All I've ever been searching for are moments. Moments are those things your memory treasures long after they're gone. They don't have to be the good times, or the bad, but single intimate reflections of when time just seemed to happen. Time itself, can be called a creation of the human mind; time doesn't seem to pass when we slip outside of our false consciousness and into our individual realities. These individual realities, these moments, they're what we crave for, what we yearn for. Some call it love, I call it moments.
Relapse. Breathe. It's what I really wanted to hold onto, even just for a little while. That heart warming feeling, of having everything I ever needed; safety has never been such a comfort until now. You, unfortunately, were that moment; I held onto, only for a little while, and for that while I was whole. I reconciled every little broken piece of what I thought I had lost with you, and now you're gone. Sure, it may seem a little tragic, or self-defeative, but it's the truth.
It's not even a break, or an 'over'. It's just a rebirth. I'll keep searching for it, whatever it may be. The subject changes, but the content remains the same. Parties, alcohol, friends, and music, I'll bite off more than I can chew, but I'll handle it. The sharks can swim around me, but I'll handle it. It's what I do. But these moments, they're so hard to find: like the mystical "grumps" of the One Week fame, they're hard to find, but they bring untold happiness and good fortune.
Like a good laugh, a moment warms you throughout. Like a hug, or a caress, a moment doesn't choose which nerves to tingle; it tingles them all. Moments, they're all I want right now. Just moments, continuous moments. Like an addict on the search for her next fix, I just want more. I want more of you, more of me, more of everything.
I want it, give it to me all at once: life, love, hate, and everything. My heart beats so fast, and I know I need it. Like the beating of the pow wow drum, my heart dances and slows; I just hope it never stops.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Why Life Sucks
Life sucks because I'm in more credit card debt than my own mother.
Life sucks because the one thing I thought I had going for myself just fell through.
Life sucks because my roommates are moving next door with their 'best friend' leaving me here to scavenge for new people to live with.
Because my heart is racing and I have no way to relax it
Because I'd love nothing more to run
and I can't.
Because I have nothing to do. Ch131 is down, and I have no torrents that are decent and fit my mood.
Because I need a job, desperately, and cannot find one.
Because I can't pay my bills.
Because I have too many goddamn bills.
Life sucks because I complain too much.
I complain too much because I'm not a positive person
and I'll never be a positive person. I'll never be smug enough in my ways to just not care
to lie back and to just enjoy life.
No. My life has never been 'enjoyable'. I'd not wish it on my worst enemy. I deal with it. I tolerate it. It's despair. I can't even escape, even if I wanted to: debt would follow me everywhere.
All for a piece of paper, and all for you.
Life sucks because the one thing I thought I had going for myself just fell through.
Life sucks because my roommates are moving next door with their 'best friend' leaving me here to scavenge for new people to live with.
Because my heart is racing and I have no way to relax it
Because I'd love nothing more to run
and I can't.
Because I have nothing to do. Ch131 is down, and I have no torrents that are decent and fit my mood.
Because I need a job, desperately, and cannot find one.
Because I can't pay my bills.
Because I have too many goddamn bills.
Life sucks because I complain too much.
I complain too much because I'm not a positive person
and I'll never be a positive person. I'll never be smug enough in my ways to just not care
to lie back and to just enjoy life.
No. My life has never been 'enjoyable'. I'd not wish it on my worst enemy. I deal with it. I tolerate it. It's despair. I can't even escape, even if I wanted to: debt would follow me everywhere.
All for a piece of paper, and all for you.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
remix cultures: Remix and Reclamation
remix cultures: Remix and Reclamation: "This past weekend I attended the Kitchener Waterloo|Art Gallery opening of the new exhibitions. It was one exhibit in particular that struc..."
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Searching for Inspiration
Tonight's a lonely thursday night. The house is quiet. My roommate is about to practise some flute, and I'm sitting watching TV. Futurama is on, although it could be anything. I don't really need to tune myself in until 10, when the epitome of terrible addicting TV comes on: Jersey Shore season 3.
She starts with a few high notes. I hit the browser button. Another window. Facebook? Nein. I'm searching for inspiration. Google Images. Tattoos, haircuts, celebrities, flowers. I want something to take my breath away.
The first? Van Gogh: Irises
Such a beautiful painting. I'm no art critic, but I love how the painting combines large and small strokes; having intricacies as well as blobs of 6-year-old ease.
Another Van Gogh, Seascapes; this time by random search. It seems the words coming to my mind are the names of his paintings. Is it that I have to find my ear, my inspiration?
A tumultuous sea, kind of like my moods have been lately. I'm not sure where I'm going, or how I'll get there. Right now, I'm just riding the waves.
I just watched the stupidest milk commercial EVER! You know, the one where it's like:
"Fact: your body builds 90% of its bone mass before age 20; Fiction: if you don't get enough of the required calcium by age 21, your bones will liquefy"
So silly. Commercials these days. More searching. More feelings of desperation followed by insight. The world is turning really fast.
She starts with a few high notes. I hit the browser button. Another window. Facebook? Nein. I'm searching for inspiration. Google Images. Tattoos, haircuts, celebrities, flowers. I want something to take my breath away.
The first? Van Gogh: Irises
Such a beautiful painting. I'm no art critic, but I love how the painting combines large and small strokes; having intricacies as well as blobs of 6-year-old ease.
Another Van Gogh, Seascapes; this time by random search. It seems the words coming to my mind are the names of his paintings. Is it that I have to find my ear, my inspiration?
A tumultuous sea, kind of like my moods have been lately. I'm not sure where I'm going, or how I'll get there. Right now, I'm just riding the waves.
I just watched the stupidest milk commercial EVER! You know, the one where it's like:
"Fact: your body builds 90% of its bone mass before age 20; Fiction: if you don't get enough of the required calcium by age 21, your bones will liquefy"
So silly. Commercials these days. More searching. More feelings of desperation followed by insight. The world is turning really fast.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Cyclefit: Day 1
Holy, holy, holy crap. I am exhausted. I feel amazing. I feel as though I just ran... oh wait, I biked... 21 km. And it wasn't that much (I did 28.5 on Sunday) but oh was it ever hard. Alex is the ultimate cyclefit instructor. She screams at you, push harder: she's the ultimate drill coach. She's checking your form, watching the way you point your toes, and making sure your head is up. And, just when you think you're going to be okay: "Add three gears!!"
For those of you who are unfamiliar with Cyclefit, it is a spin class. You're on a spin bike, and it's essentially some pretty sweet-ass cardio. Intervals, gradually building strength training and stretches all to tone you out of that winter wide-butt.
And boy, oh boy am I looking forward to the results! And possibly making a few friends along the way, because who knows the type of people you meet when you're all high on endorphin rushes from exercise :)
I'll update you when I can. I'm going tomorrow with a friend to pass on the love of biking. Hopefully we will have a blast and feel re-energized for the rest of the week!
Peace out
For those of you who are unfamiliar with Cyclefit, it is a spin class. You're on a spin bike, and it's essentially some pretty sweet-ass cardio. Intervals, gradually building strength training and stretches all to tone you out of that winter wide-butt.
And boy, oh boy am I looking forward to the results! And possibly making a few friends along the way, because who knows the type of people you meet when you're all high on endorphin rushes from exercise :)
I'll update you when I can. I'm going tomorrow with a friend to pass on the love of biking. Hopefully we will have a blast and feel re-energized for the rest of the week!
Peace out
Monday, January 10, 2011
Laptops and Learning
I bet you're wondering where I'll go with this one. Truth is, that laptops run my life: I type on one so much, that I try to limit my usage to at home only-- seems weird since laptops are supposed to be known for their portability. But, the reality is that laptops really irritate me: I hate them. They distract me from my ever-growing pile of readings, which is the centre of my university life --not Facebook or Blogger.
As someone who has enough problems concentrating, Facebook is the worst thing ever to be able to cruise during class. This is one small reason why I no longer bring my laptop to classes. Although, let me make it clear that there are professors who ruin my life by having intense lectures during which I am scrambling to write down everything that exits their mouth. I find it difficult, yes, to keep up with some lectures without a laptop. But that's a minor inconvenience compared to not being able to pay attention.
I also find that by actually writing things down, I remember more. Some people may not experience this, but I can tell you now I've read a study here and there stating something about people not being able to retain as much information from computer screens: we're not quite adapted yet. here's a little bit of what I looked at over time.
But, simply put: it's not just about information, it's about experience. Learning is an engaged conversation with professors and other students: having a laptop in front of you creates a barrier behind which you can hide and creep people on Facebook. You're not nearly as attentive as you would be with a piece of paper in front of you, and when you're not copying a few things down, you're ready to take it all in.
So why ban laptops in classrooms? Clearly not having one of my own in the classroom has helped me a lot, but it is the impact of other laptops in my line of sight that is the nightmare. As I said before, I have a hard time concentrating as it is, and when I can see someone on Facebook or flipping back between MSN messenger and MS Word between major lecture points, my eyes glaze over and I'm lost.
I truly believe that laptops make lectures accessible to a lot of people who have mediocre or slow handwriting skills; but it is that impact that these devices have on others, as well as the silent effects the laptops have on their users (repetitive strain injuries, computer eyesight problems) which should be taken into consideration when discussing the pros and cons of a ban.
Some would argue that banning laptops would be a step backwards in terms of the technology era. Well, to that I would counter-argue this: when are we actually paying attention to what we're doing? We're constantly texting, writing, talking, listening, thinking about a whole plethora of things at once: we need our entire brain to comprehend what is going on in a lecture. We can't retain or actually educate ourselves when we're typing to our friend two rows back about how awkward the professor's shirt looks today.
The bankable model of education from Bell Hooks tells us that we simply absorb and regurgitate information in the usual model of education (which is why formal exams are useless) and it is the critical engagement that we experience in seminar and in experiential classes that actually allows us to learn. A laptop only stimulates this bankable model: we only pay attention to key points, or even type everything they say; we end up with all this information to sort through and memorize at a later date, to regurgitate in an exam at an even later date.
This, this is the fallout of education. Or lack thereof. Laptops don't make classrooms that much more accessible, they don't help you all that much in a lecture environment, and they certainly do not belong in a seminar. I fully advocate for Laurier to ban laptops from senior level classes to start. At least, at the bare minimum, let professors ban these devices at their discretion.
As someone who has enough problems concentrating, Facebook is the worst thing ever to be able to cruise during class. This is one small reason why I no longer bring my laptop to classes. Although, let me make it clear that there are professors who ruin my life by having intense lectures during which I am scrambling to write down everything that exits their mouth. I find it difficult, yes, to keep up with some lectures without a laptop. But that's a minor inconvenience compared to not being able to pay attention.
I also find that by actually writing things down, I remember more. Some people may not experience this, but I can tell you now I've read a study here and there stating something about people not being able to retain as much information from computer screens: we're not quite adapted yet. here's a little bit of what I looked at over time.
But, simply put: it's not just about information, it's about experience. Learning is an engaged conversation with professors and other students: having a laptop in front of you creates a barrier behind which you can hide and creep people on Facebook. You're not nearly as attentive as you would be with a piece of paper in front of you, and when you're not copying a few things down, you're ready to take it all in.
So why ban laptops in classrooms? Clearly not having one of my own in the classroom has helped me a lot, but it is the impact of other laptops in my line of sight that is the nightmare. As I said before, I have a hard time concentrating as it is, and when I can see someone on Facebook or flipping back between MSN messenger and MS Word between major lecture points, my eyes glaze over and I'm lost.
I truly believe that laptops make lectures accessible to a lot of people who have mediocre or slow handwriting skills; but it is that impact that these devices have on others, as well as the silent effects the laptops have on their users (repetitive strain injuries, computer eyesight problems) which should be taken into consideration when discussing the pros and cons of a ban.
Some would argue that banning laptops would be a step backwards in terms of the technology era. Well, to that I would counter-argue this: when are we actually paying attention to what we're doing? We're constantly texting, writing, talking, listening, thinking about a whole plethora of things at once: we need our entire brain to comprehend what is going on in a lecture. We can't retain or actually educate ourselves when we're typing to our friend two rows back about how awkward the professor's shirt looks today.
The bankable model of education from Bell Hooks tells us that we simply absorb and regurgitate information in the usual model of education (which is why formal exams are useless) and it is the critical engagement that we experience in seminar and in experiential classes that actually allows us to learn. A laptop only stimulates this bankable model: we only pay attention to key points, or even type everything they say; we end up with all this information to sort through and memorize at a later date, to regurgitate in an exam at an even later date.
This, this is the fallout of education. Or lack thereof. Laptops don't make classrooms that much more accessible, they don't help you all that much in a lecture environment, and they certainly do not belong in a seminar. I fully advocate for Laurier to ban laptops from senior level classes to start. At least, at the bare minimum, let professors ban these devices at their discretion.
Prerequisite Pain
Why is it, that when a university assigns a prerequisite, it doesn't bother to enforce (either by online registration rules, or by actual checking up on students) it?
Today I started a fourth year seminar in my major. I have worked for three years taking theory course and electives under that major: I have done well and know the theory. I have all the prerequisites for the course. Upon introducing ourselves in class it was made very evident that many MANY students (I'd say about 80% of the class or the last four rows) were not at all cultural studies majors, or minors; they were communication studies majors. This included an undeclared, whom may have taken the full year theory credit--but I don't remember him from it.
Is this what my school is resorting to? Letting anyone take a fourth year seminar; filling spaces with less-than-ready students? I am hesitant: I hope these intelligent but ignorant comm majors don't hold back discussion. If they can keep up, so be it. I just think it's incredibly unfair.
Today I started a fourth year seminar in my major. I have worked for three years taking theory course and electives under that major: I have done well and know the theory. I have all the prerequisites for the course. Upon introducing ourselves in class it was made very evident that many MANY students (I'd say about 80% of the class or the last four rows) were not at all cultural studies majors, or minors; they were communication studies majors. This included an undeclared, whom may have taken the full year theory credit--but I don't remember him from it.
Is this what my school is resorting to? Letting anyone take a fourth year seminar; filling spaces with less-than-ready students? I am hesitant: I hope these intelligent but ignorant comm majors don't hold back discussion. If they can keep up, so be it. I just think it's incredibly unfair.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
New Years Irresolutions
Every year, people resolve to get fit, or to lose weight. By people, I mean a multi million dollar amount of people. Getting fit is NOT cheap-- unless, of course, you go to Laurier. Included in your tuition is a gym pass. It's not all-access, but it's more than enough to get you moving. Included in your gym pass is unlimited use of the pool and fitness centre, but not of spin classes and wellness classes like yoga. All the really good stuff is extra.
But don't let that stop you!
I started my 'fitness' journey back in June. I had a pulmonary function test to see if I had asthma. At the test, I was weighed: it wasn't the fact the number was high, but that it was lower than I had remembered...I had lost 15 pounds since December 2009 without trying. A lot of that was stress, and although I am a self-professed stress eater, I know that Winter 09 was a very rough semester for me. I could easily justify how I lost the weight.
Between that visit (which turned out normal, no signs of inflammation), and the boredom that ensued without a job, I decided to start running. Just around the neighbourhood, I thought to myself, and only in the evenings or when it rained (love the cool feeling of rain in the summer!). I got tired of the high impact and stress on my knees that came with road running--I also didn't want to be seen billowing down the street, huffing and puffing my way. I decided to pay a visit to the Athletic Complex fitness centre: a place that I have actually been to a lot, despite my sloth lifestyle. I used to swim, and run, before I would mysteriously get sick (just sick enough) and stop for awhile. My fitness life was running in circles, and I would always get back to the same weight, or a little higher.
It wasn't about the weight, not this time. I was tired of working and dieting and trying to shed pounds. What was it all for? Was there a difference between fit and fat? I kept thinking to myself, that if I was going to lose weight it was because I was in shape and it just happened, NOT because I was trying to. I wanted to be able to run a marathon. I wanted to be able to wear a size of jeans that didn't make me feel like a porker. Sure, we all have our insecurities, and I won't even go as far to say that mine was my weight: I am a confident person. Weight was simply an issue. I didn't want to sit on my ass all day any longer.
I started out, as I said, mostly running. To this day I hate treadmills; I won't go near one, I prefer ellipticals when I go that route due to the ease on the knees. At first I just would do 15 minute intervals on a bike, an elliptical and then my favourite: the row machine! That machine would make my day: I could spend hours if I were in the right rhythm, with the right music. I'd hit up the AC three times a week for at least an hour: I figured that was enough, and in retrospect I probably could have done more. I'm lazy, and it was right for me at the time. It was more than enough effort to get to the gym (15 minute walk) so I feel this was a start. Somehow, my schedule worked out in the first semester so I could go an hour three times a week, come home and get redressed and still be back for class on time. A small miracle in itself.
I've had to buy almost an entire new wardrobe: a cost most students including myself really cannot afford. Almost all of it has had to go on credit. It wasn't just a fun purchase, it was a necessity: my pants were falling off. Very irritating when the culture here seems to be very fitted; and lululemon Wunder Unders are the best thing ever.
Which, I have to say they are: I bought my own recently, at 78 dollars they weren't cheap. But looking in the mirror and seeing two legs instead of one, with clear definition--and knowing that it's cause I can easily bike 30km-- that's what fitness is about. Fitness isn't being in shape, it's not being thin; it's about living your life in response to your body's needs. I now feel amazing, am more confident than ever (my friends would agree it's not necessarily a good thing haha) and I love exercise. I love the rush, the high you get when you finish an hour-long cyclefit class. It keeps me mellow, and calm during the stress of exams, which are marathons in themselves.
I might start a daily diary, about training for a marathon sometime soon; maybe this summer. So stay tuned. I'm starting a new semester of cyclefit this week as well, and after today I've never wanted to do an hour long push session of spinning so badly.
I guess you could say I'm a little addicted.
So take it from me, it's not easy, but it's worth it. It also doesn't have to be one of those things that you just wake up to and say: "hey, I think I'll lose 40 pounds this summer," or whatever. It can be baby steps, a yoga class, or finding a buddy to bike with. You don't have to set a goal, but you have to stick with what you got: whatever you do, don't turn back. It's the future, and you're going to get there. Might as well row. :)
But don't let that stop you!
I started my 'fitness' journey back in June. I had a pulmonary function test to see if I had asthma. At the test, I was weighed: it wasn't the fact the number was high, but that it was lower than I had remembered...I had lost 15 pounds since December 2009 without trying. A lot of that was stress, and although I am a self-professed stress eater, I know that Winter 09 was a very rough semester for me. I could easily justify how I lost the weight.
Between that visit (which turned out normal, no signs of inflammation), and the boredom that ensued without a job, I decided to start running. Just around the neighbourhood, I thought to myself, and only in the evenings or when it rained (love the cool feeling of rain in the summer!). I got tired of the high impact and stress on my knees that came with road running--I also didn't want to be seen billowing down the street, huffing and puffing my way. I decided to pay a visit to the Athletic Complex fitness centre: a place that I have actually been to a lot, despite my sloth lifestyle. I used to swim, and run, before I would mysteriously get sick (just sick enough) and stop for awhile. My fitness life was running in circles, and I would always get back to the same weight, or a little higher.
It wasn't about the weight, not this time. I was tired of working and dieting and trying to shed pounds. What was it all for? Was there a difference between fit and fat? I kept thinking to myself, that if I was going to lose weight it was because I was in shape and it just happened, NOT because I was trying to. I wanted to be able to run a marathon. I wanted to be able to wear a size of jeans that didn't make me feel like a porker. Sure, we all have our insecurities, and I won't even go as far to say that mine was my weight: I am a confident person. Weight was simply an issue. I didn't want to sit on my ass all day any longer.
I started out, as I said, mostly running. To this day I hate treadmills; I won't go near one, I prefer ellipticals when I go that route due to the ease on the knees. At first I just would do 15 minute intervals on a bike, an elliptical and then my favourite: the row machine! That machine would make my day: I could spend hours if I were in the right rhythm, with the right music. I'd hit up the AC three times a week for at least an hour: I figured that was enough, and in retrospect I probably could have done more. I'm lazy, and it was right for me at the time. It was more than enough effort to get to the gym (15 minute walk) so I feel this was a start. Somehow, my schedule worked out in the first semester so I could go an hour three times a week, come home and get redressed and still be back for class on time. A small miracle in itself.
I've had to buy almost an entire new wardrobe: a cost most students including myself really cannot afford. Almost all of it has had to go on credit. It wasn't just a fun purchase, it was a necessity: my pants were falling off. Very irritating when the culture here seems to be very fitted; and lululemon Wunder Unders are the best thing ever.
Which, I have to say they are: I bought my own recently, at 78 dollars they weren't cheap. But looking in the mirror and seeing two legs instead of one, with clear definition--and knowing that it's cause I can easily bike 30km-- that's what fitness is about. Fitness isn't being in shape, it's not being thin; it's about living your life in response to your body's needs. I now feel amazing, am more confident than ever (my friends would agree it's not necessarily a good thing haha) and I love exercise. I love the rush, the high you get when you finish an hour-long cyclefit class. It keeps me mellow, and calm during the stress of exams, which are marathons in themselves.
I might start a daily diary, about training for a marathon sometime soon; maybe this summer. So stay tuned. I'm starting a new semester of cyclefit this week as well, and after today I've never wanted to do an hour long push session of spinning so badly.
I guess you could say I'm a little addicted.
So take it from me, it's not easy, but it's worth it. It also doesn't have to be one of those things that you just wake up to and say: "hey, I think I'll lose 40 pounds this summer," or whatever. It can be baby steps, a yoga class, or finding a buddy to bike with. You don't have to set a goal, but you have to stick with what you got: whatever you do, don't turn back. It's the future, and you're going to get there. Might as well row. :)
Saturday, January 8, 2011
All about variety
Music recommendations!
I've always wanted to do this, since I am pretty well-known to my inner circle for having a very 'diverse' but passionate interest in music; I've decided to compile a list of the must-haves (for everyone who has a sense of appreciation for music of all genres)
Albums
#1 is
The Rural Alberta Advantage - Hometowns
What an amazing band, and my favourite album of all time. Takes you through a journey along the Alberta highways, badlands and mountains. Makes me miss a place I've never even been to. I primarily enjoy it during the winter months, listening to it during snowsqualls. I am going to see them live February 4th: review to follow. I expect great things from them.
#2 goes to
Joel Plaskett and the Emergency - Ashtray Rock
Another unbelievable album. So great from start to finish. I love it when I can listen to an album in its entirety. Joel Plaskett is a master of the emotional wail; his voice triggers in me a overly-sentimental kind of nostalgia. Incredible to jam out or reminisce to. Well rounded album.
#3 is
Explosions in the Sky - All of A Sudden I Miss Everyone
Goodness. This album blows my mind every time I give it a listen. You lose time listening to Explosions; I often row to their music, as it gives a beautiful background with peaks and valleys to help me give'r. Dubbed instrumental post-rock, the band puts post-rock to shame. It's beyond post rock, more like post-post rock. Incredible Album: would kill to see them live.
#4 belongs to
Dario Marianelli - Pride and Prejudice OST
I am not usually a fan of soundtracks. I find them irritating or that you cannot listen to them without the background noise of the movie. Dario Marianelli is an artist of the craft: this soundtrack takes you through the movie in 17 songs, varying in strength and serenity. You can feel the emotion of characters and of the historical period through the piano, as well as the excellent clarinet and string solos. Amazing. Simply amazing.
#5 rests with
Ingrid Michaelson - Slow the Rain
An unlikely winner, the 5 spot on the list goes to Ingrid Michaelson of Girls and Boys fame. This album, probably unknown to a lot of people is simply by far her best and this is why it's on my list. It's incredibly good. OUTSTANDING lyrics and melodies. Great to sing along with or get upset with. I have loads of memories now tied to these songs. Short album but all around outstanding.
#6
Stars - Set Yourself on Fire
A beautiful album from one of my favourite Canadian artists. Stars shine with the album as well as the remixed Do You Trust Your Friends? version. Your Ex-Lover is Dead is probably one of my most beloved songs of all time. Nearly all of Stars' songs are conversations between Torquil Campbell and Amy Millan: love stories and conquests played out for us with synth and peppy tunes. Excellent starter album if you're looking to delve into Stars.
#7
Deftones - Around the Fur
Absolutely love this album. So many great songs, so many killer beats. Around the fur tickles the inner egoist and nymphomaniac you've probably got hidden in there. Deftones' Chino Moreno has the best moaning scream I can easily say I've ever heard. His voice accommodated with Stephen Carpenter's incredible guitar talents produces album and song after song of pure heavy pleasure. Definitely great stuff to get angry to.
#8 is
Final Fantasy - He Poos Clouds
Owen Pallett is a God with a violin. Excellent melodies, dissonances and overall beautiful sound. The album is well-rounded but has a few songs that I wouldn't care for if they were singles; overall however the album is great. I usually play it while cooking, it's hard to get mad or frustrated when you have got these beautiful, cheerful, and sometimes satirical lyrics playing in the background.
#9
Owen - At Home With Owen
Coming close to the top 10, Owen makes it in simply because I love the style of this album. Simple, short, and well done. Lyrics are clever and ambiguous, and the guitar technique is sensational. Love to listen to this over and over, I think you will too.
#10
In Flight Safety - We are an Empire, My Dear
In Flight Safety: another amazing Canadian band. Certainly a unique sound which I adore; terrific vocals and melodies which lift even my groggiest of moods. I adore Paperthin and Paperthin II. Ridiculously awesome these guys are: I've been cranking this album for a couple of years now and it has yet to get old. Give it a listen and you'll see what I mean. Something to get addicted to every week.
Now of course, who would I be without the honorable mention section-- If the band is listed below it means it's freaking awesome, but not as awesome as the 10 above. You may like these below more than the above, and that's okay. They're all amazing artists. Shout out to the Canadians: Broken Social Scene, Great Lake Swimmers, Lights, Mother Mother, and Wintersleep
The Honourable Mentions!!
Broken Social Scene - Lo-Fi For The Dividing Lights
Bruno Mars - Doo Wops and Hooligans
Cancer Bats - Hail Destroyer
Coldplay - A Rush of Blood to the Head
The Cure - Disintegration
The Dresden Dolls - Yes, Virginia
Great Lake Swimmers - Lost Channels
Lights - The Listening
Mogwai - The Hawk is Howling
Mother Mother - Oh My Heart
Muse - Black Holes and Revelations
Ratatat - Classics
Sigur Ros - ()
Snow Patrol - Eyes Open
Wintersleep - Untitled
Warsaw Village Band - Spring People
I've always wanted to do this, since I am pretty well-known to my inner circle for having a very 'diverse' but passionate interest in music; I've decided to compile a list of the must-haves (for everyone who has a sense of appreciation for music of all genres)
Albums
#1 is
The Rural Alberta Advantage - Hometowns
What an amazing band, and my favourite album of all time. Takes you through a journey along the Alberta highways, badlands and mountains. Makes me miss a place I've never even been to. I primarily enjoy it during the winter months, listening to it during snowsqualls. I am going to see them live February 4th: review to follow. I expect great things from them.
#2 goes to
Joel Plaskett and the Emergency - Ashtray Rock
Another unbelievable album. So great from start to finish. I love it when I can listen to an album in its entirety. Joel Plaskett is a master of the emotional wail; his voice triggers in me a overly-sentimental kind of nostalgia. Incredible to jam out or reminisce to. Well rounded album.
#3 is
Explosions in the Sky - All of A Sudden I Miss Everyone
Goodness. This album blows my mind every time I give it a listen. You lose time listening to Explosions; I often row to their music, as it gives a beautiful background with peaks and valleys to help me give'r. Dubbed instrumental post-rock, the band puts post-rock to shame. It's beyond post rock, more like post-post rock. Incredible Album: would kill to see them live.
#4 belongs to
Dario Marianelli - Pride and Prejudice OST
I am not usually a fan of soundtracks. I find them irritating or that you cannot listen to them without the background noise of the movie. Dario Marianelli is an artist of the craft: this soundtrack takes you through the movie in 17 songs, varying in strength and serenity. You can feel the emotion of characters and of the historical period through the piano, as well as the excellent clarinet and string solos. Amazing. Simply amazing.
#5 rests with
Ingrid Michaelson - Slow the Rain
An unlikely winner, the 5 spot on the list goes to Ingrid Michaelson of Girls and Boys fame. This album, probably unknown to a lot of people is simply by far her best and this is why it's on my list. It's incredibly good. OUTSTANDING lyrics and melodies. Great to sing along with or get upset with. I have loads of memories now tied to these songs. Short album but all around outstanding.
#6
Stars - Set Yourself on Fire
A beautiful album from one of my favourite Canadian artists. Stars shine with the album as well as the remixed Do You Trust Your Friends? version. Your Ex-Lover is Dead is probably one of my most beloved songs of all time. Nearly all of Stars' songs are conversations between Torquil Campbell and Amy Millan: love stories and conquests played out for us with synth and peppy tunes. Excellent starter album if you're looking to delve into Stars.
#7
Deftones - Around the Fur
Absolutely love this album. So many great songs, so many killer beats. Around the fur tickles the inner egoist and nymphomaniac you've probably got hidden in there. Deftones' Chino Moreno has the best moaning scream I can easily say I've ever heard. His voice accommodated with Stephen Carpenter's incredible guitar talents produces album and song after song of pure heavy pleasure. Definitely great stuff to get angry to.
#8 is
Final Fantasy - He Poos Clouds
Owen Pallett is a God with a violin. Excellent melodies, dissonances and overall beautiful sound. The album is well-rounded but has a few songs that I wouldn't care for if they were singles; overall however the album is great. I usually play it while cooking, it's hard to get mad or frustrated when you have got these beautiful, cheerful, and sometimes satirical lyrics playing in the background.
#9
Owen - At Home With Owen
Coming close to the top 10, Owen makes it in simply because I love the style of this album. Simple, short, and well done. Lyrics are clever and ambiguous, and the guitar technique is sensational. Love to listen to this over and over, I think you will too.
#10
In Flight Safety - We are an Empire, My Dear
In Flight Safety: another amazing Canadian band. Certainly a unique sound which I adore; terrific vocals and melodies which lift even my groggiest of moods. I adore Paperthin and Paperthin II. Ridiculously awesome these guys are: I've been cranking this album for a couple of years now and it has yet to get old. Give it a listen and you'll see what I mean. Something to get addicted to every week.
Now of course, who would I be without the honorable mention section-- If the band is listed below it means it's freaking awesome, but not as awesome as the 10 above. You may like these below more than the above, and that's okay. They're all amazing artists. Shout out to the Canadians: Broken Social Scene, Great Lake Swimmers, Lights, Mother Mother, and Wintersleep
The Honourable Mentions!!
Broken Social Scene - Lo-Fi For The Dividing Lights
Bruno Mars - Doo Wops and Hooligans
Cancer Bats - Hail Destroyer
Coldplay - A Rush of Blood to the Head
The Cure - Disintegration
The Dresden Dolls - Yes, Virginia
Great Lake Swimmers - Lost Channels
Lights - The Listening
Mogwai - The Hawk is Howling
Mother Mother - Oh My Heart
Muse - Black Holes and Revelations
Ratatat - Classics
Sigur Ros - ()
Snow Patrol - Eyes Open
Wintersleep - Untitled
Warsaw Village Band - Spring People
Looking like Ke$ha
Today on my way back from the grocery store in uptown, after waiting a grueling 15 minutes in the cold for a 7E bus, I was joined on a nearly-empty bus by three chipper and over-stimulated university girls. One of which was sporting greasy, stringy, bed hair and a lot of makeup.
What is it with this look? I really don't understand the concept. Looking like you rolled out of bed was a stretch, but looking like you smeared motor oil around your eyes and washed your face with red sand isn't really the look I think you were going for. Dirty does not equal sexy. Dirty equals a lowered perception and impression of what the public thinks of you, and that is actually a pretty important thing these days. Don't get me started on why girls these days seem to put so much effort into looking 'messy'... well actually, let's get started.
First impressions are important in life: for job interviews, for networking: you never know who you may meet on the street. This includes future husbands, friends, parents, friends' parents, etc. When leaving your house in the morning, the only reason you should be wearing sweatpants is if you are going to the gym and plan on returning home immediately after. Another rule of thumb: if you'd wear it out to Phil's, it's not okay to wear it to class.
Professors grimace at the general student population, let alone our unprofessional attire: in order for them to take us seriously, we must first take ourselves seriously. This means regular showers, discarding the ever-popular 'sumo bun' for healthy looking hair, and of course throwing out the Uggs. They're useless, and nothing says slouchy student like a pair of old slouchy Uggs.
I'm not here to give you fashion advice. I know what's in, and I know what looks good. I don't really care if you think that wearing leggings and an old man sweater makes you 'trendy' but it more often than not makes you look like a slob. I got made fun of in elementary school for dressing like that. There's a reason not to rock the 90s look. You look like shit.
And nobody wants to look at shit. Especially myself--and professors and members of the community. Do us all a favour, stop idolizing Ke$ha for your clothing choices and put yourself together-- maybe then, the world will take you seriously.
I know, its horrible how shallow and perception-based people can be: but its the truth, and sometimes it sucks. Just like your hair. Brush it.
What is it with this look? I really don't understand the concept. Looking like you rolled out of bed was a stretch, but looking like you smeared motor oil around your eyes and washed your face with red sand isn't really the look I think you were going for. Dirty does not equal sexy. Dirty equals a lowered perception and impression of what the public thinks of you, and that is actually a pretty important thing these days. Don't get me started on why girls these days seem to put so much effort into looking 'messy'... well actually, let's get started.
First impressions are important in life: for job interviews, for networking: you never know who you may meet on the street. This includes future husbands, friends, parents, friends' parents, etc. When leaving your house in the morning, the only reason you should be wearing sweatpants is if you are going to the gym and plan on returning home immediately after. Another rule of thumb: if you'd wear it out to Phil's, it's not okay to wear it to class.
Professors grimace at the general student population, let alone our unprofessional attire: in order for them to take us seriously, we must first take ourselves seriously. This means regular showers, discarding the ever-popular 'sumo bun' for healthy looking hair, and of course throwing out the Uggs. They're useless, and nothing says slouchy student like a pair of old slouchy Uggs.
I'm not here to give you fashion advice. I know what's in, and I know what looks good. I don't really care if you think that wearing leggings and an old man sweater makes you 'trendy' but it more often than not makes you look like a slob. I got made fun of in elementary school for dressing like that. There's a reason not to rock the 90s look. You look like shit.
And nobody wants to look at shit. Especially myself--and professors and members of the community. Do us all a favour, stop idolizing Ke$ha for your clothing choices and put yourself together-- maybe then, the world will take you seriously.
I know, its horrible how shallow and perception-based people can be: but its the truth, and sometimes it sucks. Just like your hair. Brush it.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Shout out
Hey! So recently I've been linked to the Cord's website so I'd like to give them and WLUSP a great big thankya for doing that and looking forward to many enthusiastic postings from here onward.
Definitely a great semester up ahead: CSL with the Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery (free-admission.com)
Metaethics, Love and Personal Identity, Existentialism, Cultural Studies in Action, Remix Culture, and Women Gender and Visual Culture
Campus Clubs business; and of course helping out my good friend (tba) with his campaign for WLUSU presidency!!
I had hoped for a job somewhere in here, but I doubt it now, with all this busy bee-type work!
So here's to an excellent semester, and lots of fruitful learning experiences both on and off campus! :)
Definitely a great semester up ahead: CSL with the Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery (free-admission.com)
Metaethics, Love and Personal Identity, Existentialism, Cultural Studies in Action, Remix Culture, and Women Gender and Visual Culture
Campus Clubs business; and of course helping out my good friend (tba) with his campaign for WLUSU presidency!!
I had hoped for a job somewhere in here, but I doubt it now, with all this busy bee-type work!
So here's to an excellent semester, and lots of fruitful learning experiences both on and off campus! :)
Monday, January 3, 2011
Coming Home
I've been away two weeks from the land of the living, and I feel like my body and brain are as exhausted as they were when I left. I am having troubles constructing sentences, my nails are breaking a little more with each keystroke, and I am pretty sure I just want to sleep right now, but I know the roommates will be here soon. *sigh*
I stayed at my brother's, who had his girlfriend practically living there since god knows how long. She is a nice girl who has the mentality of a twelve year old; good thing since my brother is only a few years off of that....
I'm so happy to have internet back, and my subwoofer too; I just adore nights spent writing with @MontrealStars playing in the background
Tomorrow will be the start of my third last semester here at WLU: I'm in Winter 2011 of 2012! So excited but nervous as I have a lot of seminars this time around. Could be scary. Could be really busy.
I need to apply for jobs. I need to sleep. I just want a friend around right now.
I stayed at my brother's, who had his girlfriend practically living there since god knows how long. She is a nice girl who has the mentality of a twelve year old; good thing since my brother is only a few years off of that....
I'm so happy to have internet back, and my subwoofer too; I just adore nights spent writing with @MontrealStars playing in the background
Tomorrow will be the start of my third last semester here at WLU: I'm in Winter 2011 of 2012! So excited but nervous as I have a lot of seminars this time around. Could be scary. Could be really busy.
I need to apply for jobs. I need to sleep. I just want a friend around right now.
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