The breeze is alright, so let's go out and fly a kite, and have a good afternoon. | |
 | Category: | Music | | Genre: | Rock | | Artist: | Sugarfree |
To make a long story short, there's nothing in this album that shouldn't be heard. From the musings of having a loved one pursue a career abroad in "Dear Kuya" to the heart piercing love anthem "Ikaw Pala". Not to mention having the album include the best cover that they've done so far, "Batang Bata Ka Pa" originally by The APO Hiking Society.
This album is definitely the best one Sugarfree has come up with. No doubt, the band really stepped up and grew up with each and every one of the songs. As Ebe Dancel, himself said, "It's almost as if the songs wrote themselves. I just happened to be there to witness everything unfold." True enough, each song does have it's own story, it's own emotion, it's own voice. As far as I know and heard, it's been a unanimous opinion to all fans (and not-so-fans alike) that this is the best album that they've released.
Another thing that really impressed me was how their new drummer, Kaka Quisumbing, amazingly and precisely lived up to the name of their original drummer, Mitch Singson. By now, most of you may already how much I look up to the latter as his official number one fan. I fell in love with Mitch's drumming from the moment I became a fan. Sugarfree was the reason why he amazed me so much. And now, Kaka has proved to be more than worthy to take the seat. Coming from me, that must mean something, right? And now that I think about it, no one could have (as much as I'm still bitter to say it) replaced Mitch better than Kaka.
The fans were wowed even from the release of their first single, "Kung Ayaw Mo Na Sa Akin". The song had made it's way to mostly every song chart there is on radio and even Myx. And according to a post in the mailing list, it's the number one song in the cumultative chart of all the charts there are (if I'm not mistaken). The song is about moving on from a relationship as much as the persona wants it back. With wonderfully witty lyrics as, "Kung ayaw mo na ako/Lecheng lalong ayoko sa yo/Alam mo naman kung san ang bahay ko/Baka sakaling magbago ang isip mo please..." The song could never go wrong.
Sugarfree albums are of course never complete without one of Ebe's songs about life in general such as "Salamin" and "Reunion". Both looking through the past as a means of escping the present. Ebe had always been a kid at heart. He always loved his childhood and always questioned what's going to happen in the future as he grows up. And that's what those songs are about. Looking back into the past laughing and crying at the same time. Then there are songs such as "Huling Gabi", "Pasyal" and "Wari Ko'y". Just like KAMNSA, they're mostly about breaking up from a relationship, saying goodbye, moving on along with the fears that go with them. In "Pasyal" particularly, it sings about the directions where a relationship is going. I especially love how Ebe used metaphors such as hollow cotton candy and a balloon that flew away as comparisons to perhaps what his love used to be. "Huling Gabi" on the other hand is said to be the prequel of "Unang Araw" from Sugarfree's first album, Sa Wakas.
One of my personal favorites would definitely be "Ang Pinakamagaling na Tao sa Balat ng Lupa". We could say that the title actually speaks for itself. But then, you just have to notice the distinct sarcasm heard in Ebe's voice. So, how do we really know? Another one of my favorites is the one that ironically almost makes me cry as it's title is "Wag ka nang Umiyak". I was once asked, If I were to only be able to sing ONE song ever, what song would it be? True enough, this song was my answer. I said that I'd sing it to everyone I love as a reminder of how much I do love them and how much I'll never leave them no matter what. Appropriately with lyrics ike, "Wag ka nang umiyak/sa mundong pabago-bago/Pag-ibig ko ay totoo/Ako ang iyong bangka/Kung magalit man ang alon ng panahon, sabay tayo aahon/Kung wala ka nang maintindihan/Kung wala ka nang makapitan/Kapit ka sa akin/Hindi kita bibitawan..." The song is so beautiful, I could cry! The album has twelve original tracks, all written in Filipino.
The album packaging and layout could win someone's heart because of the handwritten text. The lyrics were all literally written by Ebe in the inlay, making the whole concept of it being a "Tala-arawan" so perfect. Even Jal and Kaka's acknowledgements were written by themselves. It's another thing about the album that fans really love. When some listers had gotten their copy of the album, their first comment is always about how beautiful the packaging is. This is all thanks to inksurge.com.
All songs were written by Ebe Dancel except Wari Ko'y, lyrics by Ebe, music by Jal, Kaka and album producer, Robin Rivera. All songs arranged and performed by Sugarfree. Recorded, mixed and masterd by Angee Rozul at Tracks Studios. Bonus track, "Batang Bata Ka Pa" was written by Jim Paredes, produced, re-arranged and performed by Sugarfree, mixed and recorded by Shinji Tanaka at Sound Creation Studios.
Sugarfree is Ebe Dancel on vocals and guitars, Jal Taguibao on bass, Kaka Quisumbing on drums and Mitch Singson on drums for "Batang Bata Ka Pa".
For bookings, contact Monch Bontogon at 09209389267, email him at sugarfree@emimusic.com and join their mailing list at sugar_free@yahoogroups.com.
Tala-arawan is now available in all major record bars. Please buy an original copy. Don't be a pirate.
"Sino ka man, dumating ka na please..." -Kailan Ka Ba? (E. Dancel) 
 | Category: | Music | | Genre: | Rock | | Artist: | Narda |
[Revised and edited for The Magnificat]
So upbeat and intensely funky, Narda's newest independent release, Discotillion, epitomizes modern punk rock disco in the Philippines. Turning the table around with a completely different sound and a brand new lineup, they are now a whole new band with every element several levels higher.
The previously known Narda was on the laid back, love-struck, lyrical outlook when it came to their music. Proof of which being their then released EPs – A Postcard from Narda, Burador, Suwerte and Salaginto’t Salagubang – and their first full length album, Formika. Though now, having found their niche, the band rediscovered itself, and transformed into having a more angst-ridden, powerful, in-your-face attitude, as if they both grew up and down. Thus, giving birth to Discotillion.
They have replaced the bass with funky, funky synthesizers and keyboards played by new members Jep Cruz and Yaps Estagle. Keeping the rock factor in tact, also new a member, Tani Santos' guitar riffs fall so perfectly in place, completing the entire Narda sound. Katwo Librando's vocal skills are now more powerful hitting each note in each song with much precision and control, while drummer and main composer, Ryan Villena’s lyrics and beats never fail to get a listener hooked, dancing, singing and screaming.
Discotillion is composed of eleven intense tracks, all written in Filipino, kicking it with their first single, "Molotov", which caught listeners’ ears as the song was voted # 1 in NU107's Stairway to Seven charts last June 2006, with its head-bopping beats, notorious lyrics, and its use of a megaphone (also as heard in other songs). Songs such as "Buti Nga" and "Ang Mitsa", pump up the whole Narda experience with Katwo's fiery and powerful vocals. Both songs depict angst and rebellion that illustrate the influence of non-conformity among the current generation. Their current single, "100 Taon", describes the impossibilities (and the possibilities, just as well) in a relationship that everyone can absolutely relate to. The deep male backups included towards the end of song generate a dynamic force that emphasizes the actuality of the given time, being “isang daang taon”. Of course, how could anyone miss "Kamikazee", that was aptly included as, perhaps, a comeback to the band of the same name who incidentally popularized the song "Narda"? However, let it be known that the song has nothing to do with the band in any way. Very witty, yet so original.
Another reason to buy the album is for the layout. With photography by Nico Puertollano and design by 27+20 and, the hot pink, light blue and black colors together with the flowery theme, the whole concept really does imply Discotillion.
All songs were written and arranged by Narda. The album was recorded, mixed and mastered at Sound Creation Studio, produced by Mike Dizon and Mong Alcaraz of Sandwich and was engineered by Shinji Tanaka.
Be part of the band’s mailing list at nardanardanarda@yahoogroups.com and get to sample the music at http://www.myspace.com/nardabanda. Discotillion is now available in record bars. Please buy the original copy. Don’t be a pirate.
"Tuwing nalalapit, ako nama'y nananabik, tumatalon ang puso ko, bumibilis ang daloy ng dugo!" -Alta Presyon (R. Villena)
 I have been wanting to watch this play ever since I had read it. The script was sent to me by a friend two years ago. Little did I know that it had won a Palanca Award only that previous year. I had thought it was written years ago. Perhaps, in the 50's.
As a barkada tradition, Jigs and Yumi were made to be locked in a room for three days. As they started to get comfortable, Jigs proposes that they play the game "Twenty Questions". Each of them gets to ask ten questions each alternately, unallowed to ask a question already asked by the other.
Reading the script was an event for me. I loved the sincerity of how the characters told their respective stories as they answered each question as honestly as they can. I could really see the background of the two characters, based on their stories and experiences, making me realize what they're like and where they came from.
The play was almost exactly as I had imagined it. A lot of parts were changed and removed but the jist was still in place. Frankie Pascua as Yumi was outstanding. She captured Yumi's character better than I had imagined and expected. It was as if she, herself, was Yumi and that she, herself, exprienced what Yumi experienced. It was almost like she wasnt acting anymore. Every line and every move came so naturally to her. I give her a 10 out of 10 for that.
However, Rhenz Gabalonzo as Jigs came off short than Frankie as Yumi. I didnt quite feel the sincerity of the things he was saying. I saw him merely play his character, say his lines with an effort and only hear what Yumi has to say without listening or even looking into her eyes, as if he was only waiting for his cue. What I like about him though is his snappy ability to come up with ad libs. His performance wasnt all that bad, it's just that I had expected more from him. Jigs was, in fact, my favored character in the play when I had read the script. Also, he dropped his lapel mic and even let out an accidental "argh" as it fell for the second time.
The technicals and the stage managing were pleasingly simple. The set was also almost how I imagined it and all the little details were appropriate.
The play was written by Juan Ekis and directed by Christian Vallez. They are actually the same person having Juan Ekis as Chris Valle's pseudonym. It is being staged at the Center for Arts, 100 Timog Ave., Quezon City (near GMA). Remaining playdates are every Friday (21 and 28) at 7:00 pm and every Saturday (22 and 29) at 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm of July. Tickets are at P200 for reserved tickets and P250 for non-reserved tickets.
Life is too precious para lang daanin sa trial and error. -Jigs
 "Stages of Love: A Musical Revue" tells the story of, well... the stages of love, of which each stage is portrayed by a couple. It is set in a coffee shop setting, apparently sponsored by Coffee Brewery. From meeting from the first time, to the courtship, to saying "yes", to the first date, to cheating, to the fights, up until the break up, it shows the simplicity of falling in and then out of love with that special someone. The play, being a musical, has songs composed of medlies and full length love songs, both local and foreign, appropriately parallelized with each stage of love.
The play was amazingly cute. Definitely something to watch with a loved one. It's like bringing Valentines day to the middle of the year. Filled with a lot of singing, and dancing, not to mention, Blue Reps' great voices. It's amazing how they found the most appropriate lyrics and lines form songs and merged them to fit into the story. Not to mention how the songs were aptly arranged in such a way to fit the mood.
The actors are definitely amazing too! Their voices are controlled and the acting was very good despite fighting their urges to laugh with the audience. But the effort of covering it up was still forgivable. It didnt do much harm to the scene. Also the way they make the audience laugh when they have to and smile when they have to was awesome. They have that "kilig" factor of what the play is supposed to produce. One can really feel the love on and off stage as all eyes are set upon the players.
Today was the said closing date but they might extend so as more people can watch it. It really is a big hit. Watch out for the next playdates! "Stages of Love" is staged by Blue Repertory in the Ateneo at the Fine Arts Theatre, 3rd flr., Gonzaga Hall. Tickets are for P100 each.
It all begins with hi, hello
Then, love her, hate him, love them so
First dance, first kiss, first call, you know
It's all a part of the stages of love...
 | Category: | Movies | | Genre: | Romance |
I watched High School Musical with my cousins at a sleepover. A couple of them were really raving about it just because they had downloaded it before the premiere on Disney Channel. And based on the commercials about it, I really did want to watch it.
The movie is mainly about having to struggle with high school streotypes and knowing how to deal with them. Troy and Gabriella just want to be known as themselves and not as the jock and the nerd respectively. And in achieving this, they audition for the school musical.
The movie, for me was the typical Disney Channel movie, only with singing and dancing. Though there were a lot of lines, scenes, songs, parts and dialogue in the movie that were very much unrealistic (in spite of the fact they they burst out into song), the overall mood and message of the story are good.
What I didnt like about it was the dubbing. Itsapeyk. Plus some of the singing parts looked more like an MTV than a scene in a movie musical. The acting as usual in Disney films (and some shows) are either too much or too bland. In other words, many of them can't act. The script was ok in some parts but in others, you can just say, "You dont have normal conversations like that in real life!"
But what I would like to give credit to was the correography. Especially in the songs "Put/Keep(?) your Head in the Game" wherein the basketball players dance as they do bball moves. And in "Stick to the Status Quo," we find the entire cafeteria singing and dancing on the chairs and the tables switching from one to the other.
All in all, it was entertaining, yet somewhat, perhaps, annoying. But entertaining nontheless. I dont not recommend watching it.
 | Category: | Movies | | Genre: | Science Fiction & Fantasy |
A cure has been developed for the mutants to join the human world and become normal. Mutants and humans now debate whether it should be right for the mutants to take it. However, there are some of them who are interested in the cure, such as Rogue. Meanwhile, Magneto raises an army of mutants telling them that the cure is just a way to eliminate mutants and starts a war hoping to destroy the cure.
To be honest, the movie wasnt as I expected. For some reason, after watching the movie, I found the comments and critiques of the other people who have watched it to be a tad too exaggerated. I guess half of them thought it was amazing and the other half were too disappointed.
All in all, I liked the movie. Although there were some parts, scenes and characters that either didnt make sense or were kinda useless. But I do admit that the concept of it all was good.
Things I found annoying:
1. Killing off so many characters who didnt have the chance to do anything. Like Cyclops.
2. Wolverine loving Jean Grey. (Hugh Jackman is mine!)
3. Archangel.
4. The possibility of a fourth movie.
5. The whole Kitty-Bobby thing.
6. Rouge being normal.
(Among others.)
Good points:
1. Kelsey Grammer as Beast. Perfect!
2. Hugh Jackman. :p
3. The special effects were good.
4. Some humor.
5. Storm.
6. Mystique. (But only during the begining.)
Like I said, it was good. The second movie was way better.
 | Category: | Movies | | Genre: | Mystery & Suspense |
I'm not 18. But I got to see it. Either I CAN pass for 18, or people in Eastwood Cinemas just dont care. Nevertheless, Jolly, Alex and I, a couple of 16 year olds and one 17 year old got to see it. Maybe it helps to dress up indie-ly. While in Paris on business, Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon ('Tom Hanks') receives an urgent late-night phone call: the elderly curator of the Louvre has been murdered inside the museum. Near the body, police have found a baffling cipher. Solving the enigmatic riddle, Langdon is stunned to discover it leads to a trail of clues hidden in the works of Da Vinci - clues visible for all to see, and yet ingeniously disguised by the painter. Langdon joins forces with a gifted French cryptologist, Sophie Neveu (Audrey Tautou), and learns the late curator was involved in the Priory of Sion - an actual secret society. In a breathless race through Paris, London and beyond, Langdon and Neveu match wits with a faceless powerbroker who appears to work for Opus Dei - a clandestine, Vatican-sanctioned Catholic organization believed to have long plotted to seize the Priory's secret. Unless Langdon and Neveu can decipher the labyrinthine puzzle in time, the Priory's secret - and a stunning historical truth - will be lost forever. [ Source] The movie was interesting. Amusing, to an extent. I mean, I really cant compare it to the book since I havent read it. But the movie was understandable enough. Jolly and Alex said that there were a lot of missing parts. Though all books turned movies have missing parts. Its inevitable. I guess I liked it. It was kinda hard to understand at first. But as the movie progressed, it gets clearer. Though I cant help but think that there are loopholes to the story. I just cant exactly pinpoint what exactly they are... Perhaps I have to read the book to find out what they are. Not having to read the book yet, I really cant say much about how I think they should have done the movie. I wouldnt know if Tom Hanks would actually be the best choice to playRobert Langdon. But I have to say that the acting was very much applaudable. Not only his, but the other actors as well. Though I'd like to give special mention to Paul Bettany who played Silas. Brilliant actor. The movie is rated R-18 and I dont understand why. Yes, it does have some explicit scenes, but nothing that even 16 year olds cant handle. Though I have to admit that I did cringe at some of these scenes, I still dont think that rating it R-18 is fair. It opened last May 18 and is showing in all major cinemas. For those under 18 who think they can pass for 18, go to Eastwood and dress up in indie-type clothes. "Seek the truth."
 | Rent | Apr 24, '06 1:00 PM
for everyone |
 | Category: | Movies | | Genre: | Other |
[I'm actually in no position to write a review for Rent. But I've been so addicted to it the past week, I just had to write one. Even before writing it, I know this review wont give justice to how amazing the movie is.]
Movie musicals have done it again! Rent was more than amazing. The songs were perfectly sung and they all fit in appropriately to the story. Jonathan Larson is a legendary genius.
I was kinda surprised that Chris Columbus was the one who directed it. Its because he'll always be the one who directed the first Harry Potter movie for me. But he did a really good job. According to other sources, he was very much faithful to the broadway version. Of course, he had to cut a lot of scenes.
What the story is about, is kinda hard to explain... It deals with so many social-political issues back in the late 80's-early 90's. From AIDS to oppression, friends and lovers to drugs, homosexuality to struggling between passion and work, want and have, can and cant. It's very versitle and complex. Yet how the story goes, everything just ties up together by the eight main characters.
Movie musicals are of course nothing without the songs. They're the type that you'd want to sing right after watching the film even though you dont even know any of the them. Let's just thank that we all know Seasons of Love (525, 600 minutes), which I only found out that it was from Rent, a few days before watching it.
I found it very impressive that most of the cast members are from the original cast of the Broadway version. Their characters being: Mark, Roger, Angel, Collins, Maureen and Benny. The other two are Joanne and Mimi.
I dont exactly recommend it, but my brother downloaded the soundtrack of the film. And from then, I cant stop listening to it. Its been playing in our WMP for days! I've downloaded the lyrics and I've been just reading the them as I sing to the player. Although all the songs are amazing, I do tend to skip some of them. "Another Day," "Tango: Maureen," and "La Vie Boheme (A and B)" would be some of my favorites. I actually write this as I listen to the soundtrack.
Having to watch this film, I am now a self-proclaimed Renthead. You would be too, if you watched it.
There is one cinema left that still shows it. Catch it in Greenbelt 3. Check your newspapers for the schedule. It is also reserved seating. Hopefully, it wont stop showing anytime soon. I know this is a late review.
[To those who have watched it: I told you this review wouldnt give justice. :/]
La Vie Boheme!
 | Category: | Music | | Genre: | Alternative Rock | | Artist: | Sandwich |
When I first heard "Sugod," I thought it to be somewhat coming from Pedicab. And so I thought the whole album to sound just like it. Especially for the fact that Marc Abaya had already left Sandwich, giving the mic to Raimund Marasigan (of Pedicab, among others). But having to buy and listen to the whole album, I proved myself so wrong.
Sure, it did have some flavors of Pedicab in it but it still had that distinct taste of pure Sandwich. Even better! Each song can definitely be LSS-worthy. As of now, "In Case of Fire" is stuck in my head. Though there are some songs that sound like another in the album, but once you have listened to it closely, you'll notice the difference. Just like "View Master" and "Marikina."
All of these songs have unique lyrics. Very poetic yet straight to the point. Those songs of lyrics that caught my attention were "DVDX" "Marikina" and "Let your Cellphone Shine." The later ones being the most interesting. "Marikina" having bandnames as lyrics and "Let your Cellphone Shine" describing the last song of the last set of a gig. Definitely can be the best closing song for a gig; highly appropriate. I also couldnt help but come up with possible music video concepts for each song. They can all be so visual, you could just imagine one yourself.
The album has a lot of songs you can jump up and down to. A number of these would be "Sunburn" "Walang Kadala Dala" "In case of Fire and "Good Night January." As well, it also has slow, mellow yet still beatsome songs such as "Photocopy" "Kalendaryo" and "Let your Cellphone Shine." But of course Sandwich wouldnt be Sandwich without the rockingest songs being "Sugod" and "Resbak." Other songs include "DVDX" "View Master" and "Marikina."
Sandwich is composed of Raimund Marasigan on vocals and guitars. Myrene Academia on bass. Mong Alcaraz and Diego Castillo on guitars and Mike Dizon on drums. Five on the Floor is Sandwich's fourth album and is released under EMI Philippines. It is available in local music stores. Please buy the original copy.
"Rakenrol hanggang umaga!"
 | Category: | Movies | | Genre: | Other |
"Set against the futuristic landscape of totalitarian Britain, V For Vendetta tells the story of a mild-mannered young woman named Evey (NATALIE PORTMAN) who is rescued from a life-and-death situation by a masked man (HUGO WEAVING) known only as “V.” Incomparably charismatic and ferociously skilled in the art of combat and deception, V ignites a revolution when he urges his fellow citizens to rise up against tyranny and oppression. As Evey uncovers the truth about V’s mysterious background, she also discovers the truth about herself – and emerges as his unlikely ally in the culmination of his plan to bring freedom and justice back to a society fraught with cruelty and corruption." ( http://vforvendetta.warnerbros.com/index2.html) I saw the trailor of this movie on TV probably once or twice and it didnt catch my attention. It was only when Jolly and I had to pick a movie to watch for our date in Eastwood last Wednesday, when it did. Honestly, I didnt expect something big form it. Not having to even remotely know what its about, I also didnt know that it was based on a graphic novel by Alan Moore. The more I watched, the more the movie captured my attention. Indeed, it is brilliant movie. The way that the movie was made was amazing. The plot was flawless, the acting was great, the music and soundtrack were more than appropriate, and the effects were really cool. I especially loved the script. Its the type of movie that I'd want to have the copy of the script of. Very well written, and not to mention, executed by the actors, most especially Hugo Weaving as V. Being an aspiring actress, I honestly dont know if its harder or easier to act without anyone having to see the face. Easier cause you dont have to show much facial expression. And yet, more difficult cause everything has to be acted through body language. But anyway, Weaving deserves a standing ovation for pulling it off. Natalie Portman, on the other hand, also impressed me. Having to remember her famous "Anakin, you're breaking my heart. You going down a path I cannot follow" in Star Wars, I was very satisfied with her performance in V for Vendetta. Especially with her accent. Weaving and Portman surprisingly have a good chemistry togehter. As for the the other actors, great job. The story was told more than in a political perspective. It dealt with the personal feelings and history of the characters. And as well as the setting, having it to be set in totalitarian Britain sometime placed in the future (as said above). With Brittain under this rule, everything was being done with force and tyranny. They believed they couldnt be stopped being so unfair to the people. They should have thought otherwise. I cant help but fall in love with V's character. Not only does he know what he's doing, he executes his plans so cunningly perfect that nothing can go wrong. And nothing did. He was able to manipulate the other characters, making them think what he wants them to think and do what he wants them to do. I also love the mask. It's intimidating, but not that scary. Just the perfrct face and expression. And lets not forget the fighing and the martial arts. The ever-so-graceful movements in taking action. He thinks of everything more than three steps ahead of everyone else. And yet, with all that said, I can never sell him off as evil. He did what he thought was right, stood up for it and succeeded. He came, he saw, he conquered. "People should not be afriad of their governments. Governments should be afraid of their people."Thanks to Carina as a reference. Haha. Parang lit crit. XP
 "Ang Nilalang ni Victor Frankenstein" is not like any play I've seen before. Its very, uhh... "visual." I think you have to watch the play yourself to know what Im talking about. The play is very unique and definitely different. This is one play I know shouldnt be seen by children or people of short attention spans or with shallow minds. "'ANG NILALANG NI VICTOR FRANKENSTIEN' is the best play of T.A. that I've seen so far. Not only was it entertaining but it was intelligent as well. It had this disturbing effect on me when I left the theater. The play dealt with family issues, love, passion, death, obsession, life, sacrifice, sorrow, pain, regret, success, failure, philosophy, 'ultimate goal' ... in ways that after watching, you are left reflecting on LIFE. (and well, EXISTENCE - in a philosophical sense)" (Taken from here by Anonymous.) And its even more than that. Something that cant exactly be explained in words. It does leave this eerie feeling not only once you leave the theater but during the course of the entire play as well. Not to mention, the temperature of the theater adds to the cold feeling coming from the play. Brilliant, really. Ronan Capinding really did a great job. The direction was flawless as if the play wasnt really blocked. And I personally want to give props to the lighting. It literally added mood to the entire thing. Congrats to TA! :)
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