Adios 2010!

This year flew by pretty fast, don't you think?

From going through Yr 1 Sem 2 to the 4-month-long holiday, to going through yet another semester...

It's amazing how all of us manage to pull through.

2010. For me, it was a year of ups and downs. But the downs were really, really the all-time lows. Still, I managed to embrace them, overcome them (I hope) and I actually look forward to a better year. I just have this upbeat, optimistic feeling about 2011. Something tells me there're lots of goodies in store for me.

So as we say goodbye to the past decade and welcome the start of a new one, let us reflect meaningfully and be grateful for everything, good or bad, that has happened to us. They all happen for a reason, one way or another.

And here's something for you guys that I baked as a gift for the new year:

Ok I'm kidding. These aren't baked by me. Why would I bake Hello Kitty pizzas anyway??

Alright y'all. Time to sign off. Till next year dudes and dudettes!

P.S.: I think the best thing that's coming in 2011 will be Britney's new album. Honestly.

:D

I Ain't Thru

Time to post an update.

Halfway through the horrible exams right now... 3 down, 2 to go. Haven't been really happy with any of them thus far. Just hope that I can get all the grades I desire.

Anyway, I'm getting an iPhone! :D Kinda surprised at how quick I decided to get it. Sort of a Christmas present to myself haha. And it arrives on X'Mas Eve. How apt!

Imp wants me to use Twitter. But it's kinda pointless because how many friends of mine are actually active Twitterers? I can count just with the fingers on one hand.

Getting hooked on Bruno Mars again. Trying to perfect my playing of "Just The Way You Are" on keyboard. Woot.

5 more days to the end of exams!

Can't wait to watch all the movies I haven't watched for the past 4 months and counting.

Guess What?

The legendary Britney Spears will be releasing her brand new studio album in March 2011.

WOOOOOOOOOOT.

Beware folks, Queen B is coming to slay all your faves left right center.

GaGa who??

Sing!

I heard of this elective where you study about singing. Called "Magic of the Voice of a Singer" or something like that. And you earn your grade by singing (70%) plus a written exam (30%).

The best thing is, it doesn't matter if you can sing well or not, as long as you put in your best effort, you still get your grade! :D

I like to sing. I don't think anyone knows about this though. I can play a keyboard or strum a bit of guitar, but if I'm given a choice between playing a musical instrument or sing, I'll choose to sing. Surprise, surprise.

What's the joy of music if you don't sing along right?

I don't have an awesome singing voice and I can't hit high notes and stuff like that, but I really enjoy letting out whatever's pent-up in me through song.

You know, I have a secret dream. Well it's not gonna be a secret anymore after I click on "Publish Post", but I dream of singing on a stage to an audience. Laugh if you want, but if I actually have the opportunity to do so, I will. The one obstacle is I'm too shy. And I don't wanna butcher any song. Haha.

Anyway, I may choose to take up this elective next semester, but whether I get it or not is another thing.

P.S. If you want to sound better when you sing, do it in the bathroom, it has one of the best acoustics around the house. I'm serious.

Life Is Art.

Feel Good Time

Lately there's this influx of awesome self-empowering, uplifting songs riding the radio airwaves. So I've compiled all 7 of them here! :D Listen to them if you need a boost in your mood and life!

1.

Song Title: "Raise Your Glass"
Artist: P!nk
Album: Greatest Hits... So Far!!!

As P!nk herself described the song, "This one's for the underdogs".

2.

Song Title: "Firework"
Artist: Katy Perry
Album: Teenage Dream

Such an inspirational song! The most, as far as Katy's hit catalogue goes.

3.

Song Title: "We R Who We R"
Artist: Ke$ha
Album: Cannibal

Who knew that empowering songs can be fit for a club as well? It's already a Billboard #1 hit, for your information.

4.

Song Title: "Strip Me"
Artist: Natasha Bedingfield
Album: Strip Me

Natasha never fails to come up with uplifting anthems.

5.

Song Title: "Who You Are"
Artist: Jessie J
Album: Who You Are

Look out for this amazing, talented up-and-coming singer/songwriter from the UK!!! Debut album out next year. This ballad is a favourite of mine. So heartfelt! And in case you're not aware, it was featured in the dance flick, "Step Up 3D".

6.

Song Title: "Pretty Girl Rock"
Artist: Keri Hilson
Album: No Boys Allowed

This catchy one's for the ladies!! Plus the video was fantastic. Miss Keri paid homage to some of the awesome female artists from the past!

7.

Song Title: "Headphones"
Artist: Britt Nicole
Album: The Lost Get Found

Britt's more known in the Christian music genre I guess, but she makes awesome music everyone can enjoy. This song will definitely lift your mood! :D

I Am Not Advertising Myself

Just to be clear on that before I start.

Anyway, was just wondering about the topic of relationships. As in BGR. A sensitive and open topic I must say... But I guess there aren't really many people who read my blog so it's ok.

Well, I've never been in one, so... I don't really know how it feels like. I'm not gonna rush into one just to try it out, because I think it's stupid to do so, and it's unfair to the other party. Plus I don't think I have a high chance to be able to have one.

I've had crushes before though. A couple. But I've never confessed once. One reason is because I'm uber shy. Another is that I always feel I'm not ready to enter a relationship. I have questions all the time, like, how am I gonna treat her? What should I do? Because I believe that guys should treat their girlfriends right.

I'm not the kinda guy that girls will be attracted to at first sight, because I don't give lasting impressions. I think I'm the type whom you've gotta hang out with and get to know me more, and just perhaps you'll grow to like me.  About myself -- I don't watch soccer or play video/computer games so I'm pretty sure I won't neglect my girlfriend (if I have one) for those. And one thing I know, I'll only be happy if she's happy. I won't mind going down just to see the other party going up. This is also how I treat my closest friends too.

About my ideal girl... A few people are actually curious about what kind of girl I'd go for. I think I'm more into personality and character (not that I'm trying to be politically correct), but as long as she looks ok I'm ok (I know I'm not that attractive myself either). Well, I would like her to be bubbly and cheerful, someone whom I can talk continuously with. I hate awkward silences/pauses. I love music, so preferably she loves it too! Not those classical kind but you know, sing along with me, groove with me when a nice song is on air, and of course, Glee. Oh and I hope she doesn't club. I'm kinda anti-clubbing after my 'incident' (which only a few people know about, thankfully). I don't need to meet her so frequently because I know both of us have to have our own space and social circle too (I don't like possessive boyfriends so I'm never gonna be one).

As I have mentioned before in my blog, I value TRUST and HONESTY.

So there you have it. I'm not advertising myself nor am I posting an ad to search for a girlfriend. In case you're thinking about that now. I just wanna pour this out because all this stuff has been sitting in my mind for quite a while now. Collecting dust even.

On a side note, I really really really wanna catch the Rocky Horror Show next January @ Esplanade. Well mostly due to the Glee tribute episode, I'm now interested in it. But I highly doubt that there'll be anyone to go with me. I'm looking for company! Preferably people who are into plays and musicals! Because I don't want anybody to doze off halfway. Now THIS is an advertisement.

Before You Say "FML", Think About It

I'm sick of people writing "FML" on their facebook statuses, Twitter feeds, blog posts...

If you are unaware of what FML stands for, google it.

The "FML" comment, in my opinion, is overused, super inappropriate and I think it contains utmost disrespect. Maybe I'm just too sensitive, but I just can't stand it. Even if people are using it to pass off as a casual remark.

First, if you hate your life so much, then DON'T live it. There are so many more unfortunate others who would die to live yours. No matter how much you think you're suffering.

"FML" just because you have an assignment to complete??! For goodness sake.

Maybe these people don't really understand how 'heavy' the acronym "FML" means. Life is meant to be appreciated. Embraced. Sure, life is full of imperfections, but that's the way life is. It is meant to be imperfect. And it's only through these imperfections that we discover our own strengths within, create ourselves, bringing out our full potential. Imagine life that is just so...perfect. Maybe the sound of it is tempting, but if everyone's lives are so perfect, life itself will not have any meaning to it. It's boring. To a certain extent.

It's not as if you can't overcome the struggles in your life. Perhaps you can't for some, but you have a choice whether you wanna embrace it, or not.

Sometimes when I see people saying "FML", I thought to myself, "I bet my life is twice as hard as yours, and I don't even use that acronym."

Please. Think. There's absolutely NO REASON to f*** your life. Honestly.

We R Who We R

Ok, I think there's a need to update. If not the blog's going stale.

And just to mention, the title of each post may or may not be of concern to the post's content. In case you're wondering sometimes if they actually do link.

Anyway, RECESS!!! WOOOOOOOT!!! :D NO LAB FOR A WEEK!!! YAY!!!

Haha. Need to get that out.

Even though recess week means that there's gonna be a tsunami of mid-terms approaching, I'm still happy to have a break. And a kit-kat. Ok I'm lame. Whatever.

Ploughing through that HP802 assignment at the same time. Trying to complete a section per day. At this rate, I will hopefully finish it by......tomorrow?? I think that'll be a miracle because I'm currently slacking right now. And I do spend A LOT of time on a section. Each section takes about 400 words and I will take like up to 5 hours to perfect it. And that includes doing research for it, planning how to convey my ideas, and most importantly fit everything in about 400 words. 3 sections done, 2 left. And I haven't started yet.

Sigh. Recess week also means that the super dreaded exams are coming. Worried for all my modules.

Ok I guess I have to get back to my assignment now. If I'm ever gonna want it finished.

Orbitals = Skittles

Copped DA's new album yesterday!!! Currently spinning it like there's no tomorrow.

The 212 lectures seemed to be like stoning sessions for me. I couldn't comprehend what the lecturer is talking about. All I see are orbitals, orbitals and more orbitals (Sorry if you don't know what orbitals are, but you can just google it). And I sorta visualised them as Skittles instead. You know Skittles? Those coloured round sweets in a colourful pack? Come to think of it, I haven't eaten them for eons.

Don't they look just like your s orbitals? It's even printed on each one to tell you it's s.

And these are your p orbitals. LOL.

But these are my favourites!!! :D I'm literally drooling right now.

Hole In My Head

Rare for me to do a post on a Tuesday. But I just gotta rant about today's test.

It was so simple. So doable. Could have scored full marks for it. But I just couldn't do it.

MENTAL BLOCK.

Such a shame. I was so confident and feeling good about the impending test, only to come out of the lecture theatre CRUSHED.

It hurts when you wasted an opportunity to score for something.

T_+

The emoticon above shows my agony as I struggle to complete my lab report. The NMR spectrum seems to be yielding a knife at my throat, almost going to slice me any moment now.

Despite 2 impending tests, I still feel pretty alright and not as stressed up as I thought I would be. That's quite a feat, according to my standards. I guess I now know how to slow things down a little and prevent those pesky burnouts.

Anyway, I'm a self-proclaimed Glee fanatic and of course have already watched the first episode of Season 2 which started just last week. I really dig the songs the cast covered.

Usual life scoop aside, I actually wanted to blog about liars. People who tell lies, make empty promises, fabricate stuff and so on. There's just this particular person whom I've known for about 3 years now that's getting from bad to worse. I won't name names because I don't really wanna sound like I'm bitching about somebody (Even then, do I sound like I'm doing so? Ok, whatever).

Well, I have lotsa examples to back up my claim but I'm not writing everything down here. Basically, whatever this person says from now, I will not believe it. One ear in, the other ear out. I've been played out too much already. Turning immune even.

Trust. Honesty. These 2 words which I value so much do not exist in this person.

Just get out of my life already. You don't deserve my friendship. And others' too.

I Got My Hands All Over...

...Maroon 5's new album.

It's the 3rd M5 album that I own.

Anyway, I thought the cover looked a lil' creepy.

Well I guess that's pretty much for now, I'm so lazy to write anything. Think I'm gonna get the HP802 textbook tomorrow (FINALLY).

Science/Faith

Never expected to have bought 2 of The Script's albums, but I just copped the second one.

Science & Faith. Do both of them go together? They can co-exist, but I don't think they go together quite well. In fact they contradict most of the time.

Had the first 6-hour lab session yesterday. Though it went on quite smoothly, my IR spectrum is a gone-case. Time to scratch my head for the report.

By Ear

My ability to play music on the keyboard by ear is improving.

Playing music by ear is basically just hitting the notes according to the song you hear without referring to any sheet music. And making your own arrangements and accompaniments. I can tell you that the feeling and the satisfaction you get when you're able to play a song you just heard on the radio impromptu is AWESOME.

Who hates reading sheet music? *Puts my hand up*

Starting out will be a little tough, but as time goes by, you gain experience. For me, when I wanna play a new song I just come across on the Net, I start out by only playing the basic melody on my right hand. Once the melody and the gist of the song is clearer, I add my left-hand chords, changing and improvising the style and arrangement as I go along. Tried Shontelle's "No Gravity" which wasn't too tough. Today, I played a song that I heard for the first time. And it's relatively easy because the chords are pretty standard. It's The Wanted's new single, "Heart Vacancy", which is a lovely song. Peep the music video below!

There's Just Something 'Bout DA's Music

And of course DA = David Archuleta.

First things first, I'm not a 10-year-old pre-teen fan-girl gushing over DA.

But I gotta commend his music because:

1. It's sincere and heartfelt;

2. I can relate to most of his songs;

3. The songs are filled with catchy hooks and melodies.

I wasn't a fan of DA initially when he was on Idol but I bought his debut album and I have to say I'm gonna get his next one when it's out on October 4th. While his debut was more about love and whatnot, the upcoming one focuses more on being positive, optimistic and embracing your struggles, and these messages are embedded in tracks like "The Other Side Of Down", "Elevator" and "Things Are Gonna Get Better". I guess right now I really need those songs to pull me through in this trying time, to help lift me up before I can crumble down.

DA's music actually means a lot to me. And I'm so grateful that these songs are written and recorded, that I have the chance to listen to them. :)

Ok. Enough stanning for DA. Back to reality.

No more 3-day weeks for me!! :(

Lab and tutorials start this coming week and I'm gonna be frigging busy. Still on the fence on buying that Astronomy textbook. Such a waste to use it only for one semester. And it's not as if it's necessary, but it's recommended. WTH.

I wanna catch Resident Evil 4 but haven't got the time and the company. Not to mention playing my keyboard.

Talking about the keyboard... I feel like I can and enjoy creating melodies and hooks better than writing lyrics. Honestly, my song-writing skills suck and most of my songs all deal with the same subject that it's getting boring and tough. I think I prefer creating melodies on the keyboard instead (i.e. producing songs). We'll have to see about that.

Breaking Point

I finally got my PERFECT timetable!!! :D

Suddenly thought of trying my luck in STARS to see if anyone left my desired tutorial slot. And alas! There was a vacancy. And I switched. Thanks to whoever that person was.

If you're wondering why I'm blogging now, you can refer to my previous post.

Anyway, school started out pretty fine, but I'm already lost in 212. Time to start catching up!

Plus I now have company for all my modules. Awesome!!! :)

Don't We All.

I'm pretty sure everyone of us had an experience of the above.

So the YOG has come to an end. Surprisingly, I found myself glued to the TV all day long watching the games. Especially Table Tennis. A massive congratulations to Isabelle And Rainer for obtaining the Silver medal. And kudos to all athletes for putting in their best. I really hope you guys can improve further and represent Singapore in the future Olympic Games.

So Singapore received 2 Silvers and 5 Bronzes. Which is better than nothing. And as usual, China topped the list.

Anyway, I look forward to watching the London 2012 Games.

On another note, the GERPE/UE allocation results are out and I'm REALLY REALLY happy to get all of my desired electives -- CBC931, HP802 and Astronomy. Thank God, my almost perfect timetable is now finalised.

The first 2 weeks are gonna be relatively short for me as Labs and Tutorials only start from Week 3. So I only have to go to school for 3 days (thanks to my fantastic timetable planning skills). Awesome!!! :D

This semester's gonna be a little lonely for me because right now I have no company for 931 and Astronomy. You're a lone ranger now, Gary.

I guess I'll see my Sis around in school from now on then.

Different Summers

Taken from thedoghousediaries.com

Met up with the guys from my JC class yesterday. Felt just like old times. And we went shopping together for like the first time ever. Haha. I enjoyed myself though. It was great to see all of them again.

So YOG officially opened last night and the opening ceremony wasn't all that creative and "Wow", but it was generally quite commendable. The coolest part was the spinning torch. And why was Sean Kingston absent??

The new semester is starting real soon. Like a couple days after the Games end. Not entirely looking forward, really. But I know I gotta embrace it. Somehow. Let's just pray and hope that it will be an awesome one, okay? :)

Been playing my keyboard very often, printing new sheet music every now and then. Still trying to figure out how to compose and arrange my own songs. And I haven't been writing any new songs because of the lack of inspiration. Bummer.

Shhh... It's A Secret.

I'm so frigging excited that I'm gonna pee in my pants right now. If you bother to play that video, it's definitely Britney's new song played backwards I think. And that's a fierce picture right there! So when I tried to find the up-loader of that video, the name comes up as "Secretney" and this person only has just one video. At the moment. And he/she just joined YouTube 2 days ago.

Honestly, despite Britney's manager denying that Brit has a new album coming up, I guess it's all a mystery promo campaign to build up hype. That YouTube up-loader is probably her marketing team at it. Apparently, her new single premieres this September. Remember that there's gonna be a Britney tribute episode on Glee in September too? How coincidental.

Anyway, I have my hopes up that I can listen to new Britney this year.

Salt?

Caught one of my most anticipated films of the year with a fellow Angie fan, Pravin today.

Despite poor reviews from critics, I still thought that "Salt" has many interesting and surprising twists, not to mention the awesome stunts and action from the leading lady herself. Not many actresses can pull off a whole action movie by herself. Angelina Jolie is one of the few. Yet, there are some unanswered questions to the story and yes, loopholes. But I guess if you like to watch films like "Bourne" about spies and whatnot, "Salt" may probably be just for you too.

Rating: 4/5

Ok, so I've been holding this back for a few days now until this major blog post, but I finally got myself a keyboard!!! :D It's the latest model from Yamaha and it looks like this:

Nice? It arrives tomorrow and I'm so stoked.

Been watching YouTube clips of people playing Pop Piano/Keyboard and searching sheet music of my favourite songs on the Internet these few days. I'm a happy guy!!! Haha. Music is my passion and nothing beats having your own instrument to play your favourite songs on. Plus I can record my own songs now! I hope I can get some of my written songs recorded into midis so you guys can hear them (if you want to).

Can't wait! :)

Decision Made

A keyboard it is. Can't wait to play it.

J Day

We got a GREAT GREAT bargain when we went shopping for Jason's birthday gift. I guess we were lucky that the sales lady was kinda new.

Had a hard time locating the venue but we got there eventually. Been ages since I last saw Jason, Eugene and Fiz. So catching up with them was pretty enjoyable. And as usual, laughed hard at some of the stuff Chuwa shared. Such a joker.

Anyway, I had an awesome night.

It's August already!!! Sigh. I don't feel like starting school. It's gonna be a mad rush this coming semester, I can feel it.

Right now, I'm kinda seriously considering getting a keyboard. And giving up the guitar. I think I'm still better with keys instead. Since I have background knowledge. And I feel that it's easier to play a keyboard/piano. I just can't seem to master the guitar. It's so much harder.

Keyboardist > Guitarist.

Penning Something 8

I feel like I'm getting a hang of writing songs with catchy hooks. Anyway, here's something fresh out the oven. It's a song about your man or lady leaving you because of the mistakes that you made, but you just can't let him/her go and kinda cling on to the hope that he/she will return to you to the point of mild obsession (if you read the chorus you'll sense the obsession there). This is a Pop/Rock track with a few auto-tuned lines namely in the bridge.

"Kiss Me"

Verse 1
What do you say
When everything is broken
What do you do
When scars are left wide open

Pre-Chorus
I know I did you wrong but why
Don't you give us both a chance to make it right

Chorus
So kiss me
Like you want me
How you touch me
I love you baby

So hug me
Like you miss me
I am sorry
Now please don't leave me

Verse 2
I remember the day
When we first met and you were just a friend
I remember the day
When you walked away with nothing left to say

Pre-Chorus (x1)

Chorus (x1)

Bridge
Ki-ki-ki-ki-ki-kiss me (x3)
Why don't you kiss me? (Spoken)

Chorus (To fade)

I'll Be Your Safety

Love this song.

Penning Something 7

It's time for a new song! Finished this last night. Called "Candy", it is your typical boy-meets-girl-boy-likes-girl Punk Rock song. I think this is my catchiest song to date. Anyway, it's very similar to Evan Taubenfeld's "Pumpkin Pie".

"Candy"

Verse 1
4am in the morning
I'm lying on my bed
I'm wide awake 'cos
I can't stop thinking 'bout you

Lonely everyday
Never thought I would
Get to know a girl
That's quite like you
Like you

Chorus
Candy
Oh baby can't you see
I want you to be with me
Won't you come with me
Candy, Candy

Verse 2
Saw you at the bus stop
I can't help but look
Your wavy hair
And bright eyes they seem to shine

Walked right up to you
Smiled and said hello
Would you mind
If I walk you home instead
Instead

Chorus (x1)

Bridge
We could rock this world together
We could reach out for the stars
Why don't you let your guard down
And let me into your heart

Chorus (Stripped) (x1)

Chorus (x1)

Summer Rain

I never thought I would watch this but I'm glad I did. Met up with Sean Paul and Jason again before SP flies back to Aussie on Thursday. And we decided to catch this new thriller.

Honestly, when the initial trailers were released, I wasn't sure whether it'll be worth my 10 bucks because it seems so confusing, leaving me wondering what this whole plot is about. But stellar reviews and curiosity eventually made me more hyped up about this latest Nolan film and I took my chances.

The beginning of the film was really messy and confusing. I took a while to absorb what's going on. And then the storyline became much clearer to the point where I felt immersed in it. With a great cast, wonderful visuals, Nolan's fantastic and unique concept combined with Hans Zimmer's perfect soundtrack, "Inception" is a winner in its own right.

Rating: 5/5

Took a short tour around *SCAPE which I thought was a nice place for youths to hang out.

Anyway, I guess I haven't mentioned about the surprise lunch treat from CBH last Wednesday. It's nice to know that he still remembers his NS men. And it was good to catch up with my friends as well.

Time passes so quickly.

Getaway

Forced to watch this last night with Jason and Sean Paul. Well, having watched none of the previous films, I personally felt that "Eclipse" was quite an average B-List film. It started out quite intense that I thought it would turn out to be a cool vampire flick, but then it progressed to numerous draggy scenes. Honestly, if I were Bella, I would have killed myself. The only thing worth mentioning about this film was the battle scene at the end. Kinda Narnia-like though, probably because of the similarity between both films' battle arenas. And I gotta commend on the soundtrack. The songs are really good. But overall, I didn't really enjoy it that much.

Rating: 3/5

Had a traumatic experience with STARS yesterday afternoon. In the end, I couldn't get my desired time-slot for 213 tutorial. Heck, I'll probably just crash another class.

Now, I gotta pray that I can get the electives I want.

Having a friend with a car and just driving around aimlessly is quite a fun thing to do, as I realised yesterday when Sean Paul drove us around in his Dad's BMW. It's so much more convenient, and you can go anywhere you like.

I Want A Minion

Caught this yesterday with Jason. Real funny movie! Steve Carell is amazing as always. His made-up accent was so good! But I thought the little yellow minions and their countless gags were the ones who stole the show. They created the majority of the funny stuff in the entire film. So if you guys want a good laugh, check this out.

Rating: 4.5/5

Met up with Sherman and Hamiley for dinner after the movie. Manhattan Fish Market was alright though, but I thought Fish & Co. beat them hands down.

Registering courses later! Hope I can get the slots I want. Cross my fingers.

Pop Fest

Copped 2 new albums that I've been waiting to get for ages! First off is Enrique's bilingual effort, "Euphoria", which title pretty much sums up the overall vibe and mood of the album. The English songs are mostly Dance/Pop/Electronic songs produced by RedOne and featuring prominent artists such as Pitbull, Akon, Nicole of PCD and Usher. On the other hand, the soothing Latin songs are mostly about love and heartbreak. Stand-outs from the album are, "I Like It", "One Day At A Time", "Everything's Gonna Be Alright" and all the Latin songs. There's bound to be something for everyone!

Rating: 4/5

The next album is Kylie's 11th studio effort, "Aphrodite". If you guys are aware of the meaning of the word "Aphrodite", then you'll know that the songs on this album are mostly about love. Helmed by the lead single, "All The Lovers", "Aphrodite" is filled with upbeat Dance/Pop songs that will send you into euphoria. And that is the result of Kylie working with one of the best music producers of all time, Stuart Price, who also executively produced Madonna's "Confessions On A Dancefloor". Chance is, if you dig Kylie's 2001 album "Fever", you'll dig this too and more. Stellar tracks include "All The Lovers", "Get Outta My Way", "Too Much" and "Can't Beat The Feeling". Do check it out!

Rating: 4/5

Aren't You Just Pumped For This?

I know I am.

Just A Lil' Upset

Sigh.

Don't give up, Gary. You've still got plenty of chances. Plenty.

What A Gleeful

Can't believe I just took a day and a half to finish watching the whole season of Glee. Ok I'm officially a fan.

Bring on season 2 and Charice!

Yea I just made a Glee playlist on my iPod. Happy July 1st! :)

Graffiti -- Vandalism Or Art?

Taken from Wikipedia -- Graffiti (singular: graffito; the plural is used as a mass noun) is the name for images or lettering scratched, scrawled, painted or marked in any manner on property.

In my honest opinion, it is both. But it ultimately depends on the situation and the circumstances.

Vandalism

Think about obscene graffiti. How would it look like on a public property? Say an ATM machine or on the walls of a pre-school.

Does graffiti portray a professional image in a squeaky clean environment?

Does widespread graffiti reflect well on a country? On its people?

I'm sure you guys are pretty familiar with the Michael Fay incident in '93/'94 where he was sentenced to caning for vandalism. And more recently, the vandalism of the SMRT train by Swiss National Oliver Fricker. Personally, I feel that the former was more serious and leaning towards "vandalism" because of the major damage done. On the other hand, the latter did not really cause much damage except for trespassing the secured train depot. His work was actually more of an "art", don't you agree?

You guys may beg to differ, I dunno.

Art & Music

Graffiti is a work of art. You can't deny graffiti adds life to anything.

If you notice, graffiti is also an element in the world of music. It normally associates with Street music. Hip-Hop. Grunge. Alternative.

The Gorillaz? Remember this animated band? Graffiti actually plays a role in their image, branding, and music. You can probably check out some of their earlier music videos.

Hell, even Chris Brown named his 2009 album "Graffiti".

I guess most of us agree that the cover pretty much sucked.

Came across this new duo called "Graffiti6" all the way from the UK. Look at their in-your-face use of graffiti. Their music is brilliant, by the way. Take a listen to their latest single, "Annie You Save Me".

Graffiti -- vandalism or art?

It is art. But it can be vandalism. So the moral of the story is to use graffiti the right way, at the right place and at the right time.

Penning Something 6

I wanted to write a song about believing yourself. Believing that you can change your own fate, create the path you want to take in your life and not allowing others to bring you down in any way. So I name this song "Defying Gravity" (the name of my blog if you haven't noticed), which is trusting yourself to live your dreams against all odds. And here it is, written just last night.

"Defying Gravity"

Verse 1

Life, is what you make it

Hope, is what you have and

Don't ever give up on your dreams

Life, is about creating yourself

Build the path you wanna take

Nothing can get in your way

Chorus

I will not back down

I will not bow down

To everything in front of me

You and I create

Our own destinies

Everyone's fates can be changed

So watch me defy gravity

Defying gravity

Verse 2

Clouds, they cast over my head

And rain on my parade

I won't let them get to me, no

So take, my hand and walk with me

On this road that I can see

No matter how dark and cold the journey may be

Chorus (x1)

Bridge

Don't be afraid

To take a stand

And change the life that's planned

You only have just

This one chance

To make it the best

Chorus (x1)

This is a mid-tempo Pop track with guitar riffs, a mix between Kelly Rowland's "Rose Colored Glasses" and the Michelle Branch/Timbaland collaboration "Getaway". 

Bittersweet Symphony

Been spending loads of my free time playing online games on this website I came across from another blog. In case you're wondering what dopamine is, it produces an increased heart rate and blood pressure. And these 2 games -- Blosics 2 and Gibbets 2 gave me exactly that. Plus the fact that they're so damn addictive doesn't help the least bit. Anyway, I think you guys ought to try them. Haha!

Heard a snippet of David Archuleta's brand new single "Something 'Bout Love". It's just like any other David A song, heartfelt yet catchy at the same time. Looking forward to copping his album this September! :)

I Am

Don't worry. I won't hurt anyone for chocolate.

Or maybe I will. Haha just kidding.

Went for the Resonance concert @ NUS yesterday evening with Simmy and Pravin to support YF. And it was a wonderful night of acapella!!!

The vocal percussionists were amazing. I wonder how much stamina they have.

There were a few solo vocalists who had great voices and in my opinion could beat any Singapore Idol finalist. I'm serious.

I Pray For You

I came across a song "Pray For You" by this new band so aptly. It's quite a meaningful song when it started out:

"Haven’t been in church since

 I don’t remember when

 Things were going great

 Til they fell apart again

 So I listened to the preacher

 As he told me what to do

 Said you can’t go hating others

 Who done wrong to you

 Sometimes we get angry

 But we must not condemn

 Let the good Lord do his job

 And you just pray for them"

But then it became mean and hilarious:

"I pray your brakes go out

 Running down a hill

 I pray a flower pot falls

 From a window sill

 And knocks you in the head like I’d like to

 I pray your birthday comes and nobody calls

 I pray your flying high when your engine stalls

 I pray all your dreams never come true

 Just know wherever you are

 Honey, I pray for you"

Still, I very much believe the part in the first verse about not hating and condemning others who have done wrong to you, because they would ultimately experience karma.

Revenge is meaningless.

Fiesta!

I don't normally blog about cars and automobiles (I think this is my first ever post about cars) but the new Ford models kinda caught my attention while I was reading another blog. So I'm here to share! :)

This is the Ford Fiesta. I think it has a cute design. So I would feel that it suits ladies more. This new model comes in a series of colors including green, yellow, orange and so on.

I'm not really sure about the technical aspects of the car though. But the exterior sure is nice.

Now this is the one I really like. It's the Fiesta Sedan. Looks real sleek and classy. And both this model and the Ford Fiesta are fuel-saving, so it's all good. I dig the rims!!! Look sporty.

I think the most visible difference between the Ford Feista and the Fiesta Sedan is that the Sedan has a butt. I prefer cars with butts. Not big ones though.

Make Me Over

New layout! But I need to change that boring header. Done!

Now you'll see at the top a few pages I have added to the blog -- "What's Getting My Spin" has been revamped to include some of the songs I've been spinning on my iTunes and would like to recommend to you guys. "Penned By Yours Truly" is just the whole collection of songs that I've written thus far and will be updated if I wrote a new one. This makes it easier to view the songs directly instead of having to scroll through the numerous posts on the blog itself. And finally, "Aim For It!" is a list of all the goals that I hope to achieve in my lifetime. Many of them are ridiculous, but I'm just employing Green Hat Thinking! Haha.

Penning Something 5

Wrote a new R&B ballad today! Envisioned Jennifer Hudson and Fantasia singing this one. It's about having enough of your partner's lies and deceit, and finally leaving him.

"Pretence"

Verse 1
2am in the morn'
I called you on your phone
You told me that you would be home

I waited on the line
Nobody picked the call
I thought it's just another lie

Pre-Chorus
You promised that you gon' be lovin' me
You promised that you gon' be true to me
You promised to be honest
You promised to be real
But now you're full of lies and deceit

Chorus
So it was just pretence
And it's all pretence

Verse 2
You said you'd treat me right
So just stay by your side
But I think I could do this no more

When I'm not on your mind
You just ain't doin' right
You got another chick in your ride

Pre-Chorus (x1)

Chorus (x1)

Bridge
Now I see the truth
You just made me a fool
I'm o-ver you

Time to say goodbye
I know I gotta try
Try to live without you

Pre-Chorus (x1)

Chorus (To fade)

The Story Of Toys Part 3

One word -- FANTASTIC. The best one out of all 3!!!

My favourite toys would have to be Mr and Mrs Potato, the 3 aliens and peas-in-a-pod. Haha best moment was Mr Potato using the tortilla and cucumber as make-shift bodies. And Barbie + Ken!

I'm not gonna spoil the rest for you so if you haven't caught this brilliant animated feature, YOU ARE MISSING OUT BIG TIME.

Rating: 5/5

Don't Stop Believin'

Heard about the massive flood at Orchard which happened during my exam today. Saw the photos, it was crazy. Never seen anything that serious in a while. Especially at Orchard Road!



Hey, was that Wendy's?? So Wendy's took over Burger King. Now I know. But it got flooded. BK must be thinking, "Thank goodness we let out this outlet! Imagine the loss we would have suffered! And the clean-up!" Yes BK. Good for you. Poor Starbucks too.

Anyway, today's exam was alright. Basically puked out whatever I could. A few questions were not very well written but I still hope that I can do well.

I think flash mobs are cool. Browsed YouTube yesterday watching videos of flash mobs. Posted one on Facebook which I thought should happen in schools more often. Makes life more interesting. Then there's another kind, the freeze flash mob where people just freeze in whatever they're doing for 5 minutes or so. Here's one that I found which happened in Paris, involving about 3000 people. 3000!!! That's a huge number. I wonder how much planning went into this.

I Wanna Be A Billionaire

Exam next Wednesday. I hope I can score this!

These few days were quite mundane. Memorising stuff for the exam while pacing around in my room, and writing songs. But I like to write songs so it wasn't all that boring. Haha. I wanna learn how to produce! That way I can actually put out my written songs for people to listen to and feedback on.

I need to choose another elective to take next semester but have yet to find one.

Toy Story 3 is a must-watch! And I'm currently hooked on Xtina's new album. You guys need to check it out if you haven't.

Anyway, came across this awesome song because Britney tweeted about it!

Penning Something 4

I told you I'm on a writing spree today. This next song is a guitar-driven ballad. Something along the lines of Hot Chelle Rae's "Bleed". It's about a man whose relationships never work out and he thought he finally met a girl of his dreams only to have his heart broken again. Sad huh. And the song's more of a story as you read the lyrics.

"Broken"

Verse 1
I used to be a man with a broken heart
But ever since I saw your face
You go through my mind
Every night

So I really hope to see you again
I think I really need you, I
I want to make you mine

Chorus
I wish that you could
Stay by my side
Just for a little while

And the music's playin'
It's pouring outside
I just wanna hold you tight
Tonight

Verse 2
As I was walking down the street one day
I happen to see you just passing right by
So I took the chance and I
Ran up to you and said, "Hey, what's your name?"

But you just smiled and walked away
And then my heart broke to pieces
When I saw you're already with a man

Chorus (x1)

Bridge
And I'm broken
Broken
And I'm broken
Broken again

Chorus (x1)

Penning Something 3

Came up with the melody and lyrics within an hour. My favourite out of all written thus far. Wrote this while envisioning Colbie Caillat singing it. This song is totally her. It sounds like any other Colbie Caillat song! Haha. It's about being there for your loved one.

"Keep Holding On"

Verse 1
So tonight
The stars are bright
I'm with you
If you need someone too

Hold my hand
And stay the night
Everything's gonna be alright

Chorus
Just keep holding on
I'm right beside you
Just keep holding on
I won't forsake you

Please don't give up because
I won't give up on you, you, you

Verse 2
By now you
Should know that
I love you
As much as you do too

If you need
A place to run to
I got you

Chorus (x1)

Post-Chorus
Keep holding on
I'm right beside you
Keep holding on
I won't forsake you

Chorus (x1)
Post-Chorus (To fade)

Penning Something 2 (Part III)

I'm on a writing spree today. Completed this Dance/Club song!

"Put Your Hands Up"

Chorus
Put your hands up

In the air

Shake your body in the club

Don't give a care

Move your two feet

Whip your hair

Just go all out and play

Without a care

In-the-world

Oh-oh-ohh (x8)

Verse 1

It's a Friday night

Join us for a ride

Throw your troubles away

You know you gon' stay

On the dancefloor I say

Bust your moves go crazy

Be happy say hey

On this night of party

Chorus (x1)

Verse 2

And all around the world

People having fun I hear

So what you waiting for

Just get down on the floor

Chorus (x1)

Put your hands up (x4)

So yea. As with all Dance/Club songs, this one has no meaning as well. Haha. It's just about letting go and having fun. Anyway, I think it feels more like an Urban/Dance song. Like Flo Rida mashed with David Guetta.

Penning Something 2 (Part II)

Ok I need to put my Dance/Club song aside because I wrote another new song. It's a Contemporary Country ballad this time. Finished the lyrics within an hour! I feel that this is the best song I've written. Not that I've done a lot of songs, I know. Anyway, I wrote this song for my Dad. It's a song about regret and pain after losing a loved one.

Hey Dad, this song is for you:

"Now You're Gone"

Verse 1
I was wrong
To be
I was wrong
To treat you that way

But I can't
Change the fact
That I chose
To push you away

Chorus
Wish that I could turn back time
I can't accept that you're gone
You're gone
Wish that I could treat you right
Why did you leave me this way
This way

Now're you gone, gone, gone (x3)
You're gone

Verse 2
Here I am
Today
How I hoped
That you were right by my side

But regret
and shame
Has plagued me right up
Till this day

Chorus (x1)

Bridge:
As I saw your face
In my dreams
I wished that I could have changed

To have you here
And watch me grow
From a boy right to a man

Chorus (x1)

Penning Something 2

I said I wanted to do an R&B song but I ended up writing a Dance/Club song. Title is "Put Your Hands Up" and the song starts off with the chorus. Verses will be tougher to come up with.

Chorus:
Put your hands up
In the air
Shake your body in the club
Don't give a care

Move your two feet
Whip your hair
Just go all out and play
Without a care

In-the-world

Oh-oh-ohh (x4)

You Wanna Get Crazy?

Copped Xtina's new album today!!! "Bionic" is really awesome. Stand-outs include title track "Bionic", first single "Not Myself Tonight", the Nicki Minaj assisted "Woohoo", "Glam" and the ballads "Lift Me Up" plus "You Lost Me".

She's not my favourite artist for nothing, you know.

Rating: 4.5/5

Penning Something (Part III)

I'm gonna re-insert the pre-chorus. So the song goes like this:

"Empty"

Verse 1:

You broke my heart

Tore it apart

And you left me

Down and weary

Said goodbye

And I can't try

To keep you with me

Why'd you leave me

Pre-chorus:

I'm falling apart

I told you from the start

Chorus:

I can't live live live

Live without you

I can't breathe breathe breathe

Breathe without you

Now you take away my love

You take away my happy

I can't see see see

See without you

I can't think think think

Think without you

Now you take away my soul

You take away my hope

And I'm empty

Verse 2:

For a while

Forget us now

That's what you told me

I am sorry

I held you near

Whispered in your ear

Oh L-O-V-E

Why can't you see

Pre-chorus (x1)

Chorus (x1)

Bridge:

Empty, empty, empty, empty

Empty, empty, my heart is empty

Empty, empty, empty, empty

Empty, empty, now I'm empty

Chorus (x1)

So there you have it! My very first self-penned song. Overall, it has something of a Power Pop/Rock vibe with an acoustic guitar introduction, which later incorporates drum beats for the second verse. Think of Kelly Clarkson's "My Life Would Suck Without You" mixed with Leona Lewis' "I Got You" and "Naked".

Well, I wouldn't call this song a masterpiece, because I still think the lyrics are quite cheesy. But for a first attempt, I should give myself a pat on the back. :)

I wanna write something R&B next! Haha.

I've Got The Power!

I'm really digging this new Kanye track from his upcoming album. Titled "Power", the base-hitting, African music-influenced song is undeniably catchy and fresh. I can't believe I'm actually liking something from Kanye West so much. He might have a lousy attitude at times, but you can't dispute that he makes awesome and creative music. Take a listen:

Taking Over The World

Decided to walk around instead of staying at home racking my brains over that stupid vitamin model (which I'm still at while writing this post, unfortunately).

Bade my spoiling slippers goodbye as I got a new pair. Hopefully it lasts. Really comfy though.

Spotted this new men's apparel flagship store @ Illuma called "Mark Fairwhale", which I just found out was a brand originated from China. Wow. I couldn't believe it because that store looked posh like any other American or British high-end fashion retail outlet. I guess China wanted to launch something international. Anyway, there wasn't a single customer in sight.

I think Illuma is a fairly nice place to hang out because there are no crowds. You can have the whole mall to yourself.

Exam in exactly 2 weeks' time. That's like so fast man. Time to cram!!!

Go Fly Kite

The wedding was a bore except for the dance sequence by the waiters and waitresses. Dessert was the best out of the entire menu.

Went to Marina Barrage with sec sch gang yesterday! First time there since I ran past it during the AHM 2008. And I haven't flown a kite for eons. Eons as in something like 12 years or so?

But it was still fun man. Haha. My favourite part was when all of us kinda bade farewell to Serene's kite as it flew far far away into the horizon...and get stuck onto a crane.

Oh and we got to spot many many different kites! The cuttlefish/octopus was quite popular, as were the Doraemons and the princess/mermaid which Serene had initially as well.

Tasted many different foods prepared by the gang! YF's salad, Pravin's cake, Serene's croissant, and I forgot the rest.

Lost Monopoly Deal AGAIN.

Now the back of my hands and my calves look like they were scalded by hot water. It was lucky I brought my cap along.

What a sweaty and sticky day. But it was awesome. :)

When I Look Up

As I predicted, Lee won (Yes Joyce, you were right from the beginning). Sigh. Crystal really deserved to win.

  Lee              Crystal

Finale was not that bad, with performances from Xtina, Janet Jackson plus others. And the Simon tribute was nice. LOL @ Kris Allen standing next to Jordin Sparks! The size difference is just too much.

Anyway, I don't think I'll watch the next season unless there's something interesting. Gonna lock my eyes on the US X-Factor!!!

Got my results last night!!! Didn't plan to stay up till 12 for them, since I wasn't expecting anything pleasant. But Sophia asked me to stay up, so I eventually did.

Well, let's just say that BioChem fell short of my initial expectations a little. A grade lower. PLAINLY BECAUSE I FORGOT TO READ THE TEXTBOOK FOR A FEW IMPORTANT CHAPTERS. The rest of the modules met my expectations. Nothing more, nothing less. And it's a good thing because these expectations I made for myself were way before the exams started. So, I'm still happy! :D

I hope this elective I'm currently taking will pull up my cGPA even more. I NEED THIS. Need, not want.

Attending a wedding banquet this Saturday afternoon. Not looking forward to it but looking forward to the end of it.