Okay, so you're right: Jason Mraz's I'm Yours already has a reggae beat. And although I still think that nothing beats Mraz's original version, no one can deny that Ten Feet's version is good, too. ^_^ And with them being actual Hawaiians, I think their rendition gives it a dash more of that aloha feel. Hehe.




Ha! Resist nodding your head to the rhythm, I dare you! (I know I can't!)

Labels: jason mraz, music, ten feet

Posted by sarah at 2:29 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

After the dust settled after American Idol, this is the artist I went repeat-play on.

I first heard about Yael Naïm when I was looking for the name meaning of "Yael". I was going to use it for one of my books... but that's another story for another time.

After a bit of reading on Wiki, I found out that Yael has been around since 2001, but only hit the big time when her song New Soul was used for the advertising campaign for MacBook Air.

Best thing about Yael? Her sound. She uses bare acoustic guitars or piano, occasionally inserting violins and Middle Eastern-sounding instruments. Her voice is smooth and a bit husky at the same time. Her music can feel like Edith Piaf in one track, Tori Amos in the next, and then you get Norah Jones meets Natasha Bedingfield meets Regina Spektor... and it all feels so.... right. If her CD was a fruit, it would have an addicting exotic taste that makes you go for seconds.

Read full post...I love how she renders her songs; she gives each one a very unique mark. Okay, fine, so most of her songs really are hers, but I love it how they all sound similar, but unique at the same time. I think this becomes obvious in her stripped down version of Toxic. Which "Toxic", you ask? Well, that Toxic. The one that is Britney's. Yeah, that one. I never really liked the original song, but MAN I loved Yael's version. It's not only completely unexpected but it's just amazing how anyone can turn a song like that into something cool and jazzy and elegant.

Oh, and her French-Israeli accent doesn't hurt, either.

Initially, my favorite song in the album was New Soul. It's just so... so... loveable. Haha! The tune is catchy, the phrasing is amusing, and the way Yael sang it just makes me smile. Paris comes in a close second. But I just have to say this again: the whole album -- the songs be English, French or Hebrew -- is completely repeat-play worthy.

I put up my playlist to let you have a taste of Yael Naïm. (New Soul lyrics follow after me playlist.)



I'm a new soul
I came to this strange world
hoping I could learn a bit about how to give and take.
But since I came here
felt the joy and the fear
finding myself making every possible mistake

la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la...

I'm a young soul
in this very strange world
hoping I could learn a bit about what is true and fake.
But why all this hate?
Try to communicate.
Finding trust and love is not always easy to make.

la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la...

This is a happy end
'cause you don't understand
everything you have done
Why's everything so wrong

This is a happy end
come and give me your hand
I'll take your far away.

I'm a new soul
I came to this strange world
hoping I could learn a bit about how to give and take
but since I came here
felt the joy and the fear
finding myself making every possible mistake

la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la...

la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la....

Labels: music, new soul, reviews, yael naim, Yael Naïm

Posted by sarah at 1:23 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Now I can say it with conviction: the song rocks. Ryan Gillmor's music and lyrics made me root for it ever since the songwriting contest... And when I heard David Archuleta sing it, MAN! I admit I didn't think it would sound this good, but wow, it gave me goosebumps @_@




Mother, can you hear me for the first time I see
born into eyes not by my own decision
take me away from a life with no vision
step down from the subway,
climb the staircase to the street
spinning in circles and holding on tight
to this moment forever
if only tonight

I wanna be in this moment, no one can take it from me
I wanna stay in this moment, no one can take it away from me

Driving through the city for the first time you and me
staring through windows at my own reflection
how can a window encompass perfection
now that I know what it's like to be living
this beautiful world will never stop giving
I can't return to a life with no vision
born into eyes not by my own decision

I wanna be in this moment, no one can take it from me
I wanna stay in this moment, no one can take it away from me

Watching the world through the eyes of a child
sitting alone in my room
wishing that someone would take me away someday
give me a chance and I'll show you what's real
open your eyes and you'll see
that I'm stuck in a moment and no one can take it from me

I wanna be in this moment, no one can take it from me
I wanna stay in this moment, no one can take it away from me

Labels: american idol, in this moment, lyrics, music, ryan gillmor

Posted by sarah at 2:12 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Why, yes, I've turned into fangirl mush. Seriously.

It's common knowledge that I'm a David Archuleta fan. And it's also common knowledge that most of his performances make me grin like a doofus, but MAN. This one takes the cake! David A sang And So It Goes (Billy Joel), With You (Chris Brown) and Longer (Dan Fogelberg) for the Top 3 night.

David's performance of And So It Goes was brilliant! GENIUS. Mhay ghulay, muntik akong maiyak sa kinauupuan ko. Paula, thank you thank you for choosing this for him! The song is already beautiful, and I've always like Sara Gazarek's version, but David's rendition was... was... ARGH! (I would've liked David to linger a bit more on the pauses, but, hey, that's just me.)

With You was okay. My favorite fast-paced song for David still remains to be Shop Around (60's week), though.

Longer pales in comparison to And So It Goes, but I'm not really complaining.

That kid should win, I tells ya!
(But you know what? I actually think that Cookey will win even though I life Archey better. But let's keep that a secret. Sssssh!)

Labels: american idol, david archuleta, music

Posted by sarah at 1:46 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Just to feel Your arms around me
Just to know Your grace has found me
Just to hear Your voice surround me
Calling my name

That is why I live
That is why I move
That is why my heart can not go on without You
That is why I sing
That is why I cry
That is why no other love but You will satisfy

Just to stand beside You knowing
Your promise that You're never going
Never leaving, always holding
Holding my hand

That is why I live
That is why I move
That is why my heart can not go on without You
That is why I sing
That is why I cry
That is why no other love but You will satisfy
That is why

Just to hear Your voice surround me
Calling my name...

---

That is Why
by Christ for the Nations

Labels: faith, lyrics, music

Posted by sarah at 2:00 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

My ultimate stress-buster of the month. Haha! When I get too stressed out I just play this song and it gets me smiling in seconds. On desperate situations, I watch the video. Heehee.



Lyrics...

Humuhumunukunukuapua'a
High School Musical 2
Performed by: Ryan (Lucas Gabreel) and Sharpay (Ashley Tisdale)

Narrator:
A long time ago
In a land far away
Lived a pineapple princess Tiki
She's as sweet as a peach
In a pineapple way
But so sad that she hardly speaky
Still if you listen well
You’ll hear her secret wish

Tiki:
(Aloha, everybody, my name is Tiki!)
I long to free
A truly remarkable fish
My sweet prince

Humu humu nuku nuku apua'a
Maki hiki malihini who
Humu humu nuku nuku apua'a
Ooh...
Hawana waka waka waka niki
Pu pu pu

(Ryan, the fog!)

Narrator:
She dreams of a boy
Who is under a spell
That has left him all
Wet and scaly

Tiki:
I sing from my heart
Of the power of love
Just a girl with uka-lele

Come to me,
My sweet one, and be still
I’ll grasp your tail
Then stroke each tender gill
My sweet prince

Humu humu nuku nuku apua'a
Maki hiki malihini who
Humu humu nuku nuku apua'a
Ooh...
Hawana waka waka waka niki
Pu pu pu

(Now this is where we lean
into the whole kabuki thing)

The clouds turned grey
And the big sky cried
And the ocean had a fit

(Ryan, where is my ocean?)

Then the wind went whoosh
And thunder cracked
And mighty Mount Fufu spit

Mighty Mount Fufu spit!

T-T-T-Tiki T-Tiki,
Wanna speaky, speaky, speaky
With the mighty spirit Fufu
T-T-T-Tiki T-Tiki,
Wanna speaky, speaky, speaky

Tiki:
The words I will not mince
Please make a man of my fresh fish prince

(This is real fish talk. No lie.)

(And then the fish
Turns into a gorgeous prince
And sings...)

Tiki: [male voice]
I'm prince
Humu humu nuku nuku apua'a
A Maki hiki malahini who

(With me!)
Humu humu nuku nuku apua'a
Ooh...
Hawana waka waka waka niki
Pu pu pu

(Everybody!)

Humu humu nuku nuku apua'a
Maki hiku malihini who
Humu humu nuku nuku apua'a
Ooh...
Hawana waka waka waka niki Pu pu pu
waka waka waka niki Pu pu pu
Waka waka waka niki
Puuuuuu
Puuuuuu
Puuuuuu

Labels: high school musical, music, randomness

Posted by sarah at 11:44 AM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Performed by Nikki Blonsky
Hairspray 2007 OST


On my own,
There's no chaperone
But my heart still is mine
For the keeping
Tracy, take a rest
You can pass this test
You can still dream your dream while you're sleeping

If I can just stay true to the steps I've taken
It will all come through,
If it's fate, let it be
Cause now I see, I Can Wait

Change takes time
It's a long, hard climb
But I'll get to the top if I'm steady

And where love's concerned,
well, I guess I've learned
Just to trust he'll be here
When he's ready

If I can just stay true
to the steps I've taken
It will all come through
I'll let fate, set the date
It's okay I Can Wait

Plant the tiniest seed down below
Tend it well,
Then stand back and just watch it grow
Watch me grow

If I can just stay true
to the steps I have taken
It will all come through
Name the date and say when
But 'till then, I Can Wait

Labels: hairspray, music, repeat play

Posted by sarah at 5:59 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

You're a falling star, You're the get away car.
You're the line in the sand when I go too far.
You're the swimming pool, on an August day.
And You're the perfect thing to say.

And you play your card, but it's kinda cute.
Ah, When you smile at me you know exactly what you do.
Baby don't pretend, that you don't know it's true.
Cause you can see it when I look at you.

And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing.
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.

You're a carousel, you're a wishing well,
And you light me up, when you ring my bell.
You're a mystery, you're from outer space,
You're every minute of my everyday.

And I can't believe, uh that I'm your man,
And I get to kiss you baby just because I can.
Whatever comes our way, ah we'll see it through,
And you know that's what our love can do.

And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.

So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La
So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La

And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times
It's you, it's you, You make me sing.
You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.
You're every song, and I sing along.
Cause you're my everything.
Yeah, yeah

So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La
So, La, La, La, La, La, La, La


-----------
Everything by Michael Buble

Labels: michael buble, music, repeat play

Posted by sarah at 5:20 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

It don't matter to the sun
If you go or if you stay
No, the sun is gonna rise, gonna rise
Shine down on another day
There will be tomorrow
Even if you choose to leave
Cuz it don't matter to the sun no, no
It matters to me

It ain't gonna stop the world
If you walk out that door
This old world just keeps spinning round, spinning round
Like it did the day before
Cuz to them it makes no difference
It just keeps on keeping time
Cuz it ain't gonna stop the world no
But it'll be the end of mine

So what can I say?
What can I do?
I'm still in love.
Why aren't you?

Cuz it don't matter to the moon
If your not in my life
No the moon will just keep hanging round, hanging round
Like its just another night
Who find another place to shine
On some other lovers dreams
Cuz it don't matter to the moon no, no
It matters to me

Cuz it don't matter to the moon no, no
But it matters to me


--------
It Don't Matter to the Sun
by Rosie Thomas

Used for the Heroes season 2 trailer.

Labels: music, repeat play

Posted by sarah at 1:12 AM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

"What do you want to be when you grow up?"

Ah, yes. One of the most commonly-asked questions when we were all kids. I know for a fact that most kids tend to have phases where they keep changing that thing they want to grew up to be. I, myself, had phases. But the strange thing about me is that the phases started when I was in high school. At one point I said that I wanted to be an actress. And then a voice talent. And then an artist (a comic book colorist, to be specific). And then, when I was around 16, I said I wanted to be a web designer (which I am now). One thing that was constant was my desire to be a professional writer on the side.

But, what about when I was a kid, though?

I'm not sure if many people know about this, but, as far as I can remember up until I was in 5th grade, I had one clear ambition. I said that I wanted to be a piano extraordinaire. Seriously. I said "piano extraordinaire". When I was six years old. That had to be the first big word I learned. So I studied piano, and, eventually...

I covered my piano with a pretty-looking cloth, and didn't play again.

The reason behind that is long story for another day.

But, around two weeks ago, something happened that I didn't think would happen in a really long time.

I sat on my piano bench, put my fingers on the keys, and played. Read full post...

The catalyst was the Nodame Rhapsody. I so love the melody, and when I saw the music sheet, I just had to play it because I knew that I could. Yes, even with my current state of piano-playing.

I wondered if I should wear headphones (so I could keep my horrid sound of my rusty piano-playing all to myself), but decided not to. I hadn't even gotten to the 5th measure when my parents came down from their room. My dad goes, "Wow, it's been, what, 6 years since you played?"

Oh, sheesh, do I sound so bad that it's obvious?

As it turns out, though, my dad said that because he missed hearing me play. But, as touching and encouraging as that should be, I felt really, really conscious because of that, which further worsened my playing. Haha! And here I thought it wouldn't be possible.

The truth is: for the last several years, I played every once in a while but just for, like, a few minutes for a few days, and then I'd desert my piano again. But, for the past two weeks, I've been playing piano regularly, nearly every day, for about 15 minutes to an hour.

That's what my violin teacher told me once. He told me that "being busy is not an excuse to not hold your intrument".

Like, ouch.

He said that if I was insanely busy, I should still spare at least 15 minutes to practice at least my bowing. Well, when my violin was still okay, I really did that, and it helped my progress skyrocket. Sadly, it plummeted back to zero again when my violin strings snapped, and I couldn't find anyone who could successfully restring it. I tried, I swear, but...yeah. No such luck. My violin's just gathering up dust. Hmf.

So, anyway, I continued playing every day -- except weekends. I try to catch up on sleep and chores on weekends -- and I even unearthed my old pieces.

Surprisingly, my muscles remember a number of them. Totally muscle-memory. For some pieces, I couldn't remember the notes, but when I close my eyes and, using my ear to start on the right note, I found that I can let my fingers fly and play the whole thing. Sure, I hit more than one wrong note, but I eventually finish the song without looking at the music sheet, anyway. Heeheehee.

Among the music sheets I unearthed from the junk in my room is this book my brother gave me when I was 9 (I think). I Can Play That! Beethoven. A nice book, really simple arrangements. Yey, I can play Pathetiqué and Moonlight Sonata again! Wheeeee~

Going back to the piano is, like, monumentally significant for me. Sure, my piano playing's still not back to its old condition when I was still studying -- and even if it was, I'm not that good or anything...

But still, it's a start, right?

How about you? When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grow up?

Labels: music

Posted by sarah at 6:10 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

The Nodame Cantabile box set is now my soundtrack of the season. These three, though, are my ultimate fave tracks.

Nodame Rhapsody
The beautiful song that got me playing the piano again. Nuff said.

Twin Dragon
One of my favorites at the moment. It made me want to restring my violin and start playing again. Haha! If you listen to this, do NOT be deceived by the first 20 seconds. Even if you're not a rocker, I'm pretty sure you'll think this song is awesome. (Unless you're, like, a really really strictly classical person or something.) Listen AT LEAST until the second minute. You'll love the chorus, I tell you. (Chorus ends at 2:20, I think)

1st Movement from Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92 (Piano version)
Mukyaaa~ This one I so love because Nodame played the whole symphony just by listening to it (which she does for nearly all her pieces, anyway. Hehe.)

Nodame Rhapsody Jazz Version
I love the original piano version more than this one, but I love this one, too!


Um...yeah.

Labels: music, nodame cantabile, repeat play

Posted by sarah at 11:14 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

I've promoted the launch, and I've recapped the event itself. What's the most logical thing to do next?

Write a review, of course.

Travelogue is Bagetsafonik's debut album containing 12 all-original tracks to put on repeat play. The album also includes 2 remixes courtesy of Morse and Silverfilter.

To tell you the truth, I don't get to listen to Bagetsafonik often. I've only been to 2 of their gigs (shameful, I know), and the only songs I was truly familiar with were Automatik (the video of which is available in YouTube), Halogen, Saccharine and Joyride. I've heard Clarity before, while the song was still in its infancy.

That's why my Travelogue experience is a delightful mix of familiar sounds and new surprises. The songs I already know have cool, better arrangements, and the new songs are... err... new to me. Like, duh.

Whether you're a rocker dude, a pop chick, or something in between, you'll enjoy this album. The repertoire is filled with snazzy tunes and soulful melodies, woven with words close to the heart. We've got songs for friends, for lovers, for families. For the loved, the heartbroken; the content and the searching. Read full post...

The collection starts with Fallin' Callin', with Ace soaring through the notes and the rest of the boys rocking it out. If you pop the CD in your car's player, this song is perfect for the start of the drive. Action Jackson and Green Machine comes next as you step on the gas and speed through the highway; Sputnik Sweetheart and Automatik follow right after. I think Sputnik Sweetheart is a fitting title to this song, because when I listen to it, I feel like I'm in a space shuttle zipping through the universe.

Shift to easy driving as you listen to Halogen and the melancholic Diss Song, until Saccharine and Joyride pick up the pace a bit to keep you awake. Song for the Sunlight takes us back to the carefree days of outdoor games, Matchbox, and afternoon snacks and naps... Yep. Nothing like childhood memories to remove the stress on your shoulders.

The ride winds down with the haunting Clarity and groovy Glued to the Groove. The Halogen remix has a 3am on EDSA feel, and the Fallin' Callin' remix takes us to a world tour of music genres.

And you think refreshing music is all you get when you buy this album?

Shyeah, right!

You also get twelve — count 'em, twelve! — postcards with funky artwork on one side and song lyrics on the bottom of the other. (Um...yeah. Congratulations if you figured out that you get one postcard for each song.) Don't believe me? Check out the photo I put in the start of this post.

I love this CD. I think that much is obvious. And it's not just because the vocalist is my brother. Oh, no, absolutely not. Even if he wasn't my brother — heck, even if the members of the band were complete strangers to me — I'd still buy the album.

And I'd still put it on repeat play.

---

Again, the Travelogue track list
1 - Fallin' Callin'
2 - Action Jackson
3 - Green Machine
4 - Sputnik Sweetheart
5 - Automatik
6 - Halogen
7 - Diss Song
8 - Saccharine
9 - Joyride
10 - Song for the Sunlight (Back in the Day)
11 - Clarity
12 - Glued to the Groove
13 - Halogen (3 AM on EDSA Remix)
14 - Fallin' Callin' (Worlds Apart Remix)

Labels: bagetsafonik, celebrities, music, reviews, travelogue

Posted by sarah at 10:14 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Last night, my family and I (along with Bossa Resound's Chique) went to the Bagetsafonik launch at Café Saguijo in Makati. Of course, since I went there to support my brother dearest, we got there early to chill. It was my first time to go to Café Saguijo, despite the fact that I hear about it all the time from my brothers and some of my friends. Read full post...

Café Saguijo was named so because it's a café in Guijo street. If you say that in Filipino, it'll be "café sa guijo". Cool, eh?

Anyway, it's a pretty cool to place to hang out. Awesome bands providing the sounds every night, Saguijo is out to be "a proper venue for the music lover". But that ain't all. They've got more goodies in the second floor: The Theo Gallery, presenting contemporary artworkds, and the Baul, a treasure trove of classic and modern clothes, accessories, and watchamacallits. Coolness.

Anyway. Moving on.

Bagets!

Goodness. How awesome is this band? So awesome, I think, that I became a screaming fangirl as if the vocalist wasn't my brother. Harhar. You should've seen his face when I asked him to sign my copy of their CD. Haha!

The launch was fantastic. Silverfilter kicked it off with several of his...techie gadget thingies. Ha. Made me look like a tech illiterate. I was never one for techno dugg's-dugg's music, but watching this guy do it live made me have a new appreciation for their art. I still have a long way before I turn into a fan, but hey, 's all good, eh? ^_^

The Chillitees were up next. The band rocks. 'Nuff said.

Next played the Itchyworms. Amazing band. Hilarious, too. They have so much fun on stage, and we have so much fun watching them that anybody watching us watching them would have fun, too. Haha! That was my first time to watch them live, and... they're amazing. Did I say amazing? Oh, I did. Okay.

By midnight, everyone was still widely awake and totally energized. And, finally, the main band of the night got on stage.

Bagetsafonik played 10 songs (I think), playing almost the whole album for our listening pleasure. And, Wow. You gotta be there to know what I'm talking about.

WOW.

If you haven't seen this band perform, jump on over to the Bagetsafonik e-group and check their gig schedule.

Some of the Bagets were actually supposed to be guests at the launch, and Francis M wanted to jam to Song for the Sunlight, but, sadly, the schedule didn't work out.

The Ronnies closed the night, getting the audience dancing to nostalgic 80s songs we all know and love (yep, we love 'em even though we didn't 20 years ago). I SO love their version of Kung Fu Fighting. Haha!

Wrapping up: saying that the launch was a success would be an understatement. The albums got sold fast, the bands rocked it out, and the audience had a blast under the disco ball. What more can I ask for?

Hm... A mall tour, maybe. Haha!

Labels: bagetsafonik, celebrities, music, saguijo, travelogue

Posted by sarah at 10:01 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Finally, after months of waiting and waiting, and more waiting, it's here!!!

And man, oh, man, it'll be well worth the wait.

Bagetsafonik's "Travelogue" album launch is set to happen on August 4, Saturday @ Cafe Saguijo, Makati, 9:30pm. With special guests Arbie Won, Morse, Silverfilter, Itchyworms, Chillitees, and The Ronnies.

Discohan na!

Travelogue includes 12 tracks (plus two more as a bonus!), including Automatik (watch video here), Saccharine, Halogen, and Joyride.

Bagetsafonik is an independent band grooving since 2004, mixing sounds from new wave, rock and electronica to conjure up catchy riffs, bewitching tunes and bittersweet lyrics. As Pedicab vocalist Diego Mapa wrote, “A Bagetsafonik experience is the first taste of soda after having too many beers. Finally: sugar water…it’s totally refreshing.”

Bagetsafonik are
Ace Cada (and his very red guitar hehe) weilding the guitars and taking the lead vocals
Paolo Francisco playing with guitars and effects
Marcus Nada, master of the synths and analog samplers
Doi Lagos striking the drums, percussions
Tom Barba handling the bass line

The Travelogue launch pulls through with help from Ninja Kiss, Pulp, Burn, Myxmag, Vineyard Chord, and Lockeddown.

Labels: bagetsafonik, celebrities, music, travelogue

Posted by sarah at 3:12 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Aheeheehee... June has been rather eventful for family and friends, there's good news and congratulations everywhere, and you can rarely see me without a proud grin on my face.

Well, except, of course, when I'm feeling sick with all the work and stress and all that, but that's not the point.

Abbi Asistio
Abbi had her first "real" gig late May in the Room Upstairs. I've never really been into R&B — I mean, it's cool, yeah, but I kind of like Jazz and Alternative Rock better — but Abbi is just so freakin' cool. Plus she's a friend, so of course I'm a fan. Haha! She's recording her album, too, so watch out for that.
Andi Manzano
On Saturday, Andi was awarded to be the next MTV VJ! Yeyyyyy~ Wow... Whenever I see her (and kids her age) doing amazing things, it kind of makes me feel old.
...Wait. Did I just call her a kid?! Noooooo~!!! You're not that older than her, Sarah, you are NOT. Heeheehee. I'm suddenly reminded of this funny story that happened when I went to meet her in her high school... Err... Never mind.

*ahem*

Focusing back on Andi... Lemme just say that finally the big break came. She deserves this, don't you think so, too? ^^

Luis Katigbak
So yeah. One of his short stories is adapted for the stage. You can read about it in Kristine and Luis are Listening, from where I most mercilessly snatched this image:
Like, wow. I wonder what it feels like to have one of my works rendered. Given, of course, that due credits are given. I don't wanna be plagiarized or anything.

...

But if I'm plagiarized, doesn't that mean I'm a good writer? Haha! Kidding.



Sitti Navarro
The other day, I turned the TV on (a miracle, yes, I know) because MJ kept reminding me that Sitti was competing in IKON Philippines. I hope she wins the solo artist category. Hehe. Although, of course, Grace Nono is, like, awesome, too, I think she's already a very VERY established artist, and she's already practically a legend. So... Um... Give others a chance? Hehe.


Ace Cada and the rest of Bagetsafonik
And, last but most definitely not the least, my very own brother and his very red guitar! Wahooo!
Bagetsafonik's sound is already blasting through the airwaves, and, soon, in your CD players as well! Yey! Their CD, Travelogue, is already done, and we're just waiting for the launch. It will be, as it has been for the last year, soon. Hehe. Peace tayo, Kuya.

But, seriously, it's really REALLY soon. I even think it's next week. At Saguijo. I think. I have to check with brother dear.


So...yeah. Congrats to everyone! And, wow, all that in one month! So cool...

I wonder who's going to release their album next... Tim Cada and Chique Arcyilla of Bossa Resound, maybe? Haha! I hope so!

Labels: abbi asistio, andi manzano, bagetsafonik, celebrities, music, sitti

Posted by sarah at 11:55 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

by Kutless


How do I speak of the indescribable to You
I will try to explain these feelings that are true

So looking to the sky I will sing
and from my heart to You I bring

All of the words in all of my life
that could never explain and never describe
All of my love, which is nothing to hide
so I lift up my hands and I worship
I worship You

In your presence I forever choose to live
I will praise You for it's all I have to give

So looking to the sky I will sing
and from my heart to You I bring

All of the words in all of my life
that could never explain and never describe
All of my love, which is nothing to hide
so I lift up my hands and I worship

By Your grace You let me come talk to You
It's not that I'm worthy, I thank you Jesus
For the love that You have shown

All of the words in all of my life
that could never explain and never describe
All of my love, which is nothing to hide
so I lift up my hands and I worship

With all of the words in all of my life
that could never explain and never describe
All of my love, which is nothing to hide
so I lift up my hands and I worship
I worship You


-----
Discovered this sometime last year. Rediscovered it sometime last month. On repeat play since then till now. ^__^

Labels: kutless, music, repeat play

Posted by sarah at 5:40 AM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Labels: bossa nova, disney, music, reviews

Posted by sarah at 6:02 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

The amigas went out for Beth's birthday the other day. Lori got me the Eraserheads Anthology 2 as a late Christmas gift, and the Lounge version of Kailan was my instant favorite. As if Kailan wasn't beautiful already, this rendition made me love it even more. Waaaaa~


Kailan Lounge

Kailan mo ako hahagkan
Matagal na akong naghihintay
Nakadungaw sa bintana
Mga dahon lang ang kumakaway

Kailan ko madaramdaman
Pagdampi ng iyong labi
Tinatanong ko ang mga bituin
Mga luhang humahalik
Sa aking pisngi
kailan ako tatahan
Higpit ng yahak ng dibdib
Nakatingin ako sa salamin
May guhit sa noo
Mapait ang ngiti

Kailan ko masisilayan
Sa araw-araw aking mahal
Mula paggising
Hanggang sa pag-idlip
Kagandahan mo'y walang patid
Kailan mo ako hahagkan
Matagal na akong naghihintay
Nakadungaw sa bintana
Mga dahon lang ang kumakaway

Kailan ako lalaya
Sa anino ng pag-iisa
Mga rehas lang ang tanaw
Nanginginig sa seldang maginaw

Labels: eraserheads, music, repeat play

Posted by sarah at 3:50 AM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Right now, it's Imbecillesque. Again.

The music is addictive. Simple. No high notes stuffed in there just to impress people. The lyrics are simply written and realistic. I've always liked Rico Blancos' voice, and his delivery of this song is the LUV. And the bare guitar in the background is awesome in its bareness. Dunno why, but it is.

Ever wondered why people are so attracted to sad, emo, tear-jerking, heart-wrenching songs? I have—about a gazillion times—because I myself enjoy some of them. Sadistic as that is, I do.

Oh, admit it: so do you.

Why do we torture ourselves, then?

One possible reason could be that sadness is one of the strongest, most consuming human emotions. That, love, anger and joy, I guess. Combine sadness and love (meaning heartbreak), and you get twice the damage. I suppose it's only fitting that people write music about it. And since it's an emotion so strong, I suppose it gets an artist's creative juices going, letting him weave enchanting melodies and heartfelt words together.

Another reason could be that, since everyone has experienced sadness in one form or another, people tend to gravitate to sad songs because they can relate to it.

But still, I wonder sometimes. Even with these justifications of how beautiful a heartbreak song can be if it's written by a great songwriter, I still wonder... Why do I like them? It's not like I ever got my heart broken in a romantic sense, so why does my list of favorite songs include Balisong (Rivermaya) and Dreaming with a Broken Heart(John Mayer)?

And why am I even spending my time pondering about this when I simply wanted to blog about Imbecillesque?

Bleh.

-------------

Imbecillesque
Rivermaya

Good morning, baby
Are you still mad at me?
I guess I couldn't blame you
I instigated this big mess
I acted imbecillesque
Yeah I know
That I could've heard you
Had I been listening but
Instead my arrogance
Divided us and now I'm
Mess up big time
Like my guitar
Cause I love you,
but I hurt you
And though I wish that I could
Make you smile
There is nothing that I can do
But send a little song
Across the miles

I'm terribly sorry
And I hope
You forgive me
I am terribly sorry
Baby

I acted totally inept
Self-centered
Imbecillesque
Cause I love you but I hurt you
And though I wish that I could
Make you smile
There is nothing that I can do
But send a little song
Across the miles

I'm terribly sorry
And I hope
You forgive me
I am terribly sorry, baby...

Labels: music

Posted by sarah at 5:13 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

See the pyramids around the Nile
See the sun rise
On a tropic isle
Just remember darling
All the while
You belong to me

See the marketplace
In old Algiers
Send me photographs and souvenirs
Just remember
When a dream appears
You belong to me

And I'll be so alone without you
Maybe you'll be lonesome too

Fly the ocean
In a silver plane
See the jungle
When it's wet with rain
Just remember till
You're home again
You belong to me

Oh I'll be so alone without you
Maybe you'll be lonesome too

Fly the ocean
In a silver plane
See the jungle
When it's wet with rain
Just remember till
You're home again
You belong to me


------------
You Belong To Me
Written by: Pee Wee King, Redd Stewart, and Chilton Price
Originally performed by: Sue Thompson, 1952

Michael Buble's version currently on repeat play. Nyuuu~

Labels: michael buble, music, repeat play

Posted by sarah at 1:15 AM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

The story, light-hearted.
The characters, well done.
The dialogue, hilarious.
The music, enchanting.
The lyrics, addicting.

My goodness, I enjoyed this movie! The flow of the story from comedy to drama to romance and back was seamless. Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore excellently portrayed their characters. The supporting characters were awesome: they built up the main characters and yet had their own significant and unique roles. The soundtrack was enchanting and hilarious at the same time. (I totally blame it all on Hugh Grant for making "Pop! Goes My Heart" play over and over and over in my head.)

And the best part about it? I didn't think any of those comments while I was watching. I was too engrossed in enjoying the movie.

And, oh yeah: I was too busy laughing, too.

Labels: movies, music, reviews

Posted by sarah at 1:54 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

If you haven't got any plans for Saturday — or even if you do — check out Dine & Jam.

Dine & Jam is a monthly celebration of the love of music, gift of cooking and joy of friendships. Each month will feature home cooked pasta meals from the Regali Kitchen, and amazing talent courtesy of Tim 4:12 productions.

It's actually a family project of ours. Papa is basically the owner (Mama and Kuya JB are the managers). Kuya JB is the head chef of the Regali Kitchen, which provide the scrumptious dinner. Mama is the queen of desserts in the Kitchen. Kuya Ace is our graphic designer for tickets and posters and such. Kuya Tim heads 1 Tim 4:12 productions, which provide live, relaxing, cool jazz music while you eat. And moi? I handle marketing, guest relations, finances, and all that jazz.

What's so cool about D&J is that it's not just a restaurant. It's not just a gig. It's one big party where family friends share good, clean (and delicious!) fun. And it's even more fun because our friends become friends with each other. Like, my friends become friends with Kuya Tim's friends, Kuya JB's friends' parents become friends with my folks, etc. It's sort of like friendster in real, non-cyberspace life.

And it's just awesome.

Try it sometime (and I recommend this Saturday), and I'm sure you'll have so much fun, you'd wish it happened every week.

I know I do.

-----
for reservations and more information, please visit http://RegaliKitchen.multiply.com

Labels: food, music, restaurants, reviews

Posted by sarah at 9:52 AM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

For yet another night, I was a screaming fangirl.

But this time it was different, because I had a VIP pass around my neck, and I was up front and center.

Tonight was...just...AMAZING. I mean, sure, it had a pretty...weird...ending, but it was amazing nonetheless. The whole night, I was thankful that I had taken up writing as a hobby. Immensely thankful.

ARGH! The euphoria still hasn't worn off. Not that I'm complaining.

OK. I shall start from the very beginning.

My day was packed. I mean, I was in demand. From work (that was unexpectedly draining) from 9-12, I ran over to the Jam station to get my prizes: tickets, a CD and a VIP pass. From there I went straight to Pisay for them kiddies I'm mentoring. I got to leave at 6pm... way, WAY behind schedule.

I met with Beth at the theater, and we got on line. And since we had 9 tickets, which was two tickets too many, I decided to sell the extra tickets I got earlier today to Beth's brother, who was smart enough to look at the back of the tickets. Y'know what was stamped there?

FRONT ROW SEATS.

GAH!!!!

And since it turns out that he wasn't going to watch, after all (long story), he goes and SELLS them FRONT ROW SEAT TICKETS. He got a good value for that, yeah, but still.

ARGH!!!

I can NOT believe I did not check that. I was like "ARGH!"-ing for thirty solid minutes. So, instead of us using the five front row seat tickets, we only got to use three.

ARGH!

Anyway. There was a LOT of comedy that happened once we were inside, and, us being the clever little girls we are, we found a way to tweak things. And what happened was the FOUR of us (Sara, Beth Lori and I) watched up front and center. HAH! Loraine's so clever, really.

For a more detailed, possibly organized account, just ask one of us in person or on the phone.

On to the bands. Every single artist was SO nice! I mean, like... they didn't even give me a chance to be starstruck because everyone acted like they were just...well... normal. Which, of course, they were. Everyone not only signed my CD and posed for my camera, they also gave a minute or two of their time to chat with me. They didn't mind at all that I was bugging them in the dressing room. By the way they talked with me, I would've fogotten that there was a concert at all, if I wasn't so excited about it. Weeeee~ Meloves the local music industry.

As or their performances, every one of them was awesome... Well...almost. I mean, there were a couple of performances that were, in my humble opinion, sort of mediocre (or maybe I just never really like the artist very much), but the other bands were so worship-worthy that it just compensated for the whole thing. The ones that really stood out (for me) were Imago, 6 Cycle Mind, Sugarfree, Paolo Santos & Marcus Adoro, Sago, and Orange and Lemons. Awesome, AWESOME artists.

But of course, Eheads dabest pa rin.

....

I now realize that this post is not a typical Snowflake, nor is it a coherent post. Hah. My mind is still in a jumble due to the exitement. Maybe I'll write another comprehensive review about the night. For now, I'll let the a few of the photos speak for themselves. The other 60+ photos shall be uploaded in my yahoophotos over the weekend. And, yes, I had photos with the female artists, too. Just in case you're wondering.

Me + Raimund and Marcus XD


Me + Paolo. The earliest artist of 'em all.
Dilaw ang 'yong buhok at...suot mo'y green... Teka! Baliktad, pare!


Me + Chuck (6 Cycle Mind)


Me + Ebe, ang Hari ng Panday-- este, Sablay pala.


Me + Leon. Yey for Jam 88.3! I love that station.

Labels: celebrities, concert, eraserheads, music

Posted by sarah at 12:25 AM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

ultraelectromagneticjam
VIP
PASSES

uwaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!

this is... like... INSANE!!!

UWAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!



*ahem*

a bit of history:

i've loved the Eraserheads (the band) for...like... forever. since their first album, literally. and now, 12 years later, the radio station i listen to (the same one where i got my HP6) orchestrates a concert of today's best filipino artists to sing the Eraserheads' songs. aaaa~nd they had an essay-writing contest, where we can win them VIP passes.

and, whaddya know... i. freaking. won.

I WON!



argh. i am STILL not over it!!! and : boogie : SO does not cover how hyper i am right now.



here's teh proof --> [link]

------
Copied off of my deviantart journal. I'm too hyper yet lazy to try to think of something with more sense to write.

Labels: music

Posted by sarah at 11:59 PM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post

Last night, Jam 88.3 celebrated their second year anniversary. It was an exclusive party for the Jam jocks, company people, clients, advertisers, and select listeners.

And I was there.

Lemme backtrack a bit. The party was supposed to start at 6pm, so I left my house at 5:30, thinking that I can skip the cocktails at the beginning -- I was to meet Kuya Tim in the Ayala MRT station so we can go together. Well, guess what: he had such a hard time getting a ride, he got to the station at 7:30 p.m. Ah, well. No worries. I was sure there was a program proper before the actual concert, anyway. We went to the taxi line, and -- whaddya know -- the line was impossibly long. And I mean IMPOSSIBLY long. We had to wait an hour to get a taxi.

Yey. We were finally bound for the venue... and we were nearly 3 hours late.

No worries, I said, it's fine.

So we gave the taxi driver the directions my dad gave me. But we cannot find the Makati Sports Club no matter how many times we circled round and round and round the rockwell area. Ha. Guess what. The Makati Sports Club was NOT in that area, but near Makati Ave. Aiyayayay.

But, all is well. We finally made it. At 9:30. As it turns out, we weren't THAT late. There were still LOTSA food, and the only band we missed watching was Tropical Depression. 'a's too bad, mon.

The concert's theme was Legends and Icons, where bands sing songs of the legends and icons aside from their own. Makes sense, right?

Tropical Dep sang Bob Marley's songs. Mojofly -- who were in their second song when we arrived -- sang Madonna's songs. Yey. Picture, picture.

Then came... Orange and Lemons! YES! And they sang songs of the Beatles! ARAYT! An awesome band singing songs of the greatest band ever! How cooler can it get?! They were so awesome; it was the first time I watched them live. Listening to them, I couldn't help but notice how much influence Depeche Mode had on them. And it was funny because the way they stood (and the way they were dressed) was SO Fab Four. Hehe.

Next came Akafellas, who, like us, were late, but not because they were lost; they got a flat tire. Hehe. This was a group is just...WOW. Their talent is stupendously unbelievable. They have amazing voices, they crack jokes, they dance, and they take absolutely no time to set up! (Ehehe) Phenomenal. Totally phenomenal.

The party ended past 12 midnight. When the people were leaving, I went to meet the Jam jocks. It was cool that Leon even rememembered my full name. Awesome.

I suppose it's obvious that I had a blast. And I almost missed it because I practically gave up when we were going around in circles in Rockwell.

Buti na lang mapilit kami parehong magkapatid.

----

Nyar nyaaaaar!


Mojofly singing...something. Me forgot ^^;


i's teh Fab Four! Wakekekeke.


Orange and Lemons + Paolo Santos. Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.


Paolo: "Lookit me rose!"


"Wag muna kayo umuwi, bebeeeeh!"


The only pic I took of the Akafellas. I mostly took videos. :worship:


Me and: Leon, Claudine, Rick and Lana





The videos are HUGE, therefore I shall not upload them :(

Labels: jam 88.3, music, radio

Posted by sarah at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments | links to this post