Right here we go, obligatory end of year meme pilfered via trusty google...
1. What did you do in 2010 that you’d never done before?
I went to Cardiff, I completed a round trip of 26 hours of air travel for essentially 23 hours on the ground where I was going, I survived full time work and full time study – not only survived but kicked ass, thank you very much. Everyone complaining about their workloads please move to the left, I have no sympathy.
2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions and will you make more for next year?
I can’t remember if I made specific resolutions…I know I wanted 2010 to matter, I felt that it was going to be important somehow. I wanted to stay open to possibilities, I wanted to not let my fear of failure and of getting hurt get in the way, and I wanted to be open to try new things. I did all of that, I think. I got a new job, I spoke at an academic conference on something I loved and found I actually enjoyed it, I travelled, I went on dates, I met new people, did new things, tried new things, and was generally happy, if stressed. All in all, I think 2010 was a good one, really. I think I did well.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
I think so. I get the feeling someone did. I just can’t remember who. Oops. I do however know my cousin is expecting her third child at the moment. That counts, right?
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Unfortunately yes, I lost my maternal grandfather in October and it seems fitting that I post this today, on what would have been his 80th birthday.
5. What countries did you visit?
England, Wales, Thailand, South Africa.
6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?
Wow, I don’t really know. Magic? The world at my feet? A purpose? A publishing deal? Who knows!
7. What date from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
I’m not so great with dates. First weekend of October is pretty hefty. I also keenly remember starting my "first proper job” on May 17th…but only because I count every month I’m there as a victory of perseverance and count down the days till I can leave! I know, it’s a horrible thing to say.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Speaking at an academic conference, and passing all my subjects – or rather maintaining a consistent distinction average. As an academic, I don’t think I’m doing too shabbily really.
9. What was your biggest failure?
Not getting a HD average, le sigh. Still not getting published. I really need to get my act together there.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Shock, horror, no! Nothing more major than the standard ol flu.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
A pair of black boots. Sherlock DVDs. Plane tickets to Melbourne for fangirling purposes.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
What a strange question. I’m going to say Roze, for being the intelligent, wonderful friend she is and remaining calm and composed during the trials and tribulations of house renovations, a law degree, work in its various forms and illness and injury. (You are a champion dear, I’m working on getting you that Pacey you want :P )
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
These are strong words and I don’t know if I really have anyone to attribute that to right at this moment. Perhaps I am too full of Christmas good will (aka chocolate and alcohol) to dwell on depressing topics at this moment. I’m tempted to say RTD, I’m sure he did something to appall and depress me at some point during the year!
14. Where did most of your money go?
Fandom, naturally. Isn’t that where it always goes? Actually I think most of my funds were squandered on plane travel this year. It’s a toss up between that and various car expenses…but let’s go with plane tickets, it’s more exotic.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Oh, so many things. I’m quite the excitable loon.
16. What song will always remind you of 2010?
If I had you by Adam Lambert. Yup, I am still in love with this song.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
Happier or sadder? Happier
Thinner or fatter? Thinner. Though all this chocolate may have changed that.
Richer or poorer? Hahahaha, much poorer. Despite the acquisition of full time employment. Isn’t life funny?
18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Exercise and writing. I really need to get in the habit of doing both on a daily basis. Also blogging. I’ve really fallen off with that!
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Stressing over things, let other people get me down.
20. How will you be spending Christmas?
Uh. Bit late for that. Next year’s will be spent freezing to death, if all goes to plan. Yay!
21. How will you be spending New Year?
Hanging with my oldest friends, laughing over silly things, if history is any guide.
22. Did you fall in love in 2010?
In the words of Betty, “Falling is easy, you just fall.”
23. How many one-night stands?
Oh my dear quiz, you don’t know me at all.
24. What was your favorite TV program ?
Of the year? Sherlock, hands down. It is, without a doubt, the greatest, best, most brilliant, wonderful thing to enter my life. I also discovered and fell deeply in love with Fringe. Other happy discoveries include Mad Men, Modern Family, Walking Dead, Human Target and Going Postal, while my love of Lie To Me, Numb3rs (now cancelled *sob*) and Doctor Who continues strongly – as would my love of Merlin, no doubt, if only someone would actually be so kind as to show it on aussie tv.
25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
I don’t really hate people, it’s a bad habit I feel.
26. What was the best book you read?
I have shamefully not read much this year that wasn’t for uni or that I haven’t read before. But I did finally read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and thoroughly enjoyed it, so let’s go with that.
27. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Oooooh. Hard. The National? I think I’d have to go with that, yes.
28. What did you want and get?
So many things! I can't really think of one specific thing.
29. What did you want and not get?
Uh. Perspective? Haha. No, well. I don’t know. I still don’t feel like I’m any closer to knowing what I actually want from my life (only what I don’t want) but that seems like a big thing to ask from a year. Baby steps.
30. What was your favorite film of this year?
There were quite a few brilliant ones this year. Has to be Inception though, surely? I'm posting my top 10 films of the year on Tumblr, check it out here if you’re interested.
31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I spent my actual birthday in the company of my parents, having a lovely brunch and going shopping. For my birthday, however, there was a gig and a road trip to Palm Beach. To my utter horror, I am all of 23 now.
32.What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
My car not requiring so much attention, for one thing. Not having debt for another! Haha, oh the middle class aspirations.
33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2010?
In general my fashion concepts still continue to vary wildly depending on my mood, I do in general still prefer the Beckett effect, though I have been prone to more shorts, skirts and dresses. Also heels, lots of lovely, lovely heels. And boots. When not in the corporate gear for work, of course. I’m considering throwing all that out in the new year anyway. Why bother? It’s not like I actually have to see clients. They know I’m a capable employee, if I want to dress like a deranged emo kid that’s escaped the local holding facility, I see no reason why that should be a problem (idealism, isn’t it wonderful?)
34. What kept you sane?
My friends, my parents, my puppy, and music. Always music.
35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Benedict Cumberbatch. Definitely. Yes.
36. What political issue stirred you the most?
Our useless election being useless. That’s more a general observation than being ‘stirred’ though.
37. Who did you miss?
My family and friends who I can’t see regularly. I’ve said it before and I will say it many, many times more – teleportation!
38. Who was the best new person you met?
I met some lovely new people both at uni and at work, I think it would have to go to the very nice girl I met at the TW conference.
39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010.
Things usually happen in ways you least expect, and when it’s least convenient. You need to trust yourself to know when it’s the right thing for you, and pursue things on your own terms, and not because you think anything is expected of you. At the end of the day the only person you need to answer to is yourself, and if you’re honest with yourself , well, who cares about a little complication? It’ll all work out in the end.
40. Quote that sums up your year.
“The way I see it, every life is a pile of good things and bad things....hey....the good things don't always soften the bad things; but vice-versa the bad things don't necessarily spoil the good things and make them unimportant.” - The Doctor, Vincent and the Doctor
Music: Textbook - We Are Scientists
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Smile for the morning light
Merry (belated) Christmas!
I hope everyone had a lovely time and are enjoying the festive season which inevitably always drags out until New Years. Prosit! *clinks wine glass*
I've been on a much needed, and deserved, break from the interwebz for the duration. It's been brilliant and laid back, starting with a fun dinner with family friends on Christmas Eve and family time on Christmas Day. I've been quite spoilt this year, and am best described as a happy little geek fangirl, if ever there was such a thing. Along with many dvds and chocolate (naturally), I've also acquired a sonic screwdriver torch, the Eleven Doctors figure set, the Sims 3 (yes, I may never see daylight again) and a 1TB My Book external hard drive. Like I said, happiest little geek fangirl. The figure set amuses me to no end because apparently my father wasn't keen on buying it for me and would only do so after he received approval from other people in the shop. Win.
Not been up to much, really. Chillaxing, catching up on a ton of television and film watching, doing some writing and sleeping in till midday. If the weather was better, I'd be lazing about outside but it's been rather miserable and wintery. Can't have it all!
What else? Let's see....Oh, the Doctor Who christmas special A Christmas Carol was actually shown on Boxing Day, fantastically brilliant to actually get to see it around Christmas time for a change, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Much better than the specials we were subjected to last year - you deserved better Ten! The trailer for next season looked absolutely epic, but of course new Who in all its forms is always a very welcome thing.
On the social front, I ventured out for a lovely impromptu movie session at R's, much fun as always, and managed to catch up with L yesterday. Watched The King's Speech which is every bit as brilliant as everyone's been saying, and I highly recommend it. Much love for Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, and Geoffrey Rush. Tomorrow I have to clear out my desk, something I've been putting off for months, and also maybe, possibly tackle my wardrobe (woe). I will of course also be attempting the obligatory end of year lists and resolutions, blah blah all that. Still can't quite believe another year is over already. Time, you fickle thing!
Random things. I was stumbling about Tumblr this morning and came across this -
Dear Steven Moffat - You have convinced me that the world is full of tall, skinny, socially awkward genius men with ridiculous hair and a geeky love of science-y things. I expect the delivery of mine forthwith. Thanks very much.
Haha! Tis funny cause it’s true. C’mon Steven, don’t hold back now.
Tumblr also delivered this -
Leading to a moment of 'Heeeeey, I've been there, I sat on that grass, I got sunburned on that grass!'
It's the little things, people. The little things.
Now I must really be excused as I need to finalise the NZ trip. I'm so stupidly excited about that, it's silly, I know. My number one rule is not to look forward to anything, and I've already managed to break it with this. Fail. But it is something I've been wanting to do for so long, I can't seem to help myself. Sigh. Ah well.
Au revoir ma cheris, fais de beaux reves.
Music: A little's enough - Angels and Airwaves
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| Original |
I've been on a much needed, and deserved, break from the interwebz for the duration. It's been brilliant and laid back, starting with a fun dinner with family friends on Christmas Eve and family time on Christmas Day. I've been quite spoilt this year, and am best described as a happy little geek fangirl, if ever there was such a thing. Along with many dvds and chocolate (naturally), I've also acquired a sonic screwdriver torch, the Eleven Doctors figure set, the Sims 3 (yes, I may never see daylight again) and a 1TB My Book external hard drive. Like I said, happiest little geek fangirl. The figure set amuses me to no end because apparently my father wasn't keen on buying it for me and would only do so after he received approval from other people in the shop. Win.
Not been up to much, really. Chillaxing, catching up on a ton of television and film watching, doing some writing and sleeping in till midday. If the weather was better, I'd be lazing about outside but it's been rather miserable and wintery. Can't have it all!
What else? Let's see....Oh, the Doctor Who christmas special A Christmas Carol was actually shown on Boxing Day, fantastically brilliant to actually get to see it around Christmas time for a change, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Much better than the specials we were subjected to last year - you deserved better Ten! The trailer for next season looked absolutely epic, but of course new Who in all its forms is always a very welcome thing.
On the social front, I ventured out for a lovely impromptu movie session at R's, much fun as always, and managed to catch up with L yesterday. Watched The King's Speech which is every bit as brilliant as everyone's been saying, and I highly recommend it. Much love for Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, and Geoffrey Rush. Tomorrow I have to clear out my desk, something I've been putting off for months, and also maybe, possibly tackle my wardrobe (woe). I will of course also be attempting the obligatory end of year lists and resolutions, blah blah all that. Still can't quite believe another year is over already. Time, you fickle thing!
Random things. I was stumbling about Tumblr this morning and came across this -
Dear Steven Moffat - You have convinced me that the world is full of tall, skinny, socially awkward genius men with ridiculous hair and a geeky love of science-y things. I expect the delivery of mine forthwith. Thanks very much.
Haha! Tis funny cause it’s true. C’mon Steven, don’t hold back now.
Tumblr also delivered this -
Leading to a moment of 'Heeeeey, I've been there, I sat on that grass, I got sunburned on that grass!'
It's the little things, people. The little things.
Now I must really be excused as I need to finalise the NZ trip. I'm so stupidly excited about that, it's silly, I know. My number one rule is not to look forward to anything, and I've already managed to break it with this. Fail. But it is something I've been wanting to do for so long, I can't seem to help myself. Sigh. Ah well.
Au revoir ma cheris, fais de beaux reves.
Music: A little's enough - Angels and Airwaves
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Tis the season
It being the festive season, there are many festivities happening about town - the result being quite a busy week. Many lunches, dinners and socialising have been on the agenda, and much fun and enjoyment ensued.
On Wednesday, I had a chance to attend the premiere screening of TRON: Legacy at the IMAX. I felt quite special as they even confiscated our mobiles prior to the screening so there wouldn't be any leaks. First time that's happened. Visually, the film is quite something. For the uninitiated, it has been one of the most hyped geek films of the past two years and is a sequel to the 1982 film TRON. You don't need to be familiar with it to get on board for this one, though I understand the nostalgia factor is quite nice. It centres around 27 year old bad boy Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund, riffing off Chris Pine's Kirk and Hayden Christensen's Anakin Skywalker) looking into the disappearance of his father, Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), and finding himself transported into the digital world his father had been working on. Here he meets Quorra (Olivia Wilde) who takes him to Kevin, trapped in the world by his mirror image, the generated Clu (a quite creepy young Jeff Bridges animation). Father and son undertake a life-and-death journey across a visually-stunning, dangerous cyber universe to reach the portal that will bring them back to the real world while avoiding Clu and his helmeted cronies, hell bent on taking their quest for perfection beyond the digital realm.
I've never seen the first film but had no problem following along...mostly because the story is virtually non-existent. Don't get me wrong, it's an enjoyable enough film, but it does feel somewhat lacking in care factor, just sort of falling into it and dragging along with the sheer power of its visual flair. That said, the light cycle races are everything they've been hyped up to be, and the light disc battles are brilliantly executed. The acting is solid enough for an action film, even if I can't buy Jeff Bridges in any sort of benevolent role and his aging hippy routine was wearing a bit thin. Newcomer Garrett Hedlund manages unremarkably fine, while Michael Sheen is just love, love. And then there is of course Olivia Wilde, who I always appreciate regardless of what she happens to be doing. Much has been made of the Daft Punk soundtrack, and with good reason - it matches the alternate digital world perfectly. As much as I despise 3D, I think this is one film that actually made the most of the technology - alternating between 2D for the real world scenes, and 3D for the digital, really heightening the impact of it all. Overall, if you have no expectations, it's an enjoyable enough film with intoxicating visuals but carrying little weight.
The rest of the week has been filled up with christmas shopping and christmas dinners. Friday night's one was held at a lovely Korean BBQ place in a hidden corner of the city, a real discovery and a great night out. I also discovered peppermint chocolate milk tea which is obviously something I've been missing my whole life. Last night was the opposite, a mellow dinner in and watching Carols in the Domain - everyone got quite involved in marrying me off to Josh Groban. I'm not objecting. He's a funny guy. And he plays the piano.
In other news, I have violet hair! Well, kind of. My hairdresser insists that it needs to be bleached before she'll dye it, and I am not bleaching my entire head, so we have reached a compromise. What used to be the red layer is now violet, as well as a few streaks. It's very...subtle. My hair being naturally dark, it's not showing up as vibrant as the red used to, but by all accounts it is noticeable enough and I can certainly see it in the right light. I like it, I like being all dark again. I've tried to take a pic of it but the light's pretty woeful.
This week also saw the announcement that Andy Lee and Megan Gale had split up. I was devastated. Devastated. I wish I was kidding. Background - Andy was until recently one half of my favourite radio program, the Hamish & Andy Show. For the months of my full-time employment, the duo have made me look forward to sitting in peak hour traffic on the drive home. Last month they sadly hung up their headphones, though will no doubt still get up to hi jinks on television or some such. Anywho, Andy has been dating supermodel Megan for four years. I adore Megan, I think she's gorgeous, intelligent and has a wonderful sense of humour. I also adore Andy. It's simple maths that I'd be entirely invested in them together. In fact I was wailing about it to mum last night asking "I just don't know what happened, where did we go wrong?" We, indeed. Sigh. Mum of course finds me highly amusing. I suppose that's a good thing. Double sigh.
Anyway, today I've been chillaxing, watching Repo Men, a rather gruesome action with dark comedy flick starring Jude Law and Forest Whitaker that really screws you over in the end, and my latest discovery Blackpool, featuring an all-singing, all-dancing David Tennant complete with Scottish accent, and thereby the best thing ever. David Morrissey is the lead and I will now never be able to watch The Next Doctor without wishing for a song.
But I digress, time yet again to press onwards to more pre-christmas socialising and yet another dinner. Fa la la la la la la la.
Music: Betrayed by bones - Hellogoodbye
On Wednesday, I had a chance to attend the premiere screening of TRON: Legacy at the IMAX. I felt quite special as they even confiscated our mobiles prior to the screening so there wouldn't be any leaks. First time that's happened. Visually, the film is quite something. For the uninitiated, it has been one of the most hyped geek films of the past two years and is a sequel to the 1982 film TRON. You don't need to be familiar with it to get on board for this one, though I understand the nostalgia factor is quite nice. It centres around 27 year old bad boy Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund, riffing off Chris Pine's Kirk and Hayden Christensen's Anakin Skywalker) looking into the disappearance of his father, Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), and finding himself transported into the digital world his father had been working on. Here he meets Quorra (Olivia Wilde) who takes him to Kevin, trapped in the world by his mirror image, the generated Clu (a quite creepy young Jeff Bridges animation). Father and son undertake a life-and-death journey across a visually-stunning, dangerous cyber universe to reach the portal that will bring them back to the real world while avoiding Clu and his helmeted cronies, hell bent on taking their quest for perfection beyond the digital realm.
I've never seen the first film but had no problem following along...mostly because the story is virtually non-existent. Don't get me wrong, it's an enjoyable enough film, but it does feel somewhat lacking in care factor, just sort of falling into it and dragging along with the sheer power of its visual flair. That said, the light cycle races are everything they've been hyped up to be, and the light disc battles are brilliantly executed. The acting is solid enough for an action film, even if I can't buy Jeff Bridges in any sort of benevolent role and his aging hippy routine was wearing a bit thin. Newcomer Garrett Hedlund manages unremarkably fine, while Michael Sheen is just love, love. And then there is of course Olivia Wilde, who I always appreciate regardless of what she happens to be doing. Much has been made of the Daft Punk soundtrack, and with good reason - it matches the alternate digital world perfectly. As much as I despise 3D, I think this is one film that actually made the most of the technology - alternating between 2D for the real world scenes, and 3D for the digital, really heightening the impact of it all. Overall, if you have no expectations, it's an enjoyable enough film with intoxicating visuals but carrying little weight.
The rest of the week has been filled up with christmas shopping and christmas dinners. Friday night's one was held at a lovely Korean BBQ place in a hidden corner of the city, a real discovery and a great night out. I also discovered peppermint chocolate milk tea which is obviously something I've been missing my whole life. Last night was the opposite, a mellow dinner in and watching Carols in the Domain - everyone got quite involved in marrying me off to Josh Groban. I'm not objecting. He's a funny guy. And he plays the piano.
In other news, I have violet hair! Well, kind of. My hairdresser insists that it needs to be bleached before she'll dye it, and I am not bleaching my entire head, so we have reached a compromise. What used to be the red layer is now violet, as well as a few streaks. It's very...subtle. My hair being naturally dark, it's not showing up as vibrant as the red used to, but by all accounts it is noticeable enough and I can certainly see it in the right light. I like it, I like being all dark again. I've tried to take a pic of it but the light's pretty woeful.
This week also saw the announcement that Andy Lee and Megan Gale had split up. I was devastated. Devastated. I wish I was kidding. Background - Andy was until recently one half of my favourite radio program, the Hamish & Andy Show. For the months of my full-time employment, the duo have made me look forward to sitting in peak hour traffic on the drive home. Last month they sadly hung up their headphones, though will no doubt still get up to hi jinks on television or some such. Anywho, Andy has been dating supermodel Megan for four years. I adore Megan, I think she's gorgeous, intelligent and has a wonderful sense of humour. I also adore Andy. It's simple maths that I'd be entirely invested in them together. In fact I was wailing about it to mum last night asking "I just don't know what happened, where did we go wrong?" We, indeed. Sigh. Mum of course finds me highly amusing. I suppose that's a good thing. Double sigh.
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| Tears. Tears everwhere. |
Anyway, today I've been chillaxing, watching Repo Men, a rather gruesome action with dark comedy flick starring Jude Law and Forest Whitaker that really screws you over in the end, and my latest discovery Blackpool, featuring an all-singing, all-dancing David Tennant complete with Scottish accent, and thereby the best thing ever. David Morrissey is the lead and I will now never be able to watch The Next Doctor without wishing for a song.
But I digress, time yet again to press onwards to more pre-christmas socialising and yet another dinner. Fa la la la la la la la.
Music: Betrayed by bones - Hellogoodbye
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Days don't stay the same
I am wrecked. I am overblown.
I am also fed up with the common cold.
But I just hate to say goodbye,
To all the metaphors and lies,
That have taken me years to come up with.
Say it's true. Say you like me.
(I like you.)
Just for the night.
For me, it's been eternity...
And as I gently sip this drink,
I think about my lack of future,
And all the places I could learn to fall in love.
I know I shouldn't waste my time,
Wishing I'd been better designed,
Yet for some reason still think...
I am wrecked. I am overblown.
I am also fed up with the fucking common cold!
When I just want to feel alive, for the first time in my life,
I just want to feel, attractive today.
Music: Attractive today - Motion City Soundtrack
I am also fed up with the common cold.
But I just hate to say goodbye,
To all the metaphors and lies,
That have taken me years to come up with.
Say it's true. Say you like me.
(I like you.)
Just for the night.
For me, it's been eternity...
And as I gently sip this drink,
I think about my lack of future,
And all the places I could learn to fall in love.
I know I shouldn't waste my time,
Wishing I'd been better designed,
Yet for some reason still think...
I am wrecked. I am overblown.
I am also fed up with the fucking common cold!
When I just want to feel alive, for the first time in my life,
I just want to feel, attractive today.
Music: Attractive today - Motion City Soundtrack
Monday, December 13, 2010
Finding something to do
Today we are talking music. Mostly around the idea of how much of it is subjective. It’s one of those things that is intrinsically tied to where you are at personally in your life, how you feel, what you want, all that stuff. That’s why emo appeals to teenagers, cause that’s what being a teenager is. I don’t think you ever stop loving an album you loved way back when. You’re not going to turn around one day and hate it. Surely? But you are bound to shift and change, and so too will your musical tastes and you may no longer care much for that band.
So we come to My Chemical Romance. I don’t think I’ve ever been so underwhelmed with an album before. Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys is, to put it simply, lacklustre. It has no heart. It has no passion. It has no anger. And as Abbi rightly points out, when a band like MCR isn't angry anymore, what’s the point? It's all hollow, empty play-acting and it’s boring. I rate it a resounding MEH.
It’s just so disappointing considering how much I adored The Black Parade. I wasn’t expecting more of the same, but something with the same edge at least. All three previous albums had that edge after all, now it’s just…gone. Maybe 18 year old me wouldn’t be so down on this record, but 23 year old me doesn’t care for it at all. All I ask from my music is that it means something to me, creates some sort of feeling (other than disappointed), and this really doesn’t. I’m now especially glad Fall Out Boy called it quits when they did.
On the flipside, the new Hellogoodbye album is nothing short of fabulous. Much of the silliness is gone, but it’s still bucketloads of fun and is just overall pop perfection. Yay! **dances** Would it kill you? sees Forrest and co discard the dated overblown synths and fully embrace catchy hooks. It feels fresh and has the natural touch of a band following their instincts, and doing it well. Forrest continues to write his particular brand of lovesong, set to breezy melodies that are infectious, alternately soft but also frenetic. It’s sentimental without being unbearably saccharine, and is overall everything progression for a band should be. All the quirky, sunny Hellogoodbye elements that had you grinning four years ago are still there, just more developed and refined. Would it kill you? is an upbeat, cohesive album that should appeal not only to the band’s original (and sadly aging) fanbase, but also to those who missed them the first time around. I think it’ll be a staple for me this summer.
I’ve also heard lots of good things about the new Yellowcard – yes, they’ve reunited, like a lot of bands they’ve wised up to their delusions and realised they’re much better together than apart (how are those solo careers working out for you, Panic?) It’s called When You’re Through Thinking, Say Yes and is only due out in March. I hope for good things. They do have a violin after all. Timing is spot on for me too, I’ve been listening to Ocean Avenue a fair bit lately.
While I’ve moved more into indie territory, I think that pop punk, when done well, still has the ability to make me happy. I just have refined my tastes now and I’m not so willing to give every single one of them a free pass onto my ipod. They’ve got to earn it. It’s a saturated market and a sea of mediocrity. If a band doesn’t mean it, if they sound like every other band and don’t even try – well, why should I? We’ll always have the golden memories of 2006-2008 kids, but you’ve got to lift your collective game.
On a note that has nothing to do with emo, power pop or indie music, I am so digging Jet's Shaka Rock at the moment. It's a year after its release, but hey, rather late than never! I've realised that I really like Jet. I wasn't keen on the second album, but both Get Born and Shaka Rock hit just the right spot, filling a void for a band that recalls both The Beatles and AC/DC. How it hasn't gone platinum, I don't know. Perhaps I'm continuing my trend of liking albums other people generally don't. I sort of adopted 'Are you gonna be my girl?' as an anthem when it was first released and I didn't think they'd ever be able to match it - 'She's a genius' does it though. I love it. So, so much. I fear part of my love of this band may be narcissism, but hey, who cares right? Rock and roll. They're also exceedingly good live, better than I had expected them to be, so if you ever get the chance to check them out, I'd recommend you take it.
Now back to the very un-rock-n-roll world of employment drudgery.
If what you know is who you are, then she's everything
You don't need an education to know the class you're in
They said, oh hey there girl, tell me what do you do
She said, um nothing but I'm damn sure it's more than you
Music: She's a genius- Jet
So we come to My Chemical Romance. I don’t think I’ve ever been so underwhelmed with an album before. Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys is, to put it simply, lacklustre. It has no heart. It has no passion. It has no anger. And as Abbi rightly points out, when a band like MCR isn't angry anymore, what’s the point? It's all hollow, empty play-acting and it’s boring. I rate it a resounding MEH.
It’s just so disappointing considering how much I adored The Black Parade. I wasn’t expecting more of the same, but something with the same edge at least. All three previous albums had that edge after all, now it’s just…gone. Maybe 18 year old me wouldn’t be so down on this record, but 23 year old me doesn’t care for it at all. All I ask from my music is that it means something to me, creates some sort of feeling (other than disappointed), and this really doesn’t. I’m now especially glad Fall Out Boy called it quits when they did.
On the flipside, the new Hellogoodbye album is nothing short of fabulous. Much of the silliness is gone, but it’s still bucketloads of fun and is just overall pop perfection. Yay! **dances** Would it kill you? sees Forrest and co discard the dated overblown synths and fully embrace catchy hooks. It feels fresh and has the natural touch of a band following their instincts, and doing it well. Forrest continues to write his particular brand of lovesong, set to breezy melodies that are infectious, alternately soft but also frenetic. It’s sentimental without being unbearably saccharine, and is overall everything progression for a band should be. All the quirky, sunny Hellogoodbye elements that had you grinning four years ago are still there, just more developed and refined. Would it kill you? is an upbeat, cohesive album that should appeal not only to the band’s original (and sadly aging) fanbase, but also to those who missed them the first time around. I think it’ll be a staple for me this summer.
I’ve also heard lots of good things about the new Yellowcard – yes, they’ve reunited, like a lot of bands they’ve wised up to their delusions and realised they’re much better together than apart (how are those solo careers working out for you, Panic?) It’s called When You’re Through Thinking, Say Yes and is only due out in March. I hope for good things. They do have a violin after all. Timing is spot on for me too, I’ve been listening to Ocean Avenue a fair bit lately.
While I’ve moved more into indie territory, I think that pop punk, when done well, still has the ability to make me happy. I just have refined my tastes now and I’m not so willing to give every single one of them a free pass onto my ipod. They’ve got to earn it. It’s a saturated market and a sea of mediocrity. If a band doesn’t mean it, if they sound like every other band and don’t even try – well, why should I? We’ll always have the golden memories of 2006-2008 kids, but you’ve got to lift your collective game.
On a note that has nothing to do with emo, power pop or indie music, I am so digging Jet's Shaka Rock at the moment. It's a year after its release, but hey, rather late than never! I've realised that I really like Jet. I wasn't keen on the second album, but both Get Born and Shaka Rock hit just the right spot, filling a void for a band that recalls both The Beatles and AC/DC. How it hasn't gone platinum, I don't know. Perhaps I'm continuing my trend of liking albums other people generally don't. I sort of adopted 'Are you gonna be my girl?' as an anthem when it was first released and I didn't think they'd ever be able to match it - 'She's a genius' does it though. I love it. So, so much. I fear part of my love of this band may be narcissism, but hey, who cares right? Rock and roll. They're also exceedingly good live, better than I had expected them to be, so if you ever get the chance to check them out, I'd recommend you take it.
Now back to the very un-rock-n-roll world of employment drudgery.
If what you know is who you are, then she's everything
You don't need an education to know the class you're in
They said, oh hey there girl, tell me what do you do
She said, um nothing but I'm damn sure it's more than you
Music: She's a genius- Jet
Sunday, December 12, 2010
There's no sign of life
So reading the paper this morning revealed that Kate Hudson and Matt Bellamy have apparently been dating for the past six months. How many rockstars do you need, Hudson? How many?
Sigh.
FNB is going well, we had our second meet-up last night and it was a very enjoyable evening. After our discussion of the books - Marian Keyes' The Other Side of the Story proving the more popular choice over Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner - it was decided the evening needed to be continued with our favourite pass time, movie watching. We headed off to the local rental place to scare customers away and aggravate employees and finally settled back on the couch for a long evening of silliness. We stuck to the chick lit theme of the evening and went with romantic comedy types. T'was quite hilarious. Our next genre is YA and it's my choice - I've nominated Summerland by Michael Chabon, and The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak. There's been some contention over whether the latter is in fact a YA novel, but according to the rules of the book club, I think I am comfortably within the right to recommend it.
Sunday's been pretty hazy, but I've been buzzing. I've had an idea for a story for a while now and it's finally clicked into place enough for me to want to write it. Yay! I've missed this feeling. I try not to worry about it too much when it's not around, mostly because when I try to force myself to write, it's just depressingly second-rate. To actually feel somewhat motivated again is great. Too bad I have to work tomorrow. What can we do?
I was totally angsty over that on Friday actually. That whole 'you have to work, what can you do' thing. I can't stand it. I can't handle the thought that this is what life is. Maybe it is, you know, but there has to be something else. There just has to be. I don't want to settle for anything less, for convention and tradition, and expected hopes and dreams of a good career, buying a house, all that stuff. It's fine for some people, but it's not me. It's not what I want, it's not what I've ever wanted. Maybe I don't really know what I want. I just want to look back on my life one day and know that I was always entirely true to myself, without affectation and without compromising who I was or what I wanted to fit in with some sort of expectation of what I should or should not want or be. A counterintuitive life. Anyway, I get a bit manic when I'm cooped up in an office, dragging myself through dull mediocrity, and that leads to such thoughts. I know saying this sort of thing comes across as overly idealistic, naive even, but I just don't think I'm cut out for it and I don't see why I should have to settle. I refuse to. I'm still too young to do so, anyway.
While grocery shopping today, I caught sight of this ultra violet hair colour that's taken my fancy. I've got an appointment at the hairdressers on Saturday and I'm seriously thinking about going for it. I love my red layer, and I get tons of compliments on it, but something different might be nice. Thoughts?
In other news, my William jeans are fraying at the hem. Sad. These jeans are my favourite pair, possibly ever. I will wear them until they disintegrate completely.
Music: Modern Love - David Bowie
Mood: Creative
Sigh.
FNB is going well, we had our second meet-up last night and it was a very enjoyable evening. After our discussion of the books - Marian Keyes' The Other Side of the Story proving the more popular choice over Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner - it was decided the evening needed to be continued with our favourite pass time, movie watching. We headed off to the local rental place to scare customers away and aggravate employees and finally settled back on the couch for a long evening of silliness. We stuck to the chick lit theme of the evening and went with romantic comedy types. T'was quite hilarious. Our next genre is YA and it's my choice - I've nominated Summerland by Michael Chabon, and The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak. There's been some contention over whether the latter is in fact a YA novel, but according to the rules of the book club, I think I am comfortably within the right to recommend it.
Sunday's been pretty hazy, but I've been buzzing. I've had an idea for a story for a while now and it's finally clicked into place enough for me to want to write it. Yay! I've missed this feeling. I try not to worry about it too much when it's not around, mostly because when I try to force myself to write, it's just depressingly second-rate. To actually feel somewhat motivated again is great. Too bad I have to work tomorrow. What can we do?
I was totally angsty over that on Friday actually. That whole 'you have to work, what can you do' thing. I can't stand it. I can't handle the thought that this is what life is. Maybe it is, you know, but there has to be something else. There just has to be. I don't want to settle for anything less, for convention and tradition, and expected hopes and dreams of a good career, buying a house, all that stuff. It's fine for some people, but it's not me. It's not what I want, it's not what I've ever wanted. Maybe I don't really know what I want. I just want to look back on my life one day and know that I was always entirely true to myself, without affectation and without compromising who I was or what I wanted to fit in with some sort of expectation of what I should or should not want or be. A counterintuitive life. Anyway, I get a bit manic when I'm cooped up in an office, dragging myself through dull mediocrity, and that leads to such thoughts. I know saying this sort of thing comes across as overly idealistic, naive even, but I just don't think I'm cut out for it and I don't see why I should have to settle. I refuse to. I'm still too young to do so, anyway.
While grocery shopping today, I caught sight of this ultra violet hair colour that's taken my fancy. I've got an appointment at the hairdressers on Saturday and I'm seriously thinking about going for it. I love my red layer, and I get tons of compliments on it, but something different might be nice. Thoughts?
Music: Modern Love - David Bowie
Mood: Creative
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Rise up and take the power back
On Thursday, Lizzie and I met up to see the illustrious Muse at the Acer Arena. It was, in a word, awesome. They brought their full Resistance tour out and it's always such a treat when bands actually bother to do that - it being such a logistical nightmare to get things to venues and all.
I'll admit that I was rather apprehensive as it started - the big reveal of the platforms was cool and all, but I could not see a piano anywhere. Then they played New Born and I was almost immediately heartbroken at the thought of being deprived this particular thrill. Oh, ye of little faith! I think Lizzie summed it up best really when she said I pulled the most manically happy face the minute Matt hopped on the piano. It's entirely true. I was glee-ing like an idiot. Not that I don't appreciate his musicality in general, everything he does is so effortless, like he was born doing it, like it's an extension of himself. But the piano is just something special.
Overall, it was an excellent set and as always, a fantastic tech show. Lots of lights, lasers, confetti, smoke, the whole lot. Moving platforms, insane visuals, rotating drum kit. It's just a great set-up all round. It's so odd how they don't really speak during their sets at all, there's very little verbal interaction with the crowd. Matt said maybe all of three sentences, which is two more than the last time I saw them, and again Dom did most of the general chitchat - even then significantly less than any other band I've seen. It's extremely minimal. Yet Matt still gets the crowd to respond to him, so he clearly has the whole enigmatic frontman thing down. Maybe he just hypnotised everyone with his reflective tinfoil suit. It's just interesting in comparison with some of other bands at the same level.
It was a great gig and I completely enjoyed it. I'm still amazed that three people (well four if you count the guy lurking in the background) can make so much noise. Speaking of noise, Biffy Clyro opened and tore it up. I did not expect them to be that loud. Brilliant set though, I was very pleased. They're doing a show at the Factory tonight but I had other commitments, so I'm glad I got a chance to see them. I'd say the aussie weather wasn't agreeing with their scottish sensibilities, but then Simon is always running around shirtless anyway. So yes. Good gig. Great night. Go team.
I'm in quite the chipper mood. Things took a charming turn. Now off to book club. I have sangria and dessert. I am clearly the best guest everrrr.
Music: A praise chorus - Jimmy Eat World
I'll admit that I was rather apprehensive as it started - the big reveal of the platforms was cool and all, but I could not see a piano anywhere. Then they played New Born and I was almost immediately heartbroken at the thought of being deprived this particular thrill. Oh, ye of little faith! I think Lizzie summed it up best really when she said I pulled the most manically happy face the minute Matt hopped on the piano. It's entirely true. I was glee-ing like an idiot. Not that I don't appreciate his musicality in general, everything he does is so effortless, like he was born doing it, like it's an extension of himself. But the piano is just something special.
Overall, it was an excellent set and as always, a fantastic tech show. Lots of lights, lasers, confetti, smoke, the whole lot. Moving platforms, insane visuals, rotating drum kit. It's just a great set-up all round. It's so odd how they don't really speak during their sets at all, there's very little verbal interaction with the crowd. Matt said maybe all of three sentences, which is two more than the last time I saw them, and again Dom did most of the general chitchat - even then significantly less than any other band I've seen. It's extremely minimal. Yet Matt still gets the crowd to respond to him, so he clearly has the whole enigmatic frontman thing down. Maybe he just hypnotised everyone with his reflective tinfoil suit. It's just interesting in comparison with some of other bands at the same level.
It was a great gig and I completely enjoyed it. I'm still amazed that three people (well four if you count the guy lurking in the background) can make so much noise. Speaking of noise, Biffy Clyro opened and tore it up. I did not expect them to be that loud. Brilliant set though, I was very pleased. They're doing a show at the Factory tonight but I had other commitments, so I'm glad I got a chance to see them. I'd say the aussie weather wasn't agreeing with their scottish sensibilities, but then Simon is always running around shirtless anyway. So yes. Good gig. Great night. Go team.
I'm in quite the chipper mood. Things took a charming turn. Now off to book club. I have sangria and dessert. I am clearly the best guest everrrr.
Music: A praise chorus - Jimmy Eat World
Mood: Pleased
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Secret-keeping is a complicated endeavor
Leonard: Sheldon! How could you just sit there and let them spy on me?
Sheldon: They were clever, they exploited my complete lack of interest in what you were doing.
I...am sick. Yes, just as summer decided to kick in properly, I succumb to some or other form of space virus. So today has passed with a head feeling full of cotton wool, lots of coughing and a box of tissues. Tres attractive. Regardless however, I've crossed the last thing off my EPIC to-do list that spanned the last two weeks. Yay! Now it's onto the next one, but it's luckily only one (and a half) magazines instead of the horrible three. I am thankful for small mercies.
What else is new? Um. Not much. The house has yet again been transformed into a festive madhouse, and I will be finding glitter in my hair and clothes for the next month at least. I haven't done any christmas shopping, so that's a bit of a worry - especially as I am broke. All my car bills are due next week, so there's not much I can do about that.
On the topic of monies, and not having them, I'll happily attend any of the following gigs in the new year. If any takes your fancy, let me know. Hopefully I'll be able to acquire tix when I have some disposable income at least. I really want to see TGA though, I may cry if I miss it.
Interpol 4 Jan @ The Enmore $83.50+BF
Future to the left 5 Jan @ The Annandale $$42+BF
Hot Hot Heat 6 Jan @ The Metro $44+BF
Cold War Kids 6 Jan @ The Metro $75.60+BF
The National 7/8 Jan @ The Enmore [Sold Out]
Amanda Palmer 26 Jan @ Opera House $56.95+BF
Sufjan Stevens 27/28 Jan @ Opera House [Sold Out]
Yeasayer 7 Feb @ The Metro $55+BF
Jenny & Johnny 7 Feb @ The OAF $58.90
Deerhunter 8 Feb @ The Metro $55+BF
The Getaway Plan 11 Feb @ The Metro $39.10+BF [on sale 11/12]
Andrew McMahon 12 Feb @ The Metro TBC [on sale 10/12]
Ben Jorgensen 22 Feb @ The Gaelic $19.80
The Gaslight Anthem 28 Feb @ The Metro $49.80+BF
The Hold Steady 8 March @ The Metro $49.90+BF
Sparkadia/Operator Please 1 April @ The Metro $28.70+BF [on sale 6/12]
Jimmy Eat World 8 April @ The Enmore $68.70+BF [on sale 9/12]
In other news, my uni assignments have been returned. I have received two HDs and three Ds. I am actually amazed cause I really didn't think I'd manage, what with the three full time subjects and full time work. At the same time though, I am maybe, maybe just a teeny tiny little bit disappointed as well. How screwed up is that? See what it's like in my head? Insanity! It's only because it frustrates me that my critical theory work is graded better than my creative writing. I don't know when this started happening, I used to cruise through creative writing classes. That's postgrad for you I guess - theory starts clicking properly (ie you know exactly how to write an essay that makes them think you know what you're on about) and they start tightening up on marking. I can't really be disappointed. Anyway, all things considered, I should be averaging a high D for the entire course so far, 2:1.
Not much else happening. Work is work. Life is life. I am generally happy. Seeing Muse this week, woo! Here's hoping I can get the band to kidnap me...
Ugh, sniffling! Make it stop! Blargh.
Music: Top Gear
Mood: Not amused, health. Not at all.
Sheldon: They were clever, they exploited my complete lack of interest in what you were doing.
I...am sick. Yes, just as summer decided to kick in properly, I succumb to some or other form of space virus. So today has passed with a head feeling full of cotton wool, lots of coughing and a box of tissues. Tres attractive. Regardless however, I've crossed the last thing off my EPIC to-do list that spanned the last two weeks. Yay! Now it's onto the next one, but it's luckily only one (and a half) magazines instead of the horrible three. I am thankful for small mercies.
What else is new? Um. Not much. The house has yet again been transformed into a festive madhouse, and I will be finding glitter in my hair and clothes for the next month at least. I haven't done any christmas shopping, so that's a bit of a worry - especially as I am broke. All my car bills are due next week, so there's not much I can do about that.
On the topic of monies, and not having them, I'll happily attend any of the following gigs in the new year. If any takes your fancy, let me know. Hopefully I'll be able to acquire tix when I have some disposable income at least. I really want to see TGA though, I may cry if I miss it.
Interpol 4 Jan @ The Enmore $83.50+BF
Future to the left 5 Jan @ The Annandale $$42+BF
Hot Hot Heat 6 Jan @ The Metro $44+BF
Cold War Kids 6 Jan @ The Metro $75.60+BF
The National 7/8 Jan @ The Enmore [Sold Out]
Amanda Palmer 26 Jan @ Opera House $56.95+BF
Sufjan Stevens 27/28 Jan @ Opera House [Sold Out]
Yeasayer 7 Feb @ The Metro $55+BF
Jenny & Johnny 7 Feb @ The OAF $58.90
Deerhunter 8 Feb @ The Metro $55+BF
The Getaway Plan 11 Feb @ The Metro $39.10+BF [on sale 11/12]
Andrew McMahon 12 Feb @ The Metro TBC [on sale 10/12]
Ben Jorgensen 22 Feb @ The Gaelic $19.80
The Gaslight Anthem 28 Feb @ The Metro $49.80+BF
The Hold Steady 8 March @ The Metro $49.90+BF
Sparkadia/Operator Please 1 April @ The Metro $28.70+BF [on sale 6/12]
Jimmy Eat World 8 April @ The Enmore $68.70+BF [on sale 9/12]
In other news, my uni assignments have been returned. I have received two HDs and three Ds. I am actually amazed cause I really didn't think I'd manage, what with the three full time subjects and full time work. At the same time though, I am maybe, maybe just a teeny tiny little bit disappointed as well. How screwed up is that? See what it's like in my head? Insanity! It's only because it frustrates me that my critical theory work is graded better than my creative writing. I don't know when this started happening, I used to cruise through creative writing classes. That's postgrad for you I guess - theory starts clicking properly (ie you know exactly how to write an essay that makes them think you know what you're on about) and they start tightening up on marking. I can't really be disappointed. Anyway, all things considered, I should be averaging a high D for the entire course so far, 2:1.
Not much else happening. Work is work. Life is life. I am generally happy. Seeing Muse this week, woo! Here's hoping I can get the band to kidnap me...
Ugh, sniffling! Make it stop! Blargh.
Music: Top Gear
Mood: Not amused, health. Not at all.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
A snippet of my day
The following parental exchange just occured. Scene: I'm sitting outside writing an email, dad's watching the Ashes, and mum's pottering around the kitchen.
Dad (calling out): Hey, here's a guy for you!
Me: What?
Dad: Come look! He's a cute guy.
Me: For which side?
Dad: England.
Me: Is it Stuart Broad?
Mum: No (that long suffering 'we're not idiots' kind of no) but this England side isn't a bad looking bunch.
Me (stumbling inside): What are you talking about?
Dad: This Cook guy. He's just 25 too.
Mum: And your type as well, dark and british.
Me (watching said guy celebrating his century): Yeah...but Broad is so pretty.
Mum: Hmmm I wonder who his dad is.
Me: Why? Do you think he's another expat?
Mum: He just reminds me of Jimmy Cook. Google it.
Me: With a name like Alastair how can he not be English?
Mum: I'm just curious.
Me: I don't want - oh, alright fine. (googles) These team photos are always horrible....see, definitely english....sounds quite clever though....oh he plays the piano!
Mum: And suddenly he's the cutest guy on the team.
Me: Shut up.
Mum: Mocking is how you know I love you.
Mocking is loooove. Parents are nutters.
Music: Neighbour mowing his lawn
Mood: Sleepy
Dad (calling out): Hey, here's a guy for you!
Me: What?
Dad: Come look! He's a cute guy.
Me: For which side?
Dad: England.
Me: Is it Stuart Broad?
Mum: No (that long suffering 'we're not idiots' kind of no) but this England side isn't a bad looking bunch.
Me (stumbling inside): What are you talking about?
Dad: This Cook guy. He's just 25 too.
Mum: And your type as well, dark and british.
Me (watching said guy celebrating his century): Yeah...but Broad is so pretty.
Mum: Hmmm I wonder who his dad is.
Me: Why? Do you think he's another expat?
Mum: He just reminds me of Jimmy Cook. Google it.
Me: With a name like Alastair how can he not be English?
Mum: I'm just curious.
Me: I don't want - oh, alright fine. (googles) These team photos are always horrible....see, definitely english....sounds quite clever though....oh he plays the piano!
Mum: And suddenly he's the cutest guy on the team.
Me: Shut up.
Mum: Mocking is how you know I love you.
Mocking is loooove. Parents are nutters.
Music: Neighbour mowing his lawn
Mood: Sleepy
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