; if there were decent DMB posters around I'd consider having them on my wall too.
I do adore a great many other musicians, but if anybody were to ask me "Who is/are your favourite musician/s?", I would always answer with BH & DMB. I don't know why though. Maybe it's the combination of good music with mildly offbeat lyrics. They manage to sing about love and relationships and the rest, but with a kind of musical poetry that doesn't exist in anybody else's music. The following lyrics always spring to mind when I consider the aforementioned point:
Like Marie Antoinette said to Louis XVI,
"Man, I think we're going down.
Our chances are slim and none,
and I'm afraid slim just left town."
- "Say You Will", Ben Harper [Lifeline (2007)]
I'm running on about 4 hours sleep, and I have to work tomorrow so I think I'll end it here. I'll leave you with a quote that was quoted on Souled On, the mp3blog that I've been catching up with all night:
"Among the different arts, the art of music has been especially considered divine, because it is the exact miniature of the law working within the whole universe. For instance if we study ourselves we shall find that in the beats of the pulse and the heart, in the inhaling and exhaling of the breath, all is the work of rhythm."
--Hazrat Pir-o-Murshid Inayat Khan
I originally had a plan of study tonight, and I was also going to sleep early (around 9.30 or 10pm). Unfortunately this all went out the window when I decided that I should spend some time catching up on a couple of mp3blogs that I follow.
Music is just fantastic. I've yet to meet somebody with similar tastes to mine, but if I ever do.. well I don't know what would happen. But I'd hope for the development of a musically rich friendship.
Ben Harper and the Dave Matthews Band are my two most favourite artists. I have a big poster of Ben Harper on my wall; if there were decent DMB posters around I'd consider having them on my wall too.
I do adore a great many other musicians, but if anybody were to ask me "Who is/are your favourite musician/s?", I would always answer with BH & DMB. I don't know why though. Maybe it's the combination of good music with mildly offbeat lyrics. They manage to sing about love and relationships and the rest, but with a kind of musical poetry that doesn't exist in anybody else's music. The following lyrics always spring to mind when I consider the aforementioned point:
Like Marie Antoinette said to Louis XVI,
"Man, I think we're going down.
Our chances are slim and none,
and I'm afraid slim just left town."
- "Say You Will", Ben Harper [Lifeline (2007)]
I'm running on about 4 hours sleep, and I have to work tomorrow so I think I'll end it here. I'll leave you with a quote that was quoted on Souled On, the mp3blog that I've been catching up with all night:
"Among the different arts, the art of music has been especially considered divine, because it is the exact miniature of the law working within the whole universe. For instance if we study ourselves we shall find that in the beats of the pulse and the heart, in the inhaling and exhaling of the breath, all is the work of rhythm."
--Hazrat Pir-o-Murshid Inayat Khan
Friday, April 17, 2009
today's angel cards
- Astara: "You deserve the best! Reach for the stars with your dreams and desires, and don't compromise!"
- Maat: Fairness. "This situation will be handled in a fair and just manner."
- Feeling Safe
- Abundance
What does this all mean? Perhaps I should believe in myself more, and have faith that things will right themselves. Who knows.
Today I was listening to John Legend's first album "Get Lifted". It is definitely a fantastic album full of good beats and melodies. I used to be obsessed about the album, and having not heard the album for a long time now, today I remembered why. His second album "Once Again" is quite good too, but it has a completely different feel. I haven't really listened properly to his third album "Evolver", but from what I recall it's a lot clubbier. Nowhere near as impressive as the first record.
- Maat: Fairness. "This situation will be handled in a fair and just manner."
- Feeling Safe
- Abundance
What does this all mean? Perhaps I should believe in myself more, and have faith that things will right themselves. Who knows.
Today I was listening to John Legend's first album "Get Lifted". It is definitely a fantastic album full of good beats and melodies. I used to be obsessed about the album, and having not heard the album for a long time now, today I remembered why. His second album "Once Again" is quite good too, but it has a completely different feel. I haven't really listened properly to his third album "Evolver", but from what I recall it's a lot clubbier. Nowhere near as impressive as the first record.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
fascinating stuff
Anteaters are fascinating creatures. I don't know why this person owns one, and I don't think they should. But the little critter is still damn cute.
today's angel cards
I haven't done angel cards in ages. Admittedly I haven't worked at ISIS for a long time either.
Today I picked out the following cards:
- Intention
- Stand Your Ground
- Green Tara: Start Delegating. "Ask others (including me) to help you, instead of trying to do everything by yourself."
- Crystal: "Have faith and hope, because there is something positive and new on the horizon that you can't yet see."
I always find it bizarre how the cards seem to feel accurate for my current position in life.
Currently listening to: His Eye is on the Sparrow, performed by Tanya Blount & Lauryn Hill in Sister Act 2. Such an uplifting rendition.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
today is officially music heaven.
Everything I listen to today seems to be extra specially awesome.
What have I been listening to?
- Ayo's latest album, Gravity at Last (which reminds me of the concert I went to on Sunday night);
- Two of Ben Harper's old albums, The Will to Live and Burn to Shine (I haven't some of these songs in ages and they're so different to his more recent material); and
- The soundtrack to Sister Act 2 (some great Motown-y gospel and 90s pop R&B tunes).
And now I'm currently listening to the Step Up soundtrack. I was clubbing and krumping in my room to the first track, and got so puffed out that I decided to sit down and try to study French again.
I've been cranking through the musical genres.. a bit of alternative/reggae, then some roots, and then some Motown/gospel, and then some hip-hop. I don't usually appreciate all styles in one day, like I have today. It's bizarre but it's fantastic!
What have I been listening to?
- Ayo's latest album, Gravity at Last (which reminds me of the concert I went to on Sunday night);
- Two of Ben Harper's old albums, The Will to Live and Burn to Shine (I haven't some of these songs in ages and they're so different to his more recent material); and
- The soundtrack to Sister Act 2 (some great Motown-y gospel and 90s pop R&B tunes).
And now I'm currently listening to the Step Up soundtrack. I was clubbing and krumping in my room to the first track, and got so puffed out that I decided to sit down and try to study French again.
I've been cranking through the musical genres.. a bit of alternative/reggae, then some roots, and then some Motown/gospel, and then some hip-hop. I don't usually appreciate all styles in one day, like I have today. It's bizarre but it's fantastic!
Monday, April 13, 2009
because i feel like blogging.
Today I tried making curry rice for the first time. The curry wasn't as thick as I would have liked, but it was still yummy with rice. I'm glad I finally know how to make a dish that isn't baked!
I also tried making cookies using Belle's recipe (I now call them Belle's cookies, hehe), and they turned out to be very yummy! Soft on the inside, exactly like she said :) Although because I knew just how much butter and sugar had gone into the mix, I felt guilty to have eaten 3 or 4 of the 12 cookies that I made. I'm sure that most cakes and cookies have similar amounts of butter / sugar that go into their production, but mum always puts in less sugar or butter than the recommended amount "because you don't actually need that much and it's fattening / bad for you", so I've naturally adopted this attitude too.
It's really spooky, just how much of your parents' behaviour you adopt. I believe some of it is nature, and some of it is nurture. Especially if you've lived 20+ years with them.
I'm on a mission to obtain all the lyrics for Ben Harper's songs so I can learn them properly. I would also make this attempt with Dave Matthews Band songs, were it not for the fact that some of the words he sings are quite difficult to comprehend properly, and so I don't know how accurate the lyrics will be when I find them on the internet. In any case, by tackling Ben Harper's studio album discography I'm taking on around 100 songs so this will definitely be a gradual process.
I'd also like to learn more of Angelique Kidjo's songs. Shs sings in a variety of languages though, so tracking down the translations as well as the lyrics could be a bit difficult. I saw Angelique Kidjo in concert at the Opera House last night, as part of a double bill with Ayo (who was wonderful on stage with her band), and she was absolutely fantastic. She's got such a powerful spirit that it really seems indefatigable. The energy exuding from her singing and dancing was really uplifting to experience, and I feel so lucky to have seen her perform live.
I also tried making cookies using Belle's recipe (I now call them Belle's cookies, hehe), and they turned out to be very yummy! Soft on the inside, exactly like she said :) Although because I knew just how much butter and sugar had gone into the mix, I felt guilty to have eaten 3 or 4 of the 12 cookies that I made. I'm sure that most cakes and cookies have similar amounts of butter / sugar that go into their production, but mum always puts in less sugar or butter than the recommended amount "because you don't actually need that much and it's fattening / bad for you", so I've naturally adopted this attitude too.
It's really spooky, just how much of your parents' behaviour you adopt. I believe some of it is nature, and some of it is nurture. Especially if you've lived 20+ years with them.
I'm on a mission to obtain all the lyrics for Ben Harper's songs so I can learn them properly. I would also make this attempt with Dave Matthews Band songs, were it not for the fact that some of the words he sings are quite difficult to comprehend properly, and so I don't know how accurate the lyrics will be when I find them on the internet. In any case, by tackling Ben Harper's studio album discography I'm taking on around 100 songs so this will definitely be a gradual process.
I'd also like to learn more of Angelique Kidjo's songs. Shs sings in a variety of languages though, so tracking down the translations as well as the lyrics could be a bit difficult. I saw Angelique Kidjo in concert at the Opera House last night, as part of a double bill with Ayo (who was wonderful on stage with her band), and she was absolutely fantastic. She's got such a powerful spirit that it really seems indefatigable. The energy exuding from her singing and dancing was really uplifting to experience, and I feel so lucky to have seen her perform live.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
To make up for my lack of posts these days..
..this is a brief recount of things that have happened lately.
- Saw Ben Harper at the Metro on Thursday night. It was unreal. Words cannot explain.
- Grace Woodroofe was the opening act for Ben Harper and she was really good too. Ben Harper produced her album. She is the second artist to be this lucky (the first being Tom Freund, who is good mates with Ben). Sooo lucky!
- I can't believe I missed out on the chance to meet Ben Harper at an afterparty show. I also waited outside the Metro for a while in the hope that I would meet him, but this was not to be either. I should have thought ahead and written him a letter or something, then I could have given it to the roadies.
- Mum is occasionally teaching me how to make things in the kitchen. And by this, I mean she tells me to come to the kitchen and I watch and take notes. So far I have written down the recipes for pancakes and curry rice.
- I was going to try and keep a handwritten recipe book, but I hate my handwriting when I write quickly so I've decided on the paper-free option instead. It's a lot easier and neater, and now I have an automated table of contents! I've also included Belle's recipe for cookies in my recipe book. Can't wait to try it out :D
- I've been getting back in touch with some of the Mingus Big Band musicians via FB. It's always a great experience to be talking to professional musicians, and learning more about their world and how they approach music.
- Learning French at uni is great fun. I just hope I can be diligent enough to practice speaking more, and then maybe I can actually hold small conversations with people without having notes in my hand!
- I am afraid that I will fail Taxation Law this semester. And possibly my marketing subject too. I need to get on top of my subjects ASAP.
- I'm really looking forward to the release of the new Dave Matthews Band album as well as the album being released by Ben Harper & Relentless 7. Both are shaping up to be hugely fantastic!
- One of my friends has been diagnosed with a rare cancer and is undergoing treatment at hospital. I still haven't seen him yet but I can't stop thinking about him. I'm also in denial that he's actually sick, and I'm hoping he gets better very soon.
- Saw Ben Harper at the Metro on Thursday night. It was unreal. Words cannot explain.
- Grace Woodroofe was the opening act for Ben Harper and she was really good too. Ben Harper produced her album. She is the second artist to be this lucky (the first being Tom Freund, who is good mates with Ben). Sooo lucky!
- I can't believe I missed out on the chance to meet Ben Harper at an afterparty show. I also waited outside the Metro for a while in the hope that I would meet him, but this was not to be either. I should have thought ahead and written him a letter or something, then I could have given it to the roadies.
- Mum is occasionally teaching me how to make things in the kitchen. And by this, I mean she tells me to come to the kitchen and I watch and take notes. So far I have written down the recipes for pancakes and curry rice.
- I was going to try and keep a handwritten recipe book, but I hate my handwriting when I write quickly so I've decided on the paper-free option instead. It's a lot easier and neater, and now I have an automated table of contents! I've also included Belle's recipe for cookies in my recipe book. Can't wait to try it out :D
- I've been getting back in touch with some of the Mingus Big Band musicians via FB. It's always a great experience to be talking to professional musicians, and learning more about their world and how they approach music.
- Learning French at uni is great fun. I just hope I can be diligent enough to practice speaking more, and then maybe I can actually hold small conversations with people without having notes in my hand!
- I am afraid that I will fail Taxation Law this semester. And possibly my marketing subject too. I need to get on top of my subjects ASAP.
- I'm really looking forward to the release of the new Dave Matthews Band album as well as the album being released by Ben Harper & Relentless 7. Both are shaping up to be hugely fantastic!
- One of my friends has been diagnosed with a rare cancer and is undergoing treatment at hospital. I still haven't seen him yet but I can't stop thinking about him. I'm also in denial that he's actually sick, and I'm hoping he gets better very soon.
Monday, March 2, 2009
emiliana torrini: love in the time of science
Disclaimer: This isn't really an album review.
Just then I listened to Emiliana Torrini's album in its entirety, and although I didn't pay particular attention to any of the individual tracks, as a whole the musical colours and vocals were very reminiscent of Bjork.
Just then I listened to Emiliana Torrini's album in its entirety, and although I didn't pay particular attention to any of the individual tracks, as a whole the musical colours and vocals were very reminiscent of Bjork.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
lizz wright: when i close my eyes
When I close my eyes
I can almost taste you
I can't face you
You're still too strong
And it's no surprise
I can't erase you
I tried to replace you
But it all went wrong
'Cause seeds don't crawl off the mountain
And they don't fall, fall from the tree
And they don't drop, not when you're counting
Or maybe that's my sweet philosophy
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Mmm...
When I close my eyes
I dream about you
Tell me how to
Tell me how not to
Grab on to something new
I looked my fate past through
But instead I keep on holding on
I keep holding on
When I close my eyes
I think about you
I just can't let you go
Oh, oh, oh, yeah
---
A light, dreamy song.. makes me feel good.
I can almost taste you
I can't face you
You're still too strong
And it's no surprise
I can't erase you
I tried to replace you
But it all went wrong
'Cause seeds don't crawl off the mountain
And they don't fall, fall from the tree
And they don't drop, not when you're counting
Or maybe that's my sweet philosophy
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Mmm...
When I close my eyes
I dream about you
Tell me how to
Tell me how not to
Grab on to something new
I looked my fate past through
But instead I keep on holding on
I keep holding on
When I close my eyes
I think about you
I just can't let you go
Oh, oh, oh, yeah
---
A light, dreamy song.. makes me feel good.
twenty-four hours of disgruntledness
The past night and day has been exhausting.
- I had a conversation with one of my friends (who is effectively also a mentor) that made me feel like a bit of a failure simply because I wasn't going to take action on a recommendation of theirs. No hard feelings - I know they only mean the best for me, and I always appreciate what they say. But it was just one sentence that cut me down and made me feel inadequate.
- Slept badly. Kept waking up through the night because of the lantern lights I'd left on in my room.
- I realised that the JR Fete is only 4 weeks away and I need to get on top of my merchandise-making activities if I'm going to have ANYTHING to sell as part of my own stall. I'm such an idiot. This provided me with the greatest amount of stress today.
- No I take that back. I had frustrating arguments with my dad to make me want to go ballistic. However I'm well versed in the art of self-restraint, and did no such thing. The only moment at which I let myself go was when I snapped a ballpoint pen in half. Had I not done that, my brain would have probably exploded and caused a lot of pain.
- Working with a million constraints, half of which shouldn't really exist, and WOULDN'T exist if people were more flexible. I think I managed to get through the day okay, but I'm glad it's almost over.
Rant of the day:
I have nothing against arguments, and I would even go so far as to say I'm generally even-tempered in reasonable arguments. The only time I will get annoyed and frustrated to the point of explosion, is when the other party refuses to hear your side of the argument, or picks on you for something completely unrelated to the topic at hand, or misinterprets/twists your words and refuses to hear an explanation. Not giving people a fair go is the worst thing anybody can do. It's like revoking freedom. Nobody should be subject to that unless they've committed a heinous crime.
< / rant>
- I had a conversation with one of my friends (who is effectively also a mentor) that made me feel like a bit of a failure simply because I wasn't going to take action on a recommendation of theirs. No hard feelings - I know they only mean the best for me, and I always appreciate what they say. But it was just one sentence that cut me down and made me feel inadequate.
- Slept badly. Kept waking up through the night because of the lantern lights I'd left on in my room.
- I realised that the JR Fete is only 4 weeks away and I need to get on top of my merchandise-making activities if I'm going to have ANYTHING to sell as part of my own stall. I'm such an idiot. This provided me with the greatest amount of stress today.
- No I take that back. I had frustrating arguments with my dad to make me want to go ballistic. However I'm well versed in the art of self-restraint, and did no such thing. The only moment at which I let myself go was when I snapped a ballpoint pen in half. Had I not done that, my brain would have probably exploded and caused a lot of pain.
- Working with a million constraints, half of which shouldn't really exist, and WOULDN'T exist if people were more flexible. I think I managed to get through the day okay, but I'm glad it's almost over.
Rant of the day:
I have nothing against arguments, and I would even go so far as to say I'm generally even-tempered in reasonable arguments. The only time I will get annoyed and frustrated to the point of explosion, is when the other party refuses to hear your side of the argument, or picks on you for something completely unrelated to the topic at hand, or misinterprets/twists your words and refuses to hear an explanation. Not giving people a fair go is the worst thing anybody can do. It's like revoking freedom. Nobody should be subject to that unless they've committed a heinous crime.
< / rant>
Sunday, February 22, 2009
continuing disbeliefs.
I still can't believe that..
- I'm 21.
- I saw KanYe West perform live in Sydney last year.
- I saw Richard Hammond and Jeremy Clarkson live this year.
- I'm potentially going to be seeing Angelique Kidjo & Ayo at the Opera House. And..
- I'm going to see Ben Harper in April.
BEN HARPER.
I'M GOING TO SEE BEN HARPER.
HOLY PENGUIN!
- I'm 21.
- I saw KanYe West perform live in Sydney last year.
- I saw Richard Hammond and Jeremy Clarkson live this year.
- I'm potentially going to be seeing Angelique Kidjo & Ayo at the Opera House. And..
- I'm going to see Ben Harper in April.
BEN HARPER.
I'M GOING TO SEE BEN HARPER.
HOLY PENGUIN!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Younha
Earlier this year I discovered Younha while watching a Korean TV show.. and she sings beautifully live! And she's really cute too. Turns out she's the same age as me (i.e. born in '88).. I wish I could sing as well as her!
She piqued my interest so I decided I'd search for some of her music on YouTube. I really like her style, hopefully I'll be able to get my hands on her album(s)..
Hope you like the vids!
This music vid is cute in content, and funny too:
I originally wasn't going to post this one, but the bass player is really awesome and the piano has her name on it!
She piqued my interest so I decided I'd search for some of her music on YouTube. I really like her style, hopefully I'll be able to get my hands on her album(s)..
Hope you like the vids!
This music vid is cute in content, and funny too:
I originally wasn't going to post this one, but the bass player is really awesome and the piano has her name on it!
the honest truth
I cannot tell you what the future will be like.
I do not know what will happen.
But I'm taking each day as it comes.
And that's the best I can do.
I do not know what will happen.
But I'm taking each day as it comes.
And that's the best I can do.
Monday, February 16, 2009
alicia keys - butterflyz
Lately when I look into your eyes I realise
You're the only one I need in my life
Baby I just don't know how to describe
How lovely you made me feel inside
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
It seems like the light you give
From the start you told me I would be your queen
But never had I imagined such a feeling
Joy is what you bring
I want to give you everything
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control these butterflyz
You and I are destiny
I know now you were made for me**
Oh oh ooh
I can't control it
It's driving me
Taking me over
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
**This is the most beautiful part in the song. The words reach out and stretch across space with pure ecstasy.
You're the only one I need in my life
Baby I just don't know how to describe
How lovely you made me feel inside
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
It seems like the light you give
From the start you told me I would be your queen
But never had I imagined such a feeling
Joy is what you bring
I want to give you everything
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control these butterflyz
You and I are destiny
I know now you were made for me**
Oh oh ooh
I can't control it
It's driving me
Taking me over
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
You give me butterflyz
Got me flying so high in the sky
I can't control the butterflyz
**This is the most beautiful part in the song. The words reach out and stretch across space with pure ecstasy.
last night..
..I couldn't sleep, so I plugged myself into some Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds on my phone's Walkman.
As a result I kept waking up periodically throughout the night to random songs from the Live at Radio City album. I also woke up earlier than what has been usual recently. (Apologies for terrible grammar of previous sentence.)
Despite this, I appear to have slept well. No dreams to tire me out, and I don't feel tired right now. That said, I am also enjoying the relative silence of my room after a night's worth of music.
On a musical tangent, towards the end of last night I was listening to Tiken Jah Fakoly. What a great band! I recommend them if you're into the ska/reggae style of sound.
As a result I kept waking up periodically throughout the night to random songs from the Live at Radio City album. I also woke up earlier than what has been usual recently. (Apologies for terrible grammar of previous sentence.)
Despite this, I appear to have slept well. No dreams to tire me out, and I don't feel tired right now. That said, I am also enjoying the relative silence of my room after a night's worth of music.
On a musical tangent, towards the end of last night I was listening to Tiken Jah Fakoly. What a great band! I recommend them if you're into the ska/reggae style of sound.
Friday, February 13, 2009
take me home, country roads..
I have an album. It's called "John Denver's Greatest Hits". It was one of the few albums I listened to while growing up (some others included two Girlfriend albums).
I don't know what it is about the music, but this album really makes me feel so warm and beautifully happy from the inside. I feel as though I'm glowing with happiness and no amount of wide grinning can accurately reflect it.
The songs on this album are generally peaceful and soothing. The slight country twang in the background makes me think of golden pastures in the American outback, and there's a hint of homesickness in the songs, a wistfulness that brings out a reminiscent frame of mind in me.
Looks like I'll have to dig out my Simon & Garfunkel, and The Carpenters too..
This is one of the happiest, loving songs on the album in my opinion:
John Denver - For Baby (For Bobbie)
I'll walk in the rain by your side,
I'll cling to the warmth of your hand,
I'll do anything to keep you satisfied
I'll love you more than anybody can.
And the wind will whisper your name to me
little birds will sing along in time,
leaves will bow down when you walk by
and morning bells will chime.
I'll be there when you're feelin down
to kiss away the tears that you cry,
I'll share whith you all the happiness I've found
a reflection of the love in your eyes.
And I'll sing you the songs of the rainbow,
I'll whisper of the joy that is mine
and leaves will bow down when you walk by
and morning bells will chime.
I'll walk in the rain by your side,
I'll cling to the warmth of your tiny hand,
I'll do anything to help you understand
I love you more than anybody can.
And the wind will whisper your name to me
little birds will sing along in time,
leaves will bow down when you walk by
and morning bells will chime.
I don't know what it is about the music, but this album really makes me feel so warm and beautifully happy from the inside. I feel as though I'm glowing with happiness and no amount of wide grinning can accurately reflect it.
The songs on this album are generally peaceful and soothing. The slight country twang in the background makes me think of golden pastures in the American outback, and there's a hint of homesickness in the songs, a wistfulness that brings out a reminiscent frame of mind in me.
Looks like I'll have to dig out my Simon & Garfunkel, and The Carpenters too..
This is one of the happiest, loving songs on the album in my opinion:
John Denver - For Baby (For Bobbie)
I'll walk in the rain by your side,
I'll cling to the warmth of your hand,
I'll do anything to keep you satisfied
I'll love you more than anybody can.
And the wind will whisper your name to me
little birds will sing along in time,
leaves will bow down when you walk by
and morning bells will chime.
I'll be there when you're feelin down
to kiss away the tears that you cry,
I'll share whith you all the happiness I've found
a reflection of the love in your eyes.
And I'll sing you the songs of the rainbow,
I'll whisper of the joy that is mine
and leaves will bow down when you walk by
and morning bells will chime.
I'll walk in the rain by your side,
I'll cling to the warmth of your tiny hand,
I'll do anything to help you understand
I love you more than anybody can.
And the wind will whisper your name to me
little birds will sing along in time,
leaves will bow down when you walk by
and morning bells will chime.
a brief catch-up.
Referring to my previous post, I remember the incident but I have no recollection of the dream I had. Must have been a good one.
Some things that have happened since I last wrote:
- I vowed to cease all attempts at communication with a person who once used to be my closest confidant. I'm so detached now that it doesn't bother me at all, and I prefer not to think about it. Previously this would not have been in my character - I hate losing contact with people and I don't like to hate people either. But life changes, and so do you, and decisions must be made. So I'm not going to bother with trying to contact him ever again. The day for change will be if he ever tries to get in touch with me first. I doubt he'll ever bother.
- On the bright side, I made a new friend recently who I really enjoy talking to. We seem to have a lot in common, but we also have different interests which keeps the conversations filled with variety. I think the best thing is that he writes as much as I do.. I don't know anybody else that can do that on a regular basis!
- I've started talking to an old friend more often than I have in the last couple of years. Ironically while he's overseas! But it's good. Things can only get better from here.
- I turned 21. I still don't think of myself as being 21 - I don't attribute myself with any particular age. I just am. Yes it all sounds very philosophical and what-not, but I feel like I'm constantly doing something, and I haven't had the time (or maybe I just haven't given myself the time) to think about being 21 and what that means. Apparently I'm now well and truly an adult - that's scary.
- I feel secure and happy in my relationship. I've never felt so content and at ease about this before. But these days I feel love, and yet I feel so helpless at the same time. My boyfriend seems to be going through a rough patch.. and it feels like it's lasted for months. It bothers me that I can't seem to cheer him up enough for him to try and take a more positive approach to it all. Strangely it reminds me of the person I think I used to be, and the reason I've changed now is because I don't give myself time to dwell on the bad stuff. Either that or I contemplate it so much that I desensitize myself and am able handle the problem better.
- I've started reading on a regular basis again. I can't express how this makes me feel, but it's a lovely feeling to lose yourself in a book that you really enjoy.
Emotions are confusing sometimes, and love can be trying. But when you're loyal, you're loyal. You block out everything else, for better or for worse, and you're in it for the long haul. Perhaps an unromantic way of saying "I love you", but there, I said it.
Some things that have happened since I last wrote:
- I vowed to cease all attempts at communication with a person who once used to be my closest confidant. I'm so detached now that it doesn't bother me at all, and I prefer not to think about it. Previously this would not have been in my character - I hate losing contact with people and I don't like to hate people either. But life changes, and so do you, and decisions must be made. So I'm not going to bother with trying to contact him ever again. The day for change will be if he ever tries to get in touch with me first. I doubt he'll ever bother.
- On the bright side, I made a new friend recently who I really enjoy talking to. We seem to have a lot in common, but we also have different interests which keeps the conversations filled with variety. I think the best thing is that he writes as much as I do.. I don't know anybody else that can do that on a regular basis!
- I've started talking to an old friend more often than I have in the last couple of years. Ironically while he's overseas! But it's good. Things can only get better from here.
- I turned 21. I still don't think of myself as being 21 - I don't attribute myself with any particular age. I just am. Yes it all sounds very philosophical and what-not, but I feel like I'm constantly doing something, and I haven't had the time (or maybe I just haven't given myself the time) to think about being 21 and what that means. Apparently I'm now well and truly an adult - that's scary.
- I feel secure and happy in my relationship. I've never felt so content and at ease about this before. But these days I feel love, and yet I feel so helpless at the same time. My boyfriend seems to be going through a rough patch.. and it feels like it's lasted for months. It bothers me that I can't seem to cheer him up enough for him to try and take a more positive approach to it all. Strangely it reminds me of the person I think I used to be, and the reason I've changed now is because I don't give myself time to dwell on the bad stuff. Either that or I contemplate it so much that I desensitize myself and am able handle the problem better.
- I've started reading on a regular basis again. I can't express how this makes me feel, but it's a lovely feeling to lose yourself in a book that you really enjoy.
Emotions are confusing sometimes, and love can be trying. But when you're loyal, you're loyal. You block out everything else, for better or for worse, and you're in it for the long haul. Perhaps an unromantic way of saying "I love you", but there, I said it.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
yesterday's epiphany
Dreams are really beautiful. Sometimes they're so vivid and real that I can keep them, and hold them close to my heart and let them lift me up emotionally and spiritually*.
I don't remember all the dreams that I enjoy. Sometimes they disappear as I'm getting ready to go out in the morning. Sometimes I can think about them for most of the day, and then I forget them. But the best part is when they suddenly come back to you, out of nowhere, and you can enjoy the moment and smile to yourself, because the thought is all your own, and nobody else can touch it.
I'm really glad I have dreams.
*Being spiritual is different to being religious.
I don't remember all the dreams that I enjoy. Sometimes they disappear as I'm getting ready to go out in the morning. Sometimes I can think about them for most of the day, and then I forget them. But the best part is when they suddenly come back to you, out of nowhere, and you can enjoy the moment and smile to yourself, because the thought is all your own, and nobody else can touch it.
I'm really glad I have dreams.
*Being spiritual is different to being religious.
Monday, January 19, 2009
note to self:
Stop buying things I don't need. I was doing pretty well lately, just spending money on transport and virtually nothing else. I still have to pay off my personal credit card - waiting for my next paycheck to come through. Savings are starting to drop, which isn't a good sign. And then I'll be spending money on my birthday thing which is going to burn a hole in my already small pocket. I will be content if everybody has a good time. That's all I really want. Lots of smiles and lots of laughs.. happy faces are a real treat.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Album Review: Paul Winn Band - "Nothing's New"
Firstly, forgive me if I sound ridiculously scientific and analytical in this post - I attribute it to the fact that I'm reading a neurologically-focused book that talks about how people's hearing and perceptions of music are affected by changes in/damage to the brain.
As a result, this isn't your typical album review, but more an analysis of each of the songs on the album, and my attempt at explaining the images and emotions I feel when I hear each track.
---
Musicians listen to and admire the craftsmanship of other musicians all the time, and it's only natural that one artist will remind you of another, and vice versa, etc. So when I listen to the Paul Winn Band's latest album I'm reminded of the truth behind the album's title, "Nothing's New". I feel that the overall style of this recording is inspired by Sting, the rhythms are influenced by the Dave Matthews Band, and there are certain musical passages that evoke memories of John Mayer's blues performances. Ironically, it's the unique combination of these factors that help establish the original sound that is the Paul Winn Band.
Strangely enough, during my initial listening of the album Paul's voice also reminded me a bit of Pearl Jam. My boyfriend summarised my comments as "Pearl Jam, without Eddie Vedder". But now that I've listened to the album many times, I don't really feel the Pearl Jam link anymore. (An aside: I love how music transforms in your brain even though the recording itself hasn't changed! It's so fascinating and keeps the music feeling fresh.)
I really enjoy the album as a whole, but I have some distinct favourites, and I've marked them with **. Going through the tracklisting..
"The phone dried up but nothing's new / I took a chance, a bet with you / Don't say those words I've heard before / They only make me want you more.."
Nothing's New** is a catchy song that generates a sense of anticipation for the rest of the album. I love how the upbeat, staccato beats of the verse slide easily into a flowing melody that rings out during the chorus. Having listened to the album a few times now I think this is my standout favourite!
"What in the world did I do / To make you go insane.."
I totally dig the percussive phrases in Take It Back**! 'Phrases' is not the word I'm looking for, but it'll have to do for now. During this song my boyfriend asked me whether Paul is a fan of the Dave Matthews Band - and my boyfriend barely listens to DMB, so it must sound as though it's heavily influenced by DMB. I mention this because I'm so used to DMB's sound that I don't notice if somebody else sounds like them. Upon reflection, this is possibly one of the reasons why I like the Paul Winn Band so much ;)
"Then you came and I saw you / The glare's in my eyes, but I don't care.."
Then You Came** is a lovely 'rock ballad' (I use the term tenatively because I hate genre-categorising) that opens up to a sweeping soundscape in the chorus.. I would love to fall asleep listening to this song. Not much else to say because I'm too caught up in the music's beauty.
Lamington
Firstly, the song reminds me of Paul's previous self-titled album (particularly the song "Sinking Down"); and secondly, it reminds me of Sting. It's not that it sounds the same, but more that it conjures up a similar image in my mind, like when I listen to one of Sting's songs. I can't remember the tune, but I think it's to do with dock workers, because I hear the song and I see a misty British morning, workers down at the docks, not many people about, and the sound of the waves gently slapping against the walls..
"Strawberry romance.. a bed of chocolate, full of lust.."
Expiry Date is a fun upbeat track, and I especially love the sudden melody jump halfway through this song. It transports you to a different state of mind, a temporary musical anti-gravity.. and then the chorus brings you back into the song with a renewed energy.
Sleeping Satellite
Great cover of the original! Not sure who the original artists are unfortunately, but I do recognise the song. (Update: the original was sung by Tasmin Archer.) The coolest part of this cover is the guitar at "..the dream that died with the eagle's flight" - definitely an air guitar moment! And the guitar solo, which uses the same 'rough and dirty guitar' effect to add extra bite to the sound.
Rescue Me**
I love, love, LOVE how the song slowly turns and turns again in a lost-love waltz across an empty room of nostalgia and vintage sounds. As the song progresses, the strings that yawn their way into the music subtly hint at a sound reminiscent of Damien Rice, and the bartender reference is (to me) a strong reminder of a Dave Matthews Band song titled - wait for it - "Bartender". Apart from that one line, the evocative and mysterious nature of Rescue Me has me totally hooked.
Trouble Is
The Middle-Eastern flavour towards the end of the track is what really seals it for me on this one. Reminds me of Sting's "Desert Rose" and DMB's "The Last Stop".
Long Way Home**
I hear the first couple of seconds and I can't help but sigh "Ohhh yeahhhh...!" Long Way Home is a really funky track with the kind of groove that will have you tapping your foot or nodding your head (or both!) along with the beat. Strangely, it feels like Jimi Hendrix meets Red Hot Chili Peppers meets Eric Clapton & BB King!
Those Days
The guitar in this song, when it rings out between the verse/chorus, reminds me a little of John Mayer during his Contiuum album phase. I dig the Metallica(?)-style rock interlude halfway through, and the way the strings add an extra flavour to the chorus.
"Taylor sits drawing as her friends play out in the street.. She's mapping out her future in crayons and HB.."
Previously featured on Paul's earlier self-titled album, the band plays a different version of Taylor on this recording. The song has a very Mayer-eqsue bluesy swing to it (especially in the intro), and it also reminds me of The Badloves "Memphis" (I think it's because of the organ in the background, which I love!). This is a really nice take two, and a loving finish to the album.
All in all, "Nothing's New" is a great album by Paul Winn Band, well-presented both musically and visually, and definitely worth listening to!
---
Available for digital purchase on iTunes; or if you're like me and you enjoy holding the cd in your hands, visit their MySpace page for details on buying the physical album. I highly recommend it, as the album art is really great (kudos to the artist/s)!
As a result, this isn't your typical album review, but more an analysis of each of the songs on the album, and my attempt at explaining the images and emotions I feel when I hear each track.
---
Musicians listen to and admire the craftsmanship of other musicians all the time, and it's only natural that one artist will remind you of another, and vice versa, etc. So when I listen to the Paul Winn Band's latest album I'm reminded of the truth behind the album's title, "Nothing's New". I feel that the overall style of this recording is inspired by Sting, the rhythms are influenced by the Dave Matthews Band, and there are certain musical passages that evoke memories of John Mayer's blues performances. Ironically, it's the unique combination of these factors that help establish the original sound that is the Paul Winn Band.
Strangely enough, during my initial listening of the album Paul's voice also reminded me a bit of Pearl Jam. My boyfriend summarised my comments as "Pearl Jam, without Eddie Vedder". But now that I've listened to the album many times, I don't really feel the Pearl Jam link anymore. (An aside: I love how music transforms in your brain even though the recording itself hasn't changed! It's so fascinating and keeps the music feeling fresh.)
I really enjoy the album as a whole, but I have some distinct favourites, and I've marked them with **. Going through the tracklisting..
"The phone dried up but nothing's new / I took a chance, a bet with you / Don't say those words I've heard before / They only make me want you more.."
Nothing's New** is a catchy song that generates a sense of anticipation for the rest of the album. I love how the upbeat, staccato beats of the verse slide easily into a flowing melody that rings out during the chorus. Having listened to the album a few times now I think this is my standout favourite!
"What in the world did I do / To make you go insane.."
I totally dig the percussive phrases in Take It Back**! 'Phrases' is not the word I'm looking for, but it'll have to do for now. During this song my boyfriend asked me whether Paul is a fan of the Dave Matthews Band - and my boyfriend barely listens to DMB, so it must sound as though it's heavily influenced by DMB. I mention this because I'm so used to DMB's sound that I don't notice if somebody else sounds like them. Upon reflection, this is possibly one of the reasons why I like the Paul Winn Band so much ;)
"Then you came and I saw you / The glare's in my eyes, but I don't care.."
Then You Came** is a lovely 'rock ballad' (I use the term tenatively because I hate genre-categorising) that opens up to a sweeping soundscape in the chorus.. I would love to fall asleep listening to this song. Not much else to say because I'm too caught up in the music's beauty.
Lamington
Firstly, the song reminds me of Paul's previous self-titled album (particularly the song "Sinking Down"); and secondly, it reminds me of Sting. It's not that it sounds the same, but more that it conjures up a similar image in my mind, like when I listen to one of Sting's songs. I can't remember the tune, but I think it's to do with dock workers, because I hear the song and I see a misty British morning, workers down at the docks, not many people about, and the sound of the waves gently slapping against the walls..
"Strawberry romance.. a bed of chocolate, full of lust.."
Expiry Date is a fun upbeat track, and I especially love the sudden melody jump halfway through this song. It transports you to a different state of mind, a temporary musical anti-gravity.. and then the chorus brings you back into the song with a renewed energy.
Sleeping Satellite
Great cover of the original! Not sure who the original artists are unfortunately, but I do recognise the song. (Update: the original was sung by Tasmin Archer.) The coolest part of this cover is the guitar at "..the dream that died with the eagle's flight" - definitely an air guitar moment! And the guitar solo, which uses the same 'rough and dirty guitar' effect to add extra bite to the sound.
Rescue Me**
I love, love, LOVE how the song slowly turns and turns again in a lost-love waltz across an empty room of nostalgia and vintage sounds. As the song progresses, the strings that yawn their way into the music subtly hint at a sound reminiscent of Damien Rice, and the bartender reference is (to me) a strong reminder of a Dave Matthews Band song titled - wait for it - "Bartender". Apart from that one line, the evocative and mysterious nature of Rescue Me has me totally hooked.
Trouble Is
The Middle-Eastern flavour towards the end of the track is what really seals it for me on this one. Reminds me of Sting's "Desert Rose" and DMB's "The Last Stop".
Long Way Home**
I hear the first couple of seconds and I can't help but sigh "Ohhh yeahhhh...!" Long Way Home is a really funky track with the kind of groove that will have you tapping your foot or nodding your head (or both!) along with the beat. Strangely, it feels like Jimi Hendrix meets Red Hot Chili Peppers meets Eric Clapton & BB King!
Those Days
The guitar in this song, when it rings out between the verse/chorus, reminds me a little of John Mayer during his Contiuum album phase. I dig the Metallica(?)-style rock interlude halfway through, and the way the strings add an extra flavour to the chorus.
"Taylor sits drawing as her friends play out in the street.. She's mapping out her future in crayons and HB.."
Previously featured on Paul's earlier self-titled album, the band plays a different version of Taylor on this recording. The song has a very Mayer-eqsue bluesy swing to it (especially in the intro), and it also reminds me of The Badloves "Memphis" (I think it's because of the organ in the background, which I love!). This is a really nice take two, and a loving finish to the album.
All in all, "Nothing's New" is a great album by Paul Winn Band, well-presented both musically and visually, and definitely worth listening to!
---
Available for digital purchase on iTunes; or if you're like me and you enjoy holding the cd in your hands, visit their MySpace page for details on buying the physical album. I highly recommend it, as the album art is really great (kudos to the artist/s)!
Changes
I'm one of those people who like to write new year's resolutions occasionally and then promptly forget about them within the first couple of weeks. Not because I want to, it's just that I go through so much self-reflection most days of the year that I have plenty of other self-improvements to think about.
Lately I've noticed a few changes to my daily or weekly habits though, which has been interesting and quite pleasing too. The biggest change is that I've started reading books again, and on a regular basis. Last year I would pick up a book, read it a few times, and then leave it on the shelf for a month or more. Then I got really stuck into Nelson Mandela's "A Long Walk To Freedom" - I read it at every opportunity and managed to finish it before the new year - and I also finished off Ernesto (a.k.a. "Che") Guevara's "The Motorcycle Diaries". Both books made me realise that if I ever want to change the world, I will need to have a good knowledge of law, and a great understanding of the people - and it made me seriously consider the option of pursuing a post-graduate degree in law. For someone who's been trying to get rid of all their legal subjects at uni as painlessly as possible, this is a complete turnaround! But the consideration of a post-grad law degree is another story altogether.
I digress! Now I am currently reading another two books - "Swahili for the Broken-Hearted" by Peter Moore, and "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brian" by Oliver Sacks. The first is a humorous travel diary of sorts - the author starts in South Africa and ends in Cairo, and the narration has an Aussie taste to it (I enjoy the references to Darling Harbour et al, it makes me feel like I'm sharing an in-joke with the author where foreign readers might not). The latter is completely different, focusing on neuroscience and relating tales and cases of people with neurological conditions I've never heard of, with prescriptions of medications that only a Med student might know of. Some of it's over my head, but the stories themselves are quite fascinating and make you wonder at the kind of influence music has on the human brain and perceptions, etc. Once I've finished these two books (I hope to be done by the end of the month at the latest), I'll continue to go through the rest of the books on my shelf that I bought years ago and still haven't read.
Realising that I was reading more frequently has also made me notice just how much reading of other material I've been doing, notably through Google Reader. I've recently signed up to a bundle of psychology blogs, I follow a number of preferred music blogs, and I also read a few friends' blogs - this probably takes up a good chunk of my time during the week.
However I've also noted a distinct lack or decline in an area of my life that used to be all-consuming - musical performance. I no longer play the piano every couple of days - it might be once a week if I'm lucky - and I probably sing even less than that. I truly believe that the quality of my singing and my singing voice is probably now at maybe 40-50% of what it used to be in high school, and it's such a depressing thought that I don't think about it at all if I can help it. But I had this epiphany in the shower last night, and I am hoping to make amends. The irony of it all is that I have more instruments in my house than I've ever had, with Lex lending me his alto sax and his bass guitar!
So if I have a new year's resolution this year - and let's just make it one, because I'd forget any more - it will be to get back into playing music, not just listening to it. How do I propose to change this? Perhaps a bit less blog reading. Definitely devoting more time to myself, i.e. spending less time trying to call the boy when he's busy playing PS3/pool/poker because I'm just disturbing him anyway. Less FB-ing.
Writing all this has brought me to another realisation - I'm not sporty anymore - and most likely becoming quite unfit! I haven't gained any additional weight as a result, but I'm sure a lot of my muscle (not that I had much to begin with) has relaxed into fat. I have great plans in my head that this will all change once the uni semester begins again and I buy a gym membership at Unigym. But until then, I should at least be stretching in my room on a regular basis! I used to do it a lot but then something changed and the routine was lost. Funny how habits fade in and fade out like that.
So - in summary?
More reading. More music playing. More exercise!
Lately I've noticed a few changes to my daily or weekly habits though, which has been interesting and quite pleasing too. The biggest change is that I've started reading books again, and on a regular basis. Last year I would pick up a book, read it a few times, and then leave it on the shelf for a month or more. Then I got really stuck into Nelson Mandela's "A Long Walk To Freedom" - I read it at every opportunity and managed to finish it before the new year - and I also finished off Ernesto (a.k.a. "Che") Guevara's "The Motorcycle Diaries". Both books made me realise that if I ever want to change the world, I will need to have a good knowledge of law, and a great understanding of the people - and it made me seriously consider the option of pursuing a post-graduate degree in law. For someone who's been trying to get rid of all their legal subjects at uni as painlessly as possible, this is a complete turnaround! But the consideration of a post-grad law degree is another story altogether.
I digress! Now I am currently reading another two books - "Swahili for the Broken-Hearted" by Peter Moore, and "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brian" by Oliver Sacks. The first is a humorous travel diary of sorts - the author starts in South Africa and ends in Cairo, and the narration has an Aussie taste to it (I enjoy the references to Darling Harbour et al, it makes me feel like I'm sharing an in-joke with the author where foreign readers might not). The latter is completely different, focusing on neuroscience and relating tales and cases of people with neurological conditions I've never heard of, with prescriptions of medications that only a Med student might know of. Some of it's over my head, but the stories themselves are quite fascinating and make you wonder at the kind of influence music has on the human brain and perceptions, etc. Once I've finished these two books (I hope to be done by the end of the month at the latest), I'll continue to go through the rest of the books on my shelf that I bought years ago and still haven't read.
Realising that I was reading more frequently has also made me notice just how much reading of other material I've been doing, notably through Google Reader. I've recently signed up to a bundle of psychology blogs, I follow a number of preferred music blogs, and I also read a few friends' blogs - this probably takes up a good chunk of my time during the week.
However I've also noted a distinct lack or decline in an area of my life that used to be all-consuming - musical performance. I no longer play the piano every couple of days - it might be once a week if I'm lucky - and I probably sing even less than that. I truly believe that the quality of my singing and my singing voice is probably now at maybe 40-50% of what it used to be in high school, and it's such a depressing thought that I don't think about it at all if I can help it. But I had this epiphany in the shower last night, and I am hoping to make amends. The irony of it all is that I have more instruments in my house than I've ever had, with Lex lending me his alto sax and his bass guitar!
So if I have a new year's resolution this year - and let's just make it one, because I'd forget any more - it will be to get back into playing music, not just listening to it. How do I propose to change this? Perhaps a bit less blog reading. Definitely devoting more time to myself, i.e. spending less time trying to call the boy when he's busy playing PS3/pool/poker because I'm just disturbing him anyway. Less FB-ing.
Writing all this has brought me to another realisation - I'm not sporty anymore - and most likely becoming quite unfit! I haven't gained any additional weight as a result, but I'm sure a lot of my muscle (not that I had much to begin with) has relaxed into fat. I have great plans in my head that this will all change once the uni semester begins again and I buy a gym membership at Unigym. But until then, I should at least be stretching in my room on a regular basis! I used to do it a lot but then something changed and the routine was lost. Funny how habits fade in and fade out like that.
So - in summary?
More reading. More music playing. More exercise!
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