After this, even Michael Scofield would want to devise a plan to save the guy that works at the record store....
(Oh you know how it all starts...)
Customer: Can you help me check something?
Record Guy: Yeah sure!
Customer: Do you have Fall Out Boy singles?
Record Guy: Let me check.....uh,nope.
Customer: How about MCR singles?
Record Guy: Mmmm...out of stock.
Customer: Ok, wait let me write some more.
(So the customer took out an A4 sized piece of paper and began jotting down 18 band names. Yes people. 18. Not 1, not 2, not even a merciful 5. But 18! Dear god, what sins have the record guy committed that deserves such a punishment?)
Customer: Can you check for me whether all these bands have singles?
(All? Did he just say all ? So the record guy obliged and painstakingly searched one...by one...by one....by one and the answers were all the same: No. Out of stock. No longer in production. But no... it didnt stop there...As long as there is man, Satan is always nearby.)
Customer: Can you check all of them again? You know, double confirm?
(KNNCCB.....echoed the inner voice of the record guy)
Customer: Something wrong with your database ah? Why everytime dont have?
Record Guy: Because there's no demand for it.
Customer: But I want.
Record Guy: Then its only you. You speak for yourself.
Customer: Can I order it?
Record Guy: Dude, why dont you just get the album? We have all the albums of the bands that you are looking for.
Customer: It's not exclusive.
Record Guy: Then fine. You can order it but there's no guarantee that it will arrive.
Customer: Dont you guys know?
Record Guy: No. We dont. We are the middle man not the manufacturer, the producer or the supplier.
Customer: Nevermind. I still want to order.
Record Guy: Dont tell me all 18.
Customer: Can check again for me. I want to choose which one to order.
(So the record guy checked...again...and he ended up wanting 6 of the titles that were searched.)
Record Guy: You have to pay a deposit. $60 in total.
Customer: So much! Why?
Record Guy: Because it's alot of cds.
(With the help of a good samaritan, one of record guy's colleague did the orders.)
Customer: When it arrives, then what happens?
Record Guy: IF it comes, we will call you.
Customer: Shall I call you?
Record Guy: No you shall not. We will call you. Do not call us. Never ever do that.
Customer: Oh ok...
(Oh yeah, just for the record, this whole ordeal lasted about 45 minutes. In real time of course.)
Hmmm....?!
Wednesday 25 April 2007
Poor Poor Fans of Avril....
Now if you didnt know angsty Avril had just turned...how shall I put it....happy, contented and cheery- then lucky you! Her latest album entitled 'the best damn thing ever' proves the latter statement in just about every way. Her album is simply so inane that your ears will 'bleed' upon the second spin. Her new 'bubblegum' approach to song writing will make your eyes roll over twice whenever you hear her scream 'Hey Hey You You, I wanna be your girlfriend!'.
Yes, this is what happens when an angry person finally discovers that there's more to life than just being angry and unhappy all the time. Things like marriage (She's married you know, to this Sum 41 guy I think. Honestly, I didnt know and I didnt care to know.) and the sudden need to dance your heart out, will soften that meanie in you. With a much more mature vocabulary (not necessarily attitude) being used in the album, it often sounds like a child trying to scream out for recognition.
Most artistes grew up through the ages. Usually, this was reflected through the music they made. But for Avril's case, this was not so. Suddenly, with one wave of the wand, she turned much younger! Too young perhaps. And because of this jarring transformation, her fan base somewhat shifted as well. And yes, you have guessed it! The fans have become younger!
But these fans are in for a treat. Her cds, the ones that include her dvd as well, can only be bought by those who are 16 and above! So poor 'pre-puberty' kids had to be turned down by 'that mean guy at the record store'. So, you have an album that predominantly caters to a younger audience but this particular group are unable to see you perform on dvd? Does this extend to live performances as well Avril? What.The.Hell. I wonder what she does on that dvd.... hmm? Dare we think dirty thoughts? No, we cant because its for the young! Profanity maybe? Highly likely so. Thus, you have to be 16 and above to be all 'bubblegummy' and vulgar it seems. And dont you dare link this discussion, in some way or another, to freedom of speech.
It's an idiotic dilemma for Avril. To attract the young and not being able to entertain them after that. There's only one way to describe her: She's like soooo whatever!
Yes, this is what happens when an angry person finally discovers that there's more to life than just being angry and unhappy all the time. Things like marriage (She's married you know, to this Sum 41 guy I think. Honestly, I didnt know and I didnt care to know.) and the sudden need to dance your heart out, will soften that meanie in you. With a much more mature vocabulary (not necessarily attitude) being used in the album, it often sounds like a child trying to scream out for recognition.
Most artistes grew up through the ages. Usually, this was reflected through the music they made. But for Avril's case, this was not so. Suddenly, with one wave of the wand, she turned much younger! Too young perhaps. And because of this jarring transformation, her fan base somewhat shifted as well. And yes, you have guessed it! The fans have become younger!
But these fans are in for a treat. Her cds, the ones that include her dvd as well, can only be bought by those who are 16 and above! So poor 'pre-puberty' kids had to be turned down by 'that mean guy at the record store'. So, you have an album that predominantly caters to a younger audience but this particular group are unable to see you perform on dvd? Does this extend to live performances as well Avril? What.The.Hell. I wonder what she does on that dvd.... hmm? Dare we think dirty thoughts? No, we cant because its for the young! Profanity maybe? Highly likely so. Thus, you have to be 16 and above to be all 'bubblegummy' and vulgar it seems. And dont you dare link this discussion, in some way or another, to freedom of speech.
It's an idiotic dilemma for Avril. To attract the young and not being able to entertain them after that. There's only one way to describe her: She's like soooo whatever!
Tuesday 17 April 2007
the guy that works at the record store...episode 5
After this episode, the record guy could just feel his heart crying...sighing *haiz...*...and crumbling...
(A guy walked into the store and he seemed like a foreigner...the record guy could just foresee that this foreign guy is going to give him trouble or worst - trauma.)
Customer: Do you like Taylor Hicks?
Record Guy: He's not a bad singer. Cool and eccentric. Have not listened to his album though.
Customer: I like him.
Record Guy: That's great for you then!
Customer: Where can I see him?
Record Guy: Im sorry?
Customer: I want to see him, where is he at?
Record Guy: You mean the person? The actual person?
Customer: Yes!
Record Guy: Sorry Sir, but he's not here. He's not even here in Singapore.
Customer: How can he not be here?!
Record Guy: Because no event organiser in Singapore invited him?
Customer: But why? You guys are such a huge record store!
Record Guy: Im not sure. Maybe he's too expensive to come over for a concert.
Customer: Concert? No no no no noo...I mean the music! The person's.... cd! Yes!
Record Guy: Oh. Second floor.
Hmmmm......?
(A guy walked into the store and he seemed like a foreigner...the record guy could just foresee that this foreign guy is going to give him trouble or worst - trauma.)
Customer: Do you like Taylor Hicks?
Record Guy: He's not a bad singer. Cool and eccentric. Have not listened to his album though.
Customer: I like him.
Record Guy: That's great for you then!
Customer: Where can I see him?
Record Guy: Im sorry?
Customer: I want to see him, where is he at?
Record Guy: You mean the person? The actual person?
Customer: Yes!
Record Guy: Sorry Sir, but he's not here. He's not even here in Singapore.
Customer: How can he not be here?!
Record Guy: Because no event organiser in Singapore invited him?
Customer: But why? You guys are such a huge record store!
Record Guy: Im not sure. Maybe he's too expensive to come over for a concert.
Customer: Concert? No no no no noo...I mean the music! The person's.... cd! Yes!
Record Guy: Oh. Second floor.
Hmmmm......?
Wednesday 11 April 2007
the guy that works at the record store...episode 4
(A customer walks into the store and the record guy watches him suspiciously as he slowly approaches the counter....smiling....)
Record Guy: Hi....
Customer: Hi!
Record Guy: Uh...may I help you with something?
Customer: Is this the information counter?
Record Guy: No, it is not.
Customer: Oh! So where do I ask for information on a particular item?
Record Guy: Right here. But this is the cashier area not the information counter. I am a Sales Associate. By me providing information, it is just something additional.
Customer: So you are not a Receptionist?
Record Guy: Nope.
Customer: So where do I find the Receptionist?
Record Guy: There isnt any.
Customer: So where do I go?
Record Guy: Just ask me.
Customer: Oh ok then. Do you know if you have this cd called 'The Dancing Wolves'?
Record Guy: Let me check.
(As he types the title of the cd into the computer database to search, the record guy is glad that they do not have any in stock)
Record Guy: It is out of stock.
Customer: Oh. Do you know if they have it in Malaysia?
Record Guy: No I dont.
Customer: Why not?
Record Guy: Because I dont live in Malaysia and I dont work in a shop that sells cds in Malaysia.
Customer: Oh really?! How about Japan or Australia?
Record Guy: Same explanation Sir...
Customer: Cant you guys search the entire globe for shops that sell such a cd?
Record Guy: No, we cant. We are situated in Singapore and we can only tell you the availability of stocks in Singapore and nowhere else. We are a music store Sir, not a research laboratory.
Customer: Oh...I see. But when the cd comes into this asian region, do let me know. Even if it has launched in other countries first before Singapore ok? Here's my contact and details.
Record Guy: Su....re...
Hmmm......?
Record Guy: Hi....
Customer: Hi!
Record Guy: Uh...may I help you with something?
Customer: Is this the information counter?
Record Guy: No, it is not.
Customer: Oh! So where do I ask for information on a particular item?
Record Guy: Right here. But this is the cashier area not the information counter. I am a Sales Associate. By me providing information, it is just something additional.
Customer: So you are not a Receptionist?
Record Guy: Nope.
Customer: So where do I find the Receptionist?
Record Guy: There isnt any.
Customer: So where do I go?
Record Guy: Just ask me.
Customer: Oh ok then. Do you know if you have this cd called 'The Dancing Wolves'?
Record Guy: Let me check.
(As he types the title of the cd into the computer database to search, the record guy is glad that they do not have any in stock)
Record Guy: It is out of stock.
Customer: Oh. Do you know if they have it in Malaysia?
Record Guy: No I dont.
Customer: Why not?
Record Guy: Because I dont live in Malaysia and I dont work in a shop that sells cds in Malaysia.
Customer: Oh really?! How about Japan or Australia?
Record Guy: Same explanation Sir...
Customer: Cant you guys search the entire globe for shops that sell such a cd?
Record Guy: No, we cant. We are situated in Singapore and we can only tell you the availability of stocks in Singapore and nowhere else. We are a music store Sir, not a research laboratory.
Customer: Oh...I see. But when the cd comes into this asian region, do let me know. Even if it has launched in other countries first before Singapore ok? Here's my contact and details.
Record Guy: Su....re...
Hmmm......?
the secondary and post-secondary education system in Singapore: first class, falling or flawed?
This subject has been debated over quite a number of times and at certain points, the Ministry has responded by either implementing a new syllabus, restructuring the roles of the education officers, restructuring the standards of institutions of education or restructuring the payment schemes of students. Yes, the Ministry has done alot and indeed, some of the reforms that it has carried out were commendable. This includes helping needy students to cope with school fees, constantly revising the teaching materials that are already available to the students and expanding polytechnic courses so that they are 'industry-relevant'. However, the times are changing, the number of teachers in the system are dwindling and the mindset of students are evolving. Is it time for the Ministry to respond once more to the ever-changing landscape of education? More importantly, can the teachers withstand the Ministry's pressure and do the students have the will and discipline to meet such educational expectations?
At the secondary education level, teachers are struggling to reach out to the students. Students on the other hand are easily bored with what they are learning in the classroom. Hence, education falls on deaf ears. But the problem does not end here. Teachers are constantly being pressurized by their Head of Departments and their Principals to up the standards of their school and they in turn are pressurized by the highly competitive environment that the Ministry has created. Furthermore, being teachers these days is no walk in the park. Their job scope these days encompasses from being an administration manager to a therapist and from being an event organizer to crowd control. Students are also trying to find a place in this 'book smart' system. They crave for freedom and flexibility. They yearn for expression and individualism. They are stuck in an environment where creativity is hardly appreciated and where one's worth is determined by their academic standards. So, how do they on the other hand respond? The teachers leave the system and the students, like most teenagers, retaliate through ill behaviour in and out of the classroom. In my opinion, this is indeed unhealthy for the system. How are we going to educate and progress when the gears constantly needs to be replaced and oiled, and its products lack in social and ethical quality and responsibilty?
At post-secondary education level, the Ministry has clearly established a sense of academic hierarchy. It is true that the Ministry is trying to help students of varying academic capabilities and thus, giving opportunities for all to succeed and find a good place in the working world. However, with this classification of the student's prowess in the world of academia brings about another problem: stereotyping. In the eyes of the Singapore society, if you do not make it to a Junior College, you have to settle for second best, which are the Polytechnics. If you still cannot make it to the latter, then it is the dumping zone for you, which are the ITEs or Institute of Technical Education. Why does the society, including the students, parents and even our very own education officers, view the education system in such a way?
In my opinion, it all boils down to the amount of emphasis and attention that the Ministry gives to students who can make it to the top tier of the system. The odds of a Polytechnic or an ITE graduate entering local university is almost as slim as the latest handphone. The reasons given by the local universities include syllabus differences and the level and depth of the academic skills acquired during the term of their study. So it then follows that success stories of Polytechnic or ITE graduates entering into local universities are seen as exemplary, newsworthy and 'against all odds'. Are students of Junior Colleges that superior? Or did we perceive it to be that way? Recent surveys and articles show starting salaries of Polytechnic and ITE graduates gradually increasing. This implies that the work standards expected out of these graduates also increases. This also means that Polytechnics and ITEs need to keep up with the expectations of the relevant industries- be it in terms of syllabus or work ethics. But knowing that Polytechnic and ITE education is industry specific, would it account for nothing in the eyes of local universities compared to those holding an A-level certificate? Wouldnt these students have a better say in what truly aspires them or what they are passionate about when it comes to pursuing their further studies?
In addition, there is an evolution of mentality in today's youth. Students prefer to go to Polytechnics or ITEs so that they could escape the stress that is notoriously associated with the Junior College system. A handful of them have matured and know early in life their intended career path and wish to pursue it through specific courses available in the various Polytechnics or ITEs. And these students are not just or limited to your ordinary O level hopefuls but your top students scoring an outstanding single digit in their main examinations! It is also worth noting that certain courses in the Polytechnics and ITEs require very good or if not, outstanding grades at O levels upon entry! Some examples would include a Diploma in Hospitality, a Diploma in Communication and Mass Media, a Diploma in Biotechnology, a Diploma in Law and some Higher Nitec courses. This is not a sign of a trend but of a shift.
So that leaves us with certain questions. Can and will the Ministry respond to such changes? Should it even do so? If it does, it is necessary and can the people affected by it cope with such changes? Can there be a shift in the way our society view our education system? Can there be a balance between maintaing the need for different educational qualifications and the need for meritocracy and equality? Where does the problem actually lie? Is it our teachers? Students? Parents? Or dare we question the viability of the Ministry's education policies?
A couple of things are for sure. The teachers are tired. The students are restless. The Polytechnics and ITEs are catching up and fighting for recognition equal to that of their Junior College counterparts. The local universities are harder to get into these days for the locals. It is the Ministry who has a major educational influence and impact on Singapore's society. And the Ministry is still stuck in the mentality of the old world and struggling to understand the idiosyncracies of today's youth. It is time for change you say? I say 'What kind of change?'.
At the secondary education level, teachers are struggling to reach out to the students. Students on the other hand are easily bored with what they are learning in the classroom. Hence, education falls on deaf ears. But the problem does not end here. Teachers are constantly being pressurized by their Head of Departments and their Principals to up the standards of their school and they in turn are pressurized by the highly competitive environment that the Ministry has created. Furthermore, being teachers these days is no walk in the park. Their job scope these days encompasses from being an administration manager to a therapist and from being an event organizer to crowd control. Students are also trying to find a place in this 'book smart' system. They crave for freedom and flexibility. They yearn for expression and individualism. They are stuck in an environment where creativity is hardly appreciated and where one's worth is determined by their academic standards. So, how do they on the other hand respond? The teachers leave the system and the students, like most teenagers, retaliate through ill behaviour in and out of the classroom. In my opinion, this is indeed unhealthy for the system. How are we going to educate and progress when the gears constantly needs to be replaced and oiled, and its products lack in social and ethical quality and responsibilty?
At post-secondary education level, the Ministry has clearly established a sense of academic hierarchy. It is true that the Ministry is trying to help students of varying academic capabilities and thus, giving opportunities for all to succeed and find a good place in the working world. However, with this classification of the student's prowess in the world of academia brings about another problem: stereotyping. In the eyes of the Singapore society, if you do not make it to a Junior College, you have to settle for second best, which are the Polytechnics. If you still cannot make it to the latter, then it is the dumping zone for you, which are the ITEs or Institute of Technical Education. Why does the society, including the students, parents and even our very own education officers, view the education system in such a way?
In my opinion, it all boils down to the amount of emphasis and attention that the Ministry gives to students who can make it to the top tier of the system. The odds of a Polytechnic or an ITE graduate entering local university is almost as slim as the latest handphone. The reasons given by the local universities include syllabus differences and the level and depth of the academic skills acquired during the term of their study. So it then follows that success stories of Polytechnic or ITE graduates entering into local universities are seen as exemplary, newsworthy and 'against all odds'. Are students of Junior Colleges that superior? Or did we perceive it to be that way? Recent surveys and articles show starting salaries of Polytechnic and ITE graduates gradually increasing. This implies that the work standards expected out of these graduates also increases. This also means that Polytechnics and ITEs need to keep up with the expectations of the relevant industries- be it in terms of syllabus or work ethics. But knowing that Polytechnic and ITE education is industry specific, would it account for nothing in the eyes of local universities compared to those holding an A-level certificate? Wouldnt these students have a better say in what truly aspires them or what they are passionate about when it comes to pursuing their further studies?
In addition, there is an evolution of mentality in today's youth. Students prefer to go to Polytechnics or ITEs so that they could escape the stress that is notoriously associated with the Junior College system. A handful of them have matured and know early in life their intended career path and wish to pursue it through specific courses available in the various Polytechnics or ITEs. And these students are not just or limited to your ordinary O level hopefuls but your top students scoring an outstanding single digit in their main examinations! It is also worth noting that certain courses in the Polytechnics and ITEs require very good or if not, outstanding grades at O levels upon entry! Some examples would include a Diploma in Hospitality, a Diploma in Communication and Mass Media, a Diploma in Biotechnology, a Diploma in Law and some Higher Nitec courses. This is not a sign of a trend but of a shift.
So that leaves us with certain questions. Can and will the Ministry respond to such changes? Should it even do so? If it does, it is necessary and can the people affected by it cope with such changes? Can there be a shift in the way our society view our education system? Can there be a balance between maintaing the need for different educational qualifications and the need for meritocracy and equality? Where does the problem actually lie? Is it our teachers? Students? Parents? Or dare we question the viability of the Ministry's education policies?
A couple of things are for sure. The teachers are tired. The students are restless. The Polytechnics and ITEs are catching up and fighting for recognition equal to that of their Junior College counterparts. The local universities are harder to get into these days for the locals. It is the Ministry who has a major educational influence and impact on Singapore's society. And the Ministry is still stuck in the mentality of the old world and struggling to understand the idiosyncracies of today's youth. It is time for change you say? I say 'What kind of change?'.
Tuesday 10 April 2007
the guy that works at the record store...episode 3
It is just a matter of time before the record guy knocks himself unconscious with the receiver of the telephone...
(The phone at the counter rings and unfortunately the record guy was around)
Record Guy: Good morning, this is 'The Record Store'. How may I help you?
Customer: Is this 'The Record Store'?
Record Guy: I have just said that it is.
Customer: Oh...Eh, you know ah, the other time I bought a cd and then I got already my friend gave it to me for my birthday you know!
Record Guy: Oh, then Happy Birthday to you then Madam.
Customer: Thank you thank you. It was last week organized party and all but anyway my friend gave me the cd that he bought from your shop lah. I have then how?!
Record Guy: Then you can exchange it for something else. Just bring the cd over and pick something else. If you pick something that is lower in value, we wont be able to refund you the difference. If you pick something that is higher in value, you would have to pay the difference.
Customer: But I got no receipt leh!
Record Guy: Of course you dont Madam. That cd was given to you as a gift for your birthday.
Customer: Will you be there?
Record Guy: Where?
Customer: At the shop. Today and tomorrow.
Record Guy: I am working today till 7pm but off tomorrow.
Customer: But I need to see you. I am scared they will not let me exchange!
Record Guy: Of course they would Madam, its company policy.
Customer: I am leaving the country soon and that is why they celebrated my birthday first before I go. Can I show you my passport when I go there?
Record Guy: Its not necessary Madam, we are not Immigration. Just come down and I promise you that they will exchange it for you.
Customer: Sure ah?
Record Guy: Yes Madam, I promise.
Customer: Yeah! Thank you thank you! Pray for me that I will have a safe flight!
Record Guy: Of course. May God be with you. Bye Bye....
Hmmmmm......?
(The phone at the counter rings and unfortunately the record guy was around)
Record Guy: Good morning, this is 'The Record Store'. How may I help you?
Customer: Is this 'The Record Store'?
Record Guy: I have just said that it is.
Customer: Oh...Eh, you know ah, the other time I bought a cd and then I got already my friend gave it to me for my birthday you know!
Record Guy: Oh, then Happy Birthday to you then Madam.
Customer: Thank you thank you. It was last week organized party and all but anyway my friend gave me the cd that he bought from your shop lah. I have then how?!
Record Guy: Then you can exchange it for something else. Just bring the cd over and pick something else. If you pick something that is lower in value, we wont be able to refund you the difference. If you pick something that is higher in value, you would have to pay the difference.
Customer: But I got no receipt leh!
Record Guy: Of course you dont Madam. That cd was given to you as a gift for your birthday.
Customer: Will you be there?
Record Guy: Where?
Customer: At the shop. Today and tomorrow.
Record Guy: I am working today till 7pm but off tomorrow.
Customer: But I need to see you. I am scared they will not let me exchange!
Record Guy: Of course they would Madam, its company policy.
Customer: I am leaving the country soon and that is why they celebrated my birthday first before I go. Can I show you my passport when I go there?
Record Guy: Its not necessary Madam, we are not Immigration. Just come down and I promise you that they will exchange it for you.
Customer: Sure ah?
Record Guy: Yes Madam, I promise.
Customer: Yeah! Thank you thank you! Pray for me that I will have a safe flight!
Record Guy: Of course. May God be with you. Bye Bye....
Hmmmmm......?
Monday 9 April 2007
Album Review: OK Computer by Radiohead
These are the kind of entries that I am going to make, that is, doing a review on selected albums. At the same time, sharing a point or two on what makes or breakes an album. Haiz...kids these days do not even know whether the album that they recently bought would truly justify the $20 that they had painstakingly saved up!
Yes, this album has been around since the early 90s and reviewing it would be as if I have been living under a rock all along. As a matter of fact, when I first listened to this album, I wished that I was born much earlier because when Radiohead came into the the alternative-experimental rock scene with this album, my baby brain was not yet capable of comprehending the depth and intricacies of the band and their music.
Kids, this is deep stuff. Upon first listen, it might catch you off guard with its queer but orderly music arrangement. However, after subsequent plays, the music will sink into your musical tastebuds and forever anchor itself there. After achieving such a revelation, the music from other alternative rock bands will seem rather bland in substance.
This band writes and tackles issues in a totally different perspective. They are not your lovey dovey band who constantly cries out "Why did you leave me?!" and "I am gonna swim a thousand miles just for you!" In this album, they tackle issues such as loneliness through wishing that they were instead abducted by aliens and fear through hammering in you disturbing and eerie psychological ideas of what it means to have 'mental company'.
Tracks like 'Paranoid Android' lets you visualize what it's like to have multiple images in your head at the same time while 'Let Down' facilitates one of your 'off' days at work. A track entitled 'Exit Music (For a Film)' is a tribute to William Shakesphere's Romeo & Juliet where love is described as something that is ultimately and conclusively tragic and cruel.
Music which complements their lyrics as well as creating an ambience that suits the theme of the song makes this album a must have for any music lover. This album exist as single entity which makes the whole album worth the listen every time.
So kids, stop listening to those ads on tv. Cut down on those Macdonalds lunch trips and start taking those Brands health supplements because this album is going to take awhile for you to digest. It's time to grow up kids and see what it's really like to face the music.
Yes, this album has been around since the early 90s and reviewing it would be as if I have been living under a rock all along. As a matter of fact, when I first listened to this album, I wished that I was born much earlier because when Radiohead came into the the alternative-experimental rock scene with this album, my baby brain was not yet capable of comprehending the depth and intricacies of the band and their music.
Kids, this is deep stuff. Upon first listen, it might catch you off guard with its queer but orderly music arrangement. However, after subsequent plays, the music will sink into your musical tastebuds and forever anchor itself there. After achieving such a revelation, the music from other alternative rock bands will seem rather bland in substance.
This band writes and tackles issues in a totally different perspective. They are not your lovey dovey band who constantly cries out "Why did you leave me?!" and "I am gonna swim a thousand miles just for you!" In this album, they tackle issues such as loneliness through wishing that they were instead abducted by aliens and fear through hammering in you disturbing and eerie psychological ideas of what it means to have 'mental company'.
Tracks like 'Paranoid Android' lets you visualize what it's like to have multiple images in your head at the same time while 'Let Down' facilitates one of your 'off' days at work. A track entitled 'Exit Music (For a Film)' is a tribute to William Shakesphere's Romeo & Juliet where love is described as something that is ultimately and conclusively tragic and cruel.
Music which complements their lyrics as well as creating an ambience that suits the theme of the song makes this album a must have for any music lover. This album exist as single entity which makes the whole album worth the listen every time.
So kids, stop listening to those ads on tv. Cut down on those Macdonalds lunch trips and start taking those Brands health supplements because this album is going to take awhile for you to digest. It's time to grow up kids and see what it's really like to face the music.
Friday 6 April 2007
the guy that works at the record store...episode 2
Once again, substantially copy any of my material and I'll sue you...
(A customer strolls into the store and approaches the counter)
Customer: Do you know that song?
Record Guy: Excuse me, what?
Customer: Huh? What?
Record Guy: You asked me whether if I knew a song, what is that song?
Customer: Yah, and that's what Im asking you.
Record Guy: So the song is called 'that song'?
Customer: No, I dont think so. But Im asking you if you know it.
Record Guy: What song? Which song? Can you give me the title of the song please?!
Customer: I dont know.
Record Guy: What about the artiste?
Customer: Dont know.
Record Guy: The name of the album?
Customer: Nope.
Record Guy: The genre of music that the artiste specializes in?
Customer: I think it's rock, jazz and a bit of classical sometimes.
Record Guy: *Geez..like that was helpful* Is the song sung by a he or a she?
Customer: Not to sure...
Record Guy: Sir, where did you this song from?
Customer: Oh, from the clothes shop next door. They were playing it. I thought you knew it.
Hmmm.....?
(A customer strolls into the store and approaches the counter)
Customer: Do you know that song?
Record Guy: Excuse me, what?
Customer: Huh? What?
Record Guy: You asked me whether if I knew a song, what is that song?
Customer: Yah, and that's what Im asking you.
Record Guy: So the song is called 'that song'?
Customer: No, I dont think so. But Im asking you if you know it.
Record Guy: What song? Which song? Can you give me the title of the song please?!
Customer: I dont know.
Record Guy: What about the artiste?
Customer: Dont know.
Record Guy: The name of the album?
Customer: Nope.
Record Guy: The genre of music that the artiste specializes in?
Customer: I think it's rock, jazz and a bit of classical sometimes.
Record Guy: *Geez..like that was helpful* Is the song sung by a he or a she?
Customer: Not to sure...
Record Guy: Sir, where did you this song from?
Customer: Oh, from the clothes shop next door. They were playing it. I thought you knew it.
Hmmm.....?
the prospect of the F1 race coming to Singapore...
Now...this is something new and innovative! Rather than question the potential on the amount of revenue and publicity that Singapore might receive once it has been set in stone that the F1 is coming to Singapore, let us test the practicality of the race being conducted in our homeland which spans approximately 647 squarekm.
We will see tourism revenues rise as hardcore fans of F1 flock to Singapore to catch the race-be it the hospitality or retail sector. We will witness that once again Singapore is placed on the world's stage as the entire globe will have its eyes cast on us. We will also witness cars that would be allowed to travel around the CBD at speeds that the Traffic Police would confidently say that it is illegal and then revoke your license for years. Yes, this would be some of the advantages that awaits us when F1 sets its foot on this island. And these advantages are quite huge and beneficial for Singapore I would say...but to think that our roads-the ones located around the CBD including the roads near the Esplanade and Suntec City would be subjected to "bad ass nasty" Formula 1 speed!
In recent articles, the world's number 1 F1 driver gave a "thumbs up" for its proposed Singapore F1 track but that does not mean that its actually safe. Where are they going to establish the pit stops for the cars to change their tires? Are we able to accomodate the spectators and the guy that waves the checkered flag? Are we able to foresee any cars crashing into any of our iconic city structures such as the Fountain of Wealth? And if the roads around the stated area will be closed for a certain period of time, it basically means that you will have to wake up extra early so that you will reach work on time as 700, 190 and other buses will take a long detour. And does our proposed race track actually qualifies as a "race track"? Next thing you know the F1 cars will be racing down the streets of Little India, to PIE or ECP or whichever highway and then to Tampines before hitting Changi and our HDB homes can double up as spectator stands as the F1 cars buzzes past...
We will see tourism revenues rise as hardcore fans of F1 flock to Singapore to catch the race-be it the hospitality or retail sector. We will witness that once again Singapore is placed on the world's stage as the entire globe will have its eyes cast on us. We will also witness cars that would be allowed to travel around the CBD at speeds that the Traffic Police would confidently say that it is illegal and then revoke your license for years. Yes, this would be some of the advantages that awaits us when F1 sets its foot on this island. And these advantages are quite huge and beneficial for Singapore I would say...but to think that our roads-the ones located around the CBD including the roads near the Esplanade and Suntec City would be subjected to "bad ass nasty" Formula 1 speed!
In recent articles, the world's number 1 F1 driver gave a "thumbs up" for its proposed Singapore F1 track but that does not mean that its actually safe. Where are they going to establish the pit stops for the cars to change their tires? Are we able to accomodate the spectators and the guy that waves the checkered flag? Are we able to foresee any cars crashing into any of our iconic city structures such as the Fountain of Wealth? And if the roads around the stated area will be closed for a certain period of time, it basically means that you will have to wake up extra early so that you will reach work on time as 700, 190 and other buses will take a long detour. And does our proposed race track actually qualifies as a "race track"? Next thing you know the F1 cars will be racing down the streets of Little India, to PIE or ECP or whichever highway and then to Tampines before hitting Changi and our HDB homes can double up as spectator stands as the F1 cars buzzes past...
Wednesday 4 April 2007
the guy that works at the record store...episode 1
This is a new comedy series in which I created. If you were to give me $100,000, I would create a television series out of it. It illustrates the competency of customers in asking questions. Questions that are quite simple in nature but delivered in a complex manner. Sad to say, the average IQ level of the nation is much lower than expected. And this calls for reform! Mental reform that is...Sometimes, it's also worth wondering who is at fault in the situations illustrated and why the record guy does not quit or even try to choke himself with the cds that are "oh so" abundant! Copy any of my material and I'll sue you...
(A customer walks into the store and looked rather lost)
Customer: Where are your cds?
Record Guy: Well, its all around really. Thats what we specialise in.
(By this time, he got really angry.)
Customer: No! I want to know where your cds are?! The one you listen to!
Record Guy: Audio cds huh? Well its all around. There's some on the 1st floor and some on the 2nd and 3rd floor. What are you looking for actually?
Customer: I told you already! I want cds! Cds you listen to!
Record Guy: I understand. But what type? Rock, dance, jazz, classical? Movies even? Different genres of music are classified at different floors.
Customer: Urghhh!!!! (He soon walks away frustrated, giving the record guy a look which clearly indicates that he's the dumb party to the conversation)
Hmmmm.......?
(A customer walks into the store and looked rather lost)
Customer: Where are your cds?
Record Guy: Well, its all around really. Thats what we specialise in.
(By this time, he got really angry.)
Customer: No! I want to know where your cds are?! The one you listen to!
Record Guy: Audio cds huh? Well its all around. There's some on the 1st floor and some on the 2nd and 3rd floor. What are you looking for actually?
Customer: I told you already! I want cds! Cds you listen to!
Record Guy: I understand. But what type? Rock, dance, jazz, classical? Movies even? Different genres of music are classified at different floors.
Customer: Urghhh!!!! (He soon walks away frustrated, giving the record guy a look which clearly indicates that he's the dumb party to the conversation)
Hmmmm.......?
its just my commentary
My oh my....finally hibernation season for me is over. I didnt have a blog. Knew about it but didnt even care to create one. Kept asking the inevitable question of "What's the point?". And yes, it has always been a hot issue when the "point" one tries to make relates to the ongoing fight for freedom of speech. Well, i'm not fighting for or writing about anything that relates to or that will evolve into the latter topic, rather i'm in pursuit of a more selfish objective. Anyway, the fight for freedom of speech has always been futile in Singapore. So, following that thread is "point"less.
I believe in intention - that everything was created for a purpose. And no, as much as you would like to conclude that the latter statement does carry a religious intonation to it, Im neither here to preach nor comment on anything religious. That, once again is not my "point". In my opinion, the blog was created for the purposes of technological amusement - like that of its technological counterparts such as the MP3 player, the dvd player, the computer and the game consoles. Yes, these are huge and serious inventions known to modern society but at the end of the day, amusement is its very purpose.
So, with amusement hovering around in my head when I created this blog, this has to be part of my intention and part of my answer to my question. Amusement that can be achieved through the telling of stories of the people Ive met and through highlighting their idiosyncracies. Raising awareness on global issues seems like a good idea too... And through these efforts of me sharing my 2cents worth, I hope to be famous by giving the readers the impression that Im witty, smart and provocative. Well, that's the whole "point" isnt it?
I cant start a business because its hard for me to raise a strong capital, I have delusions that my hobbies are my talents and if you ask me which alphabet comes after "k", I would most definitely have to recite the entire alphabet before giving you an answer. So creating a blog using only my brain as my capital and tapping on my talent for writing, I can satisfy my or even your insatiable need for amusement. Geez...all this to be famous huh? Didnt know that it would be this hard...
I believe in intention - that everything was created for a purpose. And no, as much as you would like to conclude that the latter statement does carry a religious intonation to it, Im neither here to preach nor comment on anything religious. That, once again is not my "point". In my opinion, the blog was created for the purposes of technological amusement - like that of its technological counterparts such as the MP3 player, the dvd player, the computer and the game consoles. Yes, these are huge and serious inventions known to modern society but at the end of the day, amusement is its very purpose.
So, with amusement hovering around in my head when I created this blog, this has to be part of my intention and part of my answer to my question. Amusement that can be achieved through the telling of stories of the people Ive met and through highlighting their idiosyncracies. Raising awareness on global issues seems like a good idea too... And through these efforts of me sharing my 2cents worth, I hope to be famous by giving the readers the impression that Im witty, smart and provocative. Well, that's the whole "point" isnt it?
I cant start a business because its hard for me to raise a strong capital, I have delusions that my hobbies are my talents and if you ask me which alphabet comes after "k", I would most definitely have to recite the entire alphabet before giving you an answer. So creating a blog using only my brain as my capital and tapping on my talent for writing, I can satisfy my or even your insatiable need for amusement. Geez...all this to be famous huh? Didnt know that it would be this hard...
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