Welcome, to the Frail Limb Nursery.

Subdecay Pedals.

2009-08-04T01:46:00.003+08:00

I've always been a fan of Subdecay. I own the Subdecay Blackstar and also it's lower-gain counterpart, the Liquid Sunshine. Both are excellent drives. They are simple, intuitive and most importantly, they sound superb.

Here are more Subdecay pedals in action. The Echobox, the Super Nova Drive and the Prometheus Filter. Now that's a lethal recipe for some beautiful noise! Controlled chaos, anyone?

Demo courtesy of they guys from Tonefactor.com!

Hear it's Voice.

2009-03-09T12:29:00.003+08:00

This guitar here is the Maestro ED-3. Elite dreadnought, model 3. Solid red cedar top with rosewood sides and back.

I sold this piece to a very friendly Filipino fellow, who also happens to be a very good player, who also subsequently became fast friends with me. He absolutely loved this piece, and so do I! Somehow, this particular piece just sings. It's very well-balanced, very nice and warm. The grains on the solid red cedar top is especially tight and even. And well, it just sings!

This little quirk is especially true among cheaper guitars ($500-$1000range). Same model, same everything, but there would be just one or two pieces that just outshines the rest. Not saying that the 'rest' are inferior, but just that certain pieces are exceptional and can rival guitars that are a few times their prices.

And that means you really have to try the guitar out. It's important to play it, and see if you can feel it. If it speaks to you, then it's the right one. That is I never recommend buying a guitar online, that is also why I cannot seem to understand how some people can take a guitar, lightly pick a few notes and then say that it's not the sound they're looking for. You have to play it loud, play it throughly, then you can truly hear the voice of the guitar. Then you'd know how it sounds and make an informed decision. If you can't play, don't be shy, just ask the guy in the shop to demo the guitar for you. I'd be glad to help, and I'm sure the rest of the crew would be more than willing to do so as well.

Work.

2009-03-03T17:02:00.005+08:00

Currently I'm working part-time for Maestro Guitars. We just opened our fourth outlet at Parklane. So there's the Maestro Concept Store and Zen Guitarwerkz at Peninsular, Maestro@Esplanade and now, Maestro@Parklane.

I alternate between all outlets, but mostly I'm at Esplanade. Because somehow I bring luck to that outlet, and I've grown to be very comfortable there. And the Maestro family is a sweet bunch, I enjoy working with like-minded, friendly folk like them.

One reason why I like to work at Zen Guitarwerkz is because it's the place where most of the repairs are being sent to, so sometimes you get to try out some really awesome and rare guitars there.

But Zen is also a mat-magnet, no offence, but sometimes, SOME of them are just downright irritating, inconsiderate and rude. Most of them are pretty cool, I've to admit. But it's always the few rotten apples that stink up the whole place. I must disclaim that I comprehend the distinct difference between mats and our friendly malay compatriots. Furthermore, there are a lot of Vietnam/Thai/Indonesian foreign workers who frequent the area. I've nothing against them, aside the fact that they totally ignore me when I greet them and then go touching and knocking my guitars. I assume they don't understand the many signs around the shop that says 'Do not handle instruments without the staff's assistance'. I say this as an observation and without any sarcasm. That's why I take the extra effort to tell them not to touch anything without my help, but they just simply ignore me again. That's why I can't stand them. Plus, they never buy anything.

Esplanade is pretty cool because the crowd there is more refined. And since the human traffic there is very slow, the people that actually come into the shop know what they want. And most times, can play damn freaking well. Which is what I love, damn. When I hear them playing something interesting, I'd always ask them to teach me that lick or chord progression. And guess what, they never ever ever refuse. Somehow, people like to impart knowledge. Maybe it makes them feel good, gives them a sense of superiority over me. But heck, as long as I get to learn something new for free and make a new friend, it's totally fine with me to be just a humble student.

On the contrary, most people don't like to be taught. So that's why I've learnt to keep my advice to a minimum. Unless they're beginners, I don't usually dish out advice on playing.

In the picture above you'd see Mani. He used to be the guitarist in an old local band called Heritage. They're pretty famous, having played in many stadiums and such. He's a really nice, and down-to-earth fellow who is a master at chords and rhythm. He taught me lots of good stuff, and I really appreciate it. He spent 3 full hours in the shop with me, but I didn't notice it until later on because I was having a ball of a time.

As mentioned, sometimes I get to meet some really cool people. I've also made friends with the guys from local bands Plain Sunset and WGB. Again, they've valuable knowledge to impart and are very glad to dispense them, so I'm more than happy to be at the receiving end.

Cheers and out.

Retrospective.

2009-02-28T12:28:00.009+08:00

When I was still a full-time national serviceman, I, along with everyone else, dutifully counted down the days to ORD with a crazed fervour.

It was torturous, I'm telling you. I was home maybe one day a week at most for most parts. We had to do our standbys duties, our CDS duties, staff parades, and operation after fucking operation.

I pretty much had no life outside camp and the unit. I had no time for music or to practise the guitar. Everyday starts mind-bogglingly early with a run, and then it's a whole day of dodging arrows that are being viciously shot your way. It was one helluva place, but then, in hindsight, it was probably one of the best things that could have ever happened to me. Because aside from experiencing and witnessing some of the most extraordinary things, I also acquired a whole bunch of lifelong friends.

It's always like that with us frail little human beings; we only truly appreciate something when it's over. Well, to be frank, in the last month of service, I was already feeling pangs of sadness on having to leave everyone. I guess my sentiments were pretty much shared by all us. Especially YX, who is a regular.

Okay, let's talk about my band of brothers. Very cliched, I admit, calling them my band of brothers. But the similarities are abound and undeniable, and there really isn't another term that can so aptly describe us.

I was already friends with some of them since BMT, and then onto SISPEC. Then we endured freaking ETI together, followed by the CBRD Commander's Course under the insane Master Leong C.K. Then we all enter Bravo Coy as total greenhorns together, where we had to come together and fend for ourselves.

We have been through a crazy array of different trainings sessions together, from the plain physical trainings, to specialised equipments, to weapons, etc. Not fogetting the many operations and sweeps.

And we all shared a bunk for more than a year. I see these dudes 24 hours a day, almost 5 to 6 days a week. That's roughly 120 hours a week. We live, eat and sleep together. Let's say you see your best friend 5 hours a day in school for 5 days, that's only a measly 25 hours per week. And I bet you also don't share the same bathroom without doors with your best friend in school, or brush your teeth, shave and wash-up together every damned morning. You get the idea.

And when you live with someone, you really get to observe them and learn every single thing about them. Each individual's good and bad traits are plain as hell to see and also possibly magnified. So you really know what's going on with every single one of them. So at the end of the day, if you still find that you can become close friends with them, then I guess you've got yourself a 'brother'. And man, we really looked out for each other, you know that you can depend on each and every one of them with your life.

And I really miss the good ol' soccer sessions, the gym sessions, and the tea-sipping, trash-talking sessions and morning canteen gathering for breakfast.

And the tougher the times were, the closer we got. And since we are batte-ready combatants in this crazy unit, we pretty much had a rough time. I'd never have traded my place for a 8-5 admin job. I'm glad to be a staying-in combatant, because as such, I gained so much more. You'll gain nothing from a 8-5pm admin job. So for those yet to enter NS, please don't fuck around. Be somebody in the service, do something different, challenge yourself, test your limits. Unless you really have a medical problem that it's all cool, but if you are planning to ochestrate some hare-brained scheme to avoid being a combatant, I beg you to heed my advice.

Oh and please do not be mistaken. Although all this bonding here and there sounds pretty damned gay, it simply cannot be further from the truth. The weirdo and the thief were already being cruelly ostracised. But I guess they deserve it.

Anyway, we went to Thailand together just after we ORD-ed. It was the first time I had gone overseas without my parents. And boy, it was really fun.

Revival.

2009-02-28T11:23:00.003+08:00

It's finally time to start updating again.

Why?

I'm finally out of NS.

So I've more time for myself!

And when I'm in service, we can't talk about the stuff we do. Especially considering the unit I was in. So matter how damn exciting things are, you just can't talk about it.

And well, life is pretty interesting nowadays. And as a civilian, I can discuss about the things that happens in my civilian life freely, as much as I want. Fuck yeah!

BLOODSTOCK '08.

2008-08-17T12:58:00.004+08:00

Bloodstock 08, wow.

I really want to be at this year's Bloodstock Open Air. 3 stages, simultaneous, non-stop performances, metal festival, metal market, and a spectacular line-up.

Big names include Dimmu Borgir, Helloween, Soulfly, Primal Fear, Moonsorrow, Rise To Remain, Nightwish, Grand Magus, Kataklysm, Alestorm and a hell lot more.

And there's the un-signed stage too. Never discount these un-signed bands, because with the likes of Hospital of Death, Concept of Time and Broken Faith, it's testament to the potential of these bands. I mean, every big name was once an un-signed band.

But the real clincher for me is that Opeth and At The Gates are performing. These two bands are my all time favourites!

Both of these bands playing at the same festival, what more can I ask for?

Why can't I be there? Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck!

ALL HAIL THE OLYMPICS.

2008-08-11T14:52:00.000+08:00

ALL HAIL THE METAL OLMYPIX.

Nothing Else Compares.

2008-08-09T14:30:00.007+08:00

My grandmother was diagnosed with lung cancer a month or so back, and she is in the last stage. Being too advanced in age, she cannot undergo chemotherapy. The doctor estimates that she has but a few scarce months left in this world.

I just visited her this afternoon at my aunt's place in Woodlands, where she is currently staying. She was sleeping when I was there, in her hospital-like adjustable bed with side railings, oxygen tubes running from her nostrils, connected to this whirling, humming, oxygen machine. My parents, uncles and aunts are doing everything possible to make her final days as comfortable as possible. My mom is by her side almost everyday, my aunts take turns preparing her meals, which has to be 100% organically based, and there are the supplements and medicine as well to tend to. My dad and uncles, working on the same rotational basis, keep vigil by her side throughout the night. For me, I try to be there as much as possible. But it is easier said then done, with me having to contend with my national service commitments.

Evidently, it is rather tough on everyone, having to see a loved one faltering and growing weaker with each passing day. It pains me to see how frail my grandma is now, she is so hopelessly weak, and sedated most of the time from the morphine. She is but a pale flickering shadow of her old, jovial self. It also makes me sad to see my grandfather, the free-wheeling gung-ho adventurer, downcast and floundering so helplessly by her bedside.

On a slightly brighter note, it is heart-warming to witness how attentive, committed and loving everyone is to my grandmother in her time of need. It comes as no surprise, as my grandma is, without the slightest doubt, one of the most pleasant and lovable person ever to grace this world. I have never heard my grandma raise her voice, get angry or even appear flustered. She never curses, never complains about anything, never utters a single ill-meant word about anyone. She is kind, scrupulous, impartial, giving, helpful, graceful, polite and so easy-going. She loves me a terribly lot, even though we do not have much in common. In fact, she loves all of us, and with that ever-present smile of hers, she simply radiates happiness.

I will most definitely miss her when she is gone. I am under no false illusions that she would miraculously recover fully and live to see me get married and have kids. I just want to ensure that she will be able to move on peacefully and painlessly, and to have the entire family by her side in her final moments.

Ultrasone.

2008-07-20T12:53:00.004+08:00

I was at Causeway Point today, and I just felt the itch to audition the Ultrasone Edition 9 that Stereo carries.

The Edition 9 is probably the best closed-back headphones one can acquire. I've known about it for a long long time already, but have never gave it go before. Mainly because it costs an arm and a leg, or more specifically, a whooping SGD$1900.

So, I was at Stereo looking fixedly at the Ultrasone range of products. The salesperson felt obligated to engage me in audio small-talk. I suppose he was trying to feel me out, to gauge if I actually knew my stuff. Well, I do know my stuff, and he allowed me to try out the Edition 9.

The fellow handled that pair of headphones with utmost care, as befitting a 1.9K piece of equipment. He lifted it delicately out of the headphone's silver hardcase, and handed it over to me. Time to roll.

So I sat down on the provided stool, which coincidentally blocks half of an aisle, making me feel even more uncomfortable. I was already feeling the pressure of trying out their prized headphones, furthermore there's that dumbass salesguy who's pretending to be busy but in truth eyeing me for any heretic transgressions that I might commit upon their worshipped Edition 9s. That's why I greatly prefer Jaben.

Getting down to business, the Edition 9 is like amazing.

Smooth, pleasing midrange, they got it just right. And that sweet sweet sweet treble which sings high and true but never piercing. Deep, resounding bass, but not the least bit muddy or overwhelming. Beautiful decaying of notes, with some really impressively wide soundstaging. The sound is very rich, and robust, but not being too forward, like the Grados are. Very warm, but not exactly deep colouration. Awesome separation of instruments to boot. Vocals-wise, it favours male ones more, but Eva Cassidy through the Edition 9 sounded oh-so-divine as well.

It's like vintage wine, aged to perfection.

I returned the headphones, and the guy engaged me in more small-talk while wiping down the Edition 9 with some lint-free cloth. And I left feeling awed by another of Germany's fine products.

Fidelity.

2008-06-02T17:27:00.006+08:00

Well, till date, 17, 761 people has visited this weblog. My intentions initially were to keep this weblog running as constantly and stably as possible. But it's easier said that done, with all my current commitments. Now this weblog is simply a platform where I can post my sporadic, and most time, incoherent thoughts.

I can't help but admit that I've been holding back a lot of stuff after the repulsive revelation that people in positions are monitoring my weblog for probable signs of heresy, racism, subversion. You get the drift. Hah!
Also, a certain organisation that I'm working for is periodically monitoring this weblog. I kid thee not!
So, seriously, I'm wisely opting to keep my nonsense in check.

And hah, it seems like SDP's Chee Soon Juan and his sister are sentenced to 12 and 10 days of imprisonment respectively. Food for thought!

Anyway, I'm a self-confessed audiophile. In my next post, I'll sit down and thoroughly explain my obsession to you, and hopefully convince and lure you over the the dark side.

I can't write about it now as I'm going out to Novena to meet my babe for some Ayam Penyet. It's fucking good food man!

Uncontacted tribe in Amazon.

2008-06-01T10:20:00.003+08:00

This photo released yesterday depicts members of a tribe in the Amazon rain forest firing arrows at an airplane. Apparently, the tribe has never had any contact with humans outside of their own group. And there are likely many other "uncontacted" tribes in the region too. From National Geographic:

Quote:
"We are very confident the photos are genuine," said Miriam Ross, a spokesperson for Survival International, which estimates that half of the hundred or so uncontacted tribes in the world live in the rain forests of Brazil and Peru.

Some experts say few, if any, tribes have had no outside contact. It's more likely is that previous generations had negative encounters, prompting social taboos that continue to drive clans deeper into isolation.

Due to their vulnerable immune systems, these groups are highly susceptible to diseases borne by outsiders such as missionaries, loggers, or oil workers."

Link:
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/05/080530-uncontacted-tribes-photo.html

Shifting Paradigms.

2008-05-19T17:01:00.007+08:00

I was looking through my old pictures, and I came across the above image. It is the class emblem for 05A23 that I drew. It was to be printed on our class T-shirt.
Pardon the imagery though, I was really into R.A Salvatore at that point of time. As seen from the twin scimitars that the eagle is clutching in its claws. Hah!

We really were a tight bunch, and I miss everyone of them.

And it suddenly dawned upon me that there have been lots of things that I used to do, that I don't do nowadays.

For one, I used to draw a lot, read and write a lot.
Not to appear haughty, but all through my days as in school prior, the fact that my fortes are writing and drawing are pretty much acknowledged unanimously.

Remnants of those days are my stacks of sketch books, which I can't even remember where I've stashed them.

I still read, definitely. But not as ferociously as before. I don't draw anymore, I just don't feel like it.

Musically wise, I'm pretty much the same. I still find a little time to practise my guitar playing, however, playing seriously like the days before is totally out of the equation. My taste of music has expanded considerably, but that's a story for another day.

I still indulge in guitar-gear, but lesser recently. I've several new interests, such as Hi-Fi equipments. It's amazing how I've managed to sum this new interest up in a few succinct words, 'Hi-Fi equipments'. If only it were that simple. But then again, if it were that straight-forward and shallow, I'd probably not have taken an interest to it.

I'm using Hi-Fi as a very broad term. There are the million different kinds speakers, cables, amps, headphones, in-ear monitors, tubes, CD players, formats, whatever fuck.
There's a library's worth of knowledge involved and I'm devouring every little bit with an insatiable appetite. And also, my ears have become very much more sensitive. I always been always to tell what's a good guitar tone, but that's quite easy. It's something else to be able to hear what's good and bad from a Hi-Fi enthusiast point of view. I'm turning into a bona-fide audiophile!

I foresee that I'll soon learn almost every thing that is relevant. Just like how I've studied guitar-gear and all it's thousand and one nuances. And then, tsk tsk, I'd have to move on and start consuming more knowledge on another newly chosen field of expertise.

Knowledge is power!

Not so Random.

2008-05-19T12:08:00.002+08:00

Blessed are the sick. Blessed are the poor.
Ignorance is bliss.

Man Utd 4, West Ham 1.

2008-05-04T00:13:00.003+08:00

Today was extraordinary!
I somehow managed to get my dear girl to catch the Man Utd -West Ham match with me.
And I also somehow managed to get the score correct.
I dreamt a few days earlier that it would a 4-1 victory to Man Utd.

And I was spot on!

The Truth.

2008-04-05T23:34:00.003+08:00

Our world rates wealth over courage, and comfort over commitment.
We think that nothing will ever disturb our lives.
We are surprised when people get sick and die.
We think that technology can fix everything.
We take our safety for granted.

We have more degrees but less sense.
We have more medicine but less wellness.
We have added years to life, not life to years.
We build everything bigger, but not necessarily better.
We have more convenience but less time.
We have more communication but less understanding.
We make heroes out of actors but have no idea who the real heroes are.

New Music.

2008-03-29T11:18:00.005+08:00

Recently, there has been quite an influx of new albums. So far, I've gotten my hands on the following,

At the Gates - Slaughter of the Soul (Reissue)
Death Angel - Killing Season

'Slaughter of the Soul' is probably At the Gate's most critically acclaimed album. This reissue album is an opportunity for a fan to experience one the genre's pioneers in their heyday. Awesome stuff.

Death Angel, well, what can I say. They are thoroughly invigorated in this album, as opposed to the earlier one, where they seemed to be still finding their footing. Really, really, good material.

Other albums include,

In Flames - A Sense of Purpose
Meshuggah - obZen
Children of Bodom - Blooddrunk
Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition
Steve Lukather - Ever Changing Times
The Black Crowes - Warpaint
Toto - Greatest Hits

I really enjoyed them all, except for the new offering from the Black Crowes. I found it really unfocused, and I got bored very quickly. But still, if you are a Black Crowes fan, you would still appreciate what they are doing in 'Warpaint'.

Exodus's 'The Atrocity Exhibition' was a blast. I was never a fan, as I have never really took the effort to check them out. ZY's recommendation was the impetus, and I am glad that I got acquainted with this band. I especially enjoyed 'Bedlam 123'.

Meshuggah's 'obZen' was a sheer barrage of metal monstrosity. It is one blistering album. But, nothing compared to their earlier offerings. If you have been a long time fan of the band, you would have noticed their evolving sound. 'obZen' has none of the compressed choppiness and changeability of the Meshuggah's albums of the 90's. In fact, this is one of their most consistent album to date. You can track the change from 95's 'Destroy Erase Improve', and then 'Catch 33', and now this. Although it might disappoint some hardcore fans, I am definitely one to agree with their current state of work.

As a fan of Alexi Laiho, you cannot help but be blown away by 'Blooddrunk'. I know I am shortchanging the other members in the band, but Laiho is pretty much on fire in this offering.

Steve Lukather is one of the best guitarist around. And I just had to get his new album, of which is surprisingly refreshing, yet still showcasing his trademark licks and polished chops. And along with this album, I also got Toto's 'Greatest Hits' album which not so coincidentally, also features the great mustachioed Steve Lukather.

Okay, I have lots more to say, but frankly my eyes are getting tired from staring at the screen.

Blackheart Little Giant.

2008-03-22T13:37:00.005+08:00

My BLACKHEART BH5H LITTLE GIANT has finally arrived!
3/5 watts of pure tube goodness. Heaven knows I've always wanted a lower wattage fully-tubed amp with a separate head and cabinet. The Blackheart is simply the answer.

My first impressions were very favourable.
Well-sealed and safely packed, both the head and cabinet emerged from their respective boxes in prime condition. Upon further, intense scrutiny, I am delighted to concur with Blackheart Team's claim that their amps look "like Michealangelo covered it for you personally."

Truly, the Little Giant is very well constructed, and it's evident that it's built to last.
I will not go into the details, but it suffices to say that asthetically, the Little Giant is virtually flawless and is the epitome of visual perfectness. You've really got to view it for yourself.

Excellect craftmanship aside, the Blackheart has to sound good to effectively qualify as a great amplifier.

I had my fingers crossed as I plugged the Prestige in.
First test, noise. Most tube amps emit a constant hum. Plainly speaking, you want as little background hum or noise as possible.
And the Blackheart scored in this endeavour, for it was almost silent. It was only until I increased the volume to the higher quarter that the hum became audible.

At 3watts, with the volume up at around half, the Blackheart sounded big and ballsy. The lower ends were amazingly poignant, and the higher ends are very warm and well-rounded. The chords sounded huge, with crystal clear definition of every single note.
It starts breaking up at around 7 o'clock on the volume knob, yielding a very dynamic and pick-sensitive tone.

Naturally, the 5watts mode had a lot more headroom. And when it was very much more touch-sensitive then the 3watts mode. I didn't think it possible, but it sounded even more ballsy then at 3watts. I didn't have the chance to crank it completely last night, but I'll try it that out soon.
I'm probably not doing justice to how the amp sounds with my less that satisfactory description. But of the many tube amps that I've tried, the Blackheart has a very compelling and outstanding voicing, which simpy oozes class and quality.

The treble, middle and bass controls had very a good range to them, without being overly finicky. And throughout the entire session, I didn't encounter any of that tube buzzing/rattling nonsense that I always have with combo tubed amps. That's one of the main reason why I opted for a separate head and cabinet. Lastly, the Blackheart is very pedal-friendly, it worked very well with my Monsterpiece MKII fuzz, among others.

All in all, the experience was surreal, and the tone inspiring. I really couldn't ask for more.

Blackhearted Pictures.

2008-03-22T12:39:00.011+08:00

My Prestige, using an Evidence Audio Lyric HG cable, plugged direct into the Blackheart. Now, that's some pure tone.

MOVED.

2008-03-01T12:51:00.001+08:00

Moved to,

inlifeisdeath.wordpress.com

See you guys there.

ObZenly Blooddrunk.

2008-01-27T01:33:00.000+08:00

2008 is an exciting year, musically speaking.
Here are the albums that I'm really looking forward to. If you share my taste in music, I'm sure my list here will be of some assistance.

-Children of Bodom - Blooddrunk (finally!)
-Meshuggah - ObZen
-Deicide - Till Death Do Us Part
-Black Crowes - Warpaint

Next are those albums that are slated for release this year, but have yet to have confirmed titles and track listings. Making me itch with anticipation, every one of them!

-Slipknot's new studio album (I'm waiting to be won over again)
-Paul Gilbert's new studio album
-In Flames' new and 9th album (this one is going to be good!)
-Steve Lukather's new studio album
-Vinnie Moore's new studio album

Invigoration.

2008-01-07T13:07:00.000+08:00

I used to have the time to practise my music and my guitar everyday. Nowadays, that kind of freedom and flexibility are throughly non-existent.

As such, I try to play my guitar as often as possible. Due to the time constraints, I've structured my practising to be at it's most efficient. I try to do different things within that one practise session. I make it a point to feel invigorated at the end of each practise session.

For example, I'd spend some time doing the warm-ups, the scales and wide stretches. That's phase one.
Phase two would see me doing the fast licks, string-crossing, practising fast alternate pickings and such.
Phase three I'd do the string-bendings, trying to get all the bends pitch-perfect. I'd also practise my vibrato.
For the last phase I'd learn some new licks. I'm currently learning select phrases from the great Charlie Parker.

This way, I may be just practising for an hour-odd each session, but I gain much more than if I mindlessly doodle away on the guitar for ten-hours.

Some people just senselessly practise and doodle for hours on end. As a result, they come out of it feeling tired and lacklustre.
In that case, that bloody joker is defeating the purpose of music and is desecrating his instrument.
Music is supposed to inspire; and playing your instrument and creating inspiration is a boundless joy. Nothing less.

Ultimate Santana.

2007-12-31T21:19:00.000+08:00

Today my bunk-mate Paul asked me, 'got any good albums recently?'

I did not know how to answer him, why?

Firstly, Paul's taste of music is quite different from mine and,
secondly, I acquire new albums almost every day.
I really like the new Deicide and Obituary albums, but I don't think Paul likes black and death metal, respectively, that much.
Al Di Meola's 'Diabolic Inventions and Seduction for Solo Guitar' is pretty darn stunning as well. So are Kenny Wayne Shepherd and the eternal Albert Collins!

Paul mentioned that he likes classic rock.
And the only thing I could think of was 'Ultimate Santana'. Of which I've been listening to recently.

'Ultimate Santana' is a collection of Carlos Santana's greatest hits. The album is not entirely exhaustive, but it does cover the basics.
I got it purely due to the fact that Santana himself is coming to Singapore next year.

There's nothing much more I can say about Carlos Santana. He has already established himself as a legend among legends, in both the guitar and music community in general.
Despite him getting older and looking shabbier by the day, his feel, skills and tone are, well, still pretty much god-like
The thing about Santana is that he will appeal to both the die-hard guitar-geek and also to the pesdestrian listener. Unlike black-metal, or even the blues, Santana is not an acquired taste. He's just the taste(for the lack of a better word), the good taste, the good music.

In summary, the old geezer is one helluva musician (note: I didn't say guitarist) and he puts his soul into his music.

I can barely wait to see him live in Singapore.

Here's the old wanker with his PRS in action.

Nothing from Nowhere.

2007-12-23T22:48:00.000+08:00

I ordered a custom-made cable from Maestro Guitars on 7 December.
They are supposed to mail it to me but fuck, it's not here yet. Vincent the boss said he already mailed it, I hope it reaches me soon otherwise they would be hearing from me, again, very soon.

Now, the Lyric is really something else. They are superbly well-balanced and open across the entire frequency range with a lot of detail and dynamics in the mids and bottom end. Yet, still sounding very smooth and clear at the top end.

What's excruciatingly ironic is that while I have a Lyric going from my guitar to the pedalboard, and George L's linking the pedals, it's a 3-foot Canare that's connecting my board to the amp.

ASEAN Summit.

2007-11-25T15:08:00.001+08:00

Due to my unit's commitments in the recent ASEAN Summit, I've spent 6 whole days at Shangri-La Hotel, doing my duty to protect all the ASEAN Head-of-States and all the foreign delegates from any chemical, biological, radiological and explosive threats.

Sounds pompous, but it's nothing but humbling hard-work.

It really was an eye-opener.

I went to places that most of you would never have had the chance to go.
I saw things that most of you would never have had the chance to see.
I touched things that most of you would never have had the chance to touch.
I learnt that most of you would never have had the chance to learn.
I heard things that most of you would never have had the chance to hear.

I got to see all the ASEAN Heads-of-States, which in itself was quite a sight.
I made many new friends, including the hotel security personnels, the police security command personnels, some of the media people from CNA and even became good friends with several of the famed Gurkhas.

My two favourite Gurkhas are called Thaka and Sruemi. They are both happily married with kids and they take their jobs very seriously.
You wouldn't believe their job-scope and the equipment they carry with them. And I wouldn't dare list any of such infomation here either.

Despite their stern countenances and formidable physiques, they are very gentle, soft-spoken and genial.
As we exchanged handshakes, I wasn't met with testosterone-fuelled iron-grips but just light, friendly grasps. Seemingly stemming from individuals who innately comprehend their considerable strength, and not having any need to prove anything to anyone or to themselves.

They shared with me their stories of age-old Nepal, their families, their training and of their work here in Singapore as a Gurkha.
I sincerely wish them well and hopefully we'd get to meet again at some other major ops in the future.

As a whole, this ops was draining. But I have to say it felt good to have been a part of it.

WHAT?

2007-11-17T13:52:00.000+08:00

It's due for an update, it's due for an update.

CBRE

2007-09-06T20:14:00.000+08:00

I am finally a full-fledged CBRE (chemical biological radiological explosives) Commander after nearly 8 gruelling months of training.

I was always hoping to be posted to a 'slack' vocation or unit. Simply put, a vocation that requires minimal or no physical exertion. CBRE, with its notorious Combat Fitness Test and its reputation as a High Readiness Core unit, certainly does not fill that bill.

Then again, in hindsight, I truly am glad for being posted to CBRE. We slogged and we toiled, and we ultimately survived.

I now wear my CBRD badge on my chest with pride. It feels good to be proud of my vocation and it feels even better to be a part of this special group of individuals.

And as the song goes, "CBR upon my chest, show them we are the best!"

In Somber Resplendence.

2007-08-09T14:40:00.000+08:00

Happy National Day to one and all.

Fortunately enough, I am not involved in NDP this year. Otherwise, I'd have been there at Marina the night prior, doing what, I cannot divulge. You'd think I've learnt my lesson.

Also, today commemorates our 25th anniversary. We go by months, in case you're wondering. I cannot be happier, truthfully.

And today is also pay-day.

Cheers all, hope you guys have been well. I look forward to seeing you people again.

Axis of Evil.

2007-08-05T11:27:00.000+08:00

Featuring everyone’s favorite cast of current political icons: From right, Saddam Hussein, Tony Blair, Kim Jong-Il, George “W” Bush and Osama bin Laden.

The Saddam Hussein doll glows in the dark to indicate his posthumous status.

2007-07-07T18:23:00.000+08:00

Hello there.

I can't seem to add in the title.

I haven't changed much. I still love my music and am still as obsessed with the art of creating beautiful noise.

I just spent the afternoon practising some riffs and tweaking the many knobs I've on my pedals and my amp. That's about 20 or so in total.
I like the tones I'm getting now.

The day before, I had the amp on standby to warm it up. Following that, I flicked on the power switch, only to be rudely greeted by a blabbering, jaggedy cacophony of static. Now I hate when that happens.

So I dismantled everything. I unplugged all the cables and brasso-ed the jacks to glimmering perfection, that's around 20 jacks for you!

Then I opened the back of my amp and checked the tubes and everything, and then I assembled everything back together again.

But the hideous humming remained. So I took a step back and I attained enlightenment, in a manner of speaking.
It was the lousy television, which was near the amp, that was causing this mayhem! Electrical sources, how could I forget?

So I switched off the teevee and everything was fine again.

Recurrence.

2007-06-10T13:10:00.000+08:00

It has been slightly more than three months since my last entry. So many things have happened that I do not know exactly where to start or how to begin this long-due entry.

So I shall split it up in phases.

It has been absolutely hectic, to say the least.

SCHOOL OF INFANTRY SPECIALIST, GOLF COMPANY.

After BMT, I was posted SISPEC (School of Infantry Specialist) as a trainee, undergoing their Basic Section Leader Course.

Frankly speaking, I was not exactly thrilled to be posted to SISPEC initially. But after spending ten weeks there under some of the finest instructors, my views have been altered significantly.

I was in SISPEC GOLF Coy, and boy, am I proud to be a part of that magnificent company. I admire their inherent culture, their way of handling matters and I have utmost respect for the commanders there for their dedication, understanding, efficiency and professionalism.

I will always look back fondly at my time there as a trainee in GOLF coy. For it is the people there in GOLF that instilled the golden pride in me to serve as a Specialist in the SAF.

It has been bloody tough, undoubtedly, but I enjoyed my time there. Plus I attained my IPPT gold in SISPEC. Heh!

“We are from GOLF coy and we shall not be moved! Just like a tree, standing at the water-front!”

EOD/ CBRE.

Currently, I am a trainee in the Combat Engineer Training Institute. Following that I will be posted to either one of these two units; EOD (Explosive Ordinance Defense) or CBRE (Chemical Biological Radioactive Explosive) for even more training before passing out as a qualified commander specializing in such subject matters.

Simply speaking, EOD deals with bombs and such while CBRE handles all chemical, biological and radioactive threats. Entry to either of these two units has seen me go through numerous interviews and selection tests. EOD and CBRE, along with the Commandos and Special Ops Forces are known as HRC (High Readiness Core) units. Such units are constantly on 24/7 standby, ready to spring into action at any particular point of time.

You have to admit that it is considerably more interesting than infantry-styled, back-to-basic, jungle warfare.

Command School

2007-03-25T23:20:00.001+08:00

Off to command school tomorrow. Wish me luck, take care everyone.

Overburdened.

2007-03-23T23:24:00.000+08:00

To quote the sullen but ever judicious Rocky Balboa;

"You, me or nobody is going to hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard you hit, it is about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward, how much can you take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done!"

No seriously, it is high time to get matters right back on track.

Camera Tricks.

2007-03-16T20:33:00.000+08:00

I guess I wasn't ready when my dad happily snapped away. Anyway here's my good ol' other half!

Everyone's looking in different directions. That's due to the multitude of cameras in front of us; no one knows exactly where to look.

Snap.

2007-03-15T10:45:00.000+08:00

Presenting the men from Bronco Company.

Here is my mom putting the jockey cap onto my head.

Some of my best buddies. From left; Andrew, Tzi Qin, Jason and Sgt Lionel.

POPOPOPOP!

2007-03-14T22:23:00.000+08:00

Today is my P.O.P and I am so happy.

After 9 weeks I am finally passing out from B.M.T.C, so long Tekong and the nauseating ferry-rides!

I have 12 days of leave before I embark on my next phase of training in command-school. I will receive my specific posting on the 23rd this month.

In retrospect, B.M.T.C is not exactly such a bad place. I have truly matured, and I have made numerous buddies that will probably remain as such till the end. Plus, it has been an awesome experience and a truly fulfilling personal journey.

Today, I tell you, is a good day. However, I am sadden by the possibility of not seeing some of my platoon mates and commanders ever again.

All hail the batch of 01/07, the 'Ice Cold' Bronco Platoon Three.

Next up will be the pictures, lots of them.

Reckoning.

2007-03-03T09:21:00.000+08:00

Hopefully, they will still take me in.

Either way, here are some photographs which chronicle what I have been busy with lately.

BRONCO Company, Platoon THREE, batch of 01/07.

And here are my section mates. The good old boys of the section TWO.

YUM YUM soup.

2007-02-11T11:19:00.000+08:00

This is the YUM YUM SOUP that she specially cooked for me!

It is so yummy yum yum!

Hey ya ho ah Infantry ya!

2007-02-04T12:15:00.000+08:00

I will be returning to camp this evening, it would be my fourth week there already. I am almost halfway through my basic military training. Faaaantastic.

I am in School One and my company is called Bronco. We are supposedly the 'enhanced leadership batch'. That is to say that everyone in Bronco qualifies for command school, and to eventually emerge as a specialist or a commissioned officer of the Singapore Armed Forces.
There are several other companies such as Falcon who are also leadership batches.

One thing about Bronco is that everyone comes from JCs. In my platoon alone are a number of RJC, HCJC and ACJC fellows. Who, contrary to popular belief, are really normal and pleasant.

One good thing about my batch is that our stay in Tekong will only be 9 weeks, whereas some others stay there for up to 12-13 weeks.
The downside will be that everything is compressed and that results in one hell of a hectic schedule for us to follow through.
I literally wake up at 5 everyday and am occupied until 9 in the night. Lights out is at 10.30 sharp.

Thus far, I have almost completed all my structured packages and training. I just returned from 6 days in the jungle, of which was horrible, to say the very least. Next up will be another 3 days in the jungle whereby I will take my situational test to determine if I qualify for a place in the officer cadet school.

Frankly speaking, the army life hardly appeals to me. But this time in the army has made me more aware of many things that I have previously taken for granted. Take Time, for instance. It is only when you are caged in that god forsaken island that you learn to truly treasure Time, of which you can do as you please, and spend as you see fit.

Each time I am there I miss home and all my loved ones. I miss Sharifah dearly and I miss doing all the things I like. I miss football and I miss jamming and I miss school.
So there you go, the army does make you more mature.

And I think I lost quite some weight. Carrying a 20kg load and walking 12km is no easy feat. Our grand finale will be 24km in full battle order. I am seriously not looking forward to that.

I hope that all you guys have been well, hopefully I will get to see all of you soon.

They say that in the army.

2007-01-08T23:43:00.000+08:00

Well friends, it's now my time to enter the army. I'll leaving for lousy old Tekong this Friday, the twelfth of January 2007.

A few days back , all of the gang attended my little farewell party at that same old court in Yishun where we have been battling it out for years upon years.
As usual, we spent long hours in the sun playing football.
And as usual, it was awesome fun.

It'd be two whole weeks before I can book out to return home. I'm watching 'Deadliest Catch' now on Discovery and those fisherman stay out on the sea for three weeks.
So, I guess my two weeks will be, at the least, endurable. I hope the four years I spent in NCC would prove useful, otherwise I'd prohibit my own kid from joining the NCC family.

The biggest hurdle will be that of being isolated from my loved ones.
I will most definitely miss Sharifah a whole damn lot. Same goes with my family, my friends and my freedom.

I suppose there comes a fateful point of time for every man to make his eventual transition from boy to man.
Some may make that cross-over through the process of surviving a crisis, others might attain theirs from personal experiences with crippling tragedies.
Mine is much less dramatic yet infinitely more cliched. I'm joining the army.

I hope I didn't come across as being too pessimistic.
I'm after all serving our great sovereign state of Singapore, and protecting my own people.

I'll see all of you soon, and remember to play nice.

Sisters.

2007-01-01T23:54:00.000+08:00

Thanks for dinner, coffee and pretty much everything else.

Rivermaya.

2007-01-01T11:20:00.000+08:00

Here's Rivermaya for you. Asian pride!

Jumbo Jets.

2006-12-29T21:56:00.000+08:00

We have been tramping around town for the past two days.
The horrid weather is negligible. Furthermore, I always have my trusty umbrella tucked in my bag. When you live in a tropical region like dear old Singapore, it is positively foolhardy to go outdoors without your brolly.

And moving on,
among the places we visited was the new Ikea outlet in Tampines, and also that new Cathay place.
We managed to catch the film 'Snow Cake' at the Picturehouse, they specialise in these less mainstream flicks.
The entire experience at the Picturehouse was refreshing and enjoyable, coupled with the relatively low ticket prices, I would certainly patronise them again.
Ikea was great fun, and the place is immense, not to mention pretty out of the way for us.

Floyd.

2006-12-21T00:56:00.000+08:00

Hello all, it's been a while since I've found the time and interest to blog.

It's been a hectic period, enjoying oneself can be tiring too.
'Enjoying' would encompass doing everything and anything I feel like doing. And darn if I've not been enjoying myself.

I toyed with the idea of letting this blog go to waste. But then decided against it, and the reason is simple. I realised that this weblog is somewhat of a linkage between my dear IJC friends and I.
And I'm not about to surrender these numerous friendships anytime soon, hah.

Nice talking, I'd update again soon.

Tomo Fujita.

2006-11-24T22:58:00.000+08:00

This is Tomo Fujita, professor at the Berklee College of Music.
He is not only an awesome guitar master, but also one of the most down to earth individuals around.
Despite his super-star status, he replied every single private message I sent him through the forum, answering all my queries with utmost sincerity and patience.

So, Tomo, now that my exams are over I will be watching your instructionals. It is time to learn some serious blues and funk!

Free Hugs.

2006-11-21T21:29:00.001+08:00

EXTRACT:
Sometimes, a hug is all what we need. Free hugs is a real life controversial story of Juan Mann, A man whos sole mission was to reach out and hug a stranger to brighten up their lives.
In this age of social disconnectivity and lack of human contact, the effects of the Free Hugs campaign became phenomenal.
As this symbol of human hope spread accross the city, police and officials ordered the Free Hugs campaign BANNED. What we then witness is the true spirit of humanity come together in what can only be described as awe inspiring.
In the Spirit of the free hugs campaign, PASS THIS TO A FRIEND and HUG A STRANGER! After all, If you can reach just one person.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3x_RRJdd4

Special Advisor

2006-11-19T00:28:00.000+08:00

Hello there my friends,
I just got employed. Nice salary, great colleagues. I truly cannot ask for more.

BIG 3. BIGotry.

2006-11-16T12:19:00.000+08:00

I have spent hours upon hours reading about your silly exploits. Please now look upon me favourably as I take my International History paper.

All Along the Watchtower

2006-11-03T11:10:00.000+08:00

Here's Jimi with All Along the Watchtower.
It doesn't get much better than this, such heros of old will never get lost in the sands of time.

Be Back Soon.

2006-10-31T12:44:00.000+08:00

The Greatest Material Gift of a Lifetime!

2006-10-18T23:54:00.000+08:00

As mentioned in previous entries, it is my opinion that David Gemmell is the greatest writer. Next in line would undoubtedly be R.A Salvatore.
The 'Troy' trilogy is Gemmell's last. His passing makes owing this last series of works from him all the more significant.
This explains my immense delight upon receiving as a gift, these two magnificent masterpieces from Gemmell and Salvatore respectively.

Here's my little collection of works from Gemmell, Salvatore and other related luminaries.

My History Teacher is Historiously Historious.

2006-10-04T20:22:00.000+08:00

Mr. Y is truly the epitome of a History teacher.
He preaches a whole damn lot, but he practises what he preaches. I cannot stress on that enough.

Mr. Y teaches us to answer a History SBQ question in the following 5 simple steps;

Give your explicit analytical statement.
Give evidence to back up your analytical statement.
Interpret and evaluate your evidence.
Provide some contextural knowledge.
Cross-reference with relevant sources to strengthen or weaken your analytical statement.

And so, following in his sarcred mantra to answering questions, I shall provide evidence to back up my claim that Mr. Y practises what he preaches.

When you ask Mr. Y a simple, straightforward question like,
"Mr. Y, what handphone model are you using?"
You will never get a simple, straightforward answer.

Instead, this is what you will get from Mr. Y,

EXPLICIT ANALYTICAL STATEMENT
"My handphone model is a high-end Nokia model. High-end means expensive. Nokia is a handphone manufacturer from Finland."

EVIDENCE TO BACK UP ANALYTICAL STATEMENT
"If you look carefully at the phone, it has the 'Nokia' logo. This shows that it's a Nokia model. It's high-end because it has 3G, and a 10 megapixel camera phone. It also comes with Bluetooth, and a touch screen that has 260, 000 colours. Hence, I can infer that it's a high-end Nokia model."

INTERPRET AND EVALUATE EVIDENCE
"Thus, judging from the evidence provided, I conclude that my handphone is indeed a high-end Nokia model. "

PROVIDE CONTEXTURAL KNOWLEDGE
"Furthermore, my handphone is relatively more expensive as compared with other handphones as it's part of Nokia's new range of models. Also, it has the new Cyber-Shot equipped 10 megapixel camera. According the latest news regarding handphones, only my Nokia model has such functions. Other brands such as Siemens and Samsung have yet to include 10 megapixel cameras in their models. Hence, strengthening my claim that my handphone is a high-end Nokia Model"

CROSS-REFERENCE WITH RELEVANT SOURCE
"Finally, when cross-referenced with the reciept I received upon purchase of my handphone, I can confirm that my handphone is indeed a high-end Nokia model which I paid $900 for."

Mr. Y lives and breathes and practises History in his everyday life. You cannot ask for a more committed teacher.
Hooray Hooray for Mr. Y! We are in safe hands! And mind, I mean it. We appreciate you!

Opeth Live.

2006-10-02T23:10:00.000+08:00

David Gemmell.

2006-09-22T19:58:00.000+08:00

Mr. David Gemmell passed away in July this year due to heart problems. He was only 57. It took me 2 whole months to realise my hero's dead.

In my 18 odd years of existence, I have read many books from many authors of differing genres. And to date, I have never encountered another writer that even comes close to matching Gemmell's finesse and greatness.

Gemmell primarily writes heroic fantasies.
His phenomenal talent of sculpting a story so intricate, impactful and indelible continues to astonish and entertain readers worldwide.

I have read almost all of his books which number to around 30 titles. And I also own a few of these Gemmell masterpieces.
My personal favourite has to be 'White Wolf', of which I have re-read 3 times.

The first novel of his that I read, 6 years ago, was 'Sword in the Storm'.

I chanced upon it in the library around 6 years ago, and was utterly mesmerised by his awesome story-telling.
In the subsequent months, I embarked on an island-wide search in public libraries for Gemmell titles. And of those that I could not locate, I purchased them from various bookstores.

I remember recounting how fantastic and exciting the books were in my Sec 1 'Journal'. My enthused ramblings were not exactly responded in kind by my form-teacher. Pity her soul and taste.

You know, his books are really something.
Gemmell's books make me feel pensive, and I am often unknowingly coaxed into pondering about life and its involutions.
His books transport me to an elaborate world of wonders. Where I can empathise with the characters; where I rage as they rage and grieve as they grieve.
I am by the characters' side as they do battle;
I hear the jarring clash of cold steel.
I feel the deadly swishing of sharp blades.
I see the splurting of blood and innards tumbling grotesquely out of a slashed abdomen.
I smell the putrid stench of death and destruction.
I taste the fear, violence and irrationality in the air.

All at once, I am a tactician, hatching cunning ploys and devising adroit tactics to ensnare the hated enemies.
I am an army general, in my rusted armour, on my mount, mingling with my men, them battle-hardened and fiercely loyal soldiers.
I am a proud warrior, charging fearlessly alongside my comrades, ready to send them malefic legions of darkness back to the abyss.
I am also a peasant, fearful of my life, and that of my family's. And am struggling desperately to ensure their safety among these war-torn lands.
All at once, I am a powerful mage, wielding potent spells, mouthing ancient curses, invoking the fearsome demons of the underworld.

Through his books, I stand witness to the characters' abject defeats and soaring triumphs, their delight and sorrow.
From the comfort of my bed, I watch the rise and fall of herculean nations.

They are so much more than just mere books, so infinitely more than just pieces of paper bound together.
These books are gifts. They inspire me to write, and to live my life fearlessly and with honour.

It saddens me immensely to know that I can never again look forward to new material from Gemmell's fertile imagination and accomplished hand.
But at least I am glad that in my lifetime I experienced the magic of Mr. David Gemmell.

Mr. Gemmell will always retain my richest respect.
He has made an impact in my life through your masterpieces. I feel almost like an old friend of his, having so deeply connected with his words, stories and ideas.
Do rest in eternal peace.

I do hope that I have managed to convey how sublime David Gemmell is in his writing. Words fail me throughly, to wholesomely do justice to his shining, towering magnificence.

'Troy: Lord of the Silver Bow' is the latest of Gemmell's work that I own. It was given to me by my Sharifah last year. One truly cannot ask for a better gift.

Gotta love'em.

2006-09-20T21:12:00.000+08:00

Nice Pictures, One.

2006-09-18T20:56:00.000+08:00

Hendrix Imposter.

2006-09-17T00:18:00.000+08:00

Hendrix is my hero.

Imposter is not. Meet Mahathir Magbalahap Magsaysay.

Kayu!

2006-09-11T21:49:00.000+08:00

Whao shit.
Not that I am unbalanced or unhinged, but this shot made me gag. Sweet majoram!

R. I. P IRWIN.

2006-09-04T21:47:00.000+08:00

Goodness. The fellow's dead, damn, I've always thought he was invincible. Rest in peace, Mr. Irwin.

September 04, 2006 02:14pm

THE Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, is dead.

He was killed in a freak accident in Cairns, police sources said.

It is understood he was killed by a stingray barb that went through his chest.

He was swimming off the Low Isles at Port Douglas filming an underwater documentary and that's when it occured.

Ambulance officers confirmed they attended a reef fatality this morning at Batt Reef off Port Douglas.

His body is being flown to Cairns.

A Tourism Queensland spokeswoman today said the death was shocking and paid tribute to Irwin's "enormous contribution" to his adopted state.

Louise Yates said it was impossible to quantify how much Mr Irwin had meant to the Queensland tourism industry.

"I don't think we could even estimate how much he brought us through his personality and his profile and his enthusiasm about Queensland," she said.

With The Courier Mail and AAP

Musical Musings.

2006-08-31T16:42:00.000+08:00

Note: Saved this as a draft yesterday. Forgot to publish it. With recent happenings, I wonder if this post is even worth the time.

Nowadays, I favour the Blues and music that demonstrates adept use of Fuzz.
I used to singularly embrace the 'Metal tone'; scooped-mids, tight-bottom, heavy chug for rhythm parts and that also a searing lead-tone.
Well, the high-gain stuff and Metal still largely retains its appeal, but recently it's really the Blues and Fuzz that has captured my imagination.
This revelation could be due to a number of reasons;
It could be my extensive listening of Hendrix, SRV, King and Kotzen.
Or that my taste has mellowed and matured.

The current tone that I'm running with is (in my closest approximate) a sweet, warm, lower-gain overdrive that's wonderfully gritty and touch-sensitive.
Other than that, I use Fuzz. Fuzz is delicious, and boosting my overdrive with the Fuzz gives me a nice fuzz-infused distortion without the screechiness that's inherent in most Fuzz pedals.

All that, coupled with a touch of delay for texturing equates to relative tonal bliss. Afterall, I'm using a solid-state amp, so I can't expect to achieve that dream-tone that's sounding off in my head. And as I'm not much of a modulation lover, some delay is sufficient for my tastes.
When I start working, I'm getting myself one of those handwired boutique clean-tubes that contains so much Mojo.

Every once in a while, I crank up the drive-knob on the Tube Zone, scoop out most of the mids, lay on the low-end, up the highs a wee-bit and I have a nice high-gain tone which can comfortably cover sonic-realms ranging from Metallica to Pantera, Death to Behemoth.
Boosting it with the RC for leads can prove desirable as well.
Opeth is considered Metal. But they hardly fall in the scooped-mids category. They display an astounding array of tones and a startling variety in their execution, of which is another reason why I admire them so much.

Alas!
The deplorable thing is that for most part of recent weeks, I've my guitar in the hardcase.
Studies takes precedence now. But that's not going to prevent me from telling you fellows about my wonderment with the Blues, Fuzz and that 'sweet, warm tone.'

Fuzz is really hard to tame, but it sounds breathtaking when used appropriately. Also, I guess it's an acquired taste, I didn't appreciate Fuzz in the past as well.
The basic difference between Overdrive, Distortion and Fuzz is the amount of clipping taking place, with Fuzz being the one that's clipped that hardest.
Hendrix has his Fuzz-Face, and so does Eric Johnson. Other notable users of Fuzz include Muse, The Smashing Pumpkins and the great Neil Young.
Be it a sweet-sounding, singing fuzz or a mean, gnarly one, it's really up to your personal preference.

That sweet, warm tone, I'm telling you, is one of the hardest and most elusive things to achieve.
Blues players generally avoid using many pedals, opting instead for a simple set-up of their guitar plugged straight into the amplifier. What most people are not aware about is the amount of tweaking and attention they invest in their amplifiers, guitars and cables.
A sweet, warm tone liaisons directly with your heart. It's that moving.

This might sound embellished, but listening to SRV or Hendrix playing Little Wing makes me feel floaty. I squinch my face in revelry along with each ravishing note and their jaw-dropping phrasing.
It's so dynamic, so tangibly passionate.
The fact that these late-masters can so intrinsically touch my heart with their music never fails to astonish me.

What I'm saying, is that there is no good or bad music.
Music moves people in their own respective ways. As long as it accomplishes that, music has served its purpose.

I get positively charged when listening to Buckethead, Vai, Angelo or Bumblefoot shred. Metal in general gets me wired, they all possess their merits. And are accordingly well-appreciated by yours truly.
But sometimes I feel that their approach is so William Blake-esque, so didactic and vociferous.
The Blues is different, every note bears a significance. It's so succinctly expressive and so subtle, it impacts one deeply with its stylishly understated aplomb.
It really does move me.

2006-08-27T13:29:00.000+08:00

Hippos.

2006-08-24T14:18:00.000+08:00

Hippopotamuses are usually associated with gentleness and a genially chubby kind of cuteness.
I mean, think Thirsty Hippo and Hippo and Friends.

Well, it is nothing but a gross misconception.

I recently watched a documentary that revealed hippopotamuses to be bloodthirsty omnivores with a penchant for raw meat.
These fellows actually eat people; there was a footage of an African native being attacked by a downright ferocious hippopotamus. And it is said that many missing Africans were eaten by those damn beasts.
They also consume fellow dead-hippopotamuses, buffalos and even try their hands at alligators.

Hippopotamuses are neither friendly nor amicable. I never knew, I always thought they were nice herbivores. Bastards.

Alas, War.

2006-08-22T18:36:00.000+08:00

So here's one more kid that will never go to school, never get to fall in love, never get to be cool.
War is heinous.

Music aboard the train is Wrong.

2006-08-16T21:09:00.000+08:00

My usually tranquil train ride to school this morning was sullied by two fellows who were blasting music from the mobile.
It was loud, and jarring.

The idiots were so gullible, they thought the mobile-phone's advertisements were depicting the truth.
Well, you damned fellows are stupid!
Nobody will dance and groove to the music when you play it out loud through your fancy phone.
The advertisement are fake, fake, fake, you fuckers!

In my humble opinion, people who blast music in the train are bastards.
One would have to be a hopeless bigot to assume that the other commuters enjoy listening to your music.
Those megalomaniacs feign that it is absolutely alright to force-feed their music unto others. I say force-feed as the other commuters have no choice, aside from alighting, but to bear with the din those inconsiderate scums are generating.

It is not alright, and it will never be.
Keep your music to yourself, that is what earphones are for.
Playing music aloud aboard the train is an atrocity.
You fellows will burn, burn, burn in hell if you do so. Burn! Burn, bloody burn!

Poor Fellow ah, Poor Fellow.

2006-08-11T20:19:00.000+08:00

Get well soon ah Specialist Yookomunokong!
We and the Vietcong need you!

OSTRACISED MY SWEET ASS!

2006-08-06T20:44:00.000+08:00

Aspire 5552WXMi.

2006-08-05T15:26:00.000+08:00

Apparently the SMRT Security thinks I am threat.
They wasted five whole minutes going through my backpack; only to find a towel, a football, my boots and miscellaneous items.

I am a Taliban militant, if I ever saw one.

And I think scoring 39 marks is obscenely impressive. I shall strive to beat it.

PTR.

2006-07-29T17:06:00.000+08:00

I have just completed an essay on Frost. It is a nice conclusion to my intensive revision on Robert Frost, and come Monday, I shall bring this piece of work to Ms. Baey.

If you must know, I did question 5, "Referring closely to at least three poems, discuss ways in which Frost explores the interaction between people and nature in his poetry."
Okay, so you probably do not want to know.
But either way, having completed Frost, I am moving on next to William Blake, you know, that old, dead fellow with absurd hair?

I have always enjoyed Robert Frost's poetry. And I have always thought that I understood the poems. However, after the aforementioned 'in-depth' study of his works, I realise that my knowledge of his poetry is adequate at best.
I have miles to go before I sleep. It is never easy to study for a major exam.

Ms Nathan's generosity must be applauded. She treated the class to a hefty meal of six large pizzas.
She is a nice lady, but I do not think that she is qualified to teach us Frost, regardless of her visiting NUS to acquire materials on Frost or not.

I shall stop now, I am tired. And PTR is a grand waste of time.

Stickit.

2006-07-17T00:23:00.000+08:00

My friends, here is something to ponder upon.

You know, while the USA adamantly and constantly preaches about freedom, liberty and their nauseate for dictatorship. They, are actually, unconsciously or not, propagating that very notion of monocracy that they appear to be so adverse to.

Think about it, think capitalism.
The Americans are the foremost advocates of democracy and capitalism. However, capitalism elevates an individual to a lofty pedestal where he is bestowed the responsibility of being in-charge of hundreds or thousands of employees.
The employer has in his reckless hands the very livelihood of his workers.
He, can mould their futures.
He can make them wealthy and he can very well reduce them to pathetic hobos.
He has the ability to dictate their lives, to put it bluntly.
Can you refute your almighty boss, or tell him to go stick it if he decides to increase your workload or reduce your salary?
Can you influence his decision to fire your ass when the company needs to cut losses?
Oh no, you bloody well cannot do so. As long as you are an employee of that particular company, you are shackled. Shackled and chained like a hapless little circus pet, just pray that he does not whip you.

Tell me, how is that not dictatorship?

Now, go stick it.

I simply could not resist,

Hi.

2006-07-14T16:46:00.000+08:00

Hello all,

I'm slogging away in the school library now, I'll probably be here till it closes at nine.
I'm waiting for the 'free hot drinks', and I think that bitch of an Indian librarian ought to be impaled. She prances around like a peacock in heat. I feel like setting her tail on fire and chuckle while she hops around and screams in pain. I'll offer to help, oh but of course, I'll drench her with hot drinks. I wonder if she prefers coffee or milo.

She's really ugly, I'm starting to see a resemblance between her and a cockroach. I wonder if she eats herself like a cockroach does. I'd not advise her to do so though, she might get food-poisoning. And if that happens I'd have no choice by to stuff her into the book drop. Don't think she'll fit, as she's fat and pudgy, heck, I'll get Bob the Butcher to help me out.

I'm looking for Ms. Baey. I've a few pressing questions regarding Robert Frost, but I can't reach her. I suspect that the dirty-peacock-fatty abducted her. I shall call 6-6-6 now, for a beast can only be subdued by another stronger beast.

Sisters.

2006-07-01T22:03:00.000+08:00

Aside from Phoebe Yip, I have four other sisters.
And lest we forget, they will always remain as an integral component in my life.
Be it eight, eighteen or eighty.

This is from Keat's wedding in 2004.

Neil Young.

2006-06-29T18:54:00.000+08:00

I'm currently taking a break from reading about the end of the Cold War, the development of the international economy and the crisis of bloody communism. It's boring, I really don't want to grow up being anything like Ah-Ray.

Anyhow, I'm feeling pretty prodigal, hah! So I'll share with you one of the best videos/songs that I've ever came across.

This is Neil Young in the late 1970s, performing 'Hey Hey, My My' from the album 'Rust Never Sleeps.'
And I tell you, it is one of the greatest musical feats ever; brilliance in its purest form.

It's so inspiring, at least to me. And the mojo in this song/performance is so intense, such feeling, passion and such mastery.

And the Tone of his guitar, his sound, damn. It's one of the best I've ever heard.
Let me tell you more about Tone. Most guitarist are very particular/obsessed about their Tone, we go to unbelievable extents to achieve our own unique and elusive Holy Grail-esque Tone.
My personal maxim regarding it, is that life is too infinitely short for a bad tone.
And once again, Neil Young's Tone is outstandingly outstanding.

Neil Young, among others, made me realise that good music does exist outside the metal and classical realm.

Watch it, my friends.

And alright, I'm hitting the books again, now.

Life Story.

2006-06-27T21:20:00.000+08:00

I'm watching Life Story, the fellow's really some poor thing.
Have not reached the inspiring part, so I'm still chocked with pity.

Opeth.

2006-06-15T21:52:00.000+08:00

My decision to include text in this post seems almost jarringly superfluous, for Opeth certainly needs no introduction.
But seeing that I've already started, it'd be appropriate to inform you that true musicians like Mikael, Peter and company routinely swallow wankies like clicko-hi-five whole for supper.
I wonder why I've taken so long to create a post as such, maybe it's due to my reluctance to share such good stuff with you people.

2006-06-13T22:58:00.000+08:00

The man who dies rich dies disgraced.

Smarties.

2006-06-10T21:17:00.000+08:00

Snigger,

Date posted : 08 June 2006
SELLING line6 uber metal wif adaptor going for $120. great condition. urgently need e cash.
Email:ajaedkoosla@yahoo.com.sg

Date posted : 10 June 2006
Selling ZOOM guitar effects G2-1u FULL-SET for S$120.....Fast Deal....built in USB interface, expression pedal and many more........Nothing Lost Everything Gained.....Hurry up Call 90696499
Email:90696499

Move aside, Nadal.

2006-06-09T14:19:00.000+08:00

Dearest Nadia,

A dinner and a movie with him?
I can fix you up, since you are my classmate.
But he's kind of busy nowadays, you know, the wire-tapping, the war, the secret prisons and legitimizing of the usage of torture among many other things.
But hey, good stuff are worth the wait.

Cheers,
Philmon

Metaltronic.

2006-06-06T14:03:00.000+08:00

Today's Steve Vai's birthday, he was born on 6.6.60.
Today's my little cousin's birthday, he was born on 6.6.95. Not nearly as impressive as Steve's, but I'm still required to attend his celebratory-lunch at Chinatown.

Socks Master.

2006-05-31T20:46:00.000+08:00

GIANT SUPERMARKET, IMM.
Reminds me of a damned funeral photo,
this one easily takes the cake among all the recent pictures that I have taken.
It's gems like these that we live for.

Flaws.

2006-05-20T22:22:00.000+08:00

I have just completed some history essays, and I am very pleased. And I am certain Mr. Y will share in my delight.
On the topic of our critically acclaimed Civics Tutor, I find his way of thinking/reasoning questionable.
I cannot comprehend how he manages to associate blatant demeaning of our efforts and his grim predictions of the impending A-levels with the act and intention of lifting class-morale.
If he truly wished to encourage us, I would much rather he be encouraging instead of being all sour-faced, acerbic and sullen. He might as well step into lectures with a black cloak and hood, wielding a six-foot long scythe, and maybe a hammer as well.
If he cannot manage 'encouraging', then maybe he should genuinely consider giving 'passive', or 'nonentity' a shot.

Everyone is flawed. But in certain cases, flaws are unacceptable.

Why Aren't You Calling Yet?

2006-05-18T20:50:00.000+08:00

For the very first time, I feel thoroughly depleted, musically-wise. Yeah, I know it sounds pathetically meaningless and pussyish.

I used to revel in my music on the ipod.
Now I feel that taking out the player is a chore in itself.

I used to revel in playing the guitar and everything else associated with it. That is tweaking the pedals, amp and whatnot, learning new tracks/licks/riffs/solos, and going insane with it all.
But now I feel so exhausted and uninspired.

Checking out fellow guitarists' pedalboards on thegearpage.com does not help either.
Gear-wise, I am miles behind. Some of those fellows are so far ahead that I cannot even catch a whiff of their dust.
Here's a sampling, a rig like this is easily USD2,000. All boutique stuff. Boutique spelled H-I-G-H-E-N-D.

**Note my penchant for overtly emphasising on the prices. It's due to my inability to match them buck for buck. Not unless I have a high-paying job, of which leads me back to the A-levels. Piss!

It is indeed common knowledge that music is free and unbridled. That it can still be startlingly beautiful even when it is unadorned.
But by checking out those pedalboards, my inspiration is just pounded further down.

Agreed, it is not a must to acquire such high-end gear.
Agreed, without them I will not die.
Agreed, it is a want, not a need.
However, the feeling of inferiority and envy is still largely prevalent in me. And it is really not helping with my dwindling inspiration.

I need a muse, to rekindle my musical sprightliness.
I need to sleep and I need to keep away from all things music/guitar, I need to watch Paul Gilbert in action.

Aside from my lack of vivification in musically, I am all fine otherwise.
I am looking forward to a day out with her, and also a morning out at the usual football appointment.
Well,
cheers to the A-levels, my dear friends.

A New Face.

2006-05-13T19:30:00.000+08:00

My new weblog-skin is a unique creation originating from the flamboyantly-gifted Sharifah. N.

She is currently doing freelance weblog-skin designing,
- USD59.90 per skin.
- USD100.00 for 2. (Limited Offer)

You can contact her via this weblog.
Orders will take 3-4 weeks due to high demand.

We accept Visa, American Express and Mastercard.
Payment through Paypal is preferred.

Miracle.

2006-05-01T19:27:00.000+08:00

This, my dear friends, is a miracle. No less, and much more.

The story goes as such,
Many months ago, whilst the Sembawang Interchange was still amidst its flurry of construction, we chanced upon this newly-cemented pavement at the front of the interchange.
Being the children that we are, we left our initials, with a heart encircling it, in the wet-cement. We re-visited the spot a couple of days later, only to find that the entire pavement was re-smoothened out, with absolutely no sign left of our markings.

And then! Aha!
On Saturday (29 APRIL 06), we once again chanced upon that particular concrete pavement, and the following was what we saw.

Stupefying? You bet! Magically Magical? You bet!
Somehow, our drawing miraculously surfaced out of the pavement.

I cannot explain it, for it is impossible for markings that were smoothened away to re-appear, yes? Well, apparently not in our case!

Imagine yourself scrawling your name in the sand, and watched it being washed away by the tide. And the next day upon your return, you see the exact same scrawling there. Untouched, unblemished.

Tell me if it is not a miracle!

It is set in stone. It is us.

Over-haul.

2006-05-01T18:01:00.000+08:00

The Prestige: I need an over-haul and a need a clean-up. Do bear in mind that a significant portion of your tone originates from me!
Philmon: Alright! Now hush, you are hissing way too much.

Okay, I am going to replace the amp's 2-pin plug with a 3-pin, so that the stray charges will be grounded instead of coming out through the amplifier as those hideous hisses. Snip!

Next up, AUTOSOL! It's time to shine things up. I had better tape the fingerboard up. I am aware that tape will suck the moisture out of the wood, I will use the wood conditioner later on.

Damn, look what AUTOSOL can do! The frets are gleaming, check out the stark difference between the last few unpolished frets(nearer, duller ones) and the polished ones. I shall remove the trem and clean it up too.

Now, an upgrade from the stock V8 pickups. Let's wire in the custom Has-Sound Hellion. Courtesy of Stan Hinesley.

Viola!

The original trem arm(right) is too wobbly, unresponsive and it even swings around. It makes for horrible whammying.
I will swap it with a Schaller Trem Arm (left). It is just a couple of bucks from Davis Guitar. Hell, I would even AUTOSOL it.

Done, Schaller Arm mod is in.

I hope you are satisfied now.

The Prestige: Thank you for the much required over-haul, but I don't mind having new volume and tone knobs. They only cost around 10 bucks, or less! Black metal with Mother of Pearl!

Philmon: No! Even though I think that they'd look awesome with your finishing. But no!

Does it ever End?

2006-04-28T23:09:00.000+08:00

My dear primary school best-buddy's basking in WIKIPEDIA's global lime-light.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gan_Huai_Shi

Now, stop trying to be righteous for just a moment, and bloody admit that it's pretty darn cool.

06-06-06

2006-04-27T21:49:00.000+08:00

National Slayer Day! Woohoo!
Now, who in the world does not love 'Reign in Blood'?

http://www.nationaldayofslayer.org/

2006-04-26T20:22:00.000+08:00

He had discovered Time and Death and God.

Random Sharing.

2006-04-23T21:26:00.000+08:00

I read that carp do not have set life spans.
They do not age like we do. They die if they are killed by people, predator or disease, but they do not just get old and die.
Theoretically, they could live for ever.

I read a guide on grounding two-pin plugs.
I intend to change my amplifier's two-pin to a three-pin, so as to eliminate all the hissing at insanely-high gain, but I am afraid that I might electrocute myself.
I guess I will get it done in a few day's time.

More pictures.

2006-04-13T21:09:00.000+08:00

A picture says a thousand words.

However, this picture screams just but a single word,
GAY!

Even so, he is still a part of A23.
So please ah people, do not ostracise him.

Lost.

2006-04-11T21:02:00.000+08:00

Dear Innovigities,

I misplaced a precious silver ring today.
Should you happen to spot a ring lying around the campus-grounds, do bring it to me.
Possible places: Libaria, track, canteen.

Many, many, many thanks.

Regards,
Philmon.

Spam.

2006-04-08T23:48:00.000+08:00

The current email that I am using extensively (phill_slipknot@yahoo.com) kicks-ass because it is constantly glutted with spam.
Now these spam mails are relentless, they are so hardcore that they render the spam blocker otiose.
I get mails from Nigerian ministers and even from Mendala himself.

So, due to it being so bloody kick-ass, it can go and burn in hell.

Contact me at inlifeisdeath@yahoo.com, if need be.

Friend.

2006-04-06T22:25:00.000+08:00

I have an awesome friend who is a superbly-skilled and exceedingly-experienced guitarist and musician.
He goes by the name of Kader, and is throughly altruistic when it comes to sharing with me his seemingly limitless knowledge of guitars and music.

Do check out his playing, his axes and his weblog, among other stuff at the following url,
www.myspace.com/khaos69

Note: Linked at Sidebar, 'Kader'.

Stream of Un-Consciousness.

2006-04-01T21:30:00.000+08:00

Idling gives me time to think, perhaps not for the better. But at least I am thinking.
At times I wonder what purpose I serve in this world. What am I working so hard for?
Wealth?
Status?

Again,
Why do I study? Why do I work?
So what if my grubby hands got hold of a swelling degree,
so what if I am a world-renowned journalist,
so what if I am the world footballer of the century,
so what if I am the greatest guitarist ever,
so what if I sell 10 billion records,
so what if I am the wealthiest man alive,
so what if I own a hundred gorgeous guitars,
so what if I own a hundred tube amps,
so what if I own a hundred boutique pedals.

For when I leave this world, I will not be taking anything along,
not my money,
not my status,
none of my axes, effects or amplifiers.
not my automobiles,
not my house,
none of my mobiles, laptops or technology.
Nothing.

For when I am gone, they will no longer mean a thing.
For nothing in life is certain, except death. For in life is death, and in death, is death.

Glories like glow worms, afar off shine bright,
But looked to near, have neither heat nor light.

Frankly, I still have no inkling what the hell is my purpose on Earth. I do not understand why of all people, I am staring out of this pair of eyes.

Why am I, I? Why is he, he? Who are we?

And when death consumes, do I soar to the sky to be judged by a greater power? I do not know, but that is what I would like to believe.
And then what, do I get assigned to another physical cage? With no recollection of my previous life?
If that is the case, does that mean that my soul is an entity? So is there a fixed number of souls?
Is there a glowing golden court in the skies?
Is there a gleaming monolithic machine, or some austere, supernal being that extracts souls from clinical glass-jars and then stamps the wipsy white things into lifeless bodies propelled along on a snaking rubber conveyor belt?
And who decides who goes where? God?

And since they say that Earth has existed for trillions of years, and all that we know merely dates a hundred million of years back, what occurred during those unknown times?
And when our world finally become irreparably filthy and corrupted,
when our basest instincts are given free reign to guide our actions,
and when we have lost the capacity of compassion and love,

will a greater power, bearing an unrivalled fury, descend upon us to purge our lands to pristine purity?

If we are all going to die, then what and where is the point of it all?

As you might already have come to comprehend, there is never a satisfying denouement to anything.
So,
I think, the point of it all is the journey towards the end.
Sounds cliched, you bet.
But often the most cliched saying embodies the greatest truth.

I think, the most important thing is to share.
So I have accumulated an abundance of knowledge, what is the point of taking it to the grave?
I have to share it, I have to leave a legacy.

So,
if I am a world renowned journalist, I will strive to capture in my articles the precious emotions and happenings of the masses to share it with the masses.
if I am the greatest footballer or guitarist alive, I will share my knowledge, my ecstasy, my passion, with the masses.
if I am wealthy, I will share my wealth with the masses.
And if I am none of the above, I will still share my love and compassion with my loved ones, and with those whom I can reach.

And in doing so, at least I know that I have left something of value behind when I pass on.
For when we ascend to heaven to be judged, we are all equal in status. And we will judged solely upon our doings.

Yet stay, heaven gates are not so highly arched
As princes' palaces: they that enter there
Must go upon their knees

Arts 23.

2006-03-26T21:17:00.000+08:00

I snagged this picture from Bernadette's Weblog and felt obliged to put it up.

Hey, it's the 05A23 featuring the Ms. Evelyn Joyce Nathan, who sincerely believes that the way to acquire knowledge is through having fun.

Pity some members of our little party were unable to make it for the photoshoot.
Mourn for our Civics Tutor, the distinguished Sir. Rayeo, Nobel laureate in History. Also, Serina the Sinful, Ricco and Vernisar the Sri Lankan blueblood.

Cardinal Sins.

2006-03-24T20:30:00.000+08:00

TECH21 SANSAMP GT2Read! http://www.tech21nyc.com/gt2.html

TOADWORKS DEATH RATTLE

A must-read, http://www.virtualtoad.com/dr/whatsogreat.html

I want and need them both.
But I cannot and will not purchase them.

Bloody Shit.

Click to Enlarge.

2006-03-20T20:24:00.000+08:00

They say, when you are uncertain of where to go, look back to see where you came from.

Siege of Darkness.

2006-03-16T13:35:00.000+08:00

We have heard many tales from devotees of their encounters with particular avatars, frenzied stories from men and women alike who claimed to have looked upon their deities, likewise claiming they had seen the light and truth, however convoluted it might be.

I do not disagree with the claims, and would not openly attack the premises of their encounters. For I am genuinely glad for those who have found enrichment admist the disorder; I am glad whenever another person finds the contentment of spiritual guidance.

But what of faith?

What of fidelity and loyalty? Complete trust? Faith is not granted by tangible proof. It comes from the heart and the soul. If a person requires proof to a god's existence, then the very notion of spirituality is diminished into sensuality and we have thus reduced what is holy into what is logical.

Again, I will not argue openly against one who has claimed to have seen an avatar, becuase that person will not comprehend that the mere presence of such a being undermines the very purpose, and value of, faith. Because if the true gods were so tangible and so accessible, then we would no longer be independent creatures set on a journey to find the truth, but merely a herd of sheep requiring the guidance of a sheperd and his dogs, unthinking and without the essense of faith.

The guidance is there and I know it. Not in such a tangible form, but in what we know to be good and just and correct. It is our own reactions to the acts of others that depicts the value of our own actions, and if we have fallen so far as to need an avatar, an undeniable manifestation of a god, to show us the way, then we are pitiful, wretched creatures indeed.

Such is the case for most of the followers of most of the various gods, and if we looked more closely at the pantheon of planet Earth, we would come to realise that the precepts of the different religions are not so different afterall; it is the worldly interpretations of those precepts that vary from faith to faith. And even more so if we are to believe the suggestion of avatars, because the truth is singular and cannot, by definition, support so many varied, even opposing manifestations.

So tell me not of avatars, show me not your proof that yours is the one true god. I grant you your beliefs without the slightest of questions or judgements, but if you grant me what is in my heart, then such tangible evidence would thence be rendered irrelevant.

Cheers.

Do Take Note.

2006-03-11T19:08:00.000+08:00

I just purchased a new pack of Blue-Steels, and I had to almost instantly snap the highE string.
It didn't even last a goddamned day!
Well, you can all get me packs of strings for my birthday. Blue-Steels just cost $8, heh.

And speaking of the price, lousy Sy*ph*ny Music (Causeway Point, 4th level), sells the bloody Dean Markley Blue-steels for a horrifyingly exorbitant $15.75 when it just costs $8 at good ol'Davis.
That's almost double the price. Never buy anything from them; they're crocked to think that they can charge such crazyass prices just because their salespeople wear powersuits, shirts and ties.
Or perhaps they are so woefully stupid to confound Singapore's exchange rate with China's.
MAN-WHORES.

Grandmaster Qui-Gon Jinn.

2006-03-06T20:22:00.000+08:00

I have absolutely no inkling how many of you self-proclaimed hardcore Star Wars fans out there are oblivious to the very fact that at the end of Episode III, Yoda became Qui-Gon Jinn's disciple.

The handful of people that I bothered relating this fact to were mistrustful, regardless of it being utterly accurate, and not to mention, reliable.

After the near-genocide of the Jedi, Yoda realised the error of his ways; him stubbornly enforcing the old methods of Jedi-training, the guarding of the rigid customs etcetera.

It eventually dawned upon the old leather-head Yoda that Qui-Gon Jinn was in fact the enlightened one. For Qui-Gon Jinn understood long before Yoda that the world is rapidly changing and that it is imperative for the Jedi to adapt and to keep up with times.
Having comprehended this stunningly simple truth, Yoda reached out to the force for guidance, and the force spoke to Yoda in the form of an astral Qui-Gon Jinn.
Following that, Yoda acknowledged Qui-Gon Jinn as his master, pledging to learn from him.

The irony!
For when Qui-Gon was still kickin', each time Yoda chided Qui-Gon Jinn for his seemingly reckless behavior, Yoda was actually accentuating his own folly.

Well, if only I could study Star Wars for my 'A' level literature.

Kenyan police raid media group following controversial report

2006-03-02T21:36:00.000+08:00

Pisses me off.

Kenyan police raid media group following controversial report

NAIROBI : Heavily-armed Kenyan police stormed the headquarters of the country's second biggest media group, shutting down its television station and smashing its printing press, following a report President Mwai Kibaki held secret talks with a political opponent, employees said.

Dozens of balaclava-clad officers carrying AK-47 assault rifles raided the Standard Group's offices shortly after midnight, seizing computers and transmission equipment for the independent Kenya Television Network (KTN), they said.

Police then smashed the printing press and set light to thousands of freshly-published copies of Thursday's edition of the 104-year-old The Standard.

The raid, the first-ever attack on a mainstream media outlet since independence from Britain in 1963, sparked widespread condemnation and calls for Kibaki's resignation.

The government said initially it was not aware of the attack and pledged the investigate.

"I am trying to find out what has happened and I will get back to the media when I do ... I do not know who is responsible for this as I said I have just seen it on NTV ... I really cannot say anything until I find out," Information Minister Mutahi Kagwe said in live interview on the independent television station NTV.

During the raid, which followed the arrest of three Standard Group journalists on Tuesday, police briefly detained four KTN employees and confiscated recorded tapes and mobile telephones, staffers said.

The police were looking for news anchor Njoroge Mwaura, who read on air a scathing editorial on press freedom shortly before the raid, but he had already left the building.

"It is shock, anger and disappointment," said the Standard Group's chief Tom Mshindi.

"Kenyans should rise and stop this draconian measures by a dictatorship government," said powerful former roads minister Raila Odinga, who fell out with Kibaki.

"This is a setback not only to the media, but to the gains made by ordinary Kenyans," said opposition Kenya African National Union (KANU) party leader Uhuru Kenyatta. "This is draconian, it is as if we have returned to the Middle Ages."

The Kenya Union of Journalists urged media houses to boycott positive news on Kibaki's regime for the next two weeks.

"Disagreement with views cannot be the reason to attack media houses," Kenya Human Rights Commission said in a statement, while the International Commission of Jurists condemned "scuttling and muzzling of media freedom."

"It is shocking. It is a sad day for press freedom given that the gains in media freedom we had gained have been undone in one night," said Rose Kimotho, the head of Kenya's Media Owners Association.

The crackdown followed the arrest earlier in the week of three Standard journalists -- weekend editions managing editor Chacha Mwita, news editor Dennis Onyango and reporter Ayub Savula -- over Saturday's report alleging that Kibaki had held secret talks with Kalonzo Musyoka, a former minister who was fired for campaigning against a draft constitution.

The draft, which would have given Kibaki more power in the first changes to the country's 1962 independence charter, was resoundingly defeated in a referendum last November.

Kibaki's press office and Musyoka have denied that any such meeting took place and government spokesman Alfred Mutua has demanded the Standard retract the article and apologise, which it has not done.

Global press watchdogs Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders have called the arrests an attempt to criminalise journalism and demanded their release.

"We are disturbed by the growing belligerence of the government," RSF said.

Kenya's high court was set Thursday to hear a suit filed by the Standard seeking the immediate release of the three since they have not been charged with any offence.

- AFP/ms

Hobbes!

2006-03-01T21:06:00.000+08:00

I was reading about how countless species are pushed to the tragic borders of extinction by man's destruction of Earth through pollution and the likes.
Sometimes, I think the surest sign that intelligent life exist elsewhere in the universe is that none of it has ever attempted to contact us.

And on a more dulcet note, I passed my 'A' Level MT.
So, no more Chinese lessons for me!