Thursday, April 29, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
working at spize. i mean annual camp
Somewhere along Day 1 of Annual Camp they told us old boys to come in and interact with the cadets for some time. Supposedly it was some kind of way to make better use of the free time they had. Trust me, "interaction" with the old boys was never an activity to look forward to. In fact, the last thing you would want in Annual Camp is your sometimes harsh but most of the time reasonable NCOs to go away, and leave you vulnerable to the attacks of the always harsh and never reasonable creatures called old boys. I bet we had so many other names to call them by.
So while interaction with the old boys used to mean things like:
1) Holding the push-up position on the ground that's been made slippery with powder
2) Crawling from one end of the corridor to the other
3) Changing from one ridiculous uniform to the other again and again
4) Getting your bunk trashed and treated like a wasteland
5) Running here and there with no specific reason
or maybe just you trembling on all fours while they mindf*** you with all their bullshit,
today it has turned to something like this
The traditional four-man stand exercise.This activity can be used to implement teamwork and also trust.
You'll have to trust your body weight on the person behind you
and trust that the person behind you, in turn, trusts the person behind him.
Only then would your 4 man team be able to master the position.
It's actually really easy. But Part B only managed to have one group
do this thing right. Lots of room for improvement.
There are many names to this game. Poison River would be the simplest.It's also variable in many ways but the way i do it,
make them list down a few qualities that are essential to a team. (Communication, respect, teamwork etc). Have them find an item that represents each of these qualities.
Place them in a random order in an empty space.
Blindfold 1 person and have the other person direct the blindfolded one,
from one end of the room, towards him. They cannot touch any of the laid down items.
This team building activity focuses on communication and also trust.
My personal favourite, Helium Pole.An extremely difficult game, but very fun to watch.
Everyone has to put a finger below the pole, in this case, a bamboo stick.
From chest level, they have to lower the pole all the way to the ground.
However, if anybody's finger were to lose contact with the pole, they restart.
It sounds simple, but since you must always keep touching the pole,
someone will inevitably, unintentionally, be pushing the pole upwards.
The rest will have no choice but to follow, since they must also
maintain contact with the pole.
Hence the pole will seem to rise for no reason, as if it is filled with helium.
You will definitely be seeing people scolding and blaming one another.
This is when their team spirit is put to the test.
This game is so straightforward, yet there are so many values and lessons to be learned.
I'll have you find them out yourself.
These games were so simple that I feel bad for not being able to plan something more extravagant for Part B. But i love simplicity. It's not complicated, and I hate complications. How's that for simple reasoning?
So Part B, hope you all keep all the things you learned that day in mind. It might help you in the near future.
So Part B, hope you all keep all the things you learned that day in mind. It might help you in the near future.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
annual camp
I realize i haven't blogged about the many things that have happened so far in my holidays.
So far, the one that has left the deepest impression was Annual Camp.
This was the 6th Annual Camp that i attended, 2nd as an old boy. It would have been the 7th, but last year i missed out since i was living the life in China. It seems that this time round, Kai Yuan would be missing out due to his overseas internship in China, and I would finally get a chance to attend camp again.
I really love GESS and NCC and all, but i have to admit, my "fire" is dying out. Us old boys always talk about our past as a cadet, the current state of the unit, how we can help, and about how we will keep our "fire" alive. "Fire" in this case refers to desire i guess. Desire, willpower, dedication and things like that.
We started out very passionately but it is inevitable that we have other commitments and interests so no matter how strongly we want to help, we just start to realize that we don't have much strength to do anything at all. Slowly, our "fire" would burn out.
This is why i have a huge amount of respect for Mr Beh. He is the person who has stayed committed to GESS NCC in every way possible. He started out as a cadet in the unit, came back as a teacher and took over as the commanding officer. And now, even when he's not teaching there, he goes back and try and help in any manner possible. Us old boys can never match something like that.
I always want to be of service to the unit. I'm glad that i have comrades who are willing to do the same as well. Annual camp would have been pretty darn boring if i had to it alone.
Our task was simple. We were "motivators" who came in at any time possible to raise the morale of the camp participants. We did so by teaching them cheers, songs, played games gave motivational talks, and more. It was a very different approach from what old boys usually do when they come back, because usually the only reason these old boys come back is to "tekan".
We didn't do much, but in the slightest way, i think we spiced things up a little bit, and managed to prevent it from being a very boring and meaningless camp.
I have to say, that the planning of the camp was very lousily done. The days leading up to the camp, i was just frustrated at how incompetently these NCOs were communicating with one another. Surprisingly, albeit after some major last minute changes and interventions, the camp actually went well and as per planned. So, good job to the NCOs for that.
One thing though i have to highlight, is how i think the company would have died of hunger if we werent there. But that itself is another story.
I took the following pics with my Lollipop. Never really had a camera phone so i took it out to play when i followed the company to Hort Park.
We started at Hort Park thn made our way to the treetop walk linking Hort Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park
For some reason this makes me think of Universal Studios which i would very much like to go to right now
Telok Blangah Hill Park
The group i was following consisting of 1 NCO, 2 Part As, 2 Part Bs and 2 PartCs
Last but not least, Happy Birthday Park Bom!!!!
So far, the one that has left the deepest impression was Annual Camp.
This was the 6th Annual Camp that i attended, 2nd as an old boy. It would have been the 7th, but last year i missed out since i was living the life in China. It seems that this time round, Kai Yuan would be missing out due to his overseas internship in China, and I would finally get a chance to attend camp again.
I really love GESS and NCC and all, but i have to admit, my "fire" is dying out. Us old boys always talk about our past as a cadet, the current state of the unit, how we can help, and about how we will keep our "fire" alive. "Fire" in this case refers to desire i guess. Desire, willpower, dedication and things like that.
We started out very passionately but it is inevitable that we have other commitments and interests so no matter how strongly we want to help, we just start to realize that we don't have much strength to do anything at all. Slowly, our "fire" would burn out.
This is why i have a huge amount of respect for Mr Beh. He is the person who has stayed committed to GESS NCC in every way possible. He started out as a cadet in the unit, came back as a teacher and took over as the commanding officer. And now, even when he's not teaching there, he goes back and try and help in any manner possible. Us old boys can never match something like that.
I always want to be of service to the unit. I'm glad that i have comrades who are willing to do the same as well. Annual camp would have been pretty darn boring if i had to it alone.
Our task was simple. We were "motivators" who came in at any time possible to raise the morale of the camp participants. We did so by teaching them cheers, songs, played games gave motivational talks, and more. It was a very different approach from what old boys usually do when they come back, because usually the only reason these old boys come back is to "tekan".
We didn't do much, but in the slightest way, i think we spiced things up a little bit, and managed to prevent it from being a very boring and meaningless camp.
I have to say, that the planning of the camp was very lousily done. The days leading up to the camp, i was just frustrated at how incompetently these NCOs were communicating with one another. Surprisingly, albeit after some major last minute changes and interventions, the camp actually went well and as per planned. So, good job to the NCOs for that.
One thing though i have to highlight, is how i think the company would have died of hunger if we werent there. But that itself is another story.
I took the following pics with my Lollipop. Never really had a camera phone so i took it out to play when i followed the company to Hort Park.
We started at Hort Park thn made our way to the treetop walk linking Hort Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park
For some reason this makes me think of Universal Studios which i would very much like to go to right now
Telok Blangah Hill Park
The group i was following consisting of 1 NCO, 2 Part As, 2 Part Bs and 2 PartCsLast but not least, Happy Birthday Park Bom!!!!
old books
I tend to have a sentimental side to myself when it comes to throwing stuff away.
My mom told me to rid my room off at least a few old books and papers that i've kept
for the past decade.
At the end of it all, i only found myself willing to give away only half of wad i looked through.
And what i looked through was only probably a fifth of what i still have, stored in my room.
Whenever i have to throw things away, i tend to favour the idea of needing to use them again one day; so i refuse to throw them away at all. Besides that, it's like almost every item that i've ever owned or used has a value and a memory that comes with it. I'm probably afraid of losing this memory which will go away with the item.
But, i admit, they've been there for pretty long and i've not even given a slight peek at any of them. Well, at least i'm not actually throwing them away, instead i'm recycling. Thank god for those yellow plastic bags.
I promised mom i'd do all the cleaning and reorganizing by next week. I somehow feel that this would actually help me in reorganizing my habits and my life. Hope i get it done.
My mom told me to rid my room off at least a few old books and papers that i've kept
for the past decade.
At the end of it all, i only found myself willing to give away only half of wad i looked through.
And what i looked through was only probably a fifth of what i still have, stored in my room.
Whenever i have to throw things away, i tend to favour the idea of needing to use them again one day; so i refuse to throw them away at all. Besides that, it's like almost every item that i've ever owned or used has a value and a memory that comes with it. I'm probably afraid of losing this memory which will go away with the item.
But, i admit, they've been there for pretty long and i've not even given a slight peek at any of them. Well, at least i'm not actually throwing them away, instead i'm recycling. Thank god for those yellow plastic bags.
I promised mom i'd do all the cleaning and reorganizing by next week. I somehow feel that this would actually help me in reorganizing my habits and my life. Hope i get it done.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Post Chalet
I really need some sleep and rest rite now...
Sunday i spent the night at Kum Wai's with the rest of the guys.
Everytime i go there, the only thing we do
is play that outdated version of Winning Eleven.
Thn again, its still fun. I only had 2 hours of sleep that day.
I went home and i DID get ard 3 more hours of sleep
but my sleep was cut short since Shahril told me
there was possibility that the Wonder Girls might
be shopping around town that day.
Rushed to town, kind of didnt bother about spotting them.
Instead we did our own thing.
Then headed to chalet.
Which was a further 2 nights of not sleeping well.
Went home early and almost immediately have to wake up
and do everything that i did today.
And i am FINALLY having my own free time now.
I'm kind of brain-dead though,
so this is all that i can think about sharing rite now.
I think chalet was great.
Didnt do much but i spent some quality time
with my ex-classmates.
We had 2 very murderous nights; quite literally.
I realize i really cant go on typing anymore.
Forgive me for i must sleep.
Sunday i spent the night at Kum Wai's with the rest of the guys.
Everytime i go there, the only thing we do
is play that outdated version of Winning Eleven.
Thn again, its still fun. I only had 2 hours of sleep that day.
I went home and i DID get ard 3 more hours of sleep
but my sleep was cut short since Shahril told me
there was possibility that the Wonder Girls might
be shopping around town that day.
Rushed to town, kind of didnt bother about spotting them.
Instead we did our own thing.
Then headed to chalet.
Which was a further 2 nights of not sleeping well.
Went home early and almost immediately have to wake up
and do everything that i did today.
And i am FINALLY having my own free time now.
I'm kind of brain-dead though,
so this is all that i can think about sharing rite now.
I think chalet was great.
Didnt do much but i spent some quality time
with my ex-classmates.
We had 2 very murderous nights; quite literally.
I realize i really cant go on typing anymore.
Forgive me for i must sleep.
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Korean subway Rain vs Singapore MRT Bollywood star
"Yo, Korean-Rain-wannabe-man, I'm really happy for you and I'mma let you finish. But this Indian man here has one of the best performances inside a train, of all time. One of the best of all time!"
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=369102760916&ref=mf#!/video/video.php?v=333351388388&ref=mf
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=369102760916&ref=mf
This Indian guy is so entertaining, i've roughly memorized wad he has sung.
I mean, i wont rly pay to watch him, but its good entertainment! Especially when rides on the train can be so dull and tiring.
I wanna emphasize on a few things here.
First of all i think his trademark "back bending" move is priceless...
Where the heck did he get that? Matrix?
He doesnt seem like he's drunk. From what i see he rly enjoys doing it. Such enthusiasm!
And the LAST thing i wanna emphasize.
He ZAO SIA in the 3rd video.
I know it might nt be a big deal, but if you know me well, you know it is.
http://aziz-hysteria.blogspot.com/2007/10/gess-zao-sia.html
Now, lets give some credit to the Korean guy. That video is also great cuz of the participation from some members of the crowd. When i watch these things i tend to also look out for the audience's reactions.
He goes all out in that one, with the dance moves and all. But our resident Bollywood star also has some moves of his own. Who wins? I dunno.
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Kim Yuna
Anyone been following the Winter Olympics?
Well, regardless, lets put all the curling, skiing, luge and ice hockey aside,
and let me introduce you to a certain figure skater.
Kim Yuna
Yes, she's Korean.
Anybody who follows the sport would know her since she's the reigning world champion,
and pretty much everyone, agrees that she's the best in history.
Anybody who follows Korean shows enough must also have at least seen or heard of
her name at least once.
This princess does everything. She's best in her sport, turning her into a pop icon in Korea, having made so many endorsements, appearing in commercials, made appearances in variety shows, and even sang a duet with SNSD's Taeyeon. No shit, she can sing and dance.
Well, regardless, lets put all the curling, skiing, luge and ice hockey aside,
and let me introduce you to a certain figure skater.
Kim Yuna
Yes, she's Korean.
Anybody who follows the sport would know her since she's the reigning world champion,
and pretty much everyone, agrees that she's the best in history.
Anybody who follows Korean shows enough must also have at least seen or heard of
her name at least once.
This princess does everything. She's best in her sport, turning her into a pop icon in Korea, having made so many endorsements, appearing in commercials, made appearances in variety shows, and even sang a duet with SNSD's Taeyeon. No shit, she can sing and dance.
Commercials for Samsung and more...
Appearance on Infinity Challenge, one of Korea's most highly rated variety shows.
Look at how excited MC Yoo is... LOL
Look at how excited MC Yoo is... LOL
Duet with the equally adorable Taeyeon.
I think Taeyeon is her fav singer.
I think Taeyeon is her fav singer.
Dancing to Hip Hop
Skating to "Dont Stop The Music"
Rihanna (who was in Korea recently) even thanked her for using the song.
Rihanna (who was in Korea recently) even thanked her for using the song.
She does all that, and she speaks fluent English.
Is she your ideal girl yet?
Is she your ideal girl yet?
By now you must have drawn conclusions that i'm obsessed with this girl or something.
And while that may be true, Kim Yuna opened my eyes to many other sports that are featured in the Winter Olympics. I never tot they would be so entertaining.
Now the ladies figure skating events just started yesterday and news is that Kim Yuna broke the Olympic World Record. I dont have ESPN so all I can do is wait for Channel 5 to show the highlights, then wait for someone to upload it on YouTube.
Meanwhile i shall re-read and re-watch wadever i have posted here.... again and again and again
And while that may be true, Kim Yuna opened my eyes to many other sports that are featured in the Winter Olympics. I never tot they would be so entertaining.
Now the ladies figure skating events just started yesterday and news is that Kim Yuna broke the Olympic World Record. I dont have ESPN so all I can do is wait for Channel 5 to show the highlights, then wait for someone to upload it on YouTube.
Meanwhile i shall re-read and re-watch wadever i have posted here.... again and again and again
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
chinese new year
Happy Lunar New Year to everyone!
I just learned that Chinese, Koreans, Vietnamese, Mongolians and Tibetans
all share the same New Year day. So i said "Lunar" instead of "Chinese".
Way to kill 5 birds with 1 stone huh?
I hear Starhub opened up all channels for the holidays.
Good for you guys, cuz all ive been watching was Channel 5 and 8.
I have MiO but even if THEY opened up all channels,
i still think there isnt anything nice to watch at all, is there?
I just learned that Chinese, Koreans, Vietnamese, Mongolians and Tibetans
all share the same New Year day. So i said "Lunar" instead of "Chinese".
Way to kill 5 birds with 1 stone huh?
I hear Starhub opened up all channels for the holidays.
Good for you guys, cuz all ive been watching was Channel 5 and 8.
I have MiO but even if THEY opened up all channels,
i still think there isnt anything nice to watch at all, is there?
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
pld, rmt test
I got owned by 2 papers today.
PLD was plain tricky. I got deceived by an unusual character which agonizingly looked like
an equal sign. It wasn't, and just because of that, a large portion of my answer is probably incorrect.
RMT was just a really sad story. All questions were on Junction 8. And i've never been there b4 my whole life. Its a good thing i read something about dat mall b4 i went to school today.
I saw my NCC junior Wei Yang in the same lecture hall today, taking the RMT test.
Yet more evidence of how small this world is.
In other news...
i really want this...
PLD was plain tricky. I got deceived by an unusual character which agonizingly looked like
an equal sign. It wasn't, and just because of that, a large portion of my answer is probably incorrect.
RMT was just a really sad story. All questions were on Junction 8. And i've never been there b4 my whole life. Its a good thing i read something about dat mall b4 i went to school today.
I saw my NCC junior Wei Yang in the same lecture hall today, taking the RMT test.
Yet more evidence of how small this world is.
In other news...
i really want this...
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
muneer has facebook
I helped Muneer with his facebook account today.
for some reason i felt a sense of achievement after recommending friends
and tagging some photos of him. lol.
Connecting people is a good thing i guess.
That's what Facebook does...
In the meantime... i'm wondering... which colour should i?......
lolli-lolli-oh lollipop~~
for some reason i felt a sense of achievement after recommending friendsand tagging some photos of him. lol.
Connecting people is a good thing i guess.
That's what Facebook does...
In the meantime... i'm wondering... which colour should i?......
lolli-lolli-oh lollipop~~
Saturday, February 06, 2010
a good day
I reached home today and suddenly realised what a good day this has been.
Not a great day. But just good. Smooth sailing, refreshing, tantalizing.
No bus woes today. 195 arrived reasonably while 75 took less than a minute.
Had a mini "adventure" on learning how to use the library's printer with Shahril.
We're students about to enter year 3, but we knew nuts about getting our papers printed.
Entered the classroom being "fashionably" late.
Lecture practically ended as soon as we entered and the group presentations followed.
We were the last group to present so couldnt leave early. But i didn't mind.
It was the last class together and i'm kinda sentimental.
Eye candy came in some time after me. That much later; that much more fashionable.
A sight to behold. Won't be seeing her too many times i guess.
Moments later the door in front of me suddenly opened automatically.
I jumped on my seat. The class laughed. But for a moment i tot i was being the target of a mafia shoot and run. Think 'Godfather'
My presentation went smoothly; even had time to joke with the lecturer.
And also time to make glances towards the other eye candy. heh
After class went back to GESS.
Here onwards, i met so many people.
My Part A Platoon Sergeant from back when I was sec 1 boarded 16 a stop before the one i alighted at. It was a very short conversation.
But i felt that we caught up so much.
Told him about Chi Jie being the first one of us enlisting today.
On the way out of the bus i accidentally stepped on a lady's foot.
Sincerely apologized, and she sincerely forgave with a smile.
My mind was overloaded with NCC memories after my chance meeting with Nicholas.
At the security guardhouse of GESS, the guard enthusiastically told me to head on in without even needing the visitor's pass. It made me feel that i'm still welcomed in the GESS family.
Checked on the status of Annual Camp's preparations. Not that good, but we'll catch up.
Saw lots of familiar faces; Raymond and Sin Hua to name a few.
Glad to see there are others taking time out to help out the alma mater.
The guard waved us goodbye and opened the gate for us on our way out.
Had dinner then with Rahim, Wai Leong and Benny.
Mr Beh happened to be passing by. He then settled and had dinner with us, along with
giving us his fries.
That was when Alex came by as well. Always good to see an NCC senior/acquaintance.
Had a lengthy chat session with Mr Beh and the rest over kopi treated by him.
Impressed with Mr Beh's never ending plans to travel the world.
He plans his life really well i think.
Talked about lots of things.
And while doing so, saw other familiar faces who were walking by Bengawan Solo.
In this case, Ryan Chow and Zhao Feng and the bball guys.
10pm, waited for 195 with Wai Leong who was nice enough to accompany me until my bus arrived. In the bus, didnt notice i was standing next to Meixian until halfway thru the journey.
Walked our way home while catching up as well.
Seems like the only thing i talk to her about whenever i see her is school.
Her brother got into my course but is currently waiting for appeal results.
Reached home and chatted with Meixian's mom who happened to be downstairs.
She always talks about her son.
And even more so since i may well be his senior soon.
Ah Peng then appeared. He's Yi Fan's uncle. Yi Fan used to live at my block. Back then, all of us were a group of neighbours who played catching at the playground together.
Again, the memories rushed in.
Short chat with Ah Peng before the lift arrived.
He mentioned i got taller.
U wont know how much that means to me. :)
Nothing extravagant happened today.
Instead it was the small things that made me happy.
And looking at all the problems and issues i've been facing lately,
i think things are finally starting to get better.
Man, today was a good day.
Not a great day. But just good. Smooth sailing, refreshing, tantalizing.
No bus woes today. 195 arrived reasonably while 75 took less than a minute.
Had a mini "adventure" on learning how to use the library's printer with Shahril.
We're students about to enter year 3, but we knew nuts about getting our papers printed.
Entered the classroom being "fashionably" late.
Lecture practically ended as soon as we entered and the group presentations followed.
We were the last group to present so couldnt leave early. But i didn't mind.
It was the last class together and i'm kinda sentimental.
Eye candy came in some time after me. That much later; that much more fashionable.
A sight to behold. Won't be seeing her too many times i guess.
Moments later the door in front of me suddenly opened automatically.
I jumped on my seat. The class laughed. But for a moment i tot i was being the target of a mafia shoot and run. Think 'Godfather'
My presentation went smoothly; even had time to joke with the lecturer.
And also time to make glances towards the other eye candy. heh
After class went back to GESS.
Here onwards, i met so many people.
My Part A Platoon Sergeant from back when I was sec 1 boarded 16 a stop before the one i alighted at. It was a very short conversation.
But i felt that we caught up so much.
Told him about Chi Jie being the first one of us enlisting today.
On the way out of the bus i accidentally stepped on a lady's foot.
Sincerely apologized, and she sincerely forgave with a smile.
My mind was overloaded with NCC memories after my chance meeting with Nicholas.
At the security guardhouse of GESS, the guard enthusiastically told me to head on in without even needing the visitor's pass. It made me feel that i'm still welcomed in the GESS family.
Checked on the status of Annual Camp's preparations. Not that good, but we'll catch up.
Saw lots of familiar faces; Raymond and Sin Hua to name a few.
Glad to see there are others taking time out to help out the alma mater.
The guard waved us goodbye and opened the gate for us on our way out.
Had dinner then with Rahim, Wai Leong and Benny.
Mr Beh happened to be passing by. He then settled and had dinner with us, along with
giving us his fries.
That was when Alex came by as well. Always good to see an NCC senior/acquaintance.
Had a lengthy chat session with Mr Beh and the rest over kopi treated by him.
Impressed with Mr Beh's never ending plans to travel the world.
He plans his life really well i think.
Talked about lots of things.
And while doing so, saw other familiar faces who were walking by Bengawan Solo.
In this case, Ryan Chow and Zhao Feng and the bball guys.
10pm, waited for 195 with Wai Leong who was nice enough to accompany me until my bus arrived. In the bus, didnt notice i was standing next to Meixian until halfway thru the journey.
Walked our way home while catching up as well.
Seems like the only thing i talk to her about whenever i see her is school.
Her brother got into my course but is currently waiting for appeal results.
Reached home and chatted with Meixian's mom who happened to be downstairs.
She always talks about her son.
And even more so since i may well be his senior soon.
Ah Peng then appeared. He's Yi Fan's uncle. Yi Fan used to live at my block. Back then, all of us were a group of neighbours who played catching at the playground together.
Again, the memories rushed in.
Short chat with Ah Peng before the lift arrived.
He mentioned i got taller.
U wont know how much that means to me. :)
Nothing extravagant happened today.
Instead it was the small things that made me happy.
And looking at all the problems and issues i've been facing lately,
i think things are finally starting to get better.
Man, today was a good day.
Thursday, February 04, 2010
Muse in SG
There was a time when I said to myself that I would never miss a Muse concert, live in Singapore.
The opportunity came in 2007, and i ended up giving it a miss.
Then, I vowed to never ever miss a Muse concert if it would ever come by again.
I'm not a man of my word I guess...
Well, I guess going to concerts are expensive and I'm kinda like always lacking in cash.
Funny how I've already booked a ticket for Brown Eyed Girls live in SG, costing me $98.
I heard there was a 3 hour wait for Muse yesterday.
They were supposed to arrive at 7pm but only arrived at 10pm I believe?
That wouldn't have been pleasant...
I suddenly remember the more than 5 hour wait i went through
just to get close to Brown Eyed Girls and yet missing the meet and greet by standing in line
later than just 30 people or so.
That, was also not pleasant...
The opportunity came in 2007, and i ended up giving it a miss.
Then, I vowed to never ever miss a Muse concert if it would ever come by again.
I'm not a man of my word I guess...
Well, I guess going to concerts are expensive and I'm kinda like always lacking in cash.
Funny how I've already booked a ticket for Brown Eyed Girls live in SG, costing me $98.
I heard there was a 3 hour wait for Muse yesterday.
They were supposed to arrive at 7pm but only arrived at 10pm I believe?
That wouldn't have been pleasant...
I suddenly remember the more than 5 hour wait i went through
just to get close to Brown Eyed Girls and yet missing the meet and greet by standing in line
later than just 30 people or so.
That, was also not pleasant...
Monday, February 01, 2010
1 year station
Hello people! After such a long time i'm back, and for no apparent reason!
Instead of creating a new blog, i just settled with using the old one, except
i changed the template to the one i had on my China blog.
I'm not familiar with all these HTML stuff so i really dont know what to do
with those archive stuff and all. Plus, it looks kinda messy,
but i'll be using this until i find myself bothering about finding something better.
Lots of stuff happened in my life in the period between this post and the last.
But i'm not gonna go through all those right now am I?
What I'd like to do is to make a belated reflection on the year 2009.
2009 is in many ways a milestone year for me.
Lots of changes, lots of developments, and also lots of issues.
At any rate, I hope 2010 will be an even better year.
I've got no school today so i actually went down to town with the intention
of at least buying one item. Eventually, I found nothing suitable. I don't know what
to blame. My small size, or the retailers who don't stock up enough 'S' sizes.
I hope the shopping trip with SBU will be a more fruitful one.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is my first update in 2010. Have a nice day....
Instead of creating a new blog, i just settled with using the old one, except
i changed the template to the one i had on my China blog.
I'm not familiar with all these HTML stuff so i really dont know what to do
with those archive stuff and all. Plus, it looks kinda messy,
but i'll be using this until i find myself bothering about finding something better.
Lots of stuff happened in my life in the period between this post and the last.
But i'm not gonna go through all those right now am I?
What I'd like to do is to make a belated reflection on the year 2009.
2009 is in many ways a milestone year for me.
Lots of changes, lots of developments, and also lots of issues.
At any rate, I hope 2010 will be an even better year.
I've got no school today so i actually went down to town with the intention
of at least buying one item. Eventually, I found nothing suitable. I don't know what
to blame. My small size, or the retailers who don't stock up enough 'S' sizes.
I hope the shopping trip with SBU will be a more fruitful one.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is my first update in 2010. Have a nice day....
Thursday, October 01, 2009
Korean songs and their non-Korean counterparts.
Korean songs and their non-Korean counterparts.
Example 1
Timeless
English: Kelly Clarkson & Justin Guarini
Korean: Zhang Liyin & Xiah Junsu
For those who don't know this song, it was on the soundtrack of the movie, "From Justin to Kelly", starring the Winner and Runner-up of American Idol season 1 themselves, Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini. While the movie itself was a box office bomb, the song is actually incredibly nice.
More about their Korean counterparts, Zhang Liyin (Jang Ri In) is the first Chinese singer to break into the Korean market, debuting under SM Entertainment. Her first single is a remake of Kelly Clarkson's song, which she sang along with fellow label-mate, Xiah Junsu of DBSK.
Kelly Clarkson & Justin Guarini:
No official MV available btw,
And here's Zhang Liyin & Xiah Junsu:
Han Kyung and Siwon of Super Junior are the lead males here. Lee Yeonhee is the lead female, all 3 of which are also under SM.
Which is better?
It was kind of difficult to decide. For the male voice, some say Junsu put much more soul into it, but i think Justin Guarini did just fine. For the female voice i clearly think Kelly Clarkson did the song better. I dun think i have ever doubted Kelly's vocal prowess. Still, the Koreans gave an awesome MV to the song. There's a prequel to the video actually. Both combine to tell a touching tale of a Timeless Love.
Example 2
Right Round
English: Flo Rida
Korean: DJ Shine
A newer song. Was nvr really a fan of this song, but i admit sometimes its pretty fun to listen to, especially at the end credits of the movie, The Hangover. The song itself is actually a remake of a 1984 song, "You Spin Me Round" by Dead or Alive. Flo Rida topped a few charts with this one, and a Korean remake soon followed.
DJ Shine is a hip hop artist originally from the group, Drunken Tiger. Drunken Tiger is said to have reformed the Korean music industry with their unique hip-hop sound and realistic lyrics. So when the first song released by DJ Shine after going solo was a remake, many fans were disappointed.
Flo Rida:
And here's DJ Shine:
Which is better?
I dun have a clear opinion on this cuz the song isnt that great to me. But if i were to consider myself as a Drunken Tiger fan, i would definitely be disappointed with this song of DJ Shine's. With that said, Flo Rida wins this right round. (ha-ha-ha)
Example 3
Deal With It/Juliette
English: Corbin Bleu
Korean: SHINee
The song Deal With It is a song on the debut album of Corbin Bleu, of High School Musical fame. A fairly catchy song to me.
It was soon remade by SM Entertainment, for the boy band, SHINee. SHINee gained quite abit of success with this song, but i'm just not feeling it. AMIGO and Replay were far better songs.
Corbin Bleu:
SHINee:
Which is better?
I really cant make a decision on this one. Vocally, i guess SHINee is better, but for some reason this song suits Corbin better? This one's a draw i guess.
Example 4
Tell Me Your Wish/Raqsga Tushgin (?)
Korean: Girls Generation (SNSD)
UZBEKISTAN: Dineyra
Alright, this time round, its nt English vs Korean. This round we are featuring an Uzbekistan pop singer, Dineyra. Dineyra was actually the first to release this song but because Uzbekistan music isnt exactly mainstream, the song pretty much didnt cross boundaries.
But when SNSD of SM Entertainment sings it, half of Asia sings along. "Tell Me Your Wish" was not as successful as "Gee" but it still was quite a big hit. The controversy dat arose was that a few weeks after TMYW was released, resourceful netizens found the Dineyra version which was released earlier. Anti-fans were quick to pounce on this, claiming that SNSD had plagiarised. The truth it, it was Dineyra's agency that had acquired the song without any permission.
Dineyra:
SNSD:
Which is better?
I actually felt that Dineyra's version didnt sound half bad at all. But if 2
Example 5 (i'm gonna be done soon)
Under My Skin/Mirotic
English: Sarah Connor
Korean: DBSK
I don't know much about Sarah Connor, but i know she's not the Sarah Connor from The Terminator series. This Sarah Connor is a German singer who is said to be one of the most successful, with sales of more than 12 million copies worldwide.
Still, it is the Korean counterpart DBSK's version that we are more familiar with. The song was originally written for the German singer, but SM Entertainment (notice i've mentioned them 4 times alr) also bought the rights to this song and gave it to DBSK, who turned this song into one of their greatest hits, so much so that it spawned a Japanese version, and even a Mandarin version.
Sarah Connor:
DBSK:
Which is better?
I must say, both are amazing. Sarah Connor is HOT. And honestly speaking, i once had a inferiority complex when i looked at DBSK's Jaejoong. I think he's way too perfect. He's hot. Okay, moving on, i want to say that its a draw, but that wudnt be much fun. If i HAD to make a choice, it'd be DBSK, because i'm more familiar with them.
Example 6
Insomnia
English: Craig David
Korean: Wheesung
We all know this song. "Imsomnia" is a damn fine song and Craig David is probably one of the best R&B singers i've heard.
Unlike the cases of SM Entertainment, where they buy the rights to songs and remake or cover them, Craig David personally requested Korean R&B singer, Wheesung, to sing a Korean version of "Insomnia". Wheesung has recieved quite abit of success in Korea but apparently, his full potential is yet to unleased.
He is now preparing for an American debut. His album is being produced by Rodney Jerkins, who has produced albums for Michael Jackson, Beyonce and more. Moreover, one song will be featuring R&B supertar, Ne-Yo himself, and the song was actually originally planned to be on Michael Jackson's new album.
Craig David:
Wheesung:
Which is better?
I find it hard to admit, that i think Wheesung did this song better than Craig David himself. At times, the Korean lyrics were probably too long and rushed. But Wheesung added in some amazing ad-libs. And the scream/howl at the end of the song just before the dance break, was what nailed it for me. Wheesung wins.
'nuff said
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Man Utd 4 Man City 3
I'm not quite done spazzing
about the MONSTER of a match
that was Man Utd vs Man City just now.
Probably one of the best ive seen in my life.
Moments like these is exactly why i
SIMPLY
LOVE
FOOTBALL.
(and Man Utd)
Manchester United v Manchester City
"Wayne Rooney will take this free kick. This has to be the last moment. Rooney... That's Ireland...Tevez... Rooney up to Ferdinand, out by Lescott... Ryan Giggs... Great pass; MICHAEL OWEN!! TO WIN IT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED!!!...
...
.. UN--BELIEVABLE..."
'nuff said
about the MONSTER of a match
that was Man Utd vs Man City just now.
Probably one of the best ive seen in my life.
Moments like these is exactly why i
SIMPLY
LOVE
FOOTBALL.
(and Man Utd)
Manchester United v Manchester City
"Wayne Rooney will take this free kick. This has to be the last moment. Rooney... That's Ireland...Tevez... Rooney up to Ferdinand, out by Lescott... Ryan Giggs... Great pass; MICHAEL OWEN!! TO WIN IT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED!!!...
...
.. UN--BELIEVABLE..."
'nuff said
Friday, September 18, 2009
Epik High is back!
Epik High is back!
30 new songs to ring in my ears again and again,
and so far, the songs on the new album, [e]
doesnt disappoint.
The 30 songs are split into 2 CDs,
15 tracks each.
the songs on CD1 [e]motion,
are slower and have a more sentimental feel to them.
the songs on CD2 [e]nergy,
are fast paced, and have a stronger and more dynamic beat.
'Wannabe' is the title track that they're
promoting rite now.
Epik High always loved to utilize a
simple, sweet and pleasant female voice
for the chorus of their song,
and Wannabe is the latest example.
With their hits 'One', 'Love Love Love'
'Umbrella', 'Fly', '1 Minute 1 Second'
all having featured a female singer,
i cant help but feel that this is one of
Epik High's winning formula.
Here's the MV for Wannabe,
released moments ago.
besides Epik High,
mapthesoul.com partners,
Planet Shiver and MYK also appear in this MV
and this here is the Korean movie
that they sort of parodied
No matter wad, Epik High's unique music
nvr fail to impress me.
I'll get this album when i've got the cash.
However, my VIP instincts tell me
i shud be buying upcoming Taeyang and 2NE1 albums first...
Sunday, September 13, 2009
There this place called Hillock
or what we commonly refer to as Purmei,
where we always play soccer during the holidays,
3 times a week,
9am to 12pm,
without fail, and undisturbed.
You can trust dat we will be there.
We, referring to the guys of GESS intake 04.
I always anticipated that it wud be
slightly more difficult to plan such sessions
during this holiday break,
since a handful of us are preparing for A levels,
and have to attend school anyways.
Then i learned that Rahim and Wai Leong
would be going for internships as well.
By right, we still have just enough ppl to play,
but for some reason they locked the place up.
You have to book it 3 days in advance,
pay $20 per hour,
and also hand in a deposit of $50.
We play for as long as 3 hours and sometimes even 4.
So thats $80, divide by 10 ppl,
which is the amount of ppl we usually at least have,
thats 8 bucks to play for a day;
just a normal day, which used to be able to enjoy for free.
I dont even know where ur supposed to
go to book it.
The notice was very "detailed".
And even if i wanted to book, i dont have that much
money to pay for the cost and deposit up front.
So, sorry guys, i just dont have the motivation
to organize for our favorite past time anymore.
This development has been such a
big middle finger up on my face,
that i'm simply just demoralised.
In an attempt to end this post on a happier note,
so that i dont emo when i re-read it after publishing,
lets have some KPOP! ^^
These 3 videos appeared in my subscription box today.
They're pretty much random things,
but they're all wad makes me like following KPOP so much.
First up, KARA in a baseball match
notice the "butt-dance" that makes the crowd roar
at 0:34.
Its a dance that's become really popular,
coming from their song, Mister.
butt dance starts at 0:11
I admit, it does gain some of my attention.
Next up is the ever so popular, SNSD!
I think its a commercial.
It probably is.
Jessica's looking pretty awesome here.
Jessica was nowhere near being my favourite member
until recently, she's pretty much been the "it" girl.
And she has gained my attention as well.
Im very excited to introduce to you the last group,
because they're my 2nd favourite girl group,
behind 2NE1.
Just in case u dont know, I like SNSD and Kara and all,
(as in they're great eye candies and entertainers and all)
but music wise, they're nt dat appealing to me.
On the other hand, Brown Eyed Girls'
music in my opinion is one of the best among girl groups.
Here's BEG in a Public Transport Campaign ad.
They had to undergo lots of changes
from their previous style,
in order to transform to the sexy BEG that they are today.
Their "arrogant dance" in which they
cross their arms and sway their hips
is also very popular now.
I always end up being very happy
after watching this video.
My point is, not only do these Korean artists
appear in one medium of the entertainment industry,
they appear in variety shows,
commercials,
environmental campaigns,
sports broadcasts, and many more.
I just love the interactivity of the industry.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
sending Chloe off the 2nd time
Went to Changi Airport to send
Chloe off to the States for the 2nd time.
Didnt really mind the long MRT ride
since i kinda like being at the airport.
Chloe had a lengthy stay here in SG
and im glad we all went out as a class (former)
together on a few occasions.
Quite a few ppl went overseas to study.
Sure, they have family or relatives
ready to receive and live with them on the other side,
but still, the idea of leaving ur home
and staying in a foreign land
for a long period of time scares me.
I lived in China for 6 weeks.
My experience there was pleasant but
all around me there were friends who supported me.
It just felt like bringing my Singapore
classroom over to China.
What Chloe, Boon Long, Sebas and others do, is different.
Apart from family, no1 else accompanies them,
and they have to start anew.
If there comes a day that i too have to
put myself out of my comfort zone
and adapt to a totally alien environment,
would i be able to succeed as they have?
I slept for the best part of the 2 HOUR
journey home.
But when i was awake, this was wad i was thinking of.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
2PM
After Gene's request, i really felt like
posting about 2PM's former leader Park Jaebeom
but i figured i had nothing much to say anyways.
I just feel really sorry dat he has to go thru all the shit
when the future was looking real bright
for him and the boys.
JYP revealed that the fallen from grace idol
used to be a problematic kid and gave the staff
and company lots of problems in his early days.
Despite this, he slowly changed,
and his passion and energy on stage
earned him the title of leader.
I dont love 2PM as much as i love Big Bang
but i have to admit, watching 2PM on variety
and idol shows was far more entertaining.
They're the dorky-est idol group i've ever seen,
and Jaebeom was definitely one who stood out.
Likewise can surely be said when they perform on stage.
Okay, since i ended up posting quite an amount,
lets just call this my tribute to Park Jaebeom and 2PM.
2PM shud, by all means continue their activities in this
coming month, and not leave fans
even more disappointed.
As for Jay, i hope he finds some much needed
peace of mind back in USA, and go back to Korea
when the time is right, cuz i know he wants to.
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