A Secret Fanfare

NU 107's Last Goodbye

2010-11-06T20:20:00.001-07:00

When I first heard that NU 107 ("The Home Of New Rock") is dismantling its present image and therefore undergoing a, erm, "major-major" facelift, I was a bit saddened, even when I don't listen to it as much as I did then. I deduce that the Henareses are seriously stung by the recent finacial troubles, so there's no more recourse for them but to accept a radical change. Just to keep their monetary sails afloat and stay themselves on the air.

I stumbled upon a link that led to a blog article, authored by Jaedee who was once actually an NU jock. In it was a snatch that caught me not at least off-guard: "starting this November the NU107 jocks will start slipping in music that will assail the senses any decent rocker." Ano yun, eh di, magsisingit na sila bigla ng Justin Bieber at Charice? Wahahahaha!

Jocularities aside, I think that's how NU envisions itself to be in the very near future. I bet that the big brasses at the conference table are debating on a new on-air slogan to beat out the crap of the already (in)famous "Kelangan pa bang i-memorize yan?" Hehehehehe.

Ok, seriously now... beneath my joking veneer lies a whiff of disappointment, even when I've had actually this idea that NU would be on the verge of selling itself out.

Just a few years ago, while tuning in to NU, I was taken aback when my ears accidentally caught its on-air promotion of Avril Lavigne's "Bonez" tour here in Manila! "Avril Lavigne?!?" I cried out in disbelief. I thought I was only dreaming until there came in my sister, as my actual witness. She heard that one, too. Guys, I'm not joking this time. My ears had already been sterilized at that moment, just to let you know.

Well, especially to the long-time followers of the station, the nightmare has come into a bigger proportion. The metamorphosis will be complete. In a little while, be surprised no more to hear more of Lavigne, etc. on the air.

As far as I'm concerned, I have heard a couple of radio stations that had befallen to a similar fate.There was 97.1 LS-FM, that championed pretty much rock and band-oriented Pinoy music. But I surmised they fell short of their supposedly gritty image when they began to air a (admittedly laughable) song called "Pag-ibig Ko'y Metal" (belted out by one of their jocks, actually!), in a self-indulgent bid to raise the rock flagship (or well, to cream those hip-hoppers out of their ghettos). Ironic! Hahahaha! I don't know, that part's just a wild guess of mine (or if you see that I'm half-joking, that's better!)

And on the other side of the FM bandwidth, was LA 105.9, which used to spin off a bit more ruthless, heck, even satanic, repertoire. Even on a Holy Week, it held no sacrilegous to the station compared to Judas Priest or Black Sabbath (and even more flagrantly blasphemous, hard-core black and death metal). Their tunes were being played on the air, championing all that diabolical shit, while most of us were trying to attentively hear the Seven Stations of the Cross or watch Ben-Hur (hey, at least "Life Of Brian" is even deemed comparatively appropriate for a Good Friday diversion).

Anyway, just like NU's recent plight, both LS and LA's rock heydays would come to an end, and had finally succumbed to the typical radio station curse. LS has gone "masa" all the way since then. In the case of the 105.9 band -- if my failing retentive memory serves me right, unless you guys step in to correct me, thank you very much -- it had recast itself to an easy-listening format before it got completely axed off the air. Until some three years ago, Ramon "RJ" Jacinto acquired the frequency number and restored its rock status, but with a different face. Now it has become 105.9 RJUR.

Until just a matter of hours later on this very date, there are only two rock-oriented stations here the country, tapos malalagasan pa ng isa. Haaaayyyy, where does integrity in the music industry go?

Is it because the present crop of DJ's sucks? I admit I haven't been listening to NU for a few years now, so I don't know much of their current jocks. Of course, I understand that in every business entity, it needs fresh faces (or in this case, voices) to keep its business jolly and bright. But it seems it doesn't work here, I dunno ...pero nakaka-miss tuloy sina Mondo, Myrene, Mari, Jaedee, Zach and Joey... sina Pontri lang ata at Francis Brew ang natira sa old batch.

Or is it because of the absence of some of their key shows that has left the station crippling? I also miss "Euro Rock" and its spin-off show (sort of) "The Gweilos Hour". As well as "Not Radio" and "Zach and Joey in the Morning". Perhaps I'm starting to feel my age now... but, oh well *shrugs*

Or is it because the fledgling RJUR has now taken the airwave reins? Analyzing this, RJUR's material (their "classic rock/modern rock/Pinoy rock" scheme) both attracts the senior rock fans as well as music buffs of this generation. Therefore, they pull in more audience than NU does. Eversince RJUR started to play the Beatles, for instance, NU began to follow suit as well, although they'd do this in trickles. I once heard it myself. Eh hindi naman sila nagpapatugtog ng Beatles dati, ah. The only downside of listening to RJUR is having to go through their mono-induced environment. It's like an upgraded AM station, hahahaha (don't get me wrong, I also like to listen to AM radio)

One, two or all of these factors might have contributed to NU's downfall. So it's make or break for the station, and we obviously know which choice it has gone to, even if it means completely losing its "rockability" cred.

I know, this is a very difficult decision for NU to make. It takes one major crisis, that, after 23-plus years of rocking the whole nation (excuse me for this corny phrase!) has forced this once-strong rock music pillar to send itself crumbling.

They haven't played only music, but a part of every listener, including myself. I used to be a "Remote Control" freak (and mostly relied on DJ Mondo, who at one point even got to recognize my voice whenever I'd ring him up for a request: "You're the girl who asks for Clinic?". Kahit naman minsan hindi Clinic ang ire-request ko. Hahahaha!) I even won a prize for having answered correctly in their little contest in "Euro Rock". When I dropped by at the AIC Tower in Ortigas to claim my erm, honors, there I personally saw Mondo as well as his co-horts Neil, Mario, as well as Erwin Romulo. I felt embarrassed in front of these musically worldly-wise gentlemen, but the encounter itself was fun, hahahaha. The prize? It's a burned CD of live Belle and Sebastian tracks (which I eventually gave to my, erm, best friend)

Flashback aside... I bet "Undas" will be extended for little more hours as hundreds of mourners outside the AIC Tower will probably light candles as they catch the last glimpse of the "home of NU rock". Probably they'll make a desperate petition? Or a sleep-over in front of the building? Hehehehe.

Meanwhile, listeners will barrage the staff with song requests as well as express their farewell's and thank you's up to the last minute... the DJ's are also sending out their final thanks, as well as recalling only fond memories they've had with NU as well, that has treated them like part of the family... and they're never gonna end it with dry eyes.

While I'm not going to pull out a tissue and sniff the sorrows away like everyone concerned does, I'm no hypocrite to say that I'm going to miss the old format. In this case, rock is dead and being crushed by the hypothetical big corporate wheels. Nakakalungkot at nakakahinayang din. In the same breath, I'm curious (but I swear, I'm not freaking excited!) to behold NU's new image next year.

But that's how life goes. And... some good things never last, as a sentimental ballad goes.

For now, we'll only have a few hours left to listen to NU's swan song before it finally bows out of the air.......

So long and thanks for all the music, and for the memories. :)

Beatles memorabilia.. for sale!

2010-07-21T23:44:00.000-07:00

Please copy and paste this link on your browser's address bar: (sorry, the html link is disabled!), for more details

http://www.sulit.com.ph/index.php/view+classifieds/id/2430495/The+Beatles+collectibles!+(new+pictures!)

Hello! I'm selling these collectors' items for Beatlemaniacs around the country.

thanks and cheers!

PBA Memorabilia Items.. For Sale!

2010-07-21T20:52:00.001-07:00

I am selling these items, all for P1750 each. If you want more details, go to http://www.sulit.com.ph/index.php/view+classifieds/id/2430458/PBA+Memorabilia+%3D+newspaper+articles%2C+Hoops+magazine%2C+authentic+mug! Thanks!

my poem - "Metropolitan Boy"

2010-06-03T09:20:00.000-07:00

the inspiration for this knows all too well about it. :D

***

Metropolitan Boy

He's a boy with a big fat wall
Riding along with the high city rolls
And oftentimes he leaves his desk
Inside the bus he catches up some rest

The concrete jungle is his fat oyster
He's a bona-fide city slicker
Embattled veteran in the rat race
His eyes have never seen a snail's pace

Metropolitan boy,
The fields here are much greener
Bring him lots of filthy lucre
Though the air here's not much cleaner
And all those noise
His ears have been trained to
Reach to their breaking point
There's not much he can do
Metropolitan boy,
Metropolitan boy.

He's a boy with big love handles
Nonetheless, he can mount on a cycle
Chewing on the blackest highway soot
He troops to the city's every cranny and nook

He enjoys the good, better, best life
His every day is a sweetest summertime
And his lucky, lovely metropolitan girl
Is wedded to his metropolitan world

Metropolitan boy,
The capital's his eternal twin
That teaches him corporate sins
He juggles schedules like a baby's toy
And all those noise
Now sound like indie music to his ears
He tries not to grow matted beards
Since stress take a toll on his younger years
Metropolitan boy,
Metropolitan boy.

tuna-y na masarap! (veggie and tuna dish)

2009-11-08T02:01:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite meals, because it's quick to prepare, economical, nutritious, and not to mention really good... Especially if you're on a low-fat diet (which otherwise I'm actually not, hehehehe), you can have it as your everyday meal without the guilt. If you want your plain out-of-the-can tuna a little bit of twist and not to mention more filling (because of the vegetables), you might want to try this, it's so easy to prepare...

What I needed for the recipe at the time I was making it:

1 can (100X5 oz) of tuna (preferably plain or hot-and-spicy)
1 head of pechay baguio (actually, it's like bok choi but the leaves are light green, and the stalks are much broader than its darker-green relative), chopped
1 small red onion, chopped
1 medium-sized tomato, chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed and chopped
1 small red pepper, cut into thin strips
salt and pepper to taste (if you're going to use hot-and-spicy tuna, pepper won't be necessary, unless you want it really, really spicy)

Sautee garlic, onion and tomatoes. Out of the can, add the tuna, and a cup of water. Next, throw in the pechay baguio, and let it simmer a bit until the vegetables are tender enough (and not too soggy). Add salt and pepper to adjust the taste. Then add the thin strips of bell pepper for the final touch. And... hooray! It's done and it's hot for the dining table. Of course, rice is the perfect partner (or rather, this veggie tuna meal is the perfect accompaniment for rice) for this lovely dish.

Optional: carrots, cabbage, sayote as well as green bell peppers are also perfect in addition to the ingredients I've listed above. Bon appetit! :D

impromptu poem...

2009-11-04T03:44:00.000-08:00

an untitled celebration of loss... :p

****

I know the stars are now dead, but I keep on hoping
The darkness abound I'm endlessly groping
But when I hear your voice in my dream
Thoughts of you float a-stream

I know your love is now dead, but instead
Of just grieving over the loss
And putting a heavy cross on its stead
Rose-colored memories on its grave, embossed

I know this heart's supposed to be still
But it's running high, in its broken pieces
They're now beyond repair, and there, I just will
Sit shivering, cherishing these lost kisses

my very first (seeming) poetic collaboration ek-ek!

2009-10-13T23:53:00.000-07:00

Written by me and my best friend (I wrote the second stanza, I just followed the pattern of the first stanza... it's so draft-ish and a bit twee, don't you think?!?). Well, I'm still looking for the appropriate title of this piece of scratch... :D

***

Yes we are over the crowd so far,
light streaks mines and some street castaways
When the lines have been blurred,
laughter and sound are abound,
seems the the night will slowly fade this way
Hold the songs and drift away,
fascination is on to stay, light will crawl and eat the dark away

Bless our smiles, as dazzling as the stars
to lead our paths to another world away
When our desires have been burned
within this laughter and sound abound
the normal lights fade into a hazy day
They'll never have it knowing
what life is like after the gloaming
A morning mist will kiss away our old yearnings

***

:D

song of the month - "Open Up Your Door" (Richard Hawley)

2009-10-05T03:04:00.000-07:00

He just never fails to sweep off my feet. From his new album, "Truelove's Gutter" :)

Open Up Your Door
(composer: Richard Hawley)

(*note - I scribbled the lyrics myself. If you feel this is all wrong, please PM me!)

***

Open up your door
I can see your face no more
Love is so hard to find
And even harder to define
Oh, open up your door
Cos we've time to give
And I'm feeling it so much more
Open up the door
Open up your door

Open up your door
I can hear your voice no more
I just want to make smile
And it will stay with you awhile
Open up the door
Cos we've time to give
And my feelings are so obscure
Open up your door
Open up your door

So open up the door
Cos we've time to give
And my feelings are so much more

Open up your door
Open up your door
Love is so hard to find
And even harder to define
oh, open up the door
And I've never been so sure
Open up the door
Open up the door

***

"Open Up The Door" by Richard Hawley
(60-second preview; 30 minutes if not logged in to imeem)

Open Up Your Door - Richard Hawley

song of the month - "Fonz" (Eugene McGuinness)

2009-08-25T03:21:00.000-07:00

I love the lyrics of the song... quirky, funny... The music is, as my very good friend once noted, screaming of (fellow mates over at Domino Records... I don't know if they're still on the label, though) Franz Ferdinand with a 60's touch. I hope my musical fixation of this wonder boy wouldn't be a fad... :D

Fonz
(composer: Eugene McGuinness)

Well, that wasn't very, very nice of you
Things aren't so glossy
Without a posse
Oh deary dear
I've no business being here
Well now as I bow out
At the funeral of my youth
It was so lonely
It was so lovely
It was so lovely

You're so easy on the eye
You're so easy on the eye
We said farewell
And we synchronized our watches
And arranged for the meeting of our crotches
On the other side of the planet
On the other side of the world

Well, that wasn't a very, very nice thing to do
They never suspect the emotional wreck
Put that in your pipe
(You might want to write that down)
Yes sir, yes sir, three bags full
The Fonz said
"There's nothing wrong with being wrong,"
But was he right, was he right?
I don't know, was he right?

You're so easy on the eye
You're so easy on the eye
We said farewell
And we synchronized our watches
And arranged for the meeting of our crotches
On the other side of the planet
On the other side of the world...

Fonz (60-minute preview; 30 minutes if not logged in to imeem):

Fonz(2).mp3 -

eiga sai... hai!

2009-07-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

Eiga Sai 2009 has just concluded. Out of the eight featured films (including 1 anime) screened at the Shangri-La Mall EDSA, I managed to see five of them, and some of them are the finest I'd seen:

(July 3, 2009)
"Of being alone and ending up alone... of being alone and filling up the loneliness..." That was what I summed up, mumbling, after attending the second day of Eiga Sai (Japanese film festival). I could, like, relate!

Tony Takitani was a cinematic vaccuum, full of scenic voids that revolve around it. I mirrored myself in the tormented title character. I knew the feeling - the initial joy of being in love for the first time after having been alone since birth, eclipsed by later fears of losing someone you love and ending up being alone, again. The beautiful woman Eiko (who will become Tony's wife) is a clotheshorse, a compulsive shopper. During their short marriage this uncontrollable urge of hers eventually has made Tony alarmed. So he gently tells her off to cut back on her excessive shopping. And so, Eiko's sartorial obsession - or rather the urge to resist it - has made her to die via a road accident.

Two years later, Tony meets another young woman who bears much resemblance to his late wife. After the job interview, Tony takes her into his firm, with one condition: she should wear his wife's fabulous designer coats, dresses and shoes when going to the office. Clearly, she never understands all this. Initially, I expected it to be as another Vertigo - where Jimmy Stewart's equally tormented character molds a young woman into the image of his dead beloved. But it didn't turn out that way. In the end, and on the death of his trombonist dad, he literally sells all of the past tokens: his wife's beautiful dresses and shoes, his father's mold-infested collection of rare jazz records. He then succumbs to this fate of loneliness, probably for the rest of his life.

Somehow inside the chilly cinema watching it I woolgathered that I could find that perfect someone to fill up the my void, just as the clothes that filled up Eiko's empty soul, or just as Eiko herself filled up Tony's empty heart - even just fleetingly.

But on the other hand...

After seeing the second film Turn-Over - An Angel Is Coming On a Bicycle, the second thoughts about marriage came flooding in my crazy, little corner of my paranoid brain. I couldn't help it - it's natural for a married couple to turn his or her calls for help, or the little sweet things he or she does for you, into a deaf ear and a blind eye. And it is a real pain, especially if your marriage could last as long as the elderly couple's in that film.

What's worse, it you're hopelessly in love and committed, you stand the chance to endure of being taken for granted - just for the sake of being married.

The elderly couple, Gen and Chie, have been wed for 45 years. Gen has a long-standing reputation in Kyoto as a robe maker for Shinto priests, and steadfastly sticks to the old traditions and customs especially in his garment-making methods. His wife Chie, is suffering from a debilitating illness that renders her hands and fingers almost useless and painful. Throughout their marriage Gen in some ways doesn
't appreciate her, or even just acknowledge her presence, maybe because of his work, which has been taking over almost his whole life (even when he admits toward the end that he doesn't really love it).

So to cheer up Chie, Gen asks a young genetic engineering student Shunsuke, who happens to be a magician for the neighborhood kids. Shunsuke comes to their house every day to teach Chie his sleight-of-hand tricks. But it turned out somehow that indirectly, Chie teaches Shunsuke (and moves him moreover) the magic of determination as she struggles to hold up the playing cards Shunsuke has laid out for her. The two become close buddies, and somehow I also thought that Chie sees him as her own son, as the couple are childless.

But as Chie's health worsens, Gen has decided to close shop in order to take care of her. Meanwhile, Shunsuke has received a scholarship to study in the US. Megumi, his girlfriend, objects to this. Although Shunsuke loves Megumi and cares for her, he also ponders seriously for his own future. Will he remain in Kyoto and miss the golden chance, or will he pursue this rare opportunity and leave Megumi behind?

Well, it's doubly hard to be paired up, hehehehe. Hindi na sarili mo lang ang dapat mong isipin, hehehehe. The likelihood of being unappreciated and ignored, that's worse and can generate a lot of hurt. Although you look at your partner with unconditional love and give him or her the way, all the time... there's still a little scream of dissent inside your heart. Only when you're gone will they realize... and it's too late to feel that way. :-(

As the film was finished and I hastened my way out of the cinema, I overheard one girl behind me, "Hindi na lang ako mag-aasawa!". Whether she was joking or she really meant it, I thought I was going to subscribe to her idea. I chimed in with her - perhaps with the tinny sound of the "cat's bell" that Chie has installed in their house. Oh, call me a bit selfish... :D

My darkened mood (I blamed that on the first 2 films, hahahaha) began to see a ray of sunshine, so to speak, when I got to see Kamome Diner, the last one screened for the day. Well, I was to put it in my words, a lucky customer who managed to line up for the tickets. Watching it, I sort of indulged myself in a mental, visual, and virtual gustatory and gastronomic delight, hehehe.

The film's story revolves around the new-ish, dainty small diner in Helsinki named "Ruokala Lokki" ("kamome shokudo" in Japanese, and it means "seagull diner"). It is a pretty joint: smooth white wooden tables and chairs that go well with the white walls with powder-blue wood panelling, and the ambience seems bright and homey and relaxing... I bet it all smells brand new. A Japanese woman named Sachie runs the place, and although she keeps her routine inside and outside of the restaurant diligently, the diner sees no signs of a customer yet. Long until a young local named Tommi drops by at the place. He speaks Japanese, and requests Sachie for the lyrics of the Gatchaman theme song. She remembers only the opening lines, but vainly recalls the rest. However, the song has stuck in her head ever since. Then Sachie chances on a odd-looking tall woman named Midori on a bookshop cafe, and the first thing she does is to ask the Gatchaman lyrics. Midori doesn't only know the lyrics, but is willing to write them!

The only thing I was up for was that how the diner would beckon prospective customers, and eventually succeed. Midori soon moves to Sachie's place as her roommate, and helps her out in the diner for free (although it still receives no customers yet). Things start to perk up when a mystery guy enters Ruokala Lokki, and teaches Sachie the secret to making really delicious coffee. And then Sachie and Midori together bake some mouth-watering cinnamon rolls... you know, if there's a technology called smell-o-vision I would have breathed these fragrant aromas of coffee and cinnamon around the moviehouse... mmmmm-mmmm!

Although you might have an idea what that would lead to, Kamome Diner was still a lovely film to finish. My favorite character there perhaps had to be Masako, the small spinster who has found herself in Finland because her luggage goes missing. She's quirky, and really, really cool - especially when she takes on a booze challenge with an angry-looking drunk lady, hahahahaha! She has the ability to understand and communicate with locals although she doesn't speak any Finnish, wears colorful dresses, and goes to the forests to pick up mushrooms (because, upon asking Sachie and Midori why the Finns seem to be care-free and laidback, Tommi overhears their conversation and butts them in with the answer, "Forests"). Ang kulit ng matandang 'to, hahahaha!.

There are some enigmatic elements in the film: aside from the man who teaches Sachie about "Kopi Luak", there's also another guy who strolls around the port, holding a pet cat. And these three ladies' reasons why they end up in Finland: Sachie dodges them with jokes, while Midori has said that one day she closed her eyes while her finger pointed at the world map, and decided to go where her finger has landed (sana ganun din ako pag-mag travel, hehehehehe). And Masako, well, she has decided to stay longer in Finland because of the luggage issue. :)

I was anticipating for and witnessing the path of small-town success this diner is going through, but I eventually realized it wasn't the tenderest meat (so to speak) of the film really. It was all about friendships, and camaraderie, the discovery of each other's differences as well as similarities, of your own destiny, and of your new sense of self. I assumed they were the things the film was trying to covey, and it did so with much aplomb. Deprived of the cinematic and artsy pretensions, Kamome Diner is an otherwise simple film about slices of life in the eyes of these three Japanese women in a foreign land. It's a small movie, yet it comes out big - even bigger than what I earlier expected. Warning: it can make your stomach churn and mouth water, hehehehe. (I even watched this twice!)

(July 10, 2009)
I was oddly depressed after seeing Memories of Matsuko. And oddly, I was flabbergasted with a booming music as I was comfortably perching in my seat. That greeted me into the lively Tokyo street scene which reflects so much about their unique pop culture. But a garish side of the city opens with a dead woman lying beside the river. Dust swirled with chaos around Matsuko's lifeless body as policemen are caught in a hubbub.

A young guy named Sho is tasked by his calloused father (who is Matsuko's brother) to clean up his aunt's rickety apartment where she spent her last years. As Sho discovers her interesting, intricate life, he realizes that life does have meaning, even when there seems to be nothing.

As if she was born to carry the stigma throughout her life, Matsuko has endured what life's most suckiest "moments". She has been disowned by her family, faced the scandal that led her to job loss, encountered with prostitution, pornography and yakuza, straddled the procession of her good-for-nothing lovers. And her death, that was what I considered as utterly meaningless!

A maze of colorful and eye-popping sets and effects as well as music and songs don't only work for fillers but in fact are really the vital part and parcel of this stunning film. It also shows Matsuko's noble sacrifices at a world that showed her nothing cruelty and misfortune... except for Megumi, her bosom friend she met from the correctional (and the star of the Sho's porn dvd's!) She's the only shining beacon, the representation of Matsuko's only hope, of this otherwise dark film, notwithstanding the colorful, Disney-esque scenes and merry tunes.

Well, I brushed that depressed feeling off as I left the cinema. "Ok lang yun... at least natapos na rin yung mga kamalasan niya, hahahhaha!"

(July 11, 2009)
I took my sister to watch Kamome Diner, the film that I have been so loving since I first saw it. After that, we trooped to McDo, and I made the treat for both of us. We deliberately starved ourselves in order to really appreciate the film, hehehehe.

Meanwhile, I enjoyed the last film Memories Of Tomorrow, and I didn't care if it was labeled the disparagingly-titled "disease-of-the-week" fare. In fact, I much so like themes like that (in my childhood I loved the TV movie Go Toward The Light, a real-life story about a child's battle with AIDS - his family had prepared themselves for his imminent death)

Here, it tells about a story of a high-flying, workaholic executive Saeki (I recognized Ken Watanabe, who serves also as the film's executive producer, as that Chairman in Memoirs of a Geisha). His advertising firm's team has just landed a big account. As he is riding on the crest of success, he starts to forget minor to a bit troubling things, like vainly recalling the name of the Titanic star ("Dick-Caprio!") to losing car keys and driving towards the wrong exit lane.

Then, for the first time in his career, he forgets an all-important business meeting - and Saeki himself was shocked. As his memory begins to flag down, his wife Emiko suggested for a checkup. After a series of tests, it is confirmed that Saeki has the early onset of Alzheimer's. And it's a downward spiral from there, despite their noble fight against Alzheimer's, as the dreaded disease eats the brain and the memory away - and it's incurable.

The most painful scene must be the one happening at the dining room where Emiko tries to literally struggle with her husband's seizures of desperation. Watanabe's performance as the Alzheimer patient is really superbly effective, and grips you from your apathetic stupor. His character refuses to go down because of the illness by his stubborn will. And for that I could forgive all the maudlin strings in the background to cue the tear-ducts, hehehehe.

sex and, especially, violence

2009-06-13T23:47:00.000-07:00

There was some tension at the ticket line yesterday (pa-VIP pa yung mga nauna sa amin!). The manner that brokers and clients (and flyers, in this case!) would argue heatedly about, hehehehe. But I got past to it, only to encounter more tension, even from just watching inside the cinema. Well, to say that is clearly an understatement. =)

I felt so uncomfortable, mostly, watching "Flandres", the only film I managed to see. And as usual, I was watching alone, so that added my usual amount of heebie-jeebies...

But really, it possessed one of the most simple story plots: a love triangle, two guys enlist themselves as soldiers and go to war, one dies in action (actually in hiding), and the other one survives to come back to his childhood friend (the slut in their farm village) he deeply loves. Yung pelikula e--paraphrasing a line from Vic Sotto--"dinaan lang sa showmanship": a commonplace story shrouded by violence, sex and nudity. The war scenes were especially fiery bolts out of the blue, so to speak--particularly after a stream of silence comes a hail of bullets and granades. Quiet follows a new loud. =)

The most horrifying scene I'd ever encountered was the one where one guy gets his, uh, member, dismembered. No, it wasn't actually shown, but the his desperate and piercing screams made me squirm... actually I've been feeling this way since I've undergone a blood sample as part of my medical examination just a day ago (my first time, so it was understandable and impossible for me to relax while my right arm was getting pierced by a not-so-discreet-looking syringe!). Anyway, the guy comes out crying viciously loud, stripped down of his pants, and he's clutching his now-bloodied crotch as he's dying... Nanghihina na tuloy ako! And that particular scene didn't do any better to me. Hehehehe....

The film was a mixed bag of the shocking and the boring... the latter being the silences in between that looked like they'd go forever, and the characters' long, long, long seemingly aimless walks around the farm, even in the first few scenes, and I was gaping at them like, "huy, me sasabihin ba kayo?". I even overheard my seatmate telling his friend as the film started to roll its credits, "Boring." =)

Unfortunately, today I can't go, because I have something to finish. It would be a dire waste of opportunity as today's the last screening at the Shang. And the line-up appears to be really interesting (that comprises a biofilm about Van Gogh). Sayang! Oh well, di bale na... right now my anticipation for Eiga Sai next month will surely about to be built up... Hopefully no violence this time (at least at the ticket row), hehehehe.

***

But for the meantime, more violence ensues (due to 1 insistent public demand, hahahaha!):

I'd like to chop these guys' heads with blade of the office fan:

This guy suddenly goes amok at work... sayang walang sound!

"excuse us for our French! (or non-French)...."

2009-06-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

Day 7 of the ongoing French Film Festival was a bit of a downer, in particular about the lousy service that "sparked" at both ends of this event. First of all, we were just first in line, only in front of the entrance of Cinema 3 at Shangri-La Mall when the personnel halted us from letting ourselves in. It turned out that they were experiencing problems regarding the audio system, and much to our disappointment our queue had to be relocated outside Cinema 4, for 30 more minutes, as the guys were fixing this glitch. All those for waiting for full two hours before the next (second, actually), screening of the day that should have commenced at exactly 3 pm! It it weren't for my mobile Internet to bide the time, I should have gone nuts and unceremoniously left the queue. =D

I did get into the cinema itself but I witnessed no French there, much to my another dismay (albeit a milder version, hehehehe); instead we were treated to an hour of four 15-minute Pinoy short films, and I had yet to decide if, in retrospect, it was all worth it.... (considering my recent calling down on Pinoy indie films)

"Andong" is a cute little film about a poor kid Andong who, it seems all his life, wants a colored TV set. But subsequently he relinquishes that little dreams of his (considering he's a, uhm, 20-peso raffle ticket away from realizing it) all in the name of fulfilling (albeit against his will) his little brother's own little dying (no, crying!) wish to have a 15-peso toy necklace that he has been nagging Andong to buy. All of the actors in this film are real-life Smokey Mountain scavengers, and I thought the boy who played Andong should heap wide-eyed praises, but on the other hand, I surmised that he's just being in his makulit (stubborn) self.

Mood shifted into serious drama presented by the following film "Sabongero" ("Cockfighter"). In Cebuano with English subtitles, it follows a story of a cigarette vendor who's in a dilemma on whether he should support his family or pursue his hopes of becoming a big-time cockfight gambler. There was clearly tension as the film moved on, and definitely toward the climax, that started with the scene of his wife waiting for him at the market (while on the other hand he's getting hyped in a cockfight gambling frenzy that he forgets their agreement). I concluded that it was a well-executed film, with the tension falling on the right places. Unlike other Pinoy films who are so trying hard to be realistic, I think "Sabongero" actually portrays a real-life situation--that of a husband, a wife, and a rooster between them! That, my friend, is the edge in itself. =D

"Manong Maong" was an acceptable filler of sorts--an animated film about a--what else?--a torso-less denim pants going places. I felt an urge to stuff garlic inside it, hehehehehe. Creeeeeeeppppyyy!

And finally, the Cannes-winning short film "Anino" by Raymond Red. That left me to wonder whether it really deserves of this prestigious award, or that I was just taken aback by the brevity of the film that I was expecting some more major things to come, that was more exciting, edge-of-your-seats affair. Okay, this was my first time to be exposed of this short film thingie, so I'm seriously hoping for some condonation out there... Though I liked Ronnie Lazaro there, he's convincing as a gullible guy with a dead-end "profession" as a photographer... and he's just lost his most precious tool of his trade to a street urchin at that!

Out of the mind-numbing chill of the cinema, I had to go straight, this time, for a longer ticket line. It was supposed to be for the eight-o'clock (and final) screening for this day, but just like what happened in last year's Eiga Sai, at about 6 pm it was announced that the tickets were "sold-out" (sold out?!?!?). Well, the lengthy lines dumbed us down enough. Republic of the Pilapeens nga naman! Dammit, I was so distraught that I went straight to my sister's pad to lick figurative wounds. Oh well, c'est la vie... Hehehehehe.

I just hope that today will be a better day, and it must be a must for me because this is second to the last day of the festival, I had to make up for the shortcomings I didn't even commit! Hehehehehe!

missives mysterious

2009-06-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

colored my paeans with purples and cyans
made me insane inside a mind silent
and swelled the heart with a stronger reverberation
but welled the eyes with water, gone weaker with erosion

... oh, it's just popped up from my stressed and depressed self... it's a delightful surprise to realize its playful alliterations

i'm salivating with sheer jealousy!.... =D

2009-06-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

This guy is demonstrating "Taxman"'s delectable basslines, and if you think the first few stringed doleouts seem simple, they are just a primer for the more difficult lines in refrain.... Ay grabe, kuhang-kuha niya! Naiinggit ako! =D:

This other guy is also doing superbly well, copying the basslines of "Hey Bulldog":

I could have gone on with "Taxman"'s jaw-dropping lead solo demonstration, but it should be instead viewed in HD... Nakakabilib!. He's probably the same guy who did "Taxman"'s bass:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzzGfGJUFJY

Trivia: Paul McCartney also did both the solo lead as well as the bass. =)

looking for Richard... =D

2009-05-29T22:12:00.002-07:00

Or at least, I'm looking for something sounding like Richard Hawley. Hey, this week, I've been playing him to death. And as I was walking alone in the darkness, in the heart of the busy city with street lights a-glowing, I could imagine myself listening to "Coles Corner" or "Tonight The Streets Are Ours" as my nocturnal pedestrian soundtrack. And oh... can you hear the rain, love?

My poem (that I wrote partly in the office, partly in the bus on the way home) is largely inspired by Richie (wow, feeling close! =D )... uy, this is my third post of the day... akalain mo yun?!?

Night And Rain

I would have never set myself still
Unless there's a room for me on the side of the hill
These are my eyes, dark as the night
But without a spark like the starlight

On this side of the hill, this arctic chill
Swept this figure by the windowsill
These are my eyes, unsealing the tears
Like the rain falling, intense as my own fears

Then, I walk alone in a world full of empty streets
The cold from the night and rain sting my wandering feet
I don't know if I'd like to stay or go
But life wouldn't be sweeter without the bitterest woe...

***

I'm undecided yet whether this is finished or not... :)

song of the month: "Serious" (Richard Hawley)

2009-05-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

Have you heard my massacred version of "Serious" here? Just feeding my illusions of duetting with one of my aural (not just that, hehehehe) crushes, Richard Hawley.

I freakin' love this track. It makes me wanna put on my balloon skirt and a pair of nice white sneakers, go to the '50s diner to slip my nickel's worth into the jukebox and then dance to my heart's content with my equally terpsichorean-challenged date, hahahaha.

I loooooooove Richard (who's from Sheffield, btw), one of my favorite voices and songwriters. I could have married the guy...!!!! =D =D =D

***

Serious
(composer: Richard Hawley)

When you are in love
Oh you feel the stars above
There’s no devil in her eyes
There’s no darkness in disguise

But when you are alone
A kiss can turn your heart to stone
Hearts breaking in the night
There’s a devil in her eyes

Oh it’s serious
So serious
A kiss that caught the wind and made you delirious
Oh it’s serious
So serious
Take her in your arms, don’t be afraid
Never be afraid

When you are in love
Oh the stars burn bright above
There’s a kindness in your eyes
There’s no darkness in disguise

Oh but when you are alone
Oh your heart it turns to stone
Hearts breaking in the night
There’s a devil in her eyes

Oh it’s serious
So serious
A kiss that caught the wind and made you delirious
Oh it’s serious
So serious
Take her in your arms, don’t be afraid
Never be afraid

Oh it’s serious
So serious
A kiss that caught the wind and made you delirious
Oh it’s serious
So serious
So take her in your arms, don’t be afraid
Never be afraid

"Serious" (60-minute preview; 30 minutes if not logged in to imeem):

Serious.mp3 - Richard Hawley

My Last.fm comments:
Oooohhh I love this song. I never like rockabilly music, but this never fails to get me do my awkward dancing steps. Hehehehe... Great lyrics as well!

More Last.fm comments on this song

blowing your (desk)top

2009-05-29T19:03:00.000-07:00

how to handle your office stress. Or rather, your anger management: :

pity the poor printer and the photocopying machine!

in just seconds... he's got the honor of being sacked (grabe pinampukpok pa yung keyboard!):

The guy, more than irate at the woman's tele-talak, must have thrown her out of the window... sayang di yun nakuhanan, hehehehe! Kaya bawal na telebabad sa opis :p!

He must have asked his officemates for help... either it's about the keyboard or himself :D

Angas! Pero mas-angas ang isa pang lalaki. Natameme tuloy! :D

warning signs, praning signs!

2009-05-16T20:36:00.000-07:00

Courtesy again of my friend (keep those pics coming... sa totoo lang ngayon ko lang to nakita! nyahahaha!)

Engrish as a second ranguage =D:

"kung eto ang sumalubong sa yo... aba'y dapat matuwa ka! =D

"ihulog daw ang anak nyo nang dahan-dahan..." =D

ay, kung dito lang kayo sa 'Pinas, tiba-tiba kayo nyan! =D

libre na nga eh... kaya nga naman siguro i-treasure! =D

"me nauntog na ata eh... kaya sabing dahan-dahan ang pag-untog para hindi masaktan ehhh!" =D

bawal ba manigarilyo o bawal ang tinapa?!?!? =D

advice to dogs...! Hahahahahaha!!! =D

kung gusto mong magpakamatay, dito na raw puwede pumunta... =D

me gusto sana akong ipakilala sa yo...

think twice before ordering this.... =D

kung hindi mo raw itulak to... mamamatay ka... =D

eto pang isa... eto naman, kanino ka mas concerned? Sa mga dadaan ba o ung salamin? =D

bawal ang masaya dito, kahit ngumiti lang siguro bawal din =D

pare, bakit di mo naman sinabi na me patabas pala ng paa dito... tsaka mura pa?!? ("Trim the Foot", below) =D

ssshhhh! 'wag kayong maingay... natutulog pa ang damo! =D

paano mo yun magagawang ipuwesto ang silya kung patay ka na?!?!? =D

ano gusto mong gawin ko.... gawing bote yung lata?!?!? =D

Hey, I remember I did a post about the LCD screen manual, which carries the same mangled-English howler (definitely a howler!) =D

these are better than pieces of legislation - ii

2009-05-08T22:25:00.000-07:00

From one of my friends, the faithful supplier of these wacky pics (it doesn't matter whether they're photoshopped or not... so get your, erm, socks ready!)

Hahahahahaaaa! Arestado agad on the spot! =D

Huuuuyyy! May sunog! Uh, dun sa likod!

Wahahahahaha!!! Yun lang pala katapat ni Spiderman! =D

Ok, fine... madali naman kaming kausap eh... =D

Haaayyy! Bumalik na nga kayo sa SHCOOL! Hahahahaha!!!

a real mouse rep-air! =)

hahahahaha! Jollibee class picture daw! =D

ayyyy!!! wala na... di na mapi-gay-lan... hahahahahahaaaa!!! =D

siyempre, tao lang naman din si Ronald McDonald, e pano e araw-araw ba naman sa McDo, pano nga naman di siya magsasawa! Hahahahahaaa! Patago pa bumibili sa Burger King, hehehehe

Ang cuuuute! Bagong model ng Michelin... puwede rin siya siguro sa Pillsbury... =D

swish swish swish glub glub glub

2009-05-04T06:23:00.000-07:00

Just last month, our family have been doing this summer ritual for three years, which is going to Club Manila East in Taytay, Rizal, just a 15-minute ride from home. For the first time I did the early evening kayaking alone (which was, sadly, not photographed!).. masarap palang magsagwan, kaso nakakangawit. Even when I started to get used to the place, my favorite was still the "secret" pool, as if I owned the world to myself, hehehehe. We were mildly disappointed though, by the temporary closure of the Buzzy River (as well as the newly opened 14-foot Beach Waves, but not that we minded it lol... kasi merong mga taga-SOCO dun, yung iba nga sa mga casita, nilalagyan pa nga ng mga tape), which was understandably our most favorite activity.

These are few of the photos, unfortunately we haven't transferred all of them yet to the PC (even my few takes from my cellphone has been almost eternally forgotten!). As it is expected, this is subjected to more picture additions and editings but for now, well, feast (*ehem* hehehehe) your eyes on these...

meet the parents!

pinsan kong si Carmen, cover girl material... =D

Carmen and Dapdap, Madonna and child =)

Ang mag-ina...

hindi naman siya gaanong nag-enjoy 'no? Walang kagana-gana!

Akala mo tapos na siya, hindi pa! =D

We cater? Not us! =D

Me, my cousin Carmen, my sister Girlie, my bro-in-law (nominally, hehehe) Lee and another sis Olive... parang me kulang ata

posing of the insane clown posse... hahahaha! =)

my another brother in law, Francis (pansin ko sa puntong to, bakit wala si ate dito?!?!?)

akala mo naman kung sinong marunong lumangoy he! He!

=)

Joey de Leon on Pinoy indie films...

2009-04-28T00:12:00.000-07:00

Akala ko kami lang ang naaasar diyan, sa mga pa- cool na indie films dito sa atin, until we watched Joey de Leon, a consummate artist himself, on his "Startalk" segment "Commentirador" last Saturday... bashing on the industry itself. Hay, wala talaga akong masabi..., he echoed our thoughts about Philippine indie films, natumbok niya! Hahahahaha! Tsk, tsk, we're in a sorry state. (btw, I have watched Slumdog Millionaire... the story is quite simple, but it's cleverly told--I like the editing of the film especially--without affecting empty pa-cool-ness):

Saludo ako diyan, idol! Hehehehehe (thanks to someone who Youtube'd this!):

song of the month: "Absolute Power" (The Divine Comedy)

2009-04-11T19:40:00.001-07:00

I hope this will be the start of my "Song Of The Month" tradition... some of it may be based on my Last.fm (repeated) plays

I love this song: pop-rock bittersweetness! And it reminds me a bit of something... and as always, I just wish I could write something like that :)

Absolute Power (The Divine Comedy)
(written by: Neil Hannon)

You don't remember
You don't recall
The night we met or
What I was called
You're really sorry
For losing touch
Your memory fails you far too much

Don't say you'll take me
Some place to eat
Don't make a promise
You'll never keep
Don't say your numbers
Not yours to give
Don't tell me, I know how it is

But hey, it's okay
It's all right
'Cause you are a star tonight

You've got a hot date
So sleep tight
With your guitar tonight

You say you're so tired
Of this life
Well, get in your car and drive

Away from the cameras
And the headlines
Screaming, "You are a star tonight,
With absolute power tonight,"
And absolute power corrupts
Absolutely

Fame has no colour
Fame has no form
Fame cannot shelter
You from the storm

Fame casts no shadow
Fame makes no sound
Fame leaves no footprints in the ground

Fame can't create you
Fame cannot kill
Fame doesn't love you
Fame never will

Fame won't be let to
Kiss you goodnight
Fame doesn't care if you live or you die

[Instrumental]

But hey, it's okay
It's all right
'Cause you are a star tonight
You've got a hot date
So sleep tight
With your guitar tonight

You say you're so tired
Of this life
Well, get in your car and drive

Away from the cameras
And the headlines
Screaming, "You are a star tonight,
With absolute power tonight,"
And absolute power corrupts
Absolutely
Absolutely
Absolutely

Absolute Power (60-second preview; 30 seconds if not logged in to imeem):

Absolute_Power.mp3 -

My Last.fm comments:
this should have been on the "victory..." album instead...

More Last.fm comments on this track

Fold your legs, child...!!! (unfortunately, limited character space :D)

2009-04-01T16:36:00.001-07:00

7:30 am. I'm still in my bed, doing this entry on my mobile. I'm still in a state of shock from my latest 'nightmare' that's actually a repetition to what I saw last Sunday. A child getting literally bumped in a road accident. What does it mean to me?!?

too young to die, but too old to survive...

2009-03-25T17:29:00.000-07:00

Yellow Pages

Don't tell me,
This twilight creeping onto my right hand
Misshaping my street poetries
And breaking my writing wand...

Where are now the quirks of youth
That once lived in between my reams?
It seems my mind has run out of juice
That once flowed inside my restless dreams...

The sheet's in dearth of a tinted soul
Like a girl wanting to be kissed,
Yet that's no more an illusion as a whole
So part of it leaves only a wish

Now I've tasted the bitter truth
That all the time's not mine
And I have been rightly accused
To have set to age myself like sweet wine...

Now, the pages have begun to turn yellow
Fallen leaves of autumn hue
Yet my course's still far from being shallow
While in search for the shiny and new...

:-/

P.S.: hindi ko birthday ngayon!!! :D

Pugwash's "On With The Snow" EP

2009-02-28T17:33:00.000-08:00

My friend Cat sent me this nifty little 2008 CD-EP of Pugwash as part of her belated birthday package for me. I had said a word that I would write a review of it, but those circumstances had engulfed my little promise, which has now long been overduly fulfilled. Anyway, it's in the right smack of time to write (or promote?) this, because summer is coming round the corner, and Pugwash's "At The Sea" fits in the sweltering season like a glove (or, in this case, a loose sando)

"At The Sea" is one of the tracks in Eleven Modern Antiquities (also released in 2008--click here for my review), and was being plugged as a single. The sunny sounds aren't obviously bereft of fun, and "At The Sea" is perfectly in conjunction with a new-ish track on the EP, "On With The Snow".

It is written by Jeff Lynne for the cult rock group The Idle Race (but well, it still does scream of ELO). A nice little fun ditty, it could be placed right next to The Divine Comedy's "The Pop Singer's Fear Of The Pollen Count" in the heightened-summer-bliss-anthems-hall of fame. And speaking of TDC, our hero Neil Hannon again takes part in the track's production along with bandleader Thomas Walsh, imparting his vocals and playing the piano. He only takes in the chorus part of the song, which carries a sweeping hook that could be a possible entry for the new Mentos ad jingle ;-).

Hmmm... the snow isn't obviously falling down here in my country (oh, I wish it is...). So for now, before the Ice Age would come in another gazillion years, we had to be content with the ice cream (or our native summer dessert, halo-halo--see its Wiki definition)--whose delectable images are almost all over the EP art, by the way--while your ears are being plied with the fun sounds bouncing off the speakers. Or for more extended summery-themed music play Eleven Modern Antiquities as well. Pleasant and buoyant, this sounds quite cool, so cool it could even reverse global warming ;-)

words' worth?

2009-01-30T03:42:00.000-08:00

Apparently, I was partly inspired by the poems of William Wordsworth (some excerpts of his Lucy poems were put into music by The Divine Comedy in the song entitled--well, what else?-- "Lucy"), when I wrote those two pweh-ms two days ago:

***

Lettered Hearts

My heart hums its dirgelike verse
Inside a weightless hearse...

Odes to growing joys of summer
Lush as the greens, striking as the flowers
Your pen dances with creative haste,
Choice of words, neither a misstep nor a waste
Of everything seen of natural beauty
Seen by bravery dwarfed by curiosity
But if all seem beautiful, or curious to you,
Why don't I look like either of them, to you?

You're setting words to blazes of fire
Of heart's fullness going higher
Leaping from time, to time, to time,
More than enough to sculpt perfect rhymes
Of fragrant memories, the demands of the present
The course of the future, not to be unbent
But where am I in these, I'm not even mentioned
In the pages of your life, the stages of your emotion?

The storms of time leave you in fear,
The laments written in inks of tears
Sorrows encroach your near-dying soul,
Ink blots spread into big black holes
Yet, lullabies calm you with a soft caress,
Distressing the chance of eternal loneliness
I guess, my soothing songs you won't need
Even those dirges to which you won't pay heed

Your heart swells with psalms
Of glowing, glorious literary charms
Intense, inflamed works of art
From the hearth of a lettered heart
Moved by a kind of love they've ever known
Those love lines you've brazenly shown
But that heart is a distant drumlin to me
Through lush poesies, it's unlikely for me to see

...and my heart chants its dirgelike verse,
While it's dragged away by a weightless hearse...

***

Grace Of The Night

Grace of the night, come to me
Your lunar crown, no longer a trace
Stars will adorn your dusky face
A windswept, deepened mystery.

I'm waiting here for you, from my humble lair
As the sun sinks down to its routine rest
I've loved the day, but I love you best!
Please be there to watch o'er all our cares.

My emptiness now filled by gentle applause
Of leaves driven by the kindest breeze
My empathy now wed by starry revelries
A bliss enlivens a moment's pause.

On your tender arms, I'm looked upon
You hum away my phantom fears
And my troubles too, I can now barely hear
Dawn breaks all this, but your love can't be undone.

this will beat--este--shoot all competition...

2009-01-22T07:09:00.000-08:00

... as well as your prospective isnatcher:

"The Latest Nokia N-Series Exclusive For Philippine Use"

Either you dial 911 (alam ko nasa Pilipinas tayo pero trip ko lang yung 911, hahaha) or pull the trigger right away. The choice is yours! ("truth in advertising", hehehe)

Yari ka! nyahahahahaaa...
=D

just cross my palms with plastic...

2009-01-19T20:14:00.000-08:00

Human and natural calamities will never go "out of style"; strokes of luck and bad lucks too; deaths (long expected or sudden, shocking); people falling in and out of love; big jobs or big flops; controversies that will either do good or ill to anyone; the bulls and the bears, the greens and the reds that will never be only seen around the Fed; the building up and the breaking down; sudden change of the seasons; another star is born, and light from a dead star; something new in something old and another flavor of the month; movers and shakers; more greys than blacks and whites (especially in our goddamned government); births and deaths and marriages and miscarriages...

In short, it will be a predictable 2009 =p

***

Dial M for Murder... este Music:

My wish in duetting with Richard Hawley has turned into reality... virtual reality that is. =)

Serious.mp3 -

***

The Slaughterhouse... hahahaha!
(After the putukan frenzy on the wee hours of the New Year morning, my sis Olive had just discovered a comical curio right away... o ha!)

Olives torotot.mp3 -

***

After the heat (in the midst of the chill) of the New Year celebrations, I thought I could make myself my own kind of sangria, since we still had leftover red wine as well as fruits, thankfully. I turned my kitchen into a lab again, hehehehe.

I needed at that time:
an apple
an orange (or more specifically, tangerine or ponkan)
a dalandan (it's like a local orange that looks somewhat like lime on the outside)
kalamansi (the local lime)
red wine (I don't remember what brand)
vanilla extract
sugar
water

To extract the juice from the apple, I came upon an idea of shredding the apple after slicing it in fourths. It was a bit labor intensive, messy thingie, but I wouldn't trade a manual cheese grater for an electric blender... it was just a single apple! After extracting juices from all of the fruits abo vementioned, I threw all of 'em into an ordinary glass, and then stirring in vanilla extract, sugar, water and at least four tablespoons of red wine into the mix. If I wanted my drink sweeter, I added some more sugar, or if I felt like needing some more kick (and I did), I added more of the wine. I chilled it first, before I transported the whole caboodle into a decent-looking port goblet (we're lucky for my dad is a glass and goblets collecter). Ice is optional.

It was a poor-girl's Maria Clara, due to its vanilla taste and aroma, para ka lang nag-gugulaman... but with a punch (um, pardon the pun). Masarap naman, in fairness! =)

***
Last week, I had a short trek at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife (with... ops! kaya nga me "secret" ang title ng blog ko, no!) on a spontaneous but fairly tame dare. It's just located in the vicinity of the Quezon Circle (where my mother sometime goes with her friends for some ballroom dancing sessions! Almost coincidentally the day after this date, my mother had an another rare engagement at that particular place!) For mere short hours we managed to rest and relax and reminisce of home (at least on my part). But I was disappointed by the trash scattering around the grassy grounds, as well as on and beside the man-made lake. I was wondering how large it occupies this part of the city, as we were never able to explore around further... I still think it is a huge tract of land (ala-Monty Python and the Holy Grail hehehe). It is a serene place, the honks and the hubbub of the city are like a universe away. Ano lang... konting ayos lang ng landscape (if I were the caretaker I would want this renovated ala-Sonya's Garden) at puspusang linis, at saka more enforcement of the regulations to discipline those thoughtless souls who just listlessly throw away their garbage (despite the wastebaskets).... haaayyy naku ang Pinoy nga naman.

In the short space of time I managed to get by with a few snaps, for posterity purposes, before dusk loomed on this quiet big, little, lush nook in the city... no animals were harmed in this production... hehehe

popitaphs...

2008-12-13T09:01:00.000-08:00

When you're happy you're thinking of nothing but happy thoughts... there's nothing shallow about that. But when you're sad, you become quiet, you become pensive, you shut up. Sometimes you let your mind and your pen do the silent talking. You begin to think deeper thoughts as you attempt to convalesce yourself from the sorrow. You begin to act and actually be philosophical, in general. Being sad ...is really not bad at all.

I really subscribe to the credo of the pop-bashers (or posers with guilty pleasures evilly lurking underneath): pop is dead. It has long been tortured by the wiser-than-thou jerks (or posers with guilty pleasures evilly lurking underneath, again) and well, just plain jerks. And now it has all been but given a canonisation. Pop is dead... and is a now a legend.

The reason behind failed marriages of most celebrity couples: the bride has worn the wedding gown too many times... before her real-life wedding!

Six years ago I wrote a poem called "Friendly Love Affair"... how could I have known that...??? (I will edit this post as soon as I will have found my notebook). Though the content isn't exactly the same to the real situation that I have right now. I've realized how tremendous my foresight could be!

Why is it when Anne Curtis has to reel off in English (in some of her interviews), she has to affect an a-fek (ay, redundant ata) Aussie accent, when everybody knows siguro she's been spending most of her years here? And why the hell does she play a Pinay in her latest period film (I don't bother to remember its title) when she's not actually kayumanggi? Do I gradually start to hate her (not that I care huh)

The good cover versions I've listened to this week:
1. "Untitled Melody" (Edwyn Collins) - The Divine Comedy
2. "Baby It's You" (Bacharach-David) - The Chamber Strings
3. "Lucky" (Radiohead) - Duke Special
4. "Let It Be Me" (Everly Brothers) - Rosie Thomas

Most played track of the week - "Thank You For The Music" by ABBA (it's ridiculous, but I never hide my love for this song as well as my love for these swinging Swedes)

I love Andrew Zimmern, and his show "Bizarre Foods", and I'm glad it has long made a comeback on Discovery Travel and Living channel, (now broadcast every Tuesday nights, at 9 pm)... it never fails to leave me amazed, amused and tickled pink. It should have been deservedly called No Reservations , his best buddy Anthony Bourdain's show, instead. These guys should have swapped titles.

And speaking of Bourdain... I've been gravely itching to see his recent Philippine sojourn on his program -- word has it that he even made a stop-over to Bangkal two months ago (it was a sore miss for me and my elder sis because we went there a week after Bourdain's short visit in the area, known for its line of thrift-shop stores of mostly antiques.... sayang!). Seriously, I'm almost holding my breath for its broadcast...!!!

I'm hurting right now... literally. In the orifice.

My favorite stanza right now, extracted from Richard Hawley's "Just Like The Rain" (suits me to a tee):
I feel so strange, I feel so weak
I've walked a world of empty streets
In search alone, I've searched alone.

=)

day tripper, yeah

2008-11-23T02:44:00.000-08:00

Last edited - March 28, 2009

Going a little further south (a pre-birthday treat)...
*a few taken from the digicam that almost gave up and emitted its last breath. Most of the pictures were taken from my cell phone

- I was listening to TDC's "National Express" while aboard on a... what else?!? =)

- I took notice of this curious cloud formation while on the way to Batangas... "A DUCK!" =D

... well, only for this lomi at a humble lomi-han in Ibaan, Batangas. The first time I tasted the real McCoy. The name of this small eatery is Lomihan sa Baryo and, well, this lomi I had... this was close to tasting the nectar of the gods. Hehehe! The chorizo de bilbao's were very, very tasty, and they lend a rather smoky flavor. And the pork liver... although nothing beats the richness of the chicken liver, and obviously, my top favorite... it was really, really creamy, and it was a surprise considering it's usually rough to the palate. And, as partial to spice, I loved the toasted garlic and the freshly minced onion sprinkled on top of the dish... coupled with soy sauce and chili on it (take note, I also ate the red thing) as condiment. It was a bit unfortunate of me because it was stifling hot and humid around the eatery, because this lomi is a perfect comfort food, especially during rainy days. I had consumed much of the softdrink, as a result. Damn, this was soooo goood... Lomihan sa Baryo, I'd surely recommend it to anyone!

ah, some nature tripping there. I miss the sight and the sound of the clean, running water after having been visually "sated" with Pasig River =D. Still in Ibaan, Batangas.

in Tagaytay, overlooking the lake and the Taal volcano from the Starbucks veranda. It was showering a bit, notice the rainbow in the middle picture? I know these pics don't do justice to actually beholding them in front of your amazed orbs. Now, this should've been the time for some more lomi =( (scanning 'tong Kon-Tiki na 'to... nakakasira ng view =D )

'Tong Kon-Tiki na 'to... Kon-Tiki-nita kasi ala kumakain... hahahahaaa!!!

MWAHAHAHAHAHAAAA!!!!! =D

***A Secret Garden***
(Sonya's Garden, Barangay Buck Estate, Alfonso, Tagaytay, Cavite)

Situated in the crevices of the gentle rolling hills in the cool Tagaytay environs, I had finally spotted this place which has been reputed as a secreted getaway. It's worth all the dangerous, steep, long and winding roads. And if you think you've died and gone to heaven after the adventurous, life-threatening ride, well this could be the place... ;-)

This reminded me of my favorite painter August Macke's passion for the outdoors, sunshine and gardens which were, of course, his main subjects. He would have been pleased had he come to this place. And also, of William Wordsworth who, as I have been, had been in one with nature... he might have not seen daffodils, though, but he would have found lots of poetic inspirations here.

It's a lovely little niche, lushly dotted with variegated plants and flowers, thought-provoking signs, spas, small restos, a bread shop and beautiful feels-like-home inns (which can be rented) and sheds. A great, ideal place to relax, to be romantic, to be poetic, or even to act a bit demented (which I actually did, hehehe)... and of course to take lots of pictures like the ones I captured below:

the spots:

jetlag upon arrival... =D

Ladies and gentlemen... welcome to the Twilight Zone... nyahahaha! =D

the leafy archway that signals an entrance to more botanical eye-feasts!... =)

... and welcome to the inner sanctum! =)

Just outside the archway, a lovely cottage, complete with a rustic bed (with pillows and bedspread!) and recliner... it just overlooks the bangin below =)

sana bahay ko 'to... =D

Sa harapan ng aking hacienda... =D

eto rin... sana akin na rin to... =D

In keeping with its hush-hush reputation, Sonya's has interesting surprises to offer, including this nook situated in the bottom of the main premises...

a mini pond

One more interesting area here... rose bushes growing in between the bricks! I was like a kid really ridiculously tickled pink looking at them. =D

Gusto niyo bang maiinom?!? =D

even the colorful crystal chandelier never escaped my scrutiny...

... nor the mushrooms also did =D

reminds me of a pocket Japanese garden...

haaaahhhh... this is the life! =)

ethereal harp music, please?!? =D

inside the ladies' comfort room... which looks more like rather an antique private boudoir. =)

this relaxing natural trellis and shade... perfect for an almost private moment...

... and I sat here alone

Inside the Panaderia (had the Cheese Pimiento at P100 bucks... all organic)

one last look before I exited this place (albeit reluctantly)... kaso nga lang naging anti-climactic ang ending... di pala maganda background! :0 =D

the bricks
- they were worth my curiosity too... unfortunately I took very few pics of them. Many of them carried signs or holographs that were quite arcane

I saw the signs

please don't pick the flowers pala ha... (don't worry, it was just acting =p )

Bon Jovi was here!!! =D

... no other place that you could become closer to God (or to higher being thereof) than in a garden

di na 'ko bata... isip bata lang. =)

hmmm... how sensuous it can be? ;-)

and not but not the least... plants and flowers
enjoy!

***Mushroom Burger***
After a leisurely trek, had to fill my stomach before the arduous journey home. And hey! This didn't lack the interest factor either. I thought it was just a place to eat.

the mushroom chart

... and studying it close... and open! hahahaha!

I had this mushroom and beef cheeseburger... tastes just like Jollibee, but this was so much healthier.

pano napadpad ung swordfish dito?

the four main kinds of mushroom used for their menu, up for exhibition. No magic mushroom, though =D

before mushroom burger...

... after mushroom burger... hahahahahaaaa!!!! =D

***
for further info, check out Sonya's Garden official site, you may have greater use for it =D:
http://www.sonyasgarden.com

these are better than pieces of legislation... =p

2008-10-25T05:18:00.000-07:00

... yep.
(that sign always gives me the creeps... I dunno why. "Nakamamatay" kasi... lagi ko na-i-imagine the Grim Reaper appearing behind that pink board tapos sabay iaakma yung kalawit. Well, that's a "pre-meditated" nightmare that of course I wouldn't want to experience)

Across Robinson's Galleria... while the bus was still lying in wait to fill itself up with commuters. Felt like it'd go on forever. Nakakainip...

Eat bulaga naaa! (It looks like the picture is held upside down, huh?)

I actually shot both two pics above and this one below, inside G-liner (of course, I was playing undercover for it). I still enjoy commuting.

Ah, Greenhills, I just like it here. May not be the shopping mecca (can be a pun be found of this?) of the Philippines, but one can find almost everything here, living or not, real or fake.

Just passing by a line of jewelry shops, mostly specializing in pearls. Our Muslim brothers and sisters (get the pun?) mostly control the market here. I really can't tell if the pearls are the real thing, I can't pinpoint the difference. If I were that completely stupid I'd be effortlessly euchered if I want a real pearl and have to go out and buy one. Without question (and without questioning about it)

Cartoon characters converged in this colorful clothes display, making look like variegated pieces of banners.

Basil, (in the middle) my favorite plant. It was here in Greenhills! I was ridiculously excited. Pretty tall ... in person. Gustong gusto kong bilhin iuwi kaso me lakad pa ko e. I'd bring it home next time. It's nice to be turning Italian for a while when I have the herb in my kitchen--handy for my tomato and basil pasta (although we kinda hate Giada, hahaha =P ). Alongside were thyme and rosemary, and I was surprised to learn that they can be grown in a tropical country like here.

While we're not Giada fans, we otherwise love Barefoot Contessa... and I was also delighted to see those hydrangeas, the ones that proliferate Ina Garten's envy-worthy garden. Gusto ko rin silang iuwi e, para naman magkabulaklak yung garden namin...

Anana, or lucky pina. It's not meant for eating but obviously for that purpose on top of being a decoration. Cute! But I wish it were edible. I would have loved tiny slices of that for the kebab. ;-)

@Mega Exchange, SM Megamall:
"99% OFF!"
(well should've RIGHTLY been...!)

Eeeewwww....

I giggled--and cried in a not-so-whisper "Ay, may ipis!!!", [buti na lang di narinig ng saleslady] and furtively took a couple of snaps of W200i, affecting to be a casual texter). I wasn't at all surprised how this little pest got past the security... they're adaptable, their ilks had outlived those dinosaurs and survived the worst of massive nuclear radiations... as much as I hate them (in fact I'm deathly afraid of them, only at that time the tiny fellow was boxed in a glass case, so I wasn't pertrubed) somehow I grudgingly toss my hat for their exceptional defensive and survival mechanisms. So in what way did this roachy get there? If only I could learn its skills to burglarize a cell phone shop at least, with nary a hitch...

Curiosity pulled me right over here:

This was what I ordered: an apple-cinnamon-vanilla-filled crepe, a nice "break" from my Mcflurry-and-french fries dessert fare (still the best though).

Yung cream, e, masarap naman siya, but it would stick (stubbornly, more often than not) at the roof of my mouth like a beef sebo does. At 75 bucks (prices vary though, depending on the flavors and the fillng for the crepes), it was enough to fill my stomach. I mean, it was packed to the brim with the filling, at least with what I ordered. Cone-wrapped in paper, it was definitely messy to eat. It should've been served on a plate, so that I could indulge on my crepe longer (and I could've spread the whole crepe open with the cream).

Small grievances aside, I'd defnitely come back for some more Crazy Crepes.

At just one look, I marvelled at this state-of-the-art electric grill-cum-toaster, with knobs and digital timer. I paced nearer to investigate all those wonderful features...

Until I found out it wasn't a toaster at all...

... it was an mp3 player/radio compo! Aw, bugger... *blushes and walks away*

I also bought a screen protector for my unit, and before I could fix it all up I bothered to read the notes from the package... for a somewhat perverse reason lol.

I knew this product came from China, so I expected its English-"translated" labels and descriptions (aside from Chinese) to be grammatically awry, ludicrous--and as a result a good piece of comedy writing material (albeit unexpected). Hey, my English is not perfect itself despite the claims of others (modesty aside), but I could at least make up my mind before having the galls to utter or write in English (to Cat... I don't even deny that I hand some my album reviews to you for a bit, just a beeeeeet... of editing)

Here below is the "chopsuey English" text on the screen protector pack. Let's see if these aren't bound to confuse you:

***

Features:
1. Importmaterial of JAPAN,pertinency PDA/Vidicon. Digital camera's use trait made.
2. The film was wearable maternal cure.
3. The film was prerent altraviolet radiation care stop damage. LCD Screen
4. Can take from glisten 90% bright 99% figure infocus, adhibit film Sans air bubble less can reiteration use

***

Hahahaha! Makapag-English lang e!
How superficial of me.. ;-)

***
"Trust must be earned..."

down the memory lane... through brand-new eyes

2008-09-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

September 24, '08, @ Greenhills (just impulse snapshots to test my new unit... ;-) )

I want you kids to get a-head =D

I don't remember exactly if the controversial digits '349' originated from this contest...

no wonder I never sensed the nasty old newspaper odor... =D

nice '50's-diner style aesthetic... but their coffee was too much bitter! I didn't mind sugar (because the doughnuts--the original glazed thingie--was already too sweet), but I needed more hot water.

somewhere between waking and sleeping...

2008-09-16T21:48:00.000-07:00

Clutching my cover in the dead of night,
Engulfed over my head in this seemingly somnambulant height
Monologues fading in the cold, cold air
Lids closed tight, lips uttering flair
Words of dare
Sights out of sight

Realizing my wishes within my wishes
Like in a school of deep blue sea fishes
I talk like a drunk even when I'm not partaking
Balancing my 'stead which I'd soon be forsaking
I hope I'm up here waking,
But I don't want to leave my riches!

I never want anyone to catch me like this
Whether I'm tickled pink or tickled pissed
Don't lose the keys outside my room
Just rap at the door, a wise thing to do
Before I could feel the color of my fingertips!

Close open, opposites attract
My head's getting whacked into one-night acts

"Tales From Turnpike House (limited edition)" (Saint Etienne) - review

2008-07-26T00:22:00.000-07:00

Actually, before having the chance to encounter Tales From Turnpike House, there was one and only Saint Etienne Song stamped in my oft-fleeting memory, called "Action". I first heard it from a CMJ complimentary sampler CD five years back. I counted it as one of my favorite among the supposedly choice cuts of that CD. Even my mother (who dabbles in ballroom dancding and even has an, erm, gig, on midweeks when she has the chance) got to like it too, and she still does like it. Which is not a bad thing. Yet at that time I wasn't really too keen on this electropop/dance thingie, and though I loved "Action" (I played this to death), that didn't get me off enough to check the trio's back catalogue.

Now, with a much more open mind, it seems the timing is right, owing to my near-canonization of I Am The World Trade Center last week ;-). The laptop-loving duo might have owed their style to Saint Etienne, noting not least of all the girlie vocals. Plus, at the strength of my text mate's recommendation (not to mention the downsized price), I bought Tales From Turnpike House at the same CD sale last week. I was surprised to learn that the album (as is Duke Special's Songs From The Deep Forest) has been distributed locally. Nice.

Tales From Turnpike House was actually released in 2005, so along with Songs From The Deep Forest, this is the first time to make my humble comments on a back-cat CD. I may not have the knowledge of the group's more essential stuff, but the hell with whom this may concern, I just wanna write. Which is a good thing... the best thing...

It's probably a concept album, as best as I could imagine, about a flat in the middle of the street. I also have the limited edition with a CD-EP titled "Up The Wooden Hills" (coincidentally, I live up on the wooden hills) which takes us on a less urbanized scene--but wiht no less urbane sound. People (including myself), who have vaguely known Saint Etienne through hip music mags or a song or two would be somewhat caught off-guard by this outing.

From the Kalapana-like "Sun In My Morning" (that evokes of a refreshing shower to rub off your drowsy out-of-the-bed stupor) to the spine-tingling a capella of "Goodnight", Tales From Turnpike House may have the magic to turn your everyday lives (not just domestic) into a memorable film. You may take time out off your chores to muse, "Will my destiny remain a secret?/ Well, that's ok" as being asked in "Lightning Strikes Twice". Oh, it's one of my personal faves. I suspect that was a single then. It's quite snappy.

Chanteuse Sarah Cracknell's sweet alto glides through ditties concerning the everyday, taking them into not-so-prosaic points of view. They range from the jaunty to poignant, whether be accompanies by electronic beats, jangly guitars (Pupil must have learned a thing or two from "Last Orders of Gary Stead", hehehe) or tempered string arrangements.

In "Relocate", also one of my faves, Cracknell waltzes throughout, along with a rather agitated male voice (I dunno whose, maybpe it's from one of her two bandmates). The conflict there, and also the delivery... it's like watching an odd couple and getting quality entertainment at their expense. Mention has to be made of the rhyming, too.

"Stars Above Us" is a lovely dance-ballad, a beautiful escape from reality once in a while. And hey, our own house has a perfect setting for that, ala-"3rd Rock From The Sun", where I can look up and marvel at the shimmering astral works. The rather eerie instrumental "The Birdman of EC1" gives the impression of a carousel slowing down to a close, and methinks that's the number I could do without (which is a shame, as I love instrumentals!). So out of 12 you get 11 tracks of viable material. Which is not bad for a listener who has broadened up, and not definitely wizened up, from additional Saint Etienne education.

Meanwhile, the 6-track bonus disc "Up The Wooden Hills" serves an even more pleasant surprise. With this EP's more delectable offering, not to mention of course the brevity, this is dessert after the main course. For the exception of the last two ("Bedfordshire" and "Night Owl", which are also good), "Up The Wooden Hills" EP is packed with more electropop/dance tracks, and that's what Saint Etienne do best at, and obviously indulge in.

The metronomic opener "You Can Count On Me" makes me feel like a super jet-setter enduring, but at the same time enjoying, frequent first-class trans-Atlantic trips. The tune is quite infectious. "Excitation" is the spiced-up sampling and updating of this rock and blues "standard" and sounds like a good, clean fun. The Chemical Brothers-like "Let's Build A Zoo" is darn good too, as well as the cute filler "Barnyard Brouhaha", which borders more on house music. It almost makes me want to install a mirror ball in the living room, ;-)

The hyperactivity is now put to rest, in a good way, through "Night Owl" and "Bedfordshire". I like the former better, it's a great getaway track from all the worldly stress and into a quieter, kindlier, more ascetic environment. It's as pristine as a morning snow, or a waterfall in the deep of a lush, virgin forest. I do have mixed reactions, though, about the father-and-child (probably) spoken dialogue. Sometimes I think it's cute, sometimes it's too cute. Oh well, blast my ever-changing moods anytime.

This album is a lush piece of work--more than the usual samples and synths. Power-driven beats here, a touch of bossa nova there, and some splash of rock at some sides. This is one of the best (I detest this term) chill-out albums that will never leave you chilly. While this gives off a shallow aura of Euro-chic standoffishness, there's definitely some human touches underneath.

Consequently, you'll find yourself feeling at ease inside this stylish sonic house, filled to the brim with different textures and styles. Same with being an invited guest inside the coolest pad you've ever been into--and instead of feeling alienated by its hip lines, you're willing to linger there a little longer, beyond the nightcap hours.

"Songs From The Deep Forest" (Duke Special) - review

2008-07-25T21:21:00.000-07:00

At first, I was a bit skeptical about Peter Wilson, aka Duke Special, judging from the dreadlocks and the charcoal-lined eyes. I've never liked dreadlocks or even eye-liners (they're irritating, also literally), much less the guys sporting them. That was before I had a change of heart. Since hearing his duet "Drink To Me With Thine Eyes" with The Divine Comedy's Neil Hannon and catching (to my surprise) "Last Night I Nearly Died" once on the local music station, 105.9 RJUR, I found out that his music doesn't sound like Zak de la Rocha's or his similar-haired peers in the rap- and nu- metal world. Well, miles away from that.

When I also discovered that one of Duke's strongest influence is actually The Divine Comedy, my eyebrows finally lowered for good.

Since getting to like Duke, I have been relying on downloads. But then, I was having a hard time downloading his mp3's... ok, I'm guilty of that crime. ;)

Luckily for me, I had come across the CD Songs From The Deep Forest (his 2006 release) at a CD sale last Saturday. I had no second thoughts; I picked a copy right away.

I'm trying my best not to sound indulgent because I'm a fan of Duke's, otherwise, you might accuse me of that particular offense. But really, can I really resist it? I don't think I can.

Sure, I may point out the obvious The Divine Comedy influence in more ways than one in Songs From The Deep Forest, But unlike, say, Oasis, who kept on slavishly imitating the Beatles to the point of unoriginality to the core, Duke acknowledges Neil's influence while carving out a distinct style he can proudly call his onw. His sound harks back to the usual entertainment your grand grand-parents used to enjoy before the advent of moving pictures (of course, this still exists). Yet the "vaudeville pop" he's now known for doesn't sound antiquated.

A cascading cello greets the opener "Wake Up Scarlett" whose style recalls the grandest ELO track one could ever think of, and gives a more gentle space for a few tinkling of ivories before Duke launches into that striking part again. Despite that, it doesn't make Duke's own handling of the rhythm heavy-handed. "Everybody Wants A Little Something" is a bouncy little ditty to which you won't mind doing a few bobs from your head. I really like the bass clarinet specifically heard on "Brixton Leaves" and "Salvation Tambourine" --I bet this constitutes Duke's individual sound. "Freewheel" and "No Cover Up" offers some drama--the former sounds like a bit of the Verve. An antidote is served immediately via the light-hearted "Portrait" which is as charming as TDC's "Perfect Lovesong" sans the joke and the man-made sonic landscapes. "Ballad Of A Broken Man" should be best performed live--I mean, should be enacted live on stage, more like--to empathize with lyrics such as " I shake and I shiver/ I poison my liver/ I'm riding a river, that river is blue ". The execution may be comical but of course, there's the sad meaning behind it, lurking to tug your wretched hearts. Oh well, that's what vaudeville is all about, folks.

The album reminds me of an idyllic rolling countryside, or conjures up a town pub where the lads invite you over for a pint of Guinness or two. Songs From The Deep Forest has that rural charm, without the cloy factor, thankfully. The guys who participate on this record seem to have a rip-roaring good time, I guess. Their no-frills, cohesive musicianship--the guitars, strings, horns, woodwinds and even handclaps go hand in hand on this piano-driven motif-- is quite brilliant and delightful.

Even without the pennywhistles, you can't make a second guess out of this whole affair. The album has an undeniably Irish air (you can even point out the lyrics "Belfast leaves me alone"). Duke's honey-toned English singing is quite accented, and it's another part of the appeal. This fellow is evidently proud of his homeland, once rigged by religious wars, where leprechauns once revelled and--luck o' the Irish indeed--snakes never exist (well, my doubt on that was finally put to rest when I looked up at my encyclopedia).

My favorites? There are quite a lot: "Freewheel", "Salvation Tambourine", "Portrait", "Something Might Happen", and of course, "Last Night I Nearly Died". But really, every song here is worth the admission.

Duke Special used to open for The Divine Comedy and performed with them quite many times. I know the meaning... Duke must have made his fellow Ulster and his fans (who have, and will have, become Duke's too) proud. Considering, not to brag, that the Divine Comedy is quite a tough act to follow as an influence. Duke has also been compared to Rufus Wainwright often. I don't know much of Rufus' body of work, but judging from the critical praises heaped on the American tunesmith, Rufus must be a genius, too.

At best, I could see Songs From The Deep Forest as a delicate little bijou that never fails to charm anyone who take a closer look at it. Anyone should never be deterred by the vintage strains, Irish atmosphere and music-hall influences--there's more than that. Or the symphonically-challenged listener should at least give this the attention it deserves. Duke special's brand of pop can make any music listeners' cup of tea.

Eiga Sai 2008 - last day for the month

2008-07-13T21:25:00.000-07:00

(July 13, 2008)

I really had no immediate plans of going to Eiga Sai 2008, but soon found out that it was the last day of screening at the Shang, so eventhough I lost sleep over my work, I decided to get there as soon as the ticket line won't look like the Great Wall of China.

Unfortunately, I only got to see two of the four feature films shown. And the moment the tickets to be released at 6:30 pm ran out, we were famished and annoyed like the people of the NFA rice queue. So much delay!

But on the other hand, those two films were good, so offense, forgiven. One word I could describe for both of these movies, A Stranger Of Mine and Linda Linda Linda as "kuwela". Hehehehe.

A Stranger Of Mine has the style of running the storyline akin to Pulp Fiction, only this consists of interrelated scenes that may sometimes surprise, delight and amuse you. An introverted woman (just like me) who decides to live alone after a failed engagement, a meek young man who's dumped by his fiancee, a incompetent detective, and a con girl all thrown together by a (stupid?) twist of fate... it was really a fun film. And it all revolves around an Italian (?) restaurant where the story really takes off. It's really a 'done' film, yung nga lang, eh, pinaulit-ulit lang yung mga eksena. When the film was supposed to roll its credits, I never rose from my seat at first (while everybody around me was leaving), because I thought I was stuck icy cold inside the theater environs... then a surprise unfolded, tee-hee! I was able to see it. =)

Linda Linda Linda is an amusing film. The story is simple naman, the phase being "crisis to triumph" sort of thing. But never mind, it was really aimed for youngsters, and it was a delightful film. The title was based on a song of an 80s Japanese punk-sters The Blue Hearts, and it was the first time I encountered both the original "Linda Linda" and the version performed by these girls in the film (the band's name was Paranmaum). The real star was the Korean exchange student Son, who was slated to be their new vocalist (by accident, methinks) eventhough her Japanese is still quite halting. She was, in a way, charming, just like the film.

I was amused and surprised to find out that I have found my Japanese twin, hehehe. The character, Moe, who couldn't play for the band due to injury, just looks like me. A fair version, though. I was quite haunted, too, to see 'myself' up in the stage, hitting high notes for her pinch-hitting number while the girls were running late (and soaking wet under the stormy weather) for the show. =D

not done yet...?

2008-06-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

Please Don't Ever
(June 2008)

Please don't ever love me again,
If it isn't really love
If your heart just reaches out to me,
But never loves
Ease my pain, it's okay
Forestall it with a smile,
Grace my days with daisy chains
That'll cover my troubles a thousand miles

Love me with just your friendly eyes
If not really love
Smite me not with your loving lies
Or else again, I'll fall in love,
As I've always been in love

Please don't ever love me again
You're not really in love
With my pure heart, stout as it can be
But forever weak by this love
"Hey!" and a tap on the shoulder
A buddy's grin is all I can do
Inside me will love you for as long as I can remember
Though I guess you have someone better and new

Save your blushes until you turn away
And gather yourself with no remorse,
"I am now happy," you'd proudly say
Before my imaginations could get worse...
Couldn't they get any worse?

Please don't ever love me again
I had freed you to find for the other glove
And that isn't found in me
But in the arms of a new love
Please don't ever love me again
If pity, just damn pity, shines in your eyes
Its glint may drive me round the bend
And run my emotions high

So spare me the silence by being a casual friend
And tell me if it's all quite true
Tears may again fall, but doubts may fin'lly end
Through it all, I will always love you
For love's sake... I still love you

Pugwash - "Eleven Modern Antiquities" CD review (edited)

2008-06-02T02:17:00.000-07:00

Pugwash’s newest effort, Eleven Modern Antiquities, may not be as original as the music created by pop luminaries such as The Beatles and The Beach Boys, but I don't mind it that much at all. Eleven Modern Antiquities is a well-crafted pop album unto itself, bursting with lots of melodies.

The overall mood on the album evokes brightness and optimism without being too corny or cheesy unlike some Paul McCartney ditties, which are downright silly. It also offers stylistic diversity, bursting with hooks here and there.

For example, the heroic-sounding, anthemic guitars on "Take Me Away" kicks off the album appropriately and takes us away (and off) to a fine, roller-coaster ride. The folksy chamber pop of "Cluster Bomb" along with the sunny, energetic vibe of "It's So Fine" and "At The Sea" offers listeners enough variety to keep them listening. The light, bossa-nova-ish humor of "My Genius" and the reflective, profound mood drawn by "The Cannon And The Bell" does a great job of contrasting moods among the tracks. "Landsdowne Valley" includes what I hear as a tumultuous crescendo reminiscent of "A Day in the Life".

My favorite track on the album is "Limerance". Its lovely touches of piano, gives you a sense of peace while that trouble just ahead of you seems light-years away.). I also enjoyed the lighthearted love song, "Your Friend", which has me bobbing my head right along with it. ( suspect this song is based on Thomas Walsh's own love story?!?). This album offers many reasons for you to smile. The music and the lyrics will still resonate and linger in your head long after you are done listening to it.

The album’s artwork also deserves a special mention here. It's very pretty in a quaint way (and I have a weakness for antiques or even just their facsimiles thereof). It reminds me of thumbing through an old but still intact photo album of dear family and friends, of the good old days and innocence long gone. It also reflects on the music and the songs inside as well as about living and loving life despite its recurrent obstacles along the way.

As a Divine Comedy fan, I feel particularly proud that Mr. Walsh and Co. are honored to have Neil Hannon collaborating with them. Neil imparts his enormous and esoteric talents to the production, considerably and palpably. Mr. Walsh is also a man with vast musical gifts with as his own knack of writing simple, yet emotional and intelligent lyrics. It's almost
as if he is your friend detailing excitedly to you about rip-roaring day at the seaside, or confiding his innermost thoughts or feelings, without risking embarrassment.

I assure everyone that this isn’t "happy-happy" pop music. Under a pleasant flurry of guitars, bass, strings, brass, keyboards, percussions, and other musical bric-a-brac, this CD captures a substantial body of work. With music and songs as inspired as these, there's no doubt that Eleven Modern Antiquities will enliven every jaded-eared music listener with many of the finest pop tunes in recent memory.

no reservations :p

2008-05-28T00:16:00.000-07:00

"Breaking The Airwaves"
@ StirCrazy, Ortigas Center, Pasig City (24/05/08)

I was supposed to have been already out of my usual willies (this was the third time of, er, my bar-hopping). But being inside this bar as snazzy as StirCrazy, which was bedecked with pink neon lights and green laser beams (para akong nanonood ng S.O.P. nun ah!), harboring more cool, young crowds imbibing as if they were wending their way down to the spirit store without a care in the world, and nurturing the crashing, knowing hubbub, I still felt like a nightlife naïvete. And a jittery one at that . Obviously, I was more at home at Route 196. The noise almost prompted my mefenamic acid-proof head to pound my eyes out of their sockets.

But those things never daunted me to enjoy the live music offered by this ritzy place. And what's more, Xavier's bands Carnival Park and Sunday Picnic Love Affair as well as Lazy Lorelei, whom I have already been familiar with since having seen them at the Katipunan joint, graced the night again albeit in a different production (needless to say, also at a different place). The other bands whom I got to witness for the first time (Ophelias High and Sundown Vent), played their own kind of ball, so to speak, in an expansive sonic field of twee indie pop by going funky, or, well, rocking it. (Ophelias High in particular--who were the only group who sang in Tagalog, by the way--brought Sino SiKat or Up Dharma Down to mind).

I was unaccompanied this time, and that was also one of the reasons for my nervousness. And worse, the chill inside the bar rendered me a badly chattering sensation (I was having a dental problem at that time!). But I was far from being catastrophic, I guess. I even managed to press my "impulse button" (which I rarely use, hehehe) to chat with Xavier's two of his lady (girl?--) friends, and they were both very nice.

The night was lively, so lively it almost threatened my introverted nature. But I enjoyed the music, so that made up to my uneasiness. I was surprised to find myself singing along with Carnival Park while they were playing an easy-to-remember number "Dorothy": "Dorothy, I can see a blush from here/ Dorothy, I can see a blush from here/ Your face is turning red/ Stammer on the things you've said/ I think you're in love with me" (even this was sung by their female vocalist, but what the heck, never mind...)

Before the show properly began, I finally got the Scott Walker discography from Xavier, and I gave him Pugwash's newest album Eleven Modern Antiquities. I was like a kid at a candy store when he played the CD into the bar's sound system thingie, and Pugwash's music blared aloud from the huge speakers. Pumalakpak pa ko... para akong sira.

And that made me realize that I was really "in" after all, at least for that night. Oh, what a naïve thought... ;)

****

Last Thursday, two days before I attended the gig, I received an original copy of that Pugwash album from my friend Cat... I was soooo elated, eventhough I was just a big bogged down by my dental (or more appropriately, oral) problem. Also enclosing on the mail were a picture of her playing at a recent gig, and a nice note.... (thanks, Cat!).

I've been enjoying this CD, not the least because there's Neil Hannon in it, contributing largely on the album by playing many sorts of keyboards as well as lending his voice to the production (even if he plays second fiddle in the album, he still sounds so good!). For now, I like "Cluster Bomb" (it so Hannon-ish, don't you think?) and "Limerance" (I love the gentle piano lines, even if it makes a bit Coldplay-ish). Oh, I'm going to do a review on that soon (either here, or on Amazon...)

babies!

2008-05-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'd just like to show you my little babies... no, not really my own, but of my pets. These are just few, and there are plenty of pictures stored in the Palm Pilot, but unfortunately, di na mailipat... Sira na ata yun e. :(

But anyway, enjoy these cute pics... I'm sure you'll enjoy them a lot!!!

one of our foster kitties whose favorite resting place is my brother-in-law's sandals

Atari, one of just the two surviving kitties (they are actually four, but the other two died in drowning :( )

Atari and Mello, (the blood siblings)... sweet!

this picture just never fails to amuse me, and is also my favorite. Mello was just walking down and stopped for a while... looking up at the camera as if waiting for the flash to come out (it seemed to say, "huy, kuhanan mo na ko, nangangawit na nga ako dito sa puwesto ko eh". Nag-pose pa talaga... hahaha! =D

Si Mello na naman! =)

one of the two offsprings of my guinea pig... I called him "mini Shiva" =)

of shortcakes and banoffee pies...

2008-04-23T22:54:00.001-07:00

Strangeomerty @ Route 196 (19/04/08)

Carnival Park strutting their twee stuff

Ok, we weren't in a hurry... in fact, we slowed down through Katipunan-C5, as if namamasyal lang kami sa Luneta, hahahaha! Nevertheless, we had arrived too early, at 9 pm, it could've been an exact call time for the bands to show up. Oh well, instead, it was the opening of the bar itself.

But anyway, as for us early birds, the hour-long wait for these bands to finally hit the stage (if it was a stage) was well worth it.

At last and at least, I had the golden opportunity to witness Xavier's earlier outfit, Carnival Park (with new vocalist in tow), playing back-to-back with his recent Sunday Picnic Love Affair, and to mentally disassociate the style of these two bands. As the "close encounters of the first kind" ruled my heart's roost, I've always liked Carnival Park's sound... it's a tweepop with an edge, but that doesn't imply Picnic's paled in comparison (in fact their sound hit the "we're traipsing at the cobblestone streets that our working-class fathers had built"-category). Unlike in my first barhopping, I felt more at ease and met a few other people, so I think I'd turned the meter above my shy and rather antisocial mode, hehehe.

And there was another pleasant surprise... Xavier and his henchmen gave away a handful of cd copies of (probably an EP) "Be My Bestfriend" after Carpark's final set. In addition, he also handed me burned copies of albums by Ally Kerr and I'm From Barcelona. Freebies galore... at least for me (thank you Xavier). Only did he forget the Scott Walker discography as he had promised ages ago. That's fine, there's always a "next time". ;)

I thought there was another band waiting in the wings after Nocturnal We's performance (there were other bands playing too), but as we rose up to leave (as we had decided), I looked back and saw that the whole bar itself inside was all cleared--not just the tables. It ran about 3 hours... methinks. Only my sister and I--her boyfriend Lee wasn't around as he was in La Union at that time to PA for Gian Sotto--attended the gig; after that we took the risk and the pleasure to take our heels up to Eastwood Cyberpark at around 2 am--eerie and fun!

The only thing I hated while watching the gig was that people--either being snooty or just being plain lazy--refused to clap. Medyo naasar lang kasi ako sa mga taong di pumapalakpak, especially to performances as decent as these ones. I thought the bands naturally deserved to be given a hand, if not an earth-shattering applause. At least, give them credit just for showing up. At the time I heard only smatterings (including mine) at the end of every song. Oh well, many people take the simple act of clapping for granted. (wait till you lose your hands, hehehehe)

But that was just one heck of a mold. Overall, the gig proved to be short and sweet. =D

*(subject to more and more editing)

***

Average-guy's banoffe pie

Just recently, I made a localized, small-budget version of this pastry (is this Princess Diana's favorite? Surely it would not have been this, hehehe). At less than P200 bucks, the taste almost hits the jackpot--like the P520 Goldilocks pie (sans the walnuts) and the P50 small Starbucks mound (ridiculous). But it tasted like heaven. Seriously.

I needed these ingredients to make my own humble pie:

1 200 g pack of crushed graham
1 250 ml pack of condensed milk
1 250 pack of all-purpose cream, chilled
2 bars of Goya dark chocolate (they're cheap)
3 lakatan bananas (instead of its posher cousin Cavendish)
a leftover butter in my ref (thankfully!)

This was what I did (the materials are optional, ok?):

Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Then, in a bowl, pour the crushed graham and the melted butter; mix them together. Pour the mixture into a squared and shallow Tupperware container and press it down to evenly make a crust. Chill for 30 minutes to an hour.

Meanwhile, pour the condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it gently and continuously until it becomes sort of a caramel (taste the thingie, it's like yema--and, being a lactose intolerant dieter, I'm not a big fan of yema, btw). Set aside.

Next, melt the chocolate in a small pan over a pot of boiling water. Immediately spread the chocolate over the firm graham crust--and make sure you're doing this quick (because once the chocolate dips onto the cold crust, it turns into solid again).

Have the bananas already chopped (in circles), and place and arrange them over the the chocolatey-topped crust, then pour the caramelized condensed milk over it. Chill it again for 30 minutes (preferably longer if you want).

Meanwhile, in a bowl, whip the chilled all-purpose cream vigorously with an ordinary whisk. Yung umaatikabo, ha, hahahaha... until it solidifies into a whipped cream (duh). Take the almost-finished product out of the fridge and spread the whipped cream over it. Then, here's the most well-liked part: drizzle the remaining melted chocolate in a abstract-artsy way for the final touch. Then chill it further until the pie is reaaaddddyyyy! =D (anyway, the rest of the household eagerly perched in front of the ref as if they were lining up for a box-office hit movie, hehehe).

Well, it was my first attempt actually at making desserts. It was fussy and time consuming as in most sweetmeats, as it requires many specific materials (read: maraming hugasan). Luckily, my kitchen didn't explode. =D

Nightlife

2008-03-23T04:03:00.000-07:00

It's safe to walk around in my place in the evening... and I don't have to believe about that serial killer here in Rizal who quietly pillages the town and attacks girls at that particular time... or do I?

***

I stroll under the borrowed March light, while eyes,
Dark as the star-speckled skies,
Look up at the velvet reflection,
But gaze at the cloud-clumped vision.

Which, I foresee, are least to be likely seen
In the deep that abundantly teems
With those stars that haven't yet been, and never will be,
As long as I live, ever shining on me.

Yet, I've laid them, forward, on the line
Now I take the icy streets on the even's clime
Alone, which appeals to a handsome risk
So, under my coat--a warmed-up fist.

I brave on thru the cold, or a piece of room,
A warm refuge beneath the pallid moon,
A vast confessional locked in my own gloom,
A deep well full of illusions doomed

All the unlit pavements, I never meant to see,
But to fall prey on them opened up wounds of reality,
'Twas the ripe time to face up to them coldly
For foe was the night; and would soon mend a part of me.

It seems to be a friend to me, right now
Though with the lunar shines, I deny somehow
And as the deploying stars would promise me a billion,
The cold breeze pushes my back, telling me to stroll on...

felines' dens

2008-02-17T03:46:00.000-08:00

My cat PT has given birth for the first time, and I could very well confidently tell, is a proud and protective mother of three kittens. These little 'uns first saw the light of day exactly on Valentines' day.

But I just came home at night and along with my friends we played Monopoly--pa-morningan pa nga e hehehe. So until we finished our nth session we were starting to guess where on earth was PT.

The next day we found out she had sneaked under the roof (and that explains our CR was showered with fine dusts) to perform her "duties" as a first-time doting cat mama. Yesterday witnessed a near-tragic incident: because of PT's intermittent scratching the floor above the ceiling, that gave in to cracks, and two of her kittens fell straight--and hard--onto the bathroom tiles.

But our worries seem to evaporate. These were tough kitties. The one was white with black splotches, and the other was donned in gray overrun with black stripes. The former was thinner and weaker, and we feared that death was on its door, and--oo nga pala, nabawasan na pala ng isang buhay yun, hehehehe. So hindi pa pala siya mamamatay, hehehe. The frail kitten had 8 lives to go... we have to place them to safety inside a makeshift bed made of DVD box.

This morning PT jumped down from her roofed den to fetch her kids one by one, using her sharp fangs to tenderly and delicately grasp them as she sprang back to home. That, I think, is the natural tendency of mother felines: hide them into a safe place where she could nurse until the kittens (or the cubs) are big enough to be able to move on their own. So we'll leave PT and her new family in peace for now... even when that means having our house needing new repairs.

***

I've just finished a book called "Escape From The Lion's Den" by C. Brian Kelly. It was based on a true story about a "perfectly communist" couple (with their young son) hatching up an audacious getaway from East Berlin, stringing up an incredibly homespun but successful ruse that the guards patrolling Wall failed to smell what was going on--and eventually hauling up the embarrassing evidence.

I'm fascinated by these stories, particularly about Eastern Europe during and on the upheavals after the WWII, the Holocaust, the Iron Curtain and the like. "Samaritan" is still my most favorite suspense-thriller eventhough it's redolent (no irony intended) of Cold War-ish outdatedness. I'd like to watch "Hanna's War" if I have the chance again (since 10 years old, I've been wishing to look like Maruschka Detmers). I don't mind seeing "Schindler's List" again, or re-reading old stacks of National Geographic that cover such-like histories.

Back to the book.... did they escape from the figurative lion's den by air balloon??? Or by underground??? Well, that lies your curiosity... and your bated breath. As I was reading it, I was in a perfect environment: bitterly cold, windy and almost dark, as if I was one of those guys doing their risky bid to freedom... =)

going public =)

2008-01-31T23:15:00.000-08:00

Belly knots and shivering spines... these were what I felt when my sis Olive, Lee and I met up each other at Route 196 along Katipunan, last Wednesday evening. I had come from Sta. Mesa and suffered a hellish traffic, while Olive and Lee rode all the way from home. To be honest this was my first venture into a music bar which is, I feared, a very, very public place. Before I could debate with myself whether to have my feet step inside a cold, packed, noisy and dingy place, I footed the entrance bill for all of us (with a nervous giggle). Besides, I didn't want to break my promise to my Friendster pal Xavier who would be playing for Sunday Picnic Love Affair, one of the bands lined up for the night's show.

Olive, Lee and I sat at the corner of the bar, just beside the doorway, and as we took our menus, I heard some music, some of which sounded very familiar to me. I was surrounded by mostly young, hip crowd, who huddled together to wet their whistles, puff smoke and jabber away like nobody's business--I felt ill at ease at first, and I also saw myself as the odd one out, methinks. But to hell with me, who cared about that anyway?

To console my nervousness I decided to quietly survey around the bar, as a first timer. At the next room was some kind of a basement, divided by glass walls, where there were more guys doing the same stuff all over again. At our front was a tiny stage (overheaded by a central airconditioner), situated just beside the bar counter. We could only see each other under the yellow globe-shaped suspended lights, and Lee went to kindle up a candle at our table. I saw a guy down the next room and marveled by the fact that 8650 was hanging around his neck. So I was beginning to harbor comforting thoughts that I am not the only one among those gadget-crazy populace who is technologically backward. (though I do now have a cellphone--just a Sony Ericsson J25oi--but mine is way more recent than that guy's Nokia... I'm saying this in all humility). Maybe it was his choice to keep his old unit, and I thought that as very admirable.

After a few minutes of observing, I felt like things had never really changed at all--that there is a small, humble abode of a bar, and the good bands are gonna strut their stuff, either belting out covers or their originals--AS IF I've ever been into a bar decades before in my life. I had slipped an older version of myself, hehehehe.

Just before 11 pm, the stars of the show were now arriving one by one, lugging their instruments around. We spotted Xavier right away--he looked quite dapper in his striped blue shirt. He sat at our table and had a small chat for quite a while. But I knew that there was no time--and space of silence--for all of us to have a decent conversation because the first band (Skies Of Ember) were already developing noises and Xavier had to go outside to meet his other mates.

Skies Of Ember put up a good show, enough to perk up our lulls of lying in wait for these bands an hour after we'd arrived. I repeatedly threw my head back to bellow out to my sis' ears to exchange comments (I said, "Low! Low!"--no, I wasn't really pleading the band to sink their decibels--I meant the band sounded like Low, which would've been a compliment). But no complaints, ok?

Up next was another group (whose name escaped me) who ended up covering Stone Roses stuff. We were lifted in high spirits when they did a very good version of "She Bangs The Drums" so in effect we were lost in blustering out the lyrics along with these guys. After it was through, Olive yelled behind, "'Waterfall!'" (it's also my most favorite Stone Roses track)--I thought the guys in the band seemed to obey her with some opening bars of the song but they threw it off as just a teaser... too bad, tsk, tsk.

Stepping up the stage next was Lazy Lorelei, fronted by a diminutive but very talented lady. It was their set that got me seriously enraptured for the first time. I stayed glued to my seat, relishing their ethereal, candy-coated, but otherwise bittersweet brand of indie pop--all of the songs they performed were originals... galing! But later on, no matter how genuinely enjoyed their performance, I never smiled throughout their set. Oh no, not obviously because of their performance, but because I remembered my er, um....

Good Lord, how could I escape the bitter past of this first love when all I had seen and heard were associated with him? So I wound myself up feeling upset and problematic in the midst of these beautiful, er, melodies...

I'm certain when some audience folks get to listen to a crackerjack band and find themselves spellbound, they consequently, um, "wet their pants'. Which is categorically true in my case--in this sense and another, unfortunately. As Lazy Lorelei were through with their wonderful show that held me in a lovely reverie, I walked towards the CR. I was very confident in my thinking that I just "wet" mine for encountering a great performance. But, inside the room, as soon as I pulled down my pants and sat at the toilet, I was horrified to see a nasty, bloody blot... I wasn't aware na tinatgusan na pala ako!. To be honest, I don't have any inherent ability (unlike other women) to exactly count the days after I had my last period (mine's irregular pa), which had occured so, so long ago. :\

But I didn't need to scurry around in panic-- fortunately I brought along my red jacket, and it could do no wrong in covering up my "foibles". I whispered (albeit loudly, above the crashing din) to my sis about the problem so she helped me in tying the jacket around my waist so that my scarlet-stained buttocks wouldn't be seen as a fodder for my embarrassment. I wanted to whisk away right now and go home, but I had to wait for Sunday Picnic Love Affair's set. So I stayed on my seat and fervently prayed I wouldn't be attacked by dysmenorrhea in no time, while continuing to bleed myself dry.

Here came the Popseeds, led by ex-Orange and Lemons liegemen and blood brothers Ace and JM. It looked like the Popseeds were slowly germinating--though their music sounded exactly like their old mates'
'twas another revelation that had loomed on us: me mga boses pala sila, hehehehe. Sadly, they didn't seem to take notice at Olive, who had used to hang around with ONL in their pre-fame days. In fact, Ace's drumsticks are still in her possession, while our book "The Last Days Of John Lennon" is still in Clem's possession! Grrr....!!)

Now our highlight of the night had arrived--Sunday Picnic Love Affair! So we were staying up straight in our seats. Xavier had trusted Lee to handle and operate his digicam, so I told Lee to go away from our place to find for any nice position to be able to catch SPLA's moments. Si Lee, naging Jay Baruk... este Taruc pala... sa gabing ito hehehe

Their first performance of the night was interrupted by a discomfortingly lengthy feedback; na-"Sonic Youth", ika nga. Well, apart from that, it was a thouroughly enjoyable set, and a brilliant one too. I really looked at it as Xavier's one-man band (Lee noted na baka kulang pa sila sa banda--joking aside, Xavier, if you get to read this... you were all fantastico indeed!). I was certain that he wrote the bulk of the songs they performed (I forgot to ask him questions just before we'd all dismantle from the bar... I was just simply carried away!): "Angels In Disguise", "Sleeping" (?) "Sunday Picnic Love Affair" and others whose titles had escaped me. I was a bit surprised that Xavier began to pull off higher notes--kala nga ni Olive babae yung kumakanta e. I suddenly began to think about our last conversation on the phone, ages ago, about his dreams of having a real string and brass section, as he deems SPLA to be a very ambitious undertaking of his. But for the mo, a faux horn and a violin coming out of the organ were more than just acceaptable ersatz. Moreover, it was really cute. Though the band primarily aimed to be like Belle and Sebastian, there were also some shades of Acid House Kings, Jens Lekman and, why not, Carnival Park. I could imagine Stuart Murdoch standing there at a corner, arms cossed, while intently watching Xavier and his henchmen doing his stuff... and then bobbing his head to the familiar but otherwise different, beat.

I had myself full with the iced tea and the pizza as well as, of course, the music and besides, I had come here just to witness SPLA (but I earned pleasant surprises along the way, hehehe). Another, my just-arrived menstrual problems were freaking me out (but it didn't show, did it?). But I "relaxed" myself to watch a couple of performances before we'd all set foot outside the bar. Just in time, Xavier and his friends were also about to leave, as we'd all have realities that must be attended to the next day, ok? It was past 2:30 am... I was itching (maybe also literally) to go home, really.

Outside the bar and beside the Twilight Zone-quiet Katipunan road, Olive, Lee and I chatted with Xavier for the last time before we bid goodbyes to each other. We'd all have to keep abreast about Sunday Picnic Love Affair's or Carnival Park's next gig skeds, now that I myself have just experienced the air of, er, bar life. That doesn't mean that I'd have the makings of a party girl (like that one vocalist who covered a Velvet Underground stuff)--I'll have to have more guts to be like that (that far), but not that I mind hehehe. I enjoyed my first hop, but because of personal clashes with my past that were connecting to the things I had heard and seen, I could only say that my first night out was a love-hate relationship at best. ;) (Is there a band named The Soundchecks? Ten minutes or so were spent by that hehehehe). But the music is peerless (even the covers)...

fading tails, JIC

2008-01-19T02:22:00.000-08:00

After having confessed to my sis Olive what could be the greatest blow in my life... I was sated with remorse as well with tears... my heart is beyond reparation... I've lost all hope...

Yet sadness comprises the biggest part of the literature (well, if you call this below as one) palette. I managed to write this one below one cold, dark morning:

***

Fading Tails

As I lay down my trusted pen
I glanced at the fading tails of the firelight
And viewed the room full of silence
In the morning's beginning that feels like night.

I gently close down my fully-scribbled notes
Reluctantly I start to head towards the shower
'Tis hard to clear the lump off my throat
And the salt in my face mingling in the dripping cold water.

My wet head start to spin its painful circle
Silently clamoring to get out of this doom
When will I pull out of this whirlpool?
Where will I give my scathed heart to, and to whom?

I wish I could turn back those hands
So that I have neither regrets nor future to fear
I wish I could turn over those sands
So that I wouldn't be lost in the sea of tears

As I lay my body down to rest,
I murmurred at the fading tails of the altar light
For an apopleptic stop, at best
So that I could never face again this darkest night...

***

The next morning, I woke up at 11, stepped out of the room. The rest of the household was at the beginning of lunch, pero wala akong ganang kumain. I just wanted some hot draft for my deserted stomach (I haven't taken solids since learning about "it").

I was at the kitchen, preparing a hot tea with kalamansi when Lee passed by and said, "Kain ka na, ditse" (he's a big guy of 32, studded with lots of Krishna tattoos, but he's still as sweet as then, with more than a tinge of respect for me--he calls me "ditse"!).

"Hmmm..." I paused for a yawn, "Try ko kumain..." I forced my numb mouth and knotted belly to take and receive food, but... didn't work.

"Sige na, lalo kang papayat at gaganda..." he jested.

Oh, so he also knows! Olive (Lee's better half; she's lucky... seryoso si Lee sa kanya.... *sigh*) must have told him about "it".

"Babalik din yan... JIC," he jested.

Having caught those last letters as unfamiliar, I sharply turned around and asked, "Anong JIC?"

"Just In Case, hehehehe" he said with a small grin.

This time I let some of my own whites out. "Bagong acronym? Ano yan, naimbento mo lang?"

"Oo, hihihihihi..." Lee answered, and his Cheshire's cat grin seemed never to let go of him, although his bearing was more sincere than the fictional feline's.

"Parang sa chat yun, ah, o kaya yung sa cellphone... kala ko Jesus In Christ" I remarked half-jokingly, to which Olive and Lee laughed. Puwede! =)

Then Lee and I lauched a small talk about T.O.D.A.S.' "groundbreaking" portion of conversational acronyms that the cast "invented" B.C. (before cellphones or before computers, hehehe)

I remained alone in the kitchen, half-heartedly sipping my tea while reading The Prince And The Pauper for a book report. (the book is an amusing, but at the same time thought-provoking read... but though Mark Twain wrote this, my brain was somewhat bleeding deciphering those Middle English stuff... *sigh*)

I try to get on with it... :'(

PS. Thanks to Cat for providing the right title for my untitled poem... I'll show it right away... =)

"Sushi Lover" EP (Keyboard Cathy) (edited)

2007-12-21T06:39:00.000-08:00

A year and three months after her debut album "Inspiration was released, New Jersey's Cathy
Wiegand, aka Keyboard Cathy, is now out on the scene once more.

On the table is her latest release, an EP called "Sushi Lover", which serves up some of "Inspiration"'s best-known originals ("Eternity", "Golden Child", "Give A Little More", her rendition of "So Long And Thanks For The Fish", and the title track), as well as two new exclusive tracks.

While her Broadway musical roots are still holding firm to the ground,Keyboard Cathy's newest offerings otherwise seek to prove that she's capable of stepping out of her comfort zone.

With Cathy's blessing, Texas-based electronic popsters Hyperbubble were able to update "Sushi Lover", with interesting results. They wisely decided to take the original version's spoken words along with its catchy melody and interweave them with upbeat metronomic throbs and reverberating synths. Keyboard Cathy's lighthearted delivery isn't exactly material for
the otherwise generally cold, mechanical, or inorganic genre. Yet, the marriage of these two disparate elements is, strangely, a happy one.

Her new track, "Miracle Worker", leaves me in ambiguity in a way that, say The Divine Comedy's "Generation Sex" or "National Express" does. One time the song reminds me of the swinging 60's stuff; the next, of a Broadway musical number; then the following moment, of something more contemporary. I think that's what "Miracle Worker" is meant to convey musically. KC's vocals emerge more strongly than ever, and boy, there's even a scattering
of The Shadows-style electronic guitars. The highlight must be attributed to the solid, acoustic percussion, which definitely beef up the whole thing.

Paraphrasing a line of one of her songs, she does the impossible and unthinkable, too. Keyboard Cathy's new offerings on her EP are worthy enough of our renewed curiosity on which musical steps she'll take next.

***
See her official MySpace page:
http://www.myspace.com/keyboardcathy

See Hyperbubble's official Myspace page:
http://www.myspace.com/hyperbubble

freaky fridays

2007-12-21T06:22:00.000-08:00

To my friends and to some people I've known who are, have just become, or will become parents of these new generation kids, I'm sharing this yet-to-be-titled piece of junk ;) (I wrote this after work at 3 am. Why did I bother writing this--not to mention with my already frayed brain--is another question). I wish them luck... to quote Han Solo, you gotta need it! (hehehehe)

***

(untitled)

How the world turns around with a speeding spin?
It's seen from the tiny wrinkles in your budding skin
Your own day is reserved ahead, yet you've grabbed it now within a tick
New and fast is good, but don't they sometimes make you sick?
"Because," you reason, "I need to catch up with them very fast
Otherwise, I'd wind up this rapid race at the very, very last
Besides, you've said that I should never arrive from afar
To not only glimpse at but also to win to brightest stars."
Yet, I go, it's not wholly evil matter to raise your head above the water
Or to win your own race or any fierce battle
But honey, you're too sweet, fragile and tender,
Watch your own pace, else your knees will run brittle
And honey, all that's shiny, stylish and new,
I mean, it's all fine for me; and it's all brilliant for you
Yet don't let them flourish too much inside your mind
Else, you'll end up prematurely and permanently blind
To the gentle wind that whispers in your ears,
And the gentle breaths of our smiling peers,
To the rustic basics that will stay within us always
New and fast is always good, but simple will ever win the day
Honey, learn to live your own day as you grow
Grow as you should do, but not as old to knit your brows
Your youthful sweetness shouldn't have died
To explore this webbed world wide...

PS. Recently Cat gave it a title: "The Speed of Growth".
Passed! =D

of sushis and hash browns

2007-11-16T03:33:00.000-08:00

This morning, I've just received a mail from my friend Cat, aka "Keyboard Cathy" in the indie music circles. Enclosed in the package are her letter, which is informative and rather moving at the same time; a photograph of herself--in full Neil "Something For The Weekend" attire in a Halloween party (unfortunately, since the privileged few know and love her Irish soul brother and his music, her friends at the event mistook her as one of the characters in "The Matrix" LOL!); and last but not the least... her newest release, an EP titled "Sushi Lover", is finally out now!

I'd like to thank Cat for the advanced birthday gift, and most especially the online friendship that has been going for over two years. Complacency is nowhere near our brains in this aspect, and still, we can always work this out through constant communication--in our own highest and lowest times. :)

I hope next week I could allot my time (probably on my birthday) out of my strenuous days to listen then to "sort out" the ingredients of her EP, hehehehe.

****
I know this isn't a novel stuff, but it's just few of the proofs of my endless puttering around the kitchen, where I'm Da Vinci and McGyver at the same time LOL! It's meatless but nevertheless tasty--and it's preservatives-free! The bananas really make a difference--it lends an extra sweetness to this savory dish. It can be a main viand for your rice, or a side stuff for fried or barbecued meat and fish. It's easy to do (though it costs quite an effort, but it's all worth it!) and doesn't make a twitch on your budget. I did this just last night.

Potato and banana hash browns

1 large potato
2 saba bananas
1 medium-sized red onion, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
a teeny-weeny bit of salt (potatoes naturally absorb too much of the saltiness) and pepper
oil for frying

First off, cut the potato preferably in thin strips, and the bananas in thin circles. Boil them for about 15 minutes until they appear very soft or soggy. Afterwards, wash through running water then strain. Set the ingredients on a plate. Using a fork, carefully mash the boiled stuff until pulpy (or, to make things easier, use a blender if you own one). In a bowl, combine all ingredients, and form them into patties. Then fry them on a pan of very hot oil--be careful in flipping those patties, lest they can break loose easily--until golden brown. And... voila!

Optional add-ons
- chillies (for a much spicier treat!)
- if you want extra protein, add at least one egg. However, since it "waters down" the mixture, add a bit of flour (three tablespoons the least)
- tomatoes, cheese, and pineapple! (yum! It couldn't get better than this...)

sponged

2007-09-29T15:00:00.001-07:00

My most favorite among the foreign-language channels on cable is KBS World. What drew me first to it is their topic on food, and they feature it very often. Korea has a somewhat a peculiar but interesting cuisine culture (one thing I discovered about their grubs is that they are all labor-intensive), but like us Pinoys, Koreans also go crazy over barbecued pigs' entrails.

But later on, aside from food-spotting, I also come to enjoy watching some of their game shows and TV dramas (many of them we import here on our shores as popular "Koreanovelas", though I don't really follow them episode by episode). Most are subtitled, thankfully.

Last night I bumped into a game show titled "Sponge". I didn't pay attention to its mechanics (out of prior confusion), but there I learned some new things:

* In Japan, kids also drink beer. I mean, honest-to-God "children", "little shavers", "little fries". The show spun a clip of a Japanese family living in Korea, having a hearty lunch one day. The daughter, who I surmised is about 6 years old, asked her mother to get some beer for her. After having fetched a bottle and a little plastic glass, mommy returned to the table. The moment she popped in a bottle, I was like "you can't be frigging serious!". My shock, disbelief and amusement rolled on as mommy half-filled her daughter's glass with the beverage--with its richly amber-colored body and thick white foam and the overall effervescence, it looked more like the classic San Miguel than San Mig light. The little girl took a swig. Though her face twitched a bit after the first taste, she cheered "kampay" with her family then nonchalantly guzzled the beer straight down. Tomador, hahahaha!

A Korean professional beer expert was called upon to sample some of Japan's best-sellers. After some pensive deliberation by his circumspect tongue, he declared that it was sour and sweet--therefore, he concluded, the worst beer he had ever tasted.

It arrived into realization that the "beer" is actually non-alcoholic; it's more like a softdrink with the unmistakable appearance of beer. Aaaaahhhh.... ok.

Then, why bother to manufacture that kind of beer when these kids can lap up a Coke or a Sprite and bear a safer... uh, you know, reputation... throughout their childhood?

Well, the idea is that children can have something similar to toast with their parents' grownup and real version of the beverage over meals.

I call this early preparation for the mid-life crisis. I could imagine these moppets inviting buddies over for a maboteng usapan ("bottled chat") after school hours. But instead of the usual depression-inducing drinking spree subjects--women, money, job problems or unemployment--these kids would whine about horrible homework, terrible teachers, evil classmates and allowances from niggardly mom and dad while downing on simulated booze. Hehehehe...

Fake beers come with many flavors: apple, tomato (the brewmaster described this flavor as having "matured tomatoes from Spain... and a huge windy barley farm"), milk ("the freshness of milk and a taste of beer"), orange and banana, to name just a few.

Imagine kiddie beer being widely marketed here in the Philippines... would it be a hit as well?

**What happens when you drop a ball point pen refill into the water? One contestant guessed that since ink is composed of oil (I'm not sure about this), and that water and oil don't mix, the ink will push out of the refill. Another assumed that water will stop the ink from coming out. While one lady made a ridiculous "theory" that the slender tube will get thicker and therefore the ink would explode out of the tube (and then blot the water out). But another challenger's hunch finally hit the nail in the head--that the metal tip (the "ball") sinks to the bottom and the lighter plastic end remains at the top.

There was a demonstration clip wherein a ballpen refill was carefully placed into a glass tank full of water. What happened next was truly amazing--even when the refill was to be placed horizontally on the surface below the tank, or when it was dropped sharply into the water, the tube would still stand upright. No matter how one tried to swirl or swish the water, the tube yet persisted to go up. I guess not even a tornado nor tsunami would demoralize a bunch of ballpen refills--they would just "dance" first then go back to their standing position. They looked like miniature aquatic bamboos.

Only true ballpen refills (like the ones you use to replace for your Panda) will do the trick. The metal tip is dense and heavy but since much of its body is of lighter plastic (and I took the other contestant's random shot that the ink is oily could be right), the tube will remain standing for the rest of its life.

Well, I could only imagine that if my house's foundation were made entirely of ball pen refills, it could even survive even the worst flash floods or disastrous earthquakes. Hey, why those guys even think of that in a flash?!?!

Now there's "out of the ordinary" out of the ordinary. Try it for yourself! It's magic! =)

alum scarum

2007-09-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

My American penpal Cat has already read my entry about my nightmarish brush with the lump of my breast. On her recent email to me, she appended with a strong caution about the use of deodorants in the market. According to her, they contain aluminum, which is potentially dangerous to cause breast cancer.

Deodorants are a must in every person's hygiene. As for myself, I usually prefer deodorant lotions because they're economical and a space-saver to my very small "kikay" kit. The pack claims that it's good for 10 uses, but I've been in fact using it for a month now at hindi pa 'to ubos ha.

But since having been warned by Cat with this that I've never even heard before, I've made up my mind to ease down on my use of those products. I once even considered resorting to tawas, but I quickly found out that they too are manufactured of aluminum (I believe).

Since I work mostly at home, and an intermittent lazybones at that, I don't think that requires much trouble from me. No one, thankfully, has ever covered my nose at my direction for stinking like a pitch-dark canal from hell, even when I'm drenched with tepid-soup sweat. Although I do indulge myself on garlic, onion, chillies and a lot of other spices--blame that on my ethnological and also astrological factors--mercifully I don't smell like those big-nosed scooter escorts and traders of 5-6. Amoy pawis lang talaga ako

***
Anyway, I'd like to greet again Cat a happy birthday, and she does enjoy my little thread I made for her in The Divine Comedy's official bulletin board. She's been my online pal for over 2 years now, and still we work things out (when life gets in the way between us) which is really hard but it's quite another good and necessary factor to sustain long-distance friendships like ours. Most importantly, she's there when I feel like I've been to hell and back, and I hope I'm doing well in comforting and humoring her in the midst of her busy days (her upcoming EP, which will contain the electronic remix of "Sushi Lover" by Hyperbubble--one of the nucleus is our TDC BBer Billy Bob Hannon--is in the works now). I'm really grateful and proud to be her friend and fellow TDC fan. The warmth is still alive and bright--as well as our genuine trust and concern for each other. It's no mean feat but it's worth it.

underground radio: aboveboard

2007-09-13T23:23:00.000-07:00

And now for something completely different...

For some listeners who are wanting to veer away from the misery of this commercially-sated radio-dom, the answer's finally here: it's RJ Underground Radio!

It's never too late to discover such a gem in FM. As far as I know, RJUR 105.9 (that used to be the loud and the brash rock station LA 105.9 way over a decade ago), an offspring of DZRJ 100.3 plays lotsa lotsa songs. And the greatest thing here is, this station doesn't aim to please the bigwigs (like in most radio stations) by spinning off what's only "popular"; but it also aims to make the more discriminating listeners happy by playing their own personal preferences (meaning including non-singles, or obscure favorites) through their requests. All day, all week, all moment long without letup, listeners can ply their requests through texting, calling, or e-mailing (the live streaming is available at www.rjplanet.com)

RJ Underground Radio, as expected, also champions the local music industry by not only playing Pinoy rock, (classic and modern it may be), but also supports the unsigned artists in a little (but also big) way. Bands who want their music to be heard all over the world can send their demos through email or simply by walking in to their office in Makati. (now you're discovering talented names there you haven't heard before)

The orientation is basically rock and its sub-genres, but the station also airs other stuff like blues, funk, and much of indie music, some of them are even refreshing to my ears. And it could even be educational as well.

For example, this Swedish band I've never heard before, Engenting--please call me if I get the spelling wrong--belts out their songs only in their native language, just like their weirder Scandinavian fellows Sigur Ros, in that respect. But Engenting's music is a bit more like Supergrass'. Fun sidenote too: the band's name in Swedish means "nothing". (why?!?)

RJUR's playlist items, since they're based on the listener's fancies, come out as varied, running gamut from the Beatles, Credence Clearwater, Led Zeppelin, Bob Dylan, The Ramones and David Bowie to Pulp, Nirvana, The Killers, The Duke Special, Feist, Interpol and the Arctic Monkeys; from Juan de la Cruz band, Mike Hanopol, The Dawn and E'heads to hot properties like Sandwich, Hilera, Pupil, Kamikazee as well as the up-and-coming names who deserve recognition in the local scene.

As for my first request (which was through email; the text line hasn't budged yet), it's ELO's "Mr. Blue Sky", my old favorite which I haven't heard in a while until at that time, is a silly '70s song that conquers my often-dampened spirits once in a while. It's like a silly anthem whenever I sing it out in the open air--the light, bright, cheery music, the soaring vocals, the non-ironic, ridiculously upbeat theme... cheeeeezzze! It's still my favorite ELO song anyway.

Now, there's more reason to unlock my cellphone while frequently riding to and fro Taytay and Altura, aside from using it in texting to my few friends and to my concerned family members which I haven't been seeing much nowadays, or in giggling at some lewd jokes on my inbox. I could feign indifference as I'm blankly gazing out at some swiftly passing images (unless I'm stuck in a heavy traffic, but no prob) like before, but now I enjoy commuting much more, thanks to my earphone buddies tuning on to this jolly good radio station.

I fervently hope that RJUR's genuine love of music won't be crushed by the huge corporate machine--well, Ramon Jacinto is already a rich guy so he'd give business a big break. This station is like a breath of fresh air, and already a standout in the local airwaves already even if it's been less than a year old as of this writing (NU 107 now seems to follow suit by playing classic rock, which, I swear, never once used to be regulars in their own playlist. Talk about getting pressured). This underground radio (which Howlin' Dave declares with the right conviction: "musika na nanggagaling sa ilalim ng lupa") will certainly hang in the air for a long time--I'm saying this in a good way, of course. =)

lump bumped off

2007-09-12T07:16:00.000-07:00

The mass on my right breast has flattened, and hopefully for good, thanks primarily to my alertness (or paranoia?). I've always been cross-examining my mammaries very often, and especially before going to bed.

Just a week ago, my keen fingers felt a lump in my right breast, on the underside of the areola (the circle of pinkish tissue around the nipple). That night I barely slept until dawn. I felt so devastated. I know it was unnecessary and foolish to bottle this up any longer, so the next day I confided first, to my mother about it.

Well, she knows best as all other mothers do. She first recommended age-old remedies as the solution.

By those next days, the manner of my medication had become a bit comical, so laughter also did provide the best medicine after all, it seems. My sister and my mother would giggle (sheepishly) at me at how I unhesitatingly would pull up my shirt to apply the pounded and perforated makahiya leaf (to bring out the juices). The same scenario goes in the way I was removing the now-dried-up makahiya. Nothing extraordinary about it except that I was doing it in the living room, especially when the male household (my dad and my soon-to-be brother-in-law, who practically resides in the house) aren't around. So I became a sort of an exhibitionist at that time. :)

Homemade healthcare and humor combined seemed to work pretty well. The only side effect I suffered is the mild itchiness caused by the makahiya leaves, but nothing graver than that. Along with ingesting antibiotics, the lump began to gradually shrink. But to make things really sure, I went to the town clinic to get professional care (to really know what really had caused this lump that frightened my wits).

For now, I'm still taking those huge (so huge I have to cut it in half so that my narrow esophagus can bear them) prescribed (and really dear) co-amixoclav tablets until they're all used up. I still do my self-examinations and so far have found out that the pain, and most importantly and significantly, this pesky mass, seem to disappear.

Although I'm not yet 100% certain that I'm out of the woods, I otherwise feel so much better now. My fears have been dwindling, but as long as my period (which have become irregular since July--the rest of that month was zilch) hasn't come for a short visit yet (but I know it's in the offing), that fear still wouldn't let go of me.

Post-menstruation will hold the ultimate answers to my unending questions and consternation. As required, I should return to the ob-gyne clinic to confirm my lingering feelings.

Lumps occuring near or around the nipple are quite uncommon (as far as I know). Usually such protrusions indicative of a tumor or a cyst are detected in the overall fullness of the breast, especially near the armpit. But still, a swelling, especially if it feels really hard and painful, (although not all lumps are cancerous) in any part of your breast is a strong indication to seek medical advice.

Sadly, there are still many women, even in this generation, who are hesitant or afraid to talk about their illnesses, such as breast cancer. Tinatago lang nila until it's too late. We have noticed how the things that we fear the most to happen do seem to occur. Many of us label this as the law of attraction.

The most important and most urgent steps to do when you first notice a lump in your breast: to face your fears, confide it to someone closest to you, understand it, seek medication, and then move on. This may happen to any women (and very rarely men) at any age. So well... although I have constant bitchings about life, I still have dreams for myself and for my family. So please... "huwag muna ngayon"...

Don't give it a rap if this will bring you a moment's embarrassment--this will pass. And you can bear that better rather than a lifetime of regret. (I hope this wouldn't make a more frightening comeback, knowing its nature)

Sometimes, it's better to be paranoid than be sorry.

post-mortem of a broken heart

2007-06-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

Nobody really cares if you're miserable... so I might as well have the privilege to unbosom myself of such feelings. After all, a blog is a diary of sorts.

I don't care what you think but I'm still alive and in one piece. I'm still going with life's current (and often troubling) flow as always. Even with my intermittent illnesses and migraines, I still keep moving to the point of killing myself maybe. My occasional (but always SRO-level, hehehe) sense of humor is still there and my sanity, more often than not, has been stretched and challenged but still never daunted. Just yet.

I know I have to go on with my life... but I'm only human to still feel the pain. I'm still soring badly from my first heartache that happened six months ago (as of this writing).

Yes, I know, that's ages enough to allow forgetfulness out of one's mind and one's heart. But even months or even years will still do nothing to lessen the hurt, lighten the burden, seep back the tears in my eyes, nor cease this endless hemorrhage out of those old scars when I scratch them all over again... it seems to flow out of me for the rest of my life. Consequently, the pain... the pain is all still fresh. Time does NOT heal all wounds.

Oh, I wish I should have proposed the notion "ignorance is bliss". 'Tis folly to be wise indeed!

I don't mind being alone; you know, I've always been. I had already made that up in my mind when I was in my teens--although I did hover some fears of it. I had convinced myself that no one would take serious interest in me that I had set myself up to live in solitary existence. And a large portion of my lifetime has been devoted to myself, really.

I'd never known how terribly sad it is to be alone until now. Imagine, 26 years of being just "me" have now been frustrated by knowing and discovering this all-encompassing four-letter word... I do admit, I still end up longing for someone I love and at the same time cutting myself into fine shards for all this ache I'd inflicted on myself and on my now-estranged, first great love... And this will still go on....

Yet I don't feel myself like panicking. Just unlike some members of my family. My sister has sometimes been egging me on to come back to him (I actually want to pero natatakot ako), and she'd always blurt this out to me, "Mahirap mag-isa." Once I have even declared to my mom (who is now aware of my singleness anew) that I'm ready to be an old maid if I have no choice, she reproached me, "Tange. Sinong mag-aalaga sa 'yo pag matanda ka na?" To be honest, I'm somewhat annoyed by it.

Of course, given a choice, few people would pick solitude as a permanent state; nor would I, despite my expressed "desires". It really depends on how people take it. Some have to accept solitude and never give a hoot for the mo if it would be temporary or permanent. But all of us, believe or not, would choose it as a portion of life, for without it we cannot be whole, we cannot be individuals.

But to forget... I may have laughed off, scorned, or scoffed at my own, well, failure and decoyed it with my pretended sense of well-being... but how could I mentally banish the first man I love, and the first love overall? How could I misrecollect all of what we had shared before, if all around me (especially the verdant vicinity of my home, unfortunately) still reminds me of my first love that was blooming then? If many of the songs (some of them I've already liked before) I hear stirs me up into thinking about him? Even just chancing upon things and people in real life or in that damn television--they all remind me of him. Are the heavens above sending down some sort of serendipitious signs or just making a nasty joke on me? He's still a part of my life, and that's a fact.

No matter how I try (by keeping myself busy, by spreading myself gradually, etc.) my darnedest to pass this by (parang poem ah!), at the end of the day I still think of him... and often with shedding some tears. I'm still hurting inside. There isn't a day (even before and ever since the split) I never weep. Really. I'd cried on my birthday (that was the first time, and the saddest I've ever spent), on Christmas, on New Year... I never expected I'd be hurt in this way like never before. This is just too bad to forget. Often I wonder when will this finally cease. As I was once listening to my friend Cat's opus, "no me dejes, no me dejes"--"please don't leave me" in Spanish, by the way--I thought: well, he had already left before I could even plead or say goodbye.

The reason I ended all of this is because I thought he never really loved me. That he had gotten tired of me (although I couldn't be sure but I just sensed it)--no matter how I tried to "balance" myself in this relationship. Otherwise, he would have told me to wait. But I was doing the waiting on my own terms with little certainty if we'd end up together again. I let him go because I loved him and I never wished to be a clog to his personal aspirations--and I was ready to face what I'd been fearing about--suffering and loneliness.

All this waiting and the "working-out" and this came to nothing...

I'm still blaming myself for doing "something" (well, I'm still a whole being, nevertheless) to him that had made him somewhat gradually cold towards me--it's a mental torture I can't just alleviate or escape from. Often this gives me real headaches. I know I now have no right to worry about him but I still do--not that if he's in love with someone new, it's expected. But about his wellness, only that.

But I just let him go for the sake of his own happiness... and I hope he has ultimately attained it.

As long as I've never declared to this wretched world that I'm out of love with him... I surely will... but it's really hard to get over a first failed relationship. Tough luck for me. Yet I will cherish and remain faithful to my memories with him (the few gifts he gave me are still kept within my precious coffers), however those are few and far between. I vow myself never to be enamoured with anyone else.

I'm still in love with him and I will never stop loving him even when he's not here with me anymore... probably for as long as I live. And my life will go on but never be the same again, dammit. :,-(

I want to be the exception in this world today where faithfulness is almost old-fangled, the beauty of waiting is now dismissed as quite absurd and has lost much of its preciousness, and where are boys and girls straddle with one lover from and to another as they would with donning and changing clothes. But of course it's not solely for the sake of this exception. This is how I feel in my heart, and I can't do anything with it no longer.

Exposing all my troubles and weaknesses... hah! It's my strength anyway. This is better rather than committing suicide (ano ako, tange?). And I somewhat despise and at the same time pity for those who master the art of self-control. The ancients were wiser indeed. Even the mighty David wasn't at least embarrassed to admit, "I water my couch with my tears". Here, I wet my pillows every single night. But still I get up and go the next day. Yes, I am weak but not that very weak. Siguro marunong lang akong magdala. Perhaps this way is sort of a catharsis for me... but I don't know for how long.

Life is chockfull of discoveries indeed, both awesome and awful. And I just have unearthed those in this game: "Ganun pala pag na-in-love 'no?" and "Ganun pala pag nasasaktan..." Well, at least once in my life I have the chance to wonder that way before I die.

That's my reflection for now. ;-)

It would've been the first year...

0272307 game (Game 7)--back on the throne once more!!! =)

2007-02-23T21:31:00.000-08:00

Our Barangay Ginebra Kings emerged as champions in the best-of-7 Philippine Cup title series witha a rapturous (and definitely controversial!) 96-94 victory over San Miguel... and what's more amazing (well, i think not so!) is that they've risen from a 0-2 deficit via a four-game sweep. Sweeeeet! :)

Let's get on to this... SMB's Danny Seigle already had two personal fouls only in the 1st quarter alone, so he was forced to sit out for a while. But the Beermen, who had a 4-0 headstart, seemed to do well.

The last time I blinked at the score where the Beermen were once lording it over, they were up by 16 points in the 2nd qtr. Most of the time the small guys of SMB did much of the work here, with only Dorian Pena (btw, did you know that his real middle name is Atis? No kidding!) playing at the post. Tensions simmered also in this period as coach Jong Uichico slapped with a 'T'; later on, SMB's assistant coach (and former Ginebra sweetshooter) Pido Jarencio got the same offense.

The problem that was already going with them was that though Ginebra played good defense, they weren't able to translate it with decent attempts. Mark Caguioa's signature one-handed flyers, which should've been sure hits, didn't go in; Sunday Salvacion's perimeter attempts likewise missed the mark. On the other hand, SMB's shooters, particularly Olsen Racela and Wesley Gonzales, virtually had an easy time swooshing the net. So no need for a Seigle... for now.

The Kings eventually cut the Beermen to just 8 points, 47-55, thanks to their harsher full-court press that yielded a couple of miscues from their sis team. But the Beermen curbed the mini-rally with a 6-0 run. Ronald Tubid, as intrepid as ever, provided spark anew for the Kings as he first scored from an offensive board off his own miss (which was really, really scrunchy). Caguioa found his bearings of sorts with a nice teardrop shot and then, after Tubid's own basket, scored a rare triple that cut SMB's lead to just 3, 59-62, with 1:55 to go in this period. The Big Dome was heard stomping and going ruckus at this point!!!

It was a big comeback for Ginebra that should've been continued and thus given them back the momentum, but Billy Mamaril, ever suspect at foul-shooting, ano pa nga ba??? That would've brought them closer, but after Mamaril's failed freethrow attempt, SMB added four points to keep the Kings at bay. Another butterfinger in this department was Rafi Reavis... had the Beermen pushed the series into a decisive Game 7, the fans would mostly throw the stinging raps on Reavis and Mamaril now... I swear.

Well, Reavis saved himself somehow with a basket to trim down SMB's lead by six, just before 3rd qtr. ended.

In the payoff period, it was the small fries... este small guys pala... of Ginebra who upstaged for the decisive rally. Reavis continued with his ft blunders that got us mad at this point and what's worse, he got into foul trouble that included a technical. Jayjay Helterbrand led the big lift, as it should be, that definitely impelled his other teammates. Johnny Abarrientos' triple and his incredible boxing out for the looseball against SMB's big guys were awesome. Off a 10-point deficit, 65-75, Ginebra instigated a 10-0 run including 7 points from Jayjay--it levelled the game at 75-all with 7:05 remaining. Again, the rally could've been sustained but Mamaril spoiled it once more with another ft misses and what's worse again, he fouled Seigle who faked him in the paint that yielded a completed 3-point play for the latter. Dondon Hontiveros canned freethrows later on, so it was back to a 5-pt. SMB lead, 75-80, to the sheer dismay of the fans.

Rudy Hatfield's mighty presence returned, scoring 4 points in that span, 81-82. Salvacion's earlier trey try almost went in but it was barfed in the ring, but he redeemed himself next with a successful triple this time to tie the game once more, 84-all with 3:35 to go. The crowd was going crazy this time!

In another deadlock, 86-all, Hatfield suffered an injured nose after it was hit by Danny Ildefonso's knee (I first thought it was Seigle) in a looseball action. Hatfield's smeller was bleeding quite badly so he had to go sit at the bench right away to receive some treatment (later on he was seen with three cotton buds stuck in his nostrils). For this offense, Ildefonso received a 'T'; Caguioa scored a technical freethrow, much to the joyous cheers of his fans (who proudly waved jokey wavers such as "CAGUIOA SA SENADO". Hahahaha!)

Salvacion hit another triple that gave the Kings their biggest lead at 4, 90-86, with 2:18 left. There I was really beginning to feel uneasy--they were now ahead, but I knew it wasn't a safe lead still, so I prayed that they'd take care of it or else SMb would come back quickly.

And the Beermen did, thru Racela's 3-point revenge, 90-89. Salvacion gunned for another triple try but it went off the mark. Mamaril split his charities (dammit); Seigle tied the game again at 91-all, with 1:21 to go. It was a precious time for the Kings to get back, but Mamaril once again made only one ft. Lordy Tugade scared the hell out of us with a triple that gave the Beermen back the lead, 92-94, with only 45.4 ticks to go.

Ginebra, refused to give in to pressure and panic--Salvacion again went for a long 2-point jumper, 94-all, with 35.9 left.

In the next play by the Beermen, they lost the leather at the baseline. Helterbrand held the ball, and as he was leaping out of bounds he gestured for a timeout. The referees gave the verdict that Olsen last touched the ball and the timeout call be given to the Kings, that rally brought indignant questions from the San Miguel bench--why should Olsen be called on a "last-touch" offense and why did the referees granted Jayjay's request whilst he already had stepped out of the court?

Oh well, nevertheless, Ginebra utilized their full and 30-second timeouts in the last 16.9 seconds.

In their last offensive play, Jayjay speeded fearlessly past Willie Wilson, who fouled him. Jayjay completed foul shots that pegged the final count. It was only 2.9 ticks left as the Beermen discussed for their last offensive ditch. But Ginebra's tough defensive stop made Tugade to force a three-pointer that failed to connect. Reavis tapped the ball near the ring... and everybody went rabid and wild to celebrate the championship... yay!!!

Showers of confettis and red, yellow and blue balloons fell on the court as the Kings revelled freely and joyously as well as the fans who deservedly shared this victory... naghubad pa sina Jayjay at Rudy in front of the fans hahaha! Grabe si Hatfield, pang-wrestling material pa ang acting... pati nga nung na-interview siya eh... para siyang galit, hahaha (as he thanked himself for this championship)!

Jayjay was adjudged as Finals MVP which he really well deserved... and his buddy Mark was seen in tears (ano ba to, tears of joy for his bestfriend or hard feelings? Hahaha!). Congratulations, Mr. Fast!

It's been three years ago since they won the Philippine Cup under coach Siot Tanquingcen... and now under Coach Jong, they've come out winning once more!

When they were down by 0-2, my faith for them still never faltered that they would emerge as the champions. Like what Jayjay said, "everytime when our backs are against the wall, we always see to come out on top." That's optimism there... and of course their never-say-die spirit that dominated the series.

Congratulations, Kings! You're back on the throne once more! Enjoy the victory and the celebration!

Cheers! :) :) :)

021407 game (Game 3)--just fit for the occasion!!!

2007-02-14T20:31:00.000-08:00

It was Valentines day, yet it was still no love lost between these sister teams in the Philippine Cup Finals. But Ginebra, who wore red jerseys which was just appropriate, made sure that [i]our[/i] Valentines day wouldn't be left cold.

Ginebra dominated Game Three with a whopping 131-101 win over San Miguel, thus averting the Beermen's goal to go 3-0 in the series. Thank Lord!

San Miguel actually jumpstarted to an early 5-0 lead. Ginebra, eventhough they were later down by 9 points and torn away (of sorts) by Lordy Tugade's impeccable perimeter shooting (seeing him swooshing perfect triples were enough to make me go down to the court and do something evil to him, hehehe) were aware that they couldn't afford to lose again.

In the last 2:23 of the second qtr, with the Kings still trailing by 7, 44-51, they stepped on the gas and began to raise and dictate their tempo--their famous run and gun game that is--caught the Beermen, who began to miss their attempts and threw off a messy defense, off guard with a 12-4 run to grab the lead for the first time as the first half ended.

In the second half it was really an all-Ginebra show. Eric Menk's presence was a relieving sight to all of us fans at the Astrodome, as well as beefing in patrolling in the pain, alongside Rudy Hatfield (who must've been inspired perhaps after his ex Rufa Mae Quinto performed at half time ahahaha!) and Rafi Reavis, who did a helluva job in snatching the offensive boards and scoring lots of putbacks that furthermore stung the Beermen.

From a 58-all deadlock earlier in the third quarter, Ginebra began to simply pull away. Even before the last 6 mins. of this period, the Kings drew a huge 21-7 attack and had rendered the Beermen to get stuck at 63 by over a minute. Mark Caguioa, fearless as ever, soared up high against a phalanx of 3 SMB defenders to score once more. Menk, although still not 100% yet, nevertheless also did well in his offense, providing foul shots most of the time (and a successful 3-pt play).

Tugade might have hit a couple of triples at that time perhaps to provide some spark for a Beermen insurgence, but Ginebra readily doused their attempt to close in. They weren't at least daunted, much less threatened, and they continued to play a great defense up to the final period, where they finally sent Dorian Pena to ejection and left the whole Beermen team flustered that led to turnovers after another.

Later on Menk hit a 15-foot jumper and then after SMB's Willie Wilson managed to score, Johnny Abarrientos went for a triple that increased their lead by 25, 117-92, with 4:39 to go.
By 4:19, they were now lording it over by 27, 119-92, the game was technically finished, and the major players--Hatfield, Caguioa and Helterbrand--had now the luxury to sit back and relax, while they let the rest of their teammates to settle the score.

Well, I thought 27 was enough, but no, Ronald Tubid canned freethrows, 121-92, to pad up their lead to 29 points!

It was a balanced attack, as six of the Kings chipped in double figures--Hatfield (the best player of the night with 28, just a point away from his career-high of 29 points way back then), Caguioa (26), Tubid (19), Helterbrand (14), Reavis (13), Menk (12). Sweet!

As they played on this day of hearts, our Kings were definitely back on the fast lane (Helterbrand dished off 12 assists at that), and played their own high-octane but fluid offense, mind-numbing defense, of course, with their big hearts as well. Their playing was really intense, as I am as a lover... of this fabulous team!

Great wake-up call, guys, and I wish y'all the best of luck sa Game 4--and go for the 2-2 count! You can do it!!! ;)

And oh, a belated happy Valentines day to everybody!!!

I might have spent alone here but not as I wasn't as miserable as I once thought, hehehe.

021107 game (Game 2)--ouch!

2007-02-12T08:59:00.000-08:00

Scream! Sigh. Sob. sulk. Scream (again)

Those were the things I exactly did after our Kings were beaten again by the Beermen via a 104-100 escape in Game 2 of the Philippine Cup's best-of-seven series.

The loss was a screaming pain compared to last Friday's. They almost clinched a win, almost! Sayang kasi they climbed long and hard, so to speak, only to fall in the end.

I was sure Ginebra were adjusting well last night after their humiliating first defeat. They did well, but only their endgame mistakes were the deciding factors for their sorry, sorry loss!

The Kings had an exciting start and even led by 8 points in the second quarter. Then the direction of the wind changed as San Miguel drew their deliberate arsenal along with their torrid shooting, even when former teammate Romel Adducul was slapped with a 'T" (na pawang "binaril" si [Billy] Mamaril na nasa sahig) and coach Chot Reyes receiving a similar offense for hotly contesting that Rudy Hatfield did a travelling violation instead of Dondon Hontiveros fishing off a blocking foul.

Lordy Tugade was the guy of the moment for SMB. After a 45-all deadlock, Tugade broke down the Kings' defense with 8 points that fueled the Beermen's 13-6 blitzkriet with a little over 4 minutes remaining in the second quarter.

San Miguel led as much as 14 points at the end of the third period, but guys like Mark Caguioa and Hatfield, who sort of broke his right eyebrow from that run-in with Hontiveros, were never yet daunted by this. Eric Menk, by the way, was finally back on the hardcourt after ages of not having been seen in action due to injuries, and he has his pate nicely shaven. Ginebra, down at 69-83, at the end of the third, buckled down in the 4th with a 5-1 run that was capped with a 3-pointer from Sunday Salvacion, 74-84. The predominantly Kings crowd began to holler and chant their familiar battlecry. But ironically, those cheers only revved up the Beermen with baskets that silenced the fans for a while, ironically. So Racela got even with another triple, 74-87. But Rafi Reavis got the crowd up on their feet again with a slam from an assist by Jayjay Helterbrand, 76-87.

After Dorian Pena's aborted 3-pt. play, Reavis, Hatfield and Johnny Abarrientos went for a 6-0 run that brought the Beermen's lead down to 7, 82-89, with under 6 minutes to go. The crowd was going feverishly wild this time, even so when Ginebra were just about to catch up with the Beermen with only 5 points away, 89-84, with 3:14 left. Oh, how the turn of events came so fast indeed!

Hontiveros only kept Ginebra at bay by canning freethrows, 89-96, but Helterbrand next surprised the SMB squad with a triple, 92-96, that elicited heavenly noise and cheers from the crowd and prompted their sister team to call for a 30 second timeout, with 2:15 left.

But Caguioa, off a steal from Ronald Tubid off Danny Seigle, scored this time... at dalawa na lang lamang ng SMB, 94-96. Well at that moment, I was shaking and feeling the tension shooting up in my head. Oh dear. They're closing in, I nervously muttered under my breath. How I wish I wasn't there, but I was here! I was esctatic but I was praying they wouldn't make a big mistake...

SMB's Willy Wilson, failing to make a stab at the basket, threw the leather to Racela but the pass was instead intercepted by Caguioa, whom Racela blocked as the "Spark" proceeded to dash down the half-court. Racela fell, and was called on a foul. There we applauded gleefully and excitedly as we knew San Miguel were already in the penalty line.

But alas, Caguioa, perhaps feeling the gruesome endgame pressure, split his freethrows, 95-96.

And then Racela, refusing to be intimidated by the incident just a while ago and the jeers from the mammoth pr-Gins crowd, took revenge with a triple, 95-99. Uh-oh, not very good news...

Helterbrand secured the offensive rebound from Caguioa's failed long-two-pointer attempt. After a timeout, Caguioa managed to trim SMB's lead to 2, 97-99, with 46.5 ticks to go. SMB were planning for the next counterattack but a five-second violation was ensued against them as Seigle was unable to find for an open man to pass the leather in an inbound play, thus committing a turnover.

So at that point, talagang hiyawan kami dun nang pagkalakas-lakas, because we thought with full conviction that the Kings would turn the tables and have the last luck. And Helterbrand's spinning 15-foot jumper over Racela that tied the ball game once more, 99-all, brought us into our wildest illusions (well!) that Ginebra would finally tie the series, with much disconcertment on the side.

But, in the last 32 seconds, Ginebra, especially Reavis, totally screwed up the game, dammit! Seigle first scored, 99-101, Ginebra utilized their last timeout with only 24 ticks left. But their plans had gone into misuse as Reavis miss his foulshots, then Tubid finally fouled out much to the sheer frustration of us fans at the Big dome. Seigle (?) split his charities, then Hatfield wisely decided for a quick two, 101-102, with 12.2 seconds to go. So mero pang pag-asang mananalo pa ang Ginebra at that moment, but we were all nervous...

Wilson was fouled. After he missed his second free throw, noisy commotion followed as Ginebra had the chance and since they had no timeouts left, they quickly went in their own way, and went against time as the seconds were winding down fast. Mark Macapagal, who was unable to find a good angle because of the SMB defenders bothering him, passed the ball to Reavis who was open at the baseline arc. I thought he was going to drive towards the basket to tie the ballgame into an overtime, but he instead went for a three. Alas, his try went short, then Hontiveros grabbed the rebound and Wilson was fouled...

Well, it was over for the Kings. Dammit, dammit, dammit!

Now they're on a 0-2 deficit. Will the Kings have to panic right now? I believe that's not the right time, not now, I think.

I know they're the only team to rise from that kind of deep rubble in the finals series. They've done it once, and I'm sure they can do it here. Only the endgame poise, the endgame poise, man, that was absent in this last night's game. I think they should concentrate on that.

No, I don't believe they can't panic and they won't. I'm sure Coach Jong Uichico will consider this aspect. They can win big games, and I'm positive that they will see the light of day in this finals series.

Good luck for Valentines' game!

020907 game (Game 1)--bad start for finals

2007-02-09T21:41:00.001-08:00

The short pre-game program was spectacular, the montage of the players on and of the court was dramatic but nice naman, and the introduction of the lineups from the Brgy. Ginebra Kings and San Miguel Beermen was just as fantastic!

Am I overacting? Ok, the show was good enough, and it would've been a lovely dessert to the main course, so to speak--that is, the whole buffet wasn't for us, though.

For this entirely belonged to the Beermen who drew first blood from the Kings to the tune of whopping 118-94 in Game 1 of the Philippine Cup championships. From a fan, naturally, I was so disappointed by this whole affair.

The Beermen controlled the game from start to finish--in this case, smothered the opposition, eventhough they're both sister teams. SMB let not chances for Ginebra to execute their famous run-and-gun game that has been exciting legions of fans.

I was also bored, watching the Beermen do their own thing--slowly and calculatingly bringing down the tempo to full effect, especially in their offense. But their transition defense especially halted the Kings that prevented them in doing fastbreak attempts, and more so when SMB's focused really hard on Jayjay Helterbrand that he failed to orchestrate effectively and limited his knack for speed, and so Ginebra's offense went off the rails, really. Helterbrand, who averages about 14 assits in the semis, made only 3 last night on top of measly 6 points.

The worse thing going for Ginebra was the rebounding problem. San Miguel were lucky bastards, they had the massive Dorian Pena to box out for the offensive boards especially, and even he even made a couple of three-point plays in the fourth (they weren't completed, but they were big psychological boosters nonetheless). I saw no red shirts (Ginebra) waiting under the ring for the looseball, or much aggressively struggling for it.Ginebra failure to man the defense on the perimeter opened up shooters like Lordy Tugade and Dondon Hontiveros because the Kings had focused too much particularly on Danny Seigle, who exploded early in the first quarter. Tugade waxed hot with four triples in the first half, and at that point, because Tugade was so good and unstoppable at that, I had the urge to strangle him.

Dammit, Chris Calaguio just threw the ball away in a desperation act, eh medyo patalikod na siya't matutumba na--eh pasok pa rin! Buzzer-beating, off-balanced basket na, eh three-point play pa! Calaguio made it with a foul off Abarrientos and he completed the play, padding up the Beermen's lead to 20 points, 42-62, at the end of first half. Grrr!!!

Ginebra almost caught up with SMB, 23-27, in the first, then tried again to close in at 11, 53-64, after a 11-2 run since the start of the third period. But it was all for naught--the Beermen smelled a rally in the offing and wisely put an end to it with their deliberate execution that silenced the majority of the 14,000-plus paying fans inside the Big Dome.

Another going for SMB was the lucky breaks. Coach Jong Uichico, now against his former team, was slapped with a technical in the third after he indignantly protested a wrong call on Ronald Tubid. And it was a right and reasonable protest indeed! Tubid, getting "sticky" against Olsen Racela who was dribbling the leather and fast moving about, all of a sudden leapt over Racela who tried to race against the former but slipped and fell. Well, there wasn't any contact whatsoever! It was Olsen who just lost his balance and skidded all by himself, probably bothered by Tubid's defense. Hmp, the Beermen really got away with this...

My cousin half-quipped, "Bayad na yan", referring to the game; I just really wished Red Bull should have been Ginebra's opponent in the finals so that we wouldn't at least suspect that there's something anomalous off the court. Then she grumbled about Ginebra's loose-jointed defense. "Dapat si Tubid na lang ang dumedepensa dyan eh." And I agreed with her--it was Tubid who was active defensively. He went up against Racela, even the big men of SMB like Seigle and Pena--kahit sino sa kanila, walang patawad talaga depensa ni Tubid, hehehe.

But what killed Ginebra most was the sizzling shooting of the Beermen--even when they committed quite a lot of turnovers in the first half (with 17 or 18 methinks), they compensated with high-percentage field goals. Ginebra couldn't even latch a sureball even with some good, open looks. Para bang nakasara yung ring pag Ginebra yung mag-a-attempt.

It was really a disaster. A murder. I think the Beermen had the knowledge beforehand about Ginebra's moves, since the Kings are now under their former mentor. Dammit.

Oh well, I felt so lazy watching this game. I hope Ginebra will get back at the Beermen tomorrow. They haven't beaten those guys in this conference yet. I wish that this time, the Kings will now have the last laugh over their sister team in the finals. Good luck in Game 2! =)

020907 game (Game 1)--bad start for finals; Bubble Gang does Monty Python (again!!!)

2007-02-09T21:41:00.000-08:00

020407 game--finals naaaa (naman)!!!!

2007-02-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

In a physically and emotionally burning fashion particularly in the 2nd half, our Kings had finally conquered Talk N Text, 98-89, to grab the first finals seat...wooohooo!!! =)

The Phonepals at first controlled much of the pace, but the Kings weren't so much far behind, although they couldn't contain the perimerter attacks led by Jimmy Alapag, who swished triples like a man possessed.

Early in the third quarter, the environs inside Araneta were mostly quiet--I could actually hear the solitary "swoosh" from nowhere by the once-mild-tempered Macmac Cardona that piled up TnT's lead by 10, 47-57, with still 8:14 to go. Napakatahimik naman kasi eh. But it was a loud red alert enough for the Kings to talk things over the bench.

Mark Caguioa was the "mark-"ed man at the moment for he was obviously hounded by TnT's defense so he couldn't use much of notorious quickness (he was somewhat relegated to being an "assist"-ant before he recovered some of his bearings in the final period). TnT guards were limiting the Kings' offensive moves by breaking off the "engine"--Jayjay Helterbrand that is. Sunday Salvacion went on missing 3-pt attempts. Geez, what was left of the team????

First, Billy Mamaril joined in the "fray" though he failed his own 3 field goal attempts in a row right after he was fielded in and in addition committed some fouls, he provided quality minutes. He did a good defensive work on Asi, as well as holding his own quite well in his offensive action against the latter that got Asi his 4th personal foul (pinalakpakan pa yun ehehehe). He scored 5 points in that quarter--he was the man for the moment.

With Asi in foul trouble and being forced to sit out for a while, Ginebra wasted no time in cashing on it. From 32-59 since after Mamaril's foul shots with 5:19, they began to solidify their defense that yielded into an exciting 12-4 rally, 64-65 (Caguioa was in a slump of sorts that he couldn't even seal freethrows, but that's ok). Nabuhayan ulit ang mga taga-barangay!

Another man of the hour was the always-intrepid Ronald Tubid. Geez, his defense was as sticky as the kakanin but also as strong and flexible as the Elasto seal that many TnT players he guarded couldn't even "leak out". Sweet shooter Renren Ritualo wasn't even seen holding the leather at that time because of Tubid's defense. And his harrassment on Cardona even brought some physical entanglements as well as flaring temper on Cardona, was already saddling with his first 'T'. Mamaril had fouled him, but Cardona, obviously irritated, missed both ft's.

The next incidents became more tearing and tense. Hot buttons were clearly pressed and basketball was transformed into a sort of a body-slamming match. Eh kasi naman, talagang makulit lang depensa ni Tubid that finally sent Cardona packing for good just before the end of the third period. In their own collision, Tubid as usual was persistently covering Cardona, e hindi na makaporma si Cardona. Tubid fell, and his and Cardona's legs were entangled. As Cardona tried to get away from Tubid, he kicked the latter in the midsection. Ayun flagrant foul si Cardona, to the defeaning jeers of the pro-Ginebra crowd. Nabuwisit eh.

Well, Cardona's ejection was certainly a big factor for the Kings as well as a big loss for TnT, for he really is a perimeter threat. Ginebra, in Game 5, almost slipped the game out of their hands because of Cardona (and Asi).

After the emotionally-charged encounter, Tubid made freethrows, and the next, because of his excellent 'D', snitched the leather. Caguioa eventually scored, 71-63, which brought us cheers although we knew, as Quinito Henson said, it wasn't a safe lead yet. Anything could happen. And that happened--Ritualo hit the triple at the end of the third quarter, 71-66, and with another triple, 71-69, this time at the start of the final period! Nakakainis!!!

Ginebra held on after Mamaril's basket, 71-69. But Caguioa missed another open attempt (it certainly wasn't his night) and what's worse, they started to committ a lot of fouls. The team had 2 fouls already while it was still too early, and Jayjay Helterbrand and Tubid later on got their own offensive fouls. Not surprisingly, it fueled for a TnT juggernaut. From the start of the period, the Phone Pals overtook the Kings with a 9-3 run, 74-75, that was topped by Asi's big 3-pt play over Caguioa, with still 8:24 to go. Ginebra had no other recourse but to call for a timeout.

It was a pain to watch that there was no one to box out Asi for the boards. But Rudy Hatfield took the reins in the shaded, scoring strong at close-range and grabbing a lot of rebounds. This time around, Ginebra's full-court defense became more stubborn.
TnT led by four, 79-83, with 5:58 left, but because of Hatfield's and Salvacion's heroics, Ginebra grabbed the lead once more, 90-83. tubid made a real cool baseline jumper that still kept their rivals at bay, 92-84, and did another incredibly high leap again for the rebound. The fans were coming back in full throttled this time. It was exciting. It was really fun! Ginebra did fantastically towards the endgame... nakaupo pa si Caguioa niyan ha! ;)

TnT attempted to give Ginebra a little scare. After Alapag's basket, 92-86 with 1:12 left, the Kings called for a full timeout. But Tubid, in an inbound play, couldn't find an open man to pass the ball, and was forced to call for a 30-sec. In their next play, bewilderment ensued. Helterbrand missed his driving attempt, but thanks, Sunday was there to save the game. Hatfield scored and though he failed to complete the 3-pt play, ok na rin yun! The seconds were just winding down and the fans were whooping it all up... they were already smelling the victory... Alapag stunned them a bit with a triple, but Rafi Reavis scored a big slam that really got the crowd wild! What's more, Tubid forced a big turnover from Ritualo (?) on TnT's inbound play... and that got us cheering and obviously celebrating clamorously but joyfully. We knew the game was theirs... no, OURS, completely, as well as the sure entry to the championships. Yeheeeyyyy!!! After 2 years, nasa finals na naman tayo, wooohooo!!!

Well, even without Eric Menk around and more so with Caguioa "not doing so well" (he scored "only" 16 points--only about his average) and not on his usual score-chugging explosive self, Ginebra can win big games! Hats off to everyone in the team, particularly Hatfield and most especially Tubid, whose defense was crucial to the team's victory. And of course, once again, their never-say-die philosophy was more than just utilized here... the spirit was proudly held and waved aloft, it was heard with every loud, nervous heartbeats of the fans and the playes themselves, it was shown through the wild, riant, jubilant cheering as a gesture of love and support for the team...

Before waxing sentimentality here, congrats also to Johnny A. for another milestone in his career in the steals department. He has outdone Ramon Fernandez, obviously, with 1,303, only two snitches higher than those of El Presidente's. Well, that's another fur in the wide-brimmed cap, so to speak. Congrats Johnny! =)

In the second game, Red Bull forced a Game 7 over San Miguel, and that's the way I wanted to happen. That means Ginebra now have the luxury to rest for a while, and lots time for practice. They'll just have to stand by who they will face on Game 1 finals... well anyway, great job, guys! =)

Best of luck sa championships!!!

Well, just because of excitement, I had forgotten to take a bath until just after the game... I was too lazy to do this because it was freezing cold... nakakatamad maligo, hehehehe =P

020207 game--spared from the scare!

2007-02-02T19:19:00.000-08:00

My hands felt cold and clammy with sweat. I sensed strong shivers that rang up inside my ears. My heart was still palpitating, but not as madly as before. My chattering teeth were still there, but I found my tongue to utter few intelligible words. I wore pyjamas and layers of clothing, but I still felt chilly.

In addition to the butt-numbing and almost freezing February weather, our Barangay Ginebra Kings performed another one of their classic escapes, this time via a 108-105 pulsating victory over Talk N Text in Game 5 of their own Philippine Cup semis tussle. :)

While being out of my writing duties for a while (as well as waiting for my "due" for my e-commerce proposal), for the moment I was able to do now what I missed doing. It's been a long time since I posted a Kings game recap...

Anyway, TnT started the game with a 5-0 run, and I was a bit worried that they were going to finish the game onward. But Ginebra got back with its own 17-4 surprise a little before the last 7 minutes in the first period. Their interior defense was solid that translated into high-percentage goals. Second qtr. witnessed some of the most exciting shows... whether deliberate or not, hehehe. Was that a long assist by Mark Caguioa to a waiting Rafi Reavis at the goal or was that Caguioa's distant airball from a failed 3-pt. attempt with Reavis just happening to be near the basket and just picking up the leather up and making a shot? Either way, it was nevertheless spectacular.

The King enjoyed a 21-point lead 59-38, and that was the result of their tough lane defense, running game as well as brilliant show-stoppers on the side. The Phone Pals managed to trim it a bit before the first half ended.

I had expected a bit that they'd show their notorious complacency once they rest on a soft, big cushion, so to speak--and sure enough, they began to almost fall off in its sleep!

Tnt's Macmac Cardona practically started the offensive work. His big three-pointers, among other factors, brought TnT within just 11 points, 63-52 that promptly called for a timeout from the Kings' bench. Later on Cardona sustained a wound just above his right eye and I failed to spot where did he get it but I could see some blood trickling down on the side of his face. He requested for an injury timeout to receive some treatment... of course things like that happen, but as a Ginebra fan, as diabolically (!) as I could be I just wished Cardona wouldn't return to the fold, ehehehe.

The Kings still managed to keep TnT at bay. They began to double- or triple-team Asi whenever he had the ball and made "pihit" towards the basket. The Phone Pals were the first to go into the penalty, but Ginebra, out of tension perhaps to the fact the their rivals were coming closer, were missing a lot of foul shots. Worse, they began to committ several errors. And much, much worse, TnT capitalized them with much success that they were now just four points away, 69-64, with still six minutes in third. Bigla akong naasar at ninerbyos at the same time.
And even much, much, much worse, Cardona returned to the fold, never minding the little wound (which was plastered with cotton or something like that!) and instead going back to business. Ginebra still regained some of their lost lead, 79-69, but TnT began to apply some backcourt pressure and interior defense that threw the Kings out of synch, making them to committ more costly mistakes. But thanks to Caguioa's salvaging baskets, the Kings still emerged on top, 87-80 at the end of this period.

TnT kept the "formula" at the early stages of the final period that got the Kings fish off their first 2 fouls... and it was still 11:26! Grrrrrr!!!! Nakakainis!!! Ginebra continued to botch freethrows, which was more frustrating and frightening now to be honest. And then Cardona, despite the injury, threatened with his perimeter shots, scoring eight points in TnT's 12-5 rally to finally tie the game, 92-all, with still 7:51 remaining. Ronald Tubid (who did an unbelievably, amazingly high vertical leap that towered several inches behind--and over--Asi in a looseball action. O ha!) scored, 94-92, but Cardona evened it again before he summoned for another 30 second timeout kasi nagdudugo na naman yung sugat niya.

Cagiuoa broke the tie with a technical freethrow (TnT coach Derick Pumaren was the offender), 96-95, but Asi took quick retaliation with a three-point play that regained them the lead! I slapped my notebook in sheer fury and disgust... and more so when I saw Ginebra committ a couple more turnovers (one through an offensive foul by Jayjay Helterbrand and another from an ill-advised pass by Reavis).

Well, the pro-Ginebra crowd inside the Araneta fell damn silent and the feeling was as cold as the weather all right, while a small section of TnT fans whooped it all up thinking they'd be getting their last laugh. Now TnT were leading by 6, 95-101, with 3:31 to go... and I feared that, with the momentum shifting on them and the seconds were quickly winding down, they might pull it all away... I almost didn't want to finish watching the game... :(

Until a sign of hope arrived... Asi picked up his fourth personal foul. He charged a guarding Reavis and leapt for what a sure basket. Nagtatatalon na naman sa tuwa yung taga-bench ng TnT and their fans, while I began to wail indignantly, "Ha? Three-point play na naman?". Pero yun pala, it was actually an offensive foul by Asi, tinapik niya kasi si Reavis as the former went to the basket, hehehe. Fear and hope melded inside me. I was trembling even more. I was excited. I felt that this was the climax-turning point--a major misdeed by Asi.

Then Asi got his fifth foul, with only 1:12 left. Since TnT (as well as Ginebra), were in the penalty, Reavis was awarde foul attempts, but he split his charities, 102-105. Asi then scored quickly and that prompted the Kings a much-needed timeout, with 49.6 seconds to go. In their play, Sunday Salvacion was fouled, and he completed freethrows. After this, with 39.9 ticks to spare, Ginebra called for another timeout, this time to plan for their defensive stop. I guessed they talked about concentrating on Asi, but I also prayed they wouldn't make a big mistake or else freethrows again for TnT...

And what a brilliant, clean stop they did! I forgot how it exactly went but all I remember was that Asi's attempt was blocked by long-limbed Reavis, then Helterbrand clutched the looseball and then hurled a long assist to Caguioa, running towards the other side of the court, and almost alone towards the basket, 106-105... all of a sudden, Ginebra na ang lamang, woohoo!!! =) =) =)
It was only 17.7 seconds left and although I knew that anything could happen, at least medyo nakahinga na ko nang maluwag... well, I shouted almost interminably as I see Caguioa sprinting and the TnT players were running after him.

In TnT's last offensive attempt, Jimmy Alapag maneuvered towards the side lane against defenders but slipped and fell to the floor so he lost hold of the leather. Caguioa quickly cut in and snagged the looseball across the court, then threw the last assist to Helterbrand for the game-saving and game-winning basket... and with only 6/10's of a second left, the game was practically over! And the crowd got eternally wild and noisy, joyfully celebrating the victorious escape!

It was a close shave! You can't help but regret a bit that Ginebra wasted a huge lead before almost blowing it all up (and they missed 18 big freethrow attempts at that), but a win is a win, and I'm sooooo very happy about it. :)

Thumbs-up for Caguioa, who erupted with 31 points (sabi ng isang banner Mark Caguioa daw for senator, hahahaha!), Helterbrand with 15 points and big 16 assists, Rudy Hatfield with 21 markers, and big plays by Salvacion, Reavis and Tubid. And of course, their sixth man... the crowd, of course. Even in the last nerve-wracking moments where the Kings would almost lose out, their famous "never-say-die" spirit really gave a big boost that saved them from sure defeat.

3-2 na sila ngayon, hehehehe... sana go for the kill na sila bukas. Good luck! =)
Ummmmm.... I was tired but happy, yet for now I wanted to have some aftershock and listen to some soothing music to calm my frayed nerves...

***

I never bothered before to find out as to who actually invented or discovered Monosodium Glutamate or vetsin, the main culprit of my migraines. Though I'm aware that Ajinomoto is a Japanese product, I had the notion that the Chinese were the ones who invented or discovered it, and that MSG is an age-old, best-kept-secret food preservative and that the Japanese only gave it a nice "dressing" and began to commercialize its use.

Nights before I was browsing at an old cookbook. I wanted to prepare new recipes for the next day's lunch. While thumbing through pages, I saw the book's supplement. One is a San Miguel ad and another is an Ajinomoto ad. I hadn't seen these for a long time and they made me kinda nostalgic so I took delight in reading them.

Then my eyes got curious on the next paragraph of the Ajinomoto ad: WHO INVENTED MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE? So naturally I got curious as to find out who was the suspect of this "crime". Then I read it aloud to my sister, as if reading out a death sentence:

"MSG was invented by the late Doctor Kikunae Ikeda, Proferssor Emeritus of the Imperial University of Tokyo and was first put on a large industrial production scale by Ajinomoto Co., Inc. the original and world's manufacturer of this super seasoning"

Dammit! If this Ikeda-san only knew... his invention is much worse and maims more people than what the atomic bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki did much harm, or than what the Yakuza guys have victimized and slaughtered.

Well, who could have thought that this gullible-looking, snowy-white preservative has the potential to injure or even kill people? If you're the sort who indulges ingesting MSG and enjoys foodstuffs containing that and actually can't live without it, well, that's the primrose path towards your grave, unless you know how to avoid getting there.

Sometimes, the Japs are evil lots indeed. =P

go for the chill! =P

2006-12-26T03:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas eve and Christmas day... from noche buena up to 3 am, I'd been making a pig out of myself. Two reasons: to gain more weight and to cope. I was eating nonstop and at the same time writing. In the wee hours of Christmas I was receiving text greetings from my few trusted friends up (and one ex-client) and in turn I texted them back with my own Christmas wishes. I was glad they remembered me!

At about nine am, I woke up, then ate again, afterwards I pestered my longtime Friendster pal by text then called him up (it occured to me that he wrongly remembered our landline number). It was a good relief to have found some kindered (isolated) spirit to hear and to spill my thoughts with--few about music (he's a musician with two or three side bands!), poetry (he recited Jim Morrison's fragmented "verses" as well as Pablo Neruda's) and suicide (hold it! Though I do admit I'm lonely my mind doesn't even go toward that kind of borderline! Di ako magpapakamatay dahil lang sa isang lalaki -- I won't take my own life just because of a guy). It was also the chance for me to verbally convey my apologies to him for the stupid question I had texted him not too long ago. And I was glad to know that it was nothing to brood over (I correctly sensed he's just as sensitive as I am). Cheerios! At least I've tidied up this small mess I created.

He told me that he gets more depressed during the Christmas season itself. Well, I chimed in with him completely. But before the moment he said that, my own holiday frustrations just snowballed already, so to speak, so it culminated into the poem below. I wrote this before going to bed. How ironic I did this on Christmas.

***
Under Bright Lights

Under bright lights
Empty epicenter
Where loves and lives
Are each torn asunder
Sweet-smelling primrose paths
Leading to dead ends
And unmended hearts

Under bright lights
The golden rays blind us
And then our eyes
Bring out tears that despise us
Notwithstanding pleas
To wolves clad like sheep
True love that brings to knees
True promises they never keep

Under bright lights
Southern smiles
Endless flights
Rotten styles
Everyone buys
Dreams that run dry
Everyone dies
By smallest lies

***
Hmmm... do I feel better now?

Happy holidays everybody! I hope your Christmas isn't as chilly as mine...

digging up my old verses...

2006-12-26T02:41:00.000-08:00

This poem's title is where I got the name for this blog. Actually it originated from the titles of two The Divine Comedy albums A Secret History and the much obscure (and technically first) album Fanfare For The Comic Muse. This is the most perfectly-measured poem I've ever done so far (if you count the syllables of the first line and the next other line, each is uttered the same)

I wrote this almost five years ago, when I was just starting to get acquainted with Neil Hannon's quirky musical style. And being much younger then, I used to get really dotty over him, like treating him as an unlikely matinee idol or something to that effect. Now, of course, over the years the mini-"obsession" turned into mature admiration and respect for Neil and his body of work.

When I first wrote to Neil, I once decided to send the poem to him, but later on junked the idea. Besides, he doesn't really like to read poems as far as I know, and had I done that he could've seen me as a psycho or something. Hehehehe!

Without further you-know-what, here it is.

***

A Secret Fanfare

I may not give you a perfect lovesong
Because nothing (or no one) is
But if I could find that perfect someone
It's you, and my eyes aren't amiss
Obviously not tall, dark but handsome
And you are my only weasly Casanova
In hours I could sit by my lonesome
With headphones on, to you, oh my sweet dilemma!
I hear sweet baritone croons, that swoon me so fatally
So I'd turn the lights down low and the stereo up high
For lush melodies to kill for, yet kill me so softly
But I love you the most, I do so much that I could die
Well, I try to be like you
'Cause you are my muse
So I try to write like you
But it is no use
Well, I even try to sing like you
Though nature never lets me to
But that's a hobby I won't rue
Ah, sometimes, I can really do
I couldn't proclaim completely,
That "everybody knows, except you",
Though I can proclaim completely
That "I love you, I need you," that's true!
Oh yeah, this is real obsession
That's an excuse for me to get inspired, and
I'd lock up and do my confession:
"Oh please, take me, divine lad from Ireland!"

***
Silly, isn't it?

from the suggestion vox...

2006-12-21T21:17:00.000-08:00

Yep, vox, not box. I signed up here by my eldest sister's request, which is nothing earthly wrong about. :)

Hello everyone! I've been blogging occasionally but it's on the other website, so I plan to uncork and share my thoughts and feelings and bitchings to everyone else concerned here in Blogspot. But I've been writing a lot of nonsense (poems included) since I was 14, when I once attempted to write a novel that obviously never went into full realization (with nary a climax just yet), and I found out how frustrated I was in completing it. Oh well...

Until this year I've been scribbling by the traditional pen and paper, and still nothing beats like old school! I'm still keeping journals that way, including the entries about my past crushes, my weird encounters, and my first love life (and love life woe), and music reviews and also journals on games of my favorite basketball team, as well as verses, some of them deal with the real life but most of them deal with my endless travels of my imagination (and the roads are really bumpy enough).

I feel more comfortable in writing because I'm never too articulate enough to express my emotions verbally. It's like talking to myself at first, and then now that I'm here, I'll be talking to you guys, albeit facelessly. I feel more at ease doing it. And how could I actually speak my verses to you (with or without a megaphone, maybe)? I'd be a folly doing that.

I wish I'd done this here earlier. Much of the 365 days are the worst I've spent in my whole life--physically and emotionally (I think they're worth writing about). But here I am, alive. Bleeding but alive. I hope next year would be better, but of course I'd have to watch out for the worse things in life. I'm my own's sentinel. I had to keep this tough artifice to hide behind my weakness. People really think I'm much stronger than they are. But of course, I also break down and weep until my eyes are crimson and swollen (and I did that last month until on my own birthday--and my mother would ask me why I was crying). I'm the sort who throws the past in a slingshot. I could forgive, but never forget. I could say sorry, but I could still never forget. Because if I do, there would be no lessons to pick up.

But I have no choice but to live in the present. Come what may. Que sera, sera. I cross my fingers. Sorry about my gripes. Oh, here I go again... *sigh*