Thursday, May 5, 2011
Art Piece #9 - Self Portrait
1:21 PM | 
Posted by
Kevin
I think until school is over, I may just be posting a few art pieces here and there. I really haven't had much to write about since the reviews ended back in February, and school is continuing to bog me down with a lot of work, pushing all of our noses into the grindstone until they bleed. Oh well. Just two more weeks!
So, today I present something I did back in my freshman year.
When enrolled in a figure drawing class, you should expect to draw perhaps hundreds of basic human figure poses -- and equally expect your big projects to be drawings of human figures. There were many times during this particular class in which we were encouraged to do portraits, whether of yourself or other people. The idea was to help us understand human anatomy.
This was the result of numerous portrait exercises. After drawing ourselves, we were also tasked with including images of things that reflected our interests and personality. The drawing shows me holding my guitar. Back then I was much more interested in learning guitar (I REALLY need to get back into it). The sort of cloudy atmosphere surrounding my head was meant to imply the fact that my head is generally in the clouds. All my life I've been the type of person who tends to get lost in his own world.
The other images simply represent my liking of reading, writing, music, and art in general. Simple, really, but it met the requirements.
So, today I present something I did back in my freshman year.
Self Portrait. 14" x 11". Pencil. 2008.
When enrolled in a figure drawing class, you should expect to draw perhaps hundreds of basic human figure poses -- and equally expect your big projects to be drawings of human figures. There were many times during this particular class in which we were encouraged to do portraits, whether of yourself or other people. The idea was to help us understand human anatomy.
This was the result of numerous portrait exercises. After drawing ourselves, we were also tasked with including images of things that reflected our interests and personality. The drawing shows me holding my guitar. Back then I was much more interested in learning guitar (I REALLY need to get back into it). The sort of cloudy atmosphere surrounding my head was meant to imply the fact that my head is generally in the clouds. All my life I've been the type of person who tends to get lost in his own world.
The other images simply represent my liking of reading, writing, music, and art in general. Simple, really, but it met the requirements.
Labels:
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Art Piece #8 - Fruit Bowl
8:01 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
Wow, I haven't made one of these posts in nearly three months. I hadn't realized it was so long. Well, a large part of the reason for this is because I'm currently in the process of putting together some pieces for my animation portfolio. As I looked back through some of my more recent work, I came across one in particular I was really happy with.
I've been a longtime fan of hand-drawn 2D animation. For most of my life I had a certain dislike toward 3D work. That was, until some of the early films of the last decade changed my mind. Besides, 3D is slowly becoming the standard for animated films these days, so I suppose I should get with the program.
Autodesk Maya is a highly sophisticated CG Modeling, Texturing, and Rendering program that's worked its way into many of the major studios. Some of the animation you see in these more recent films -- Avatar, Tangled, and TRON, to name a few -- is the result of beautiful rendering thanks to talented animators and modelers using this program.
The above is no where close to what Maya is fully capable of doing. However, I love the result here, just on my personal level of skill. I'm relatively new to Maya and the 3D animation world -- despite my love of computers. Ironic, yes? The truly amazing thing about this program is the amount of objects you can create with only a few techniques. The apples and pear were created with a curvilinear tool, while the bananas and oranges were created with spheres. And even the texturing applications are truly outstanding. While I feel I could have done a better job at creating the texture of an orange, I'm pleased with this current result.
Fruit Bowl. Maya. 2011.
I've been a longtime fan of hand-drawn 2D animation. For most of my life I had a certain dislike toward 3D work. That was, until some of the early films of the last decade changed my mind. Besides, 3D is slowly becoming the standard for animated films these days, so I suppose I should get with the program.
Autodesk Maya is a highly sophisticated CG Modeling, Texturing, and Rendering program that's worked its way into many of the major studios. Some of the animation you see in these more recent films -- Avatar, Tangled, and TRON, to name a few -- is the result of beautiful rendering thanks to talented animators and modelers using this program.
The above is no where close to what Maya is fully capable of doing. However, I love the result here, just on my personal level of skill. I'm relatively new to Maya and the 3D animation world -- despite my love of computers. Ironic, yes? The truly amazing thing about this program is the amount of objects you can create with only a few techniques. The apples and pear were created with a curvilinear tool, while the bananas and oranges were created with spheres. And even the texturing applications are truly outstanding. While I feel I could have done a better job at creating the texture of an orange, I'm pleased with this current result.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Day 3
12:54 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
In some ways, the third day of my visit with Katie was a very fitting end.
When I woke up on Tuesday morning I was looking immensely forward to what we had planned today. Long before I even arrived, Katie concocted a plan in which my parents would arrive that night and we would all have dinner together. This was a very good plan. In the meantime, I had to get dressed and get something to eat. That's when my parents took me to the cafe at the hotel and we got breakfast. I ordered chicken fried steak, eggs, and hash browns for my meal.
I've tended to stay away from ordering chicken fried steak for health reasons, but on those occasions where temptation overwhelms me I've never regretted it. I love to add LOTS of sauce to my food, and chicken fried steak is no exception. Aside from the gravy they already lathered it with, I wasn't satisfied until I layered it with A1 steak sauce and some tabasco. It was absolutely fantastic!
The only thing that made it more fantastic was getting to see Katie again.
The drive on the way, however, was not at all what I expected. It turned out that my trip was going to be cut short by a day. My mom's off days from work had been messed up, and in order to keep a later and much desired day off, she had no other option but to return to work a day early than anticipated. Hearing this news crushed me, and I had no idea what I was going to tell Katie.
So it was actually with a heavy heart that I managed to walk up to the front door and see Katie there, greeting me with that beautiful smile of hers. I couldn't help myself; the moment we were in each other's arms again it was back to kissing and cuddling. But soon, I broke the news to Katie. It was by far one of the worst moments in a period of three days that should have been pure bliss.
But that didn't stop us. We were bound determined to make this day memorable. First, we had to make a trip to the store for the night's dinner. The second trip to the store was pretty much the same; lots of kissing at the traffic lights.
After getting back home, we realized that in the entire time I had been here we had been so focused on cuddling, kissing, cooking, and playing Mario Bros. that we forgot to take pictures! Silly us!
We took a lot of pictures that day, many of which I'm not posting simply because there are so many. We took them everywhere we went -- the park down the street, an underpass just before the main road, her bedroom. There were so many places! One of my favorite pictures was of us drinking our butterbeer, which we finally finished making that morning.
Yes, we are that cheesy. But it was awesome.
Before long, we had to get started on making dinner. I had never made home-made lasagna before. Any previous experience with the dish was the result of store-bought products, which often led to overcooked cheese. This was going to be a most intriguing and interesting experience.
I felt special. It turns out this recipe is one that has been in Katie's family for years. I felt flattered to be a part of knowing this. What I found the most interesting was that the recipe called for cottage cheese. I HATE cottage cheese, normally. But my God, it was amazing on this lasagna! I was easily converted! The rest of the meal consisted of a salad Katie's sister made. I love cilantro, it makes a lot of food just taste incredible. Strangely enough, I never thought of putting it in a salad. Alyson opened my eyes to it.
And the final dish was garlic bread. Once again, this was made according to a family recipe. All in all, it all smelled so good! Soon enough, my parents arrived.
I worried at first that having dinner with both Katie and my parents would be awkward. To me, it was anything but. We shared hilarious stories together -- Alyson reminiscing about a younger Katie, and my parents going into great detail about my two year old self. Dinner, as I knew it would be, was utterly fantastic, and we rounded it off with some butterbeer.
Soon we were out the door and headed back to the strip. First, my parents took Katie and I to Fremont, otherwise known as "Old" Las Vegas. Most of our visit consisted of walking, but it was worth it. There were interesting light shows and entertainment, and my parents and I played a few rounds of black jack while Katie cheered us on. We still lost.
We then made our way to the strip itself, where we visited some of the more elegant hotels such as the Venetian, the Palazzo, and the Wynn. I can now cross out these hotels on my list of those I've walked through. The architecture within these buildings was simply outstanding. One can easily walk the strip of Vegas just for the pleasure of sightseeing because the hotels have that much to offer.
It wasn't too long after that I dropped my parents back off at the hotel, and Katie and I continued to walk the strip ourselves. We went through Planet Hollywood and took a very brief stroll into Paris before deciding to go back. My parents allowed me to spend my final night at Katie's house.
The three days I spent with Katie were the best of my life. But they were also short. As much as I wanted to spend more time with her, there's something in the way that our final day and night together was spent that actually made it the most perfect way to end my visit.
I'm already planning for my next visit. And when I leave, this time it will be longer.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Day 2
1:17 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
Having to go back to the hotel on the first night sucked a bit. I realized I would be seeing Katie the next day, but I wanted nothing more than to just curl up with her and sleep there for the night -- which was the original plan until circumstances changed such.
I wasn't tired at all when I got back to the hotel. So rather than go to sleep, I instead went down to the casino and had a beer with my mom while we played the slots. I was kicking butt at first; I managed to win almost $10 from the $1 I was betting with. I felt like the king of the world.
Of course, like all good things, this came to and end. Soon I lost it all. Oh well. It suddenly occurred to me how hungry I was. I hadn't eaten anything since the fajitas with Katie, and I still wasn't sleepy. I walked upstairs to the cafe and ordered myself one of their awesome Graveyard Specials -- Roast Chicken, a side of mashed potatoes, and vegetables for just $4.99. By the time I finished and paid, I was full and definitely ready for sleep.
I was not an easy night's sleep. The pillows in the hotel were incredibly flat, and something about the mattress wasn't too comfortable. Not only that, I was so restless. All I really wanted to do was make the 15 or so mile drive back to Katie's house.
I guess I fell asleep at some point, the sound of the television being the first sound I remember hearing in the morning. The first thing I did was check my phone. Katie and I have this awesome routine of texting each other when we wake up, even if the other isn't awake. I awoke to see I had a couple messages from her, the most recent having just gotten to me about a minute before I woke up. She told me she was making pancakes and asked me to breakfast.
Not wanting to miss a single opportunity with her, I asked her to wait until I got there -- and we could make them together. The plan for the day was that I would drop my parents off on the Las Vegas strip, and then head to Katie's house. Unlike the day before, in which I made the trip with both my parents, this was the first time it would be by myself. I was so elated.
The minute I got through the door we immediately set upon each other like wild animals and kissed as if it were the first time again. I realized how much I missed her in just the last 12 hours that I just hugged her and kissed her like there was no tomorrow.
But we had plenty of things to do that day, and so we broke apart to get started on breakfast. We soon realized, however, that we were missing one very crucial ingredient for pancakes -- eggs! We had no eggs! OH NOES!! Whatever were we to do?! Oh yeah... shopping! And so Katie and I went on shopping for the first time together. I drove us over to Smith's, holding her hand the entire ride. There were several moments where we ended up making out while stopped at red lights. So worth it!
We got to Smith's and set about collecting various items, including our eggs. Other items included strawberries and whipped cream (for the pancakes, get your minds out of the gutter you naughty people!). We also picked up all the items necessary to make butterbeer, the drink made famous by the Harry Potter series.
Soon we were back at the house and set about making breakfast. It turned out neither of us are particularly professional at flipping, and they turned out to be thinner than usual. Still, they came out amazing -- topped with whipped cream, strawberries, and syrup, these pancakes were just phenomenal!
After breakfast, Katie and her sister introduced me to New Super Mario Bros. for the Wii. I've always loved the original Mario games for the Nintendo and Super Nintendo, and this game takes the best of these games and complies it into one large-scale adventure. We died plenty of times. Normally, dying in a video game tends to annoy me. But today, it was just funny. I haven't had an experience with video games like that in a long, long time.
By this time, it was the early afternoon. I woke up at 8:00 am that morning, and we spent nearly 4 hours just making breakfast and playing Mario Bros. That's what I call productive! The next hours consisted of Katie and I spending time alone in her bedroom, kissing, cuddling, hugging, and just being so close together. Occasionally we would stop to get some water (making out dries out your mouth!), watch some episodes of Big Bang Theory (I'm officially loving that show), or tease her cat (she's adorable beyond words). But most of the time was just us and us alone. Soon enough, we were getting hungry again. And I knew where we should go.
I thought there couldn't be any fast food Mexican joint that could possibly be better than Chipotle Mexican Grill. Yes, I realize it's not authentic, but I couldn't care less. So sue me!!
*Ahem*
Anyway, it turns out I was wrong. There WAS something better than Chipotle. And that place, my friends, was Cafe Rio. I had never heard of this place before meeting Katie. This isn't too surprising; Cafe Rio is not common around Southern California. I think the closest one to me is around and hour and a half away. This place is fantastic. The burritos were massive and tasty, and cost the same price no matter the meat inside. For my first time I chose to get a chicken burrito with all three types of sauce, rice and beans, lettuce, cheese, and pico de gallo. And then I ordered it enchilada style, which pretty much meant taking half of the ingredients already in my burrito and placing more of it on top of it!
Holy crap, it was good!
Following this intensely amazing first time experience (in which we only ate half our meal and decided to save the rest for the next day), Katie treated me to Yougurtland. The only other time I've tried frozen yogurt was at Tutti Frutti, and I didn't care much for it. This place was far better. I got mango yogurt topped with more mangoes, some strawberries, and kiwi.
*Mouth waters* I think it's safe to say I've been converted to a love of frozen yogurt. Or mango frozen yogurt at least!
The evening winded down with us heading back to Katie's again. We started creating butterbeer, going as far as making the sugar extract needed for half the recipe. A last second thought occurred to me that we should save it for tomorrow night, when my parents would be coming over for dinner. And we ended the night by watching more episodes of Big Bang Theory until I had to go back to the hotel.
Two days in, and Katie fits so well into my life. I love you, Katie!
Stay tuned for Day 3!
The minute I got through the door we immediately set upon each other like wild animals and kissed as if it were the first time again. I realized how much I missed her in just the last 12 hours that I just hugged her and kissed her like there was no tomorrow.
But we had plenty of things to do that day, and so we broke apart to get started on breakfast. We soon realized, however, that we were missing one very crucial ingredient for pancakes -- eggs! We had no eggs! OH NOES!! Whatever were we to do?! Oh yeah... shopping! And so Katie and I went on shopping for the first time together. I drove us over to Smith's, holding her hand the entire ride. There were several moments where we ended up making out while stopped at red lights. So worth it!
We got to Smith's and set about collecting various items, including our eggs. Other items included strawberries and whipped cream (for the pancakes, get your minds out of the gutter you naughty people!). We also picked up all the items necessary to make butterbeer, the drink made famous by the Harry Potter series.
Soon we were back at the house and set about making breakfast. It turned out neither of us are particularly professional at flipping, and they turned out to be thinner than usual. Still, they came out amazing -- topped with whipped cream, strawberries, and syrup, these pancakes were just phenomenal!
After breakfast, Katie and her sister introduced me to New Super Mario Bros. for the Wii. I've always loved the original Mario games for the Nintendo and Super Nintendo, and this game takes the best of these games and complies it into one large-scale adventure. We died plenty of times. Normally, dying in a video game tends to annoy me. But today, it was just funny. I haven't had an experience with video games like that in a long, long time.
By this time, it was the early afternoon. I woke up at 8:00 am that morning, and we spent nearly 4 hours just making breakfast and playing Mario Bros. That's what I call productive! The next hours consisted of Katie and I spending time alone in her bedroom, kissing, cuddling, hugging, and just being so close together. Occasionally we would stop to get some water (making out dries out your mouth!), watch some episodes of Big Bang Theory (I'm officially loving that show), or tease her cat (she's adorable beyond words). But most of the time was just us and us alone. Soon enough, we were getting hungry again. And I knew where we should go.
I thought there couldn't be any fast food Mexican joint that could possibly be better than Chipotle Mexican Grill. Yes, I realize it's not authentic, but I couldn't care less. So sue me!!
*Ahem*
Anyway, it turns out I was wrong. There WAS something better than Chipotle. And that place, my friends, was Cafe Rio. I had never heard of this place before meeting Katie. This isn't too surprising; Cafe Rio is not common around Southern California. I think the closest one to me is around and hour and a half away. This place is fantastic. The burritos were massive and tasty, and cost the same price no matter the meat inside. For my first time I chose to get a chicken burrito with all three types of sauce, rice and beans, lettuce, cheese, and pico de gallo. And then I ordered it enchilada style, which pretty much meant taking half of the ingredients already in my burrito and placing more of it on top of it!
Holy crap, it was good!
Following this intensely amazing first time experience (in which we only ate half our meal and decided to save the rest for the next day), Katie treated me to Yougurtland. The only other time I've tried frozen yogurt was at Tutti Frutti, and I didn't care much for it. This place was far better. I got mango yogurt topped with more mangoes, some strawberries, and kiwi.
*Mouth waters* I think it's safe to say I've been converted to a love of frozen yogurt. Or mango frozen yogurt at least!
The evening winded down with us heading back to Katie's again. We started creating butterbeer, going as far as making the sugar extract needed for half the recipe. A last second thought occurred to me that we should save it for tomorrow night, when my parents would be coming over for dinner. And we ended the night by watching more episodes of Big Bang Theory until I had to go back to the hotel.
Two days in, and Katie fits so well into my life. I love you, Katie!
Stay tuned for Day 3!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Day 1
10:53 AM |
Posted by
Kevin
I woke up on Sunday, April 3 groggy and tired. It was just after 8 am. Like most people my age, waking up at that time is not the norm. Especially considering I was so excited the night before that I didn't manage to fall asleep until almost 2:30 in the morning. So it was with great effort I managed to get out of my bed and stretch.
It took me less than a few seconds, however, to remember just why I was waking up that early. And soon, all grogginess and tiredness dissipated with the speed of a traffic light turning green. Instead, my mind had been replaced with the same excitement and joy that had occupied it in the preceding weeks. I was dressed within minutes, and extra sets of clothes were packed along with a bag of general hygiene products into a suitcase. I was so excited to hit the road that I was ready to leave by 8:35.
Too bad my parents weren't. I had forgotten I wasn't leaving for at least another hour.
So instead I sat. Then I stood up. And I sat down again. I ate a bowl of cheerios. I like cheerios. Especially with bananas. As it was Sunday, I read the Sunday comics. This has been routine since I was at least 7 years old. I love the Sunday Funnies. But even as I read the comic strips my mind kept going back to Katie. And it brought smiles to my face. For the first time since we met online all those months ago, I was going to finally meet her. And my heart soared.
Finally, we were out the door. 5 hours of driving awaited me before I could see her. And in some ways, it was agonizing. I remember the route that leads to Vegas, having traveled on it many times. There's this one long stretch of road that has many hills and bumps. Going over them feels like being on a small roller coaster. I wasn't sure whether the feelings in my stomach were caused by driving on this road, or were the result of a combination of nerves and excitement.
I texted Katie for about an hour and a half, keeping her updated on where I was and how far we were. Eventually I had to turn my phone off to conserve the battery lest it died and I couldn't talk to her until arriving at my destination. In the few hours I had my phone off I busied myself with reading one of my favorite books. Before long it was lunch time. My parents took me to In-N-Out Burger.
Oh man. I love In-N-Out! Double Double animal style with fries and a Dr. Pepper? I swear, I need to live by this restaurant in my future home.
As satisfied as I was with my lunch, I was more anxious to get back on the road. I'd waited so long, I couldn't wait much longer. So we were soon driving again, but Vegas was still at least 120 miles away. *sigh*
An hour and a half later, I looked up to see that we were coming up to a sight I've seen many times. The stateline! We were about to cross the border into Nevada! At that point, it was only 45 miles to go! I turned my phone back on and texted Katie, so happy were we both that I was so close! So close! The closer I got, the more agonizing it became for both of us. I was all for driving straight to her house while my parents went off to get a hotel room.
We were coming up to the strip. The strip is seriously one of the most amazing sights you could ever see, and the interior of most of these hotels is beyond fantastic.
Unfortunately, I did not go straight to Katie's house. Instead, my parents got off on the strip to find a hotel first. The wait became almost unbearable at this point. I remember impatiently walking around the casino floor as my dad sorted out registration. I occupied myself with watching the slot machines, feigning interest until I finally tore away. I think it was at that point I was visibly agitated. I tried to keep my composure, but it was getting difficult.
Thirty minutes later, we finally left our hotel room and I was officially on my way to her house! At that point, I was incredibly nervous. It was finally here. I would finally see Katie beyond a computer screen. I would finally kiss her and hold her in my arms. As excited as I was, I cant deny I was nervous beyond all reason.
The drive from the strip to her house was about 20 minutes. I drove the way so that I could familiarize myself with the location since I'd be driving back and forth a lot in the coming days.
Soon, I parked outside her house in the driveway. I remember my heart was beating faster than I could ever remember it doing so. My legs were shaking from pure nerves and utter excitement. I climbed the steps and rang the doorbell.
It was pure bliss. Katie threw herself into my arms and we kissed for the first time. And not just sweet little kisses. It was full on passion and fiery, the result of love built up over months and months of never being able to release it before now. We hugged. And in that moment, I was the happiest man alive. This moment was for us and us alone.
We broke apart reluctantly. Silly me had forgotten that my parents were waiting out on the driveway, hoping for the chance to meet the amazing woman I've told them so much about. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face.
Before long, my parents left. And Katie and I spent our first moments together, alone. Needless to say, there was lots of intense cuddling and kissing, all the while our faces were likely plastered with the goofiest of grins, the happiest of expressions. Could you blame us? All I know is that in those moments, nothing existed for me but the girl I was currently holding in my arms, kissing with all the passion I could.
The next couple hours passed in a haze as the two of us just cuddled and kissed, so happy and so joyful to finally be together. We broke away from ourselves long enough to make fajitas. I thought my mom's fajitas were awesome. The ones Katie and I made together were beyond anything. And so for the first time, we cooked together. Dinner took some time to make -- as more kissing and hugging got in the way. We put on some Disney music and sang "A Whole New World" from Aladdin together. It was beautiful harmony. I didn't think I could love her more, but in those moments I fell harder. Katie was absolutely perfect.
And to think, it was only the first day.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Burnt Out
12:22 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
I knew I should have completed most, if not all, of my homework before I left for Las Vegas last Sunday.
Since getting home on Wednesday, I haven't been really in much of a mood to do anything other than sit at my computer and attempt to do some work. Unfortunately, I haven't been getting anywhere. The moment I sit down to add another entry to my Color Journal, I put the paint away.
As soon as I load my Internet browser to work on assignments for my Computer class, I get distracted and end up watching YouTube videos or chatting on Facebook for hours.
I think I'm starting to come down with a small case of senioritis. The worst part of it is that I was doing so well until the last couple weeks. I just want school to be done and over with. Frankly, I'm just ready to move on with my life. While the outside world might be scarier than school could ever be, I'm just done with school.
I miss Katie. A lot. It's amazing how easily she fits into my life. I realize I'm still young, but I feel confident in saying I've found the woman of my dreams. In the short few days I spent with her, I've never felt happier. I just want to go back to her soon.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Spring Break!
3:29 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
As of today, it is officially Spring Break. I had school off yesterday only because it was Cesar Chavez Day, so that didn't officially count as the first day.
It's been a long and hard ten weeks of school so far. From pulling all nighters to massive projects, and from late night snacks and numerous cups of coffee, I've been keeping busy. Finishing off my projects for Color Theory and turning them all in on Wednesday felt like the last day of school -- which, unfortunately, only reminds me that there's still a lot of work to do and at least a month left to go before it's all said and done.
Still, Spring Break has come and it's going to be amazing! On Sunday I'll be leaving for Las Vegas to see Katie! I'm super excited, more than I can remember being excited for anything in a long time. It's going to be amazing to see her after all this time waiting, and we have so much planned!
I really need to get back into posting. I need to come up with some ideas to give me something to write about. If only school wasn't taking up the bulk of my time. But then, I'm sure I'll have plenty of things to write about once I'm back from Vegas!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Vote for Coheed!
10:51 AM |
Posted by
Kevin
Hey everyone. I realize it's been some time since I made a post, school is taking up a lot of my time. Today, I'm just here to ask a favor for anyone out there reading this, to please click the link at the bottom of this post and vote for Coheed and Cambria in the MTV Musical March Madness. Coheed won the tournament last year after a grueling head to head battle with My Chemical Romance, and they're looking to retain their title.
So far, Coheed has taken out American Idol runner-up Crystal Bowersox. This week they're facing Vampire Weekend, a band known for its own diehard fanbase.
Voting takes only a minute. Whether you like Coheed and Cambria or not, if would mean much to me for anyone to take a moment and vote for these guys.
You can vote here!
So far, Coheed has taken out American Idol runner-up Crystal Bowersox. This week they're facing Vampire Weekend, a band known for its own diehard fanbase.
Voting takes only a minute. Whether you like Coheed and Cambria or not, if would mean much to me for anyone to take a moment and vote for these guys.
You can vote here!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Disgusted
6:06 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
Unless you've been living under a rock for the past week, you can't have missed the overwhelming and terrifying events that are currently plaguing Japan. A 9.0 earthquake -- the largest in the country's recorded history -- struck, even affecting the whole planet itself. The subsequent tsunami swept through the coasts and has left many places in ruins. And now the country's very existence could be in thanks to radiation leaks caused by the quake. And this is all while the death toll continues to climb higher.
However, America, and a few other countries it appears, have proven yet again that some of their people don't give a damn about anyone but themselves. Today at school, there were at least several people I discovered who went out of their way to spew the most horrifying thing I've heard in a long time: that Japan deserves this for their attack on Pearl Harbor.
Correct me if my history book has been wrong all this time, but I thought we retaliated for that attack long ago. Hiroshima? Nagasaki? Atomic bomb? Ring some bells, people? We took out those two cities at the end of World War II, and the death toll was far higher than what was seen at Pearl Harbor. Since then we've established good relations with Japan. Anyone now who looks to the past and tries to find some supernatural reason for Japan suffering these disasters is disgusting. It's bad enough we get to listen to idiots like Westboro Baptist Church and Glenn Beck spew their mouths (the latest being Beck's claim that God sent the earthquake at Japan for their supposed ignorance of the Ten Commandments), but even some of our ordinary citizens feel the same.
I'd also like to point out how there have been no instances of Japan's people looting and stealing things in the wake of this disaster. How funny, and how heroic. After Hurricane Katrina, there were tons of reports of former New Orleans citizens breaking into shops and taking what wasn't rightfully theirs, all in the name of looking out for themselves. While I would never disregard the damage done to New Orleans due to that disaster, it is clear that Japan is facing a much worse reality. Yet you don't hear about any of its citizens committing such things. No, like a true nation, its people are sticking together. It's not about number one to them.
Japan being in as much danger as it is right now means several things. For one, the country has been responsible for many, MANY products and goods that we often take for granted. The entertainment and gaming industries have roots there. So much of our food comes from that country and the surrounding areas. Their culture is one of the most amazing on this planet, and they've always been held in high regard for a good reason. If nothing is done, either by sheer luck or by the assistance of other nations, Japan will be doomed. And we will have lost one of the most wonderful cultures seen in history. How's that for the history texts?
I realize that these idiots do not represent all of us. Nevertheless, the fact they exist says a lot. This world has been divided for too long. By race, by religion, by prejudices, by social class, and by history. Our cultures may be different, but we're still the same living, breathing human race on the same planet. It's high time we, as a whole, really must shelter our egos and our pride, and help out those who need it. Even if we can't do much, at least we can say we're praying and hoping for the best. Those that instead sit back and cite "karma" or point fingers at God as being responsible for this atrocity, you disgust me.
My thoughts are with you, Japan. I pray you recover really quickly.
However, America, and a few other countries it appears, have proven yet again that some of their people don't give a damn about anyone but themselves. Today at school, there were at least several people I discovered who went out of their way to spew the most horrifying thing I've heard in a long time: that Japan deserves this for their attack on Pearl Harbor.
Correct me if my history book has been wrong all this time, but I thought we retaliated for that attack long ago. Hiroshima? Nagasaki? Atomic bomb? Ring some bells, people? We took out those two cities at the end of World War II, and the death toll was far higher than what was seen at Pearl Harbor. Since then we've established good relations with Japan. Anyone now who looks to the past and tries to find some supernatural reason for Japan suffering these disasters is disgusting. It's bad enough we get to listen to idiots like Westboro Baptist Church and Glenn Beck spew their mouths (the latest being Beck's claim that God sent the earthquake at Japan for their supposed ignorance of the Ten Commandments), but even some of our ordinary citizens feel the same.
I'd also like to point out how there have been no instances of Japan's people looting and stealing things in the wake of this disaster. How funny, and how heroic. After Hurricane Katrina, there were tons of reports of former New Orleans citizens breaking into shops and taking what wasn't rightfully theirs, all in the name of looking out for themselves. While I would never disregard the damage done to New Orleans due to that disaster, it is clear that Japan is facing a much worse reality. Yet you don't hear about any of its citizens committing such things. No, like a true nation, its people are sticking together. It's not about number one to them.
Japan being in as much danger as it is right now means several things. For one, the country has been responsible for many, MANY products and goods that we often take for granted. The entertainment and gaming industries have roots there. So much of our food comes from that country and the surrounding areas. Their culture is one of the most amazing on this planet, and they've always been held in high regard for a good reason. If nothing is done, either by sheer luck or by the assistance of other nations, Japan will be doomed. And we will have lost one of the most wonderful cultures seen in history. How's that for the history texts?
I realize that these idiots do not represent all of us. Nevertheless, the fact they exist says a lot. This world has been divided for too long. By race, by religion, by prejudices, by social class, and by history. Our cultures may be different, but we're still the same living, breathing human race on the same planet. It's high time we, as a whole, really must shelter our egos and our pride, and help out those who need it. Even if we can't do much, at least we can say we're praying and hoping for the best. Those that instead sit back and cite "karma" or point fingers at God as being responsible for this atrocity, you disgust me.
My thoughts are with you, Japan. I pray you recover really quickly.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Guest Blogger - Katie
8:03 AM |
Posted by
Kevin
Hey, everyone! Today, I present my first ever guest blogger. Kate, over at Simply Kate, has agreed to write a guest post for me. Check her out today if you haven't before! The title of her blog is so fitting. I'm proud to call her my girlfriend!
Enjoy reading!
*********************************************
Hey there readers of World Between the Lines! I’m Katie from Simply Kate! (I’m also Kevin’s girlfriend. He’s kind of amazing, isn’t he?)
My blog is, like the title suggests, simply about me. I write about my life, my impressions, my ideas, thoughts, and quirks. My mind bounces from one point to another, always wanting to try this thing or that. My blog is very much the same way. So while my life is hopping from day to day, my blog is following along excitedly!
1. What was your favorite toy as a child?
My grandma bought me a stuffed animal rabbit from a 7-11 convenience store. I slept with that rabbit until I was 18. I just couldn’t part with it. I carried it with me everywhere when I was younger. My 3rd grade teacher actually told me not to bring it to school anymore after sharing her for show and tell four times in a row.
2. Describe the most ideal vacation you’d like.
Climbing into the car with someone I love, a stocked cooler of sandwiches and fruit in the back and a case of amazing sing-along music between the seats. We would hit the incredible and the goofy sites along the road, taking pictures the entire way. We would cities and mountains, strolling down streets and hiking wooded paths. It would be all about exploring the world around us, eating amazing food and just making memories together. Ideal is just a few weeks to hit the road and see what there is to see. Perfect.
3. What is the worst food you’ve ever eaten?
When I was 13, I went to the fanciest restaurant in my home town with this young woman’s group I belonged to. The dinner was meant to teach us etiquette. Apparently it is rude to refuse a food you know that you do not like. I’m not a fan of mushrooms. I expressed this to my leader, but she insisted that I eat it. I forced myself to eat a bite of these tiny mushrooms that had been cooked in some strange, milky sauce. It was so terrible that I rushed from the table and nearly threw up in the bathroom. I don’t like mushrooms.
4. If you could be a part of a fictional universe, which would it be and why?
Middle Earth, without question. I love all of the beauty of that world. I would love to live among the elves in Rivendell and Lorien for a time, or stay in a hobbit hole, or explore Minas Tirith. It would be amazing to visit the ruins, and even visit the great city of Dwarrodelf. I’m gushing. But there is so much of that world that would be incredible to experience in more than words and movies.
5. What’s your favorite style of music?
It’s hard to pinpoint just one. I like so many different kinds of music. Let’s make it simple: If I can easily sing-along to it, it’s my favorite.
6. Name one of your fondest memories.
This is such a hard question to answer! There are just so many amazing moments. I suppose I’ll just pick one. My dad recently reminded me of a time when he took me fly fishing. I loved going fly fishing with my dad. We always has a wonderful time driving to the creek, hiking along through the canyon and spending the day hopping from hole to hole seeing if we could catch anything. Before we called it a day, I asked if we could hit my favorite hole. There was another fisher already there, decked out to the max with fishing gear. He was just about to give up on the hole, but I was determined to try it anyway. He stayed and chatted with my dad as I cast my line in a few times. And sure enough, I caught a nice, big trout; a twelve year old girl in sneakers caught a fish in a hole where a pro couldn’t catch anything. It was a pretty awesome day.
7. Now, the all-important question… Pirates? Or Ninjas?
Pirates. They have all that swagger and booty. We’d get along well. I’ve got swagger and a whole lot of booty.
*******************************
Thanks again, Katie! :) Also, I recently wrote a guest post on her blog, which you can visit here.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Mike Starr 1966-2011
6:00 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
It was two days ago, but for some reason I just got the news today. Mike Starr, the former bassist for hard rock/grunge band Alice in Chains, died of a drug overdose on Tuesday, March 8, 2011.
As requested by Alice in Chains, I'm not going into any details concerning his death. Look that up yourselves, there are plenty of sources around the Internet. All I have to say is rest in peace. Starr's death rings a bell. I'm talking of the death of his old friend and the band's original singer Layne Staley in 2002.
Staley's death was obviously much more publicized. I have a feeling Mike won't be getting that luxury, although maybe that's for the best. It's a sad state of affairs... seeing Mike go out in the same way Layne did.
Have a good evening, everyone.
As requested by Alice in Chains, I'm not going into any details concerning his death. Look that up yourselves, there are plenty of sources around the Internet. All I have to say is rest in peace. Starr's death rings a bell. I'm talking of the death of his old friend and the band's original singer Layne Staley in 2002.
Staley's death was obviously much more publicized. I have a feeling Mike won't be getting that luxury, although maybe that's for the best. It's a sad state of affairs... seeing Mike go out in the same way Layne did.
Have a good evening, everyone.
You're still an asshole.
10:07 AM |
Posted by
Kevin
I have a really short post today, but it came to me this morning on my way to school. This morning consisted of probably the most idiotic ignoring of "right of way" I've ever seen.
The simple matter is this: LOOK before you make your move. The right of way is there to ensure we don't have accidents. Ignore it, and you're just a jackass. Besides, it's also courtesy.
Take the example of a young man crossing the street of Plummer and Etiwanda near the B6 parking lot of my campus -- this young man must've been having a pleasant morning; riding down the sidewalk on his skateboard, listening to some good music (judging by the earphones dangling from his head). I bet he was really looking forward to a great day full of exciting new things to learn at school.
His whole life could've been snuffed out in an instant. Why? Because some idiot in a van must've felt that obeying a stop sign was below her. Oh yes, she doesn't need to come to a full stop at intersections. She could've made it across the intersection faster than the man currently speeding into said intersection much more quickly than she could likely move her foot from the brake to the gas pedal, and subsequently gain enough speed. By which time, had she done that, she would've ineveitably crashed right into our young skateboarder.
The result, thankfully, was not that. However, this driver still managed to get incredibly close to her destination before ultimately slamming on her brakes when she realized someone was riding by on his skateboard.
Whether you saw the young man or not, miss, you're still an asshole. Next time, actually stop at the fucking stop sign.
Now, granted, I realize people make mistakes. And I'd also like to take this time to say that I get irrirated when pedestrians ignore all traffic, assuming that said traffic will be on the lookout -- which is exactly what the young man in this story did. It's a two way system, people. Everyone needs to look where they're going before heading out into traffic. Common sense.
With that, I'm off to class.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Road Block
10:15 AM |
Posted by
Kevin
I've officially come to a road block in writing for this blog. When I started it, I fully intented on writing all those reviews, but I never really came up with any ideas about what I'd do in between, or after. I guess I'm now paying the consequences for it.
I realize you can write just about anything on your own blog. It's yours after all, and who cares if it's random or sporadic? The only problem I'm having is that nothing seems to be coming to me.
I hope this ends soon.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Top Ten - T.V Shows
6:30 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
After nearly five months of doing mostly reviews, I think it's time I actually put a bit more personality into my posts, and show you more of who and what I'm all about. You've already seen plenty enough of my music side (although I should probably show more of that side to me that's outside Coheed and Cambria), but I really think I need to do something else.
Besides, I currently have a case of writer's block and I can't figure out what else to blog about. So, without further ado, I present the next project -- well, kind of project -- for this blog. Starting today, I'll be posting on occasion glimpses into some of my favorite things, ranging from all topics. This was partly inspired by my "One Hundred Likes" post, which I realized after writing that there were so many other things I could have -- and should have -- added to that list.
I'm planning on making this a once-a-week thing. I've got a whole variety of subjects I can do. From the broad to the most specific, it's time for Top Ten!
Why a Top Ten? It's simple and short. And it leaves plenty of room to potentially add more to the list in the form of additional blog posts during those moments when I can't think of what to write. Second, I like the number ten.
With that, let's get underway. As the title of this post indicates, today's top ten is television shows.
Besides, I currently have a case of writer's block and I can't figure out what else to blog about. So, without further ado, I present the next project -- well, kind of project -- for this blog. Starting today, I'll be posting on occasion glimpses into some of my favorite things, ranging from all topics. This was partly inspired by my "One Hundred Likes" post, which I realized after writing that there were so many other things I could have -- and should have -- added to that list.
I'm planning on making this a once-a-week thing. I've got a whole variety of subjects I can do. From the broad to the most specific, it's time for Top Ten!
Why a Top Ten? It's simple and short. And it leaves plenty of room to potentially add more to the list in the form of additional blog posts during those moments when I can't think of what to write. Second, I like the number ten.
With that, let's get underway. As the title of this post indicates, today's top ten is television shows.
1. Boy Meets World
Two words: Will Friedle. This show would not have been the same without him as Eric Matthews. I grew up watching this show. Boy Meets World came around when Disney Channel still had some class, and didn't think topics like growing up were not age-appropriate. Aside from the lessons imparted onto Cory and Sean by Mr. Feeny -- and by extension, the viewer -- the show also retained amazing acts of comedy. And to this day, Mr. Feeny is still one of the best role models of all time, from this blogger's point of view.
2. Avatar: The Last Airbender
I didn't get into this show until long after it was over, but since then I've grown to love it. As an animation student I'm especially attracted to the quality of the show as much as I am the story and the characters. Plus, Waterbending is fucking cool! Side note: the film adaptation of this cartoon sucks.
3. NCIS
I used to watch a lot of crime shows. But I noticed many of them seemed to lack a lot in terms of actual entertainment. I think it was decent characters. NCIS is a cut above these other shows. The chemistry between the actors is incredible, and thus lets the show make up for its sometimes choppy and overused plots thanks to the awesome characters. Gibbs, DiNozzo, McGee, Ziva, Abby, Ducky... every episode has never been unsatisfying to me.
4. Doug
This was my all time favorite television show back in the day. I mean, if you lived in the 90s, how could you NOT love Quail Man? Damn, I miss this show...
5. Dragon Ball Z
I really don't like anime. And I really hate the animation style of anime. Dragon Ball Z was the only show of its type I could watch, largely thanks to its formula where it could actually appeal a bit more to both boys and girls. Goku remains one of my top favorite cartoon characters of all time.
6. Breaking Bad
A high school chemistry teacher suffering from cancer delves deep into the criminal underworld by cooking and distributing crystal meth in order to support his family after he's gone. Need I say more?
7. Red vs. Blue
This isn't a t.v. show exactly, but it's been released on DVD and has different seasons, so I'm counting it. I was introduced to this by my girlfriend. I don't really care much for the Halo games, but I do love comedy. This show has plenty of it as well as action and a really interesting plot. The characters Donut and Caboose are really what make this show as awesome as it is.
8. The Office
Actually, there isn't much about The Office I really care for. It's just that it's good old fashioned comedy. Plus, it has Steve Carell. Good stuff.
9. King of the Hill
It was created by the same guys that brought you Beavis and Butt-head. Enough said.
10. SpongeBob SquarePants
A classic. An absolute classic. I realize the show is and has always been extremely childish, but that's why I love it so much. It's one of the last few shows on Nickelodeon that isn't lame.
Now comes the fun part. To any readers out there, I propose a question: what are some of your favorite t.v. shows? Feel free to post in the comment box below!
Now comes the fun part. To any readers out there, I propose a question: what are some of your favorite t.v. shows? Feel free to post in the comment box below!
Monday, February 28, 2011
"While you were sleeping, we were stealing your heart"
8:19 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
Well, it's finally come down to this. Five albums to review, five months of writing. Since creating it I spent the majority of my time with this blog writing a review for the songs off each of Coheed and Cambria's albums -- with a few every life posts here and there. It was just the main songs and did not include bonus or demo songs (although I also did not give the title track from The Second Stage Turbine Blade its own post, but that was because the song is very short). I've had fun working on writing these reviews. Coheed remains as my top favorite band and I wish them luck in their musical careers. I am especially looking forward to seeing them in May as well as looking forward to future material.
I haven't decided if I'll write reviews for some of the bonus or demo tracks. After this, I think I need to get away from doing album reviews for a while, and focus more on actually maintaining a blog that's more about me. With that said, the final review of my Coheed and Cambria Song Review Project.
I haven't decided if I'll write reviews for some of the bonus or demo tracks. After this, I think I need to get away from doing album reviews for a while, and focus more on actually maintaining a blog that's more about me. With that said, the final review of my Coheed and Cambria Song Review Project.
************************************
Year of the Black Rainbow is a much more hard-edged style for Coheed; it was definitely much more simple and stuck to a formula. But the guys still show their liking for long-winded, progressive jam sessions. In the last song off the record, the sort-of-titular track called "The Black Rainbow," the band delivers one last full band tune that all at once seems to comprise the energies of several of their other closer songs. The song starts off with a quiet howling, calling back to the beginning of the album with "One." Then, as the piano and guitars enter, I feel a eerie resemblance to "On the Brink" from No World for Tomorrow. But yet throughout the song it still retains that haunting ambient atmosphere that was present on the rest of the album, definitely helped in part with the use of theremin and synthesizers and sequencers. In short, it's just as noisy as the rest of the album.
When Claudio's singing comes in, I feel reminded of such similar sounding vocals from the days of IKSSE-- not in terms of pitch, but just the way it's so melodic. Slowly, the song builds into a crescendo, before exploding into a loud, vibrant session that at the same same reminds me of "The Final Cut" and "On the Brink" once again, the latter reason being Claudio's repetitions of "It's over, it's over! It's all coming apart!" Indeed, it is over. These lines literally signify the end of The Amory Wars concept. From SSTB to this last album, the story made its circle. And the song continues in this vein in true Coheed and Cambria jamming out fashion until it fades out with the same eerie howling before coming to an abrupt stop. But yet another call back to "One" is heard a final time before it too fades, and the listener is left with a maniacal laughter as the album comes to a close.
For the album it's one, "The Black Rainbow" suits well. It truly ends the album on an excellent taste. However, it's a rather disappointing song. It pales very much in comparison to any of the closers, with special notice to "21:13." The problem I have with this song is just how repetitive it is. The first several "It's over" lines get tiring after that. It's comparable to the "Hail" repeats from "On the Brink", which were far better.
That being said, the song isn't bad, and as I've said it fits its respective album as a closer very well. It just doesn't sound nearly as great as it could have been. However, I would love the opportunity to hear this song live. I can imagine the energy the band would give off during it to be as impressive as it was during those many moments they played an extended jam session of "The Final Cut."
Before ending this review, I'd like to explore the concept a final time and quickly explain just what "the Black Rainbow" is. Following his triumph over the other Mages and rise as Supreme Tri-Mage, Wilhelm Ryan turns his eyes to the heavens. His goal is to become akin to God and lead the people of Heaven's Fence astray. Seemingly in response to this, a celestial void appears over the worlds of Heaven's Fence -- a void that appears to rip into existence itself, leaving nothing but blackness. Hence, "the Black Rainbow." The problem with it, however, is that no one is ultimately sure what the Rainbow means -- God challenging Ryan, or merely something created by Ryan himself to show that he is the ultimate power. Regardless, it's appearance triggers fear within the hearts and minds of the people, culminating in the eventual creation of Coheed, Cambria, and Inferno.
The novel ends with Inferno erasing the minds of his comrades so they may lead normal lives, while he carries on the work of his now dead creator. Before his death, Leonard discovers an antidote to the Monstar virus buried within Coheed; an antidote that lives within another IRO-Bot. He names it after his son, calling her Josephine -- the very same that makes a final appearance in SSTB. With the plans set in motion, Inferno watches over Coheed, Cambria, and Josephine as they begin a new life together, thus bringing the story full circle back to The Second Stage Turbine Blade.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
"All these shackles deceive just how long I've grieved"
6:00 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
Coheed and Cambria are one of the few bands I know of that sound really impressive live. Then again, I don't see too many bands in concert. More to the point, there are plenty of songs that I personally love hearing performed live than I do hearing them on the album. The penultimate song on Year of the Black Rainbow -- "When Skeletons Live" -- is one of those.
The opening drum pattern for this song is what manages to kick this song into gear. From that opening alone, I knew I was in for something. Or perhaps, I hoped I would be in for something. This song is another example of the type of progressive rock seen on such earlier songs as "Apollo I: The Writing Writer" or "Cuts Marked in the March of Men." But it also leaves a lot to be desired.
And it's why the fact that Coheed is so amazing and awesome playing their songs live. The energy created by the band and their fans is impressive to the point one could forget that there might be some things about Coheed's music they don't like. That's pretty much my feeling with "When Skeletons Live." Compared to other penultimate tracks such as "The Telling Truth" or "Neverender", this song just doesn't seem to fulfill the same feelings. What really helps to make up for it is the catchy and upbeat choruses:
The opening drum pattern for this song is what manages to kick this song into gear. From that opening alone, I knew I was in for something. Or perhaps, I hoped I would be in for something. This song is another example of the type of progressive rock seen on such earlier songs as "Apollo I: The Writing Writer" or "Cuts Marked in the March of Men." But it also leaves a lot to be desired.
And it's why the fact that Coheed is so amazing and awesome playing their songs live. The energy created by the band and their fans is impressive to the point one could forget that there might be some things about Coheed's music they don't like. That's pretty much my feeling with "When Skeletons Live." Compared to other penultimate tracks such as "The Telling Truth" or "Neverender", this song just doesn't seem to fulfill the same feelings. What really helps to make up for it is the catchy and upbeat choruses:
"When skeletons live inside your closets, thick and thin,
You'll fear that no one will hear us sing our songs
The truth is relevant, but not for long
'Cause love is our downfall"
Like the previous song, it's clear this song is about the concept. The lyrics spell out Pearl Hohenberger's final moments of life, told from the perspective of her husband. It also depicts Leonard's final plans before his own death at the hands of Mayo Deftinwolf, a plan in which Inferno would rescue Coheed and Cambria from House Atlantic and make a final assault on Ryan's base of operations (though, as this is a prequel, that obviously doesn't work).
And that's about all I have to say about this song. Good song, but I don't think it's nearly as fantastic as others thing it is. Up next, the final review in my Coheed and Cambria song review project. Stay tuned!
"I'm a murderer, the worst these worlds will see"
1:28 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
Not many of the songs on Year of the Black Rainbow deal solely with the concept. Many of them were written more with the intent of letting the listener relate to these songs, while simultaneously being more in relation to what's been going on with the band members. Some songs such as "The Broken" and "Here We Are Juggernaut" have a slight conceptual overtone, but it's still not as noticeable.
"In the Flame of Error" is where the concept really shines through on this album. The title comes directly from a quote in the novel. In this part of the story, Ryan kidnapped Pearl Hohenberger to use her as leverage against her husband Leonard. By doing so, he persuades him to hand over his creations Coheed and Cambria (not knowing about the existence of Inferno at this point), as well as convince him to construct the deadly Monstar virus. The song follows Leonard's guilt over his willingness to develop the virus -- and thus spell doom over all of Heaven's Fence -- all in the name of saving his wife.
The other part of the song, however, deals with Leonard coming up with a plan to turn the tables on Ryan. While he indeed constructs the virus, he implants it within Coheed as well as installs a trigger mechanism within Cambria, effectively making it nearly impossible for Ryan to extract the virus. Still, Leonard struggles over this and comes to believe that he might truly be the "worst murderer the worlds will see."
The first time I heard this song, I thought for a split moment I had been listening to an Alice in Chains record. "In the Flame of Error" opens with a heavy, sludgy riff that's so reminiscent of a grungy sound. At the same time, it reminds me plainly of such songs as "Everything Evil" and other similar progressive Coheed songs. The verses consist of strong, loud drum beats coupled with similarly heavy rhythm leads. In this way, the song has a bit of metal vibe to it as well. This change of styles it what really makes this song as good as it is.
I also personally love the vocals on this track. This is why the song is more story than it is anything else, as helped by Claudio's vocals. You can almost feel the anger behind the vocals as if he's singing from the perspective of Leonard Hohenberger. When the band told fans that this album was going to be more melodic than previous records, and I can see now what they mean.
"In the Flame of Error" is where the concept really shines through on this album. The title comes directly from a quote in the novel. In this part of the story, Ryan kidnapped Pearl Hohenberger to use her as leverage against her husband Leonard. By doing so, he persuades him to hand over his creations Coheed and Cambria (not knowing about the existence of Inferno at this point), as well as convince him to construct the deadly Monstar virus. The song follows Leonard's guilt over his willingness to develop the virus -- and thus spell doom over all of Heaven's Fence -- all in the name of saving his wife.
The other part of the song, however, deals with Leonard coming up with a plan to turn the tables on Ryan. While he indeed constructs the virus, he implants it within Coheed as well as installs a trigger mechanism within Cambria, effectively making it nearly impossible for Ryan to extract the virus. Still, Leonard struggles over this and comes to believe that he might truly be the "worst murderer the worlds will see."
"These dirty hands just won't come clean"
"Oh save me from defeat again!"
The first time I heard this song, I thought for a split moment I had been listening to an Alice in Chains record. "In the Flame of Error" opens with a heavy, sludgy riff that's so reminiscent of a grungy sound. At the same time, it reminds me plainly of such songs as "Everything Evil" and other similar progressive Coheed songs. The verses consist of strong, loud drum beats coupled with similarly heavy rhythm leads. In this way, the song has a bit of metal vibe to it as well. This change of styles it what really makes this song as good as it is.
I also personally love the vocals on this track. This is why the song is more story than it is anything else, as helped by Claudio's vocals. You can almost feel the anger behind the vocals as if he's singing from the perspective of Leonard Hohenberger. When the band told fans that this album was going to be more melodic than previous records, and I can see now what they mean.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
"There will never be one to take her place"
10:00 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
After the last three songs having little to do with the concept and more to do with personal struggles of the band members, the album takes a turn back into the actual concept. With that comes another love ballad. Going back to the band's earlier acoustic styles seen on songs as "IRO-Bot" and "Wake Up", Coheed presents another soft, beautiful tune that speaks to anyone who has ever been truly in love. Next up on the list for this album is my new favorite Coheed and Cambria acoustic ballad -- "Pearl of the Stars."
Speaking from the concept, Pearl is the name of one of the major characters. Specifically, she's the wife of Dr. Leonard Hohenberger, the scientist who, after the tragic loss of his son Joseph in a protest against Wilhelm Ryan's brutal war against the other Mages, created Coheed, Cambria, and Inferno -- artificial humans with immense powers and abilities -- as a way to stop Ryan. Although the three prove to be more than a match for Ryan's army, there is no real way to fill the void that has been left in Pearl's heart after her son's death. The best way for her to grieve is to take it out on the only person she can. In a way, Leonard bears some responsibility for Joseph's death by allowing him to attend the war protest despite knowing the dangers of such a thing.
But despite the relationship with his wife deteriorating and her sanity slowly crumbling, Leonard holds on to the hope that somehow everything will turn out okay. His love for his wife remains ever strong, no matter what the current situations have done to their lives. That being said, the song solely explores their relationship. I personally love the way this was done. First, there was a song that explore just the relationship between Coheed and Cambria, and then one that was a sort of mix between the two. Now, there's just one that focuses on the darker side of love and relationships.
The song's lyrics are also found in the novel: "Each night I wish to God He'd let her rest" and "I'd give you anything if only I'd have known you'd take it" are such examples. While these quotes are found at far different times within the novel's chronology than they are found in the album's chronology, the relationship between Leonard and Pearl is a critical one within the novel, so it needs a place on the album. And on an album that was influenced by relationships as much as it was struggle, why not add one more song that deals with this theme? Like other love songs on this record, this song gets its influence primarily from Claudio's wife. It's very poetic and personal in so many ways, but it speaks to anyone who's ever truly been in love. The greatest message is that no matter what happens, if you're willing to make it work, your loved one will always be by your side.
As I've said, this is my favorite ballad tune out of Coheed's career thus far. It's haunting yet beautiful, and simple but complex. The effects and piano add a wonderful ambient feel to the song, in keeping with the rest of the album's experimental genre. Further, Claudio's vocals are top-notch for me. The best thing about this is that he's not singing completely in his usual high key. Instead, he incorporates some low key vocals. While I don't think the low-key style is as great as his high-key, it was a well done result nonetheless. Chris' drumming is also what makes this song as haunting as it is. Instead of the conventional drumming, he uses mallets to give the drums a more orchestra-like feel to it, which I completely approve of.
Speaking from the concept, Pearl is the name of one of the major characters. Specifically, she's the wife of Dr. Leonard Hohenberger, the scientist who, after the tragic loss of his son Joseph in a protest against Wilhelm Ryan's brutal war against the other Mages, created Coheed, Cambria, and Inferno -- artificial humans with immense powers and abilities -- as a way to stop Ryan. Although the three prove to be more than a match for Ryan's army, there is no real way to fill the void that has been left in Pearl's heart after her son's death. The best way for her to grieve is to take it out on the only person she can. In a way, Leonard bears some responsibility for Joseph's death by allowing him to attend the war protest despite knowing the dangers of such a thing.
But despite the relationship with his wife deteriorating and her sanity slowly crumbling, Leonard holds on to the hope that somehow everything will turn out okay. His love for his wife remains ever strong, no matter what the current situations have done to their lives. That being said, the song solely explores their relationship. I personally love the way this was done. First, there was a song that explore just the relationship between Coheed and Cambria, and then one that was a sort of mix between the two. Now, there's just one that focuses on the darker side of love and relationships.
The song's lyrics are also found in the novel: "Each night I wish to God He'd let her rest" and "I'd give you anything if only I'd have known you'd take it" are such examples. While these quotes are found at far different times within the novel's chronology than they are found in the album's chronology, the relationship between Leonard and Pearl is a critical one within the novel, so it needs a place on the album. And on an album that was influenced by relationships as much as it was struggle, why not add one more song that deals with this theme? Like other love songs on this record, this song gets its influence primarily from Claudio's wife. It's very poetic and personal in so many ways, but it speaks to anyone who's ever truly been in love. The greatest message is that no matter what happens, if you're willing to make it work, your loved one will always be by your side.
As I've said, this is my favorite ballad tune out of Coheed's career thus far. It's haunting yet beautiful, and simple but complex. The effects and piano add a wonderful ambient feel to the song, in keeping with the rest of the album's experimental genre. Further, Claudio's vocals are top-notch for me. The best thing about this is that he's not singing completely in his usual high key. Instead, he incorporates some low key vocals. While I don't think the low-key style is as great as his high-key, it was a well done result nonetheless. Chris' drumming is also what makes this song as haunting as it is. Instead of the conventional drumming, he uses mallets to give the drums a more orchestra-like feel to it, which I completely approve of.
"Never again will I believe the same old story"
6:28 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
Following in the footsteps established by the previous two songs, Year of the Black Rainbow continues to chronicle what's happened with the band in the last number of years and how far they've come. But not every one of the songs deals with the bad side. Aside from having to deal with bad media coverage and struggling to please their fan base, Coheed and Cambria have nevertheless come very far.
If "This Shattered Symphony" was about the the band's struggle with pleasing their fan base and "World of Lines" was a counterattack on media and other critics for not taking the band or their music seriously, it could only be natural for the guys to realize that despite all they've been through, they've also managed to make something of themselves. With that, "Made Out of Nothing (All That I Am)" is a most fitting title.
That's the simple explanation, really. The song is just about the last of those off the album that are least about the story than the others. As the song is a confirmation and a realization that the band has been "made out of nothing", the music style is thus a reflection of this mood. Lighter-toned, catchy, and a bit happier, this song has a slight No World for Tomorrow feeling to it.
However, the song is also rather generic. Vocally and musically, "Made Out of Nothing" reminds me a lot of a few other songs I've heard off many tunes. While the verses are truly amazing and memorable, they lead into rather unspectacular choruses. All in all, nothing that's particularly noteworthy, but still a good song nonetheless.
This song is much better explained by the band than I can fully explain it. I This review.
If "This Shattered Symphony" was about the the band's struggle with pleasing their fan base and "World of Lines" was a counterattack on media and other critics for not taking the band or their music seriously, it could only be natural for the guys to realize that despite all they've been through, they've also managed to make something of themselves. With that, "Made Out of Nothing (All That I Am)" is a most fitting title.
That's the simple explanation, really. The song is just about the last of those off the album that are least about the story than the others. As the song is a confirmation and a realization that the band has been "made out of nothing", the music style is thus a reflection of this mood. Lighter-toned, catchy, and a bit happier, this song has a slight No World for Tomorrow feeling to it.
However, the song is also rather generic. Vocally and musically, "Made Out of Nothing" reminds me a lot of a few other songs I've heard off many tunes. While the verses are truly amazing and memorable, they lead into rather unspectacular choruses. All in all, nothing that's particularly noteworthy, but still a good song nonetheless.
This song is much better explained by the band than I can fully explain it. I This review.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
"Nothing more than a pathetic attempt at attack"
9:21 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
I love concept bands. I love concept music. Music that tells a story intrigues me so much more than music that doesn't. I think it surely helps I just love stories. Next to creating amazing music, Coheed and Cambria appeals to me so much because of the concept. Added to the fact their concept has a written form through novels and comics, the story becomes much more understandable and broad.
However, it's for this reason that Coheed has been pushed to the side by critics. There's no point denying it; comics are generally considered a childish form of reading. The average college student probably doesn't read comic books, and knowing that some 30-something year old men are dabbling in science fiction comics as the inspiration for their music turns off the ignorant. It's one thing to give something a try and then express that it doesn't suit your tastes, but throwing aside any rational form of criticism and dismissing an artist's integrity on the sole basis that they deal in so-called juvenile practices is absurd and unfair. But Coheed and Cambria have dealt with that many times since the guys created the band. Often times, their music has been overshadowed by The Amory Wars story. So much so, in fact, that the band has sometimes been overlooked and not taken seriously.
In the last review I pointed out the similarities between the "Camper Velourium" series from IKSSE to the songs from this album. Where those songs followed a path that started with the first song sounding upbeat to the last sounding angry and aggressive, the three I'm pointing out on Year of the Black Rainbow do the opposite. "This Shattered Symphony" was a more brutal, heavy style of rock. As the band members now take their frustration to the media, the style becomes more hard-edged, but yet not nearly as brutal. "World of Lines" is instead a more conventional style of rock; hooky riffs, catchy choruses, simple formula. The hard edge comes from its style of quick-paced rhythm and lead work that reminds me of "Gravemakers & Gunslingers" from NWFT. Put simply, the song sounds like it punches you in the face.
The song also demonstrates the the guys haven't lost their touch for writing really, REALLY catchy tunes despite the album's lyrical content.
"World of Lines" is another shining example of the album's "fuck you" persona. This time, that message is directed prominently at the media and just about anyone else that criticizes others for essentially being different. I know what you're probably thinking at this point. Yes, this message of "screw the media" is not new, and it's not fun hearing about over and over again. And that's why when I learned of what this whole song was about it sort of bugged me at first.
I have mixed feelings on this. For one, I do in fact dislike how Coheed has been mislabeled and dismissed over the years because of who and what they are as people and as musicians. But, really, the same old attack against the media is just old. And frankly, it's not going to go away, so maybe I should just deal with it. The point was still made, however, and it's that we are all different.
I'm not even going to attempt explaining the story for this song. For one, it feels like doing so would mean missing the point of this song. Second, while there is a chapter in the book titled "The World of Lines" it appears to have little to do with the song itself.
"World of Lines" holds a message that relates so directly to life and growing up, that the song seems to be incredibly important to Claudio. So much that the band chose the song as the album's second single (the first having been "Here We Are Juggernaut"). Last year, a short film was created documenting the message that "World of Lines" represents. So, I end tonight's review with this music video. Enjoy!
However, it's for this reason that Coheed has been pushed to the side by critics. There's no point denying it; comics are generally considered a childish form of reading. The average college student probably doesn't read comic books, and knowing that some 30-something year old men are dabbling in science fiction comics as the inspiration for their music turns off the ignorant. It's one thing to give something a try and then express that it doesn't suit your tastes, but throwing aside any rational form of criticism and dismissing an artist's integrity on the sole basis that they deal in so-called juvenile practices is absurd and unfair. But Coheed and Cambria have dealt with that many times since the guys created the band. Often times, their music has been overshadowed by The Amory Wars story. So much so, in fact, that the band has sometimes been overlooked and not taken seriously.
In the last review I pointed out the similarities between the "Camper Velourium" series from IKSSE to the songs from this album. Where those songs followed a path that started with the first song sounding upbeat to the last sounding angry and aggressive, the three I'm pointing out on Year of the Black Rainbow do the opposite. "This Shattered Symphony" was a more brutal, heavy style of rock. As the band members now take their frustration to the media, the style becomes more hard-edged, but yet not nearly as brutal. "World of Lines" is instead a more conventional style of rock; hooky riffs, catchy choruses, simple formula. The hard edge comes from its style of quick-paced rhythm and lead work that reminds me of "Gravemakers & Gunslingers" from NWFT. Put simply, the song sounds like it punches you in the face.
The song also demonstrates the the guys haven't lost their touch for writing really, REALLY catchy tunes despite the album's lyrical content.
"Just leave us alone
If it's not worth the letting go
It's trouble"
No chorus I've heard in recent years coming out of Coheed's career has been as catchy as the chorus for this song. It's simple, and slightly repetitive to the point of annoyance, but it serves well. And belting that chorus out the first time I heard it back in May was one of the most awesome experiences of my life.
"World of Lines" is another shining example of the album's "fuck you" persona. This time, that message is directed prominently at the media and just about anyone else that criticizes others for essentially being different. I know what you're probably thinking at this point. Yes, this message of "screw the media" is not new, and it's not fun hearing about over and over again. And that's why when I learned of what this whole song was about it sort of bugged me at first.
I have mixed feelings on this. For one, I do in fact dislike how Coheed has been mislabeled and dismissed over the years because of who and what they are as people and as musicians. But, really, the same old attack against the media is just old. And frankly, it's not going to go away, so maybe I should just deal with it. The point was still made, however, and it's that we are all different.
I'm not even going to attempt explaining the story for this song. For one, it feels like doing so would mean missing the point of this song. Second, while there is a chapter in the book titled "The World of Lines" it appears to have little to do with the song itself.
"World of Lines" holds a message that relates so directly to life and growing up, that the song seems to be incredibly important to Claudio. So much that the band chose the song as the album's second single (the first having been "Here We Are Juggernaut"). Last year, a short film was created documenting the message that "World of Lines" represents. So, I end tonight's review with this music video. Enjoy!
Friday, February 18, 2011
One Hundred Posts - One Hundred Likes
9:39 PM |
Posted by
Kevin
As of this post, I've officially written one hundred posts for this blog. Most of them have been more reviews than anything else about my life, so I figure I can shed a bit more on my life. Namely, my likes. With that, here we go. One hundred likes in no particular order!
1. Coffee
2. Guitar
3. Drawing
4. N.C.I.S
5. Movies
6. Star Wars
7. CGI Modeling
8. Running
9. Music
10. Sleeping
11. Spaghetti
12. Band T-shirts
13. Dr. Pepper
14. Animation
15. Harry Potter
16. Friends
17. Chinese Food
18. Filming
19. Driving
20. Zelda Games
21. Avatar: The Last Airbender
22. Beer
23. Pepperoni Pizza
24. Blogging
25. Red vs. Blue
26. Inside Jokes
27. Hanging Out
28. Mexican Food
29. iPod
30. Laptop
31. Photography
32. Comic Books
33. Designing
34. Boy Meets World
35. Cooking
36. Breaking Bad
37. Painting
38. YouTube
39. Forums
40. Swimming
41. Barbecues
42. Shorts
43. Sketching
44. Photoshop
45. Chatting
46. Sony Vegas Pro
47. Indiana Jones
48. Short-sleeve plaid shirts
49. Poker
50. Cuban Turkey
51. Camping
52. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
53. Iced Tea
54. Butterbeer
55. Trivia
56. Doodling
57. Singing
58. Raspberries
59. Playing Pool
60. Robot Chicken
61. The Office
62. Web Design
63. Oil Pastels
64. Showers
65. Books
66. Subway
67. Apple Pie
68. Donkey Kong Country
69. Super Mario World
70. Contact Lenses
71. Jack in the Box
72. Hot Cheetos
73. Burgers
74. Lightsabers
75. Guitar Picks
76. Christmas
77. Water
78. Fishing
79. My Cat
80. Disneyland
81. Vans Shoes
82. Chicken Wings
83. Ranch Dressing
84. Sunglasses
85. Halloween
86. Mashed Potatoes
87. Color Pencils
88. Thanksgiving
89. Hot Chocolate
90. Clam Chowder
91. Dogs
92. Comic Strips
93. Coca-Cola
94. Texting
95. Honey Mustard Sauce
96. Jeans
97. Snowboarding
98. Concerts
99. Video Chatting
100. Internet Browsing
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