Baybeats 2009

It was Baybeats this weekend and due to other commitments, I only managed to catch some of the Saturday gigs.

What did I catch? Well, as usual, I had to do some research first before deciding what to watch. Unfortunately, there were some overlaps in the timings of what I wanted to catch and I had to run around.

Basically, I caught the performances by Chris Collingwood, The Marilyns, Taken by Cars and Dualtone.

I enjoyed Chris Collingwood's (of Fountains of Wayne) act the best. In fact, I caught 2 of his shows that night. The first was at Chillout Stage where he did a solo performance. His solos were a bit "countryish" and I loved the lyrics. Later that night, he had another gig with Kevin Matthews' band (can't recall the name) at the Arena, and that was more pop, which was nice too.

The Marilyns were not too bad and I kinda like the genre of their music. I must admit they would probably need some sharpening still, but well, I enjoyed their songs. I felt Taken by Cars sounded better on their myspace website. Honestly, the lead singer could have done better. Somehow, the music and her singing seemed not to be in sync or matching, but anyway... I then left early to rush to catch Dualtone at the Chillout Stage. The electro music wasn't too bad, but I must admit I enjoyed last year's The Analog Girl and Amberhaze better.

Well, that's all for this year's Baybeats. Too bad I missed Friday's shows and as Sunday is fencing class, that's a miss too.

TCS Flag Day 2009

It's been more than 10 years since I last sold flags, and today was the first time I "volunteered" to do so for Touch Community Services (TCS).

Never been one to really like selling flags as I am rather shy by nature and going up to ask people for donations was something I faced with much apprehension. I would have rather just taken money from my pocket to donate rather than approach strangers in this manner. But having procrastinated in doing something for TCS for so long, I must do it at least this once.

Surprisingly, it wasn't as bad as I thought/remembered it would be. Just keep smiling (of course sincerely) and take it easy, and people were generally quite approachable. I found myself rather comfortable even when faced with rejection and strangely, relaxed. Maybe that helped. I just smiled at people, approach them, and thank everyone, whether they donated or not. Fortunately, I didn't face anyone too hostile. I didn't do it for very long but glad I did something meaningful.

Meeting new people

I was having a talk with some friends today and it got me thinking...

What is it that when we meet new people, we sort of know whether it will only be an acquaintance or it could result in a close/longstanding friendship? You know, that kind of "good vibes" about a person, no matter how subtle it is? Is there something in the air that tells you? Some form of "chemistry" that bonds you or "combust" in a way? Why you 'click' with some people but not others?

Although most people would tend to hang out with people of similar characteristics or personality, but there are those that are really quite different from you but can yet bond together.

Singapore Media Fusion

I had the privilege to visit Singapore Media Fusion @ one-north today.
It showcases MDA's works and collaboration with tech/media companies.

It was pretty cool and I particularly enjoyed the 3D film preview session and the Experience hall. I won't say it's a "wow" display, but rather, I got to see some prototype interactive systems and test beds. Can see the potential, but they would have to push them out soon or else I would envision it being less forward in the technology if it drags too long. Somehow, I seem to get excited with all these media tech stuff.

They also had some spaces available for start-up companies to do their brainstorming sessions. Alright, I really liked the decor & furniture of the place. Haha...how I wished I was working there! But well, it's a bit far for me really.

Getting Away (2)

I guess another get away option would be to travel. Personally, I dislike flying, but to travel to destinations, that's the fastest way.

Maybe travelling can really help one to forget things, to escape constant reminders in a different environment, and in it, an opening to move on as one tries to forget...to make oneself distant in mind, heart & soul to certain happenings.

Coming back, there will be a reality lag time, but maybe if one can do something before it comes back, then maybe the reality will be different eventually.

Getting Away (1)

What does one do to get away? To find time alone to be alone?
...I must be in a loner mood to be pondering this.

Personally, one of my ways is to set a day of rest during the week, usually a Friday. However, this involves some planning in advance, like what I used to do, picking a Friday each month and take the day off to just do my own stuff. I've not been having much time this year to do this though. During these "Sabbath" days, I would usually plan a QT session along with other "quiet" activities, like watching a movie, visiting a museum, taking photos, exploring/walking about, or simply lounging at a quiet cafe. I would create a personal space, and it's just me and the surroundings.

Another way, usually more spontaneous and irregular, would be a long bus ride. This usually happens when I'm alone at the Esplanade in the evening, could be after a show or something. I have a straight bus home from there, which is a really long ride, like an hour or more. I don't really like long bus rides as I might get motion sickness, but if I feel like it (loner mood), I would. However, I would pick to take the Super Bus model (so yes, I'll wait) and sit upstairs, listen to my iPod and just zone out all the rest. I might reflect or ponder about things, but it feels good to have that personal space.

Was thinking I haven't gone for a SSO concert very much these days. Should go check out what programmes they have.

cute server downtime notice

This was too cute not to share. From Grooveshark.com.

My song Hi

Finally got down to recording my latest song "Hi".

I have been wanting to write an upbeat song and this was my attempt.

Initially, I would say it was inspired by Rosie Thomas's "Say Hello" (title). However, after completion, I think it had some Obi influence, which is a now defunct UK band. Somehow, I feel that it sounds like a hippy song. Anyway, here are the lyrics.

Hey…how do you do?
Hi…can we be friends?
I saw you standing across the street
new in town
and looking lost

Hey…what’s your name?
Hi…my name is Friend
We stay on Hope Street in this town
called Love
Where you’re welcomed

Chorus:
Come, take my hand
Let me show you around
This little paradise we have
Nothing much here
Just friends among friends
That’s all we need

Bridge:
So now you’re like family
In this little town we share
So come on, come on and take my hand

© 14 June 2009

Coldplay's Trouble

This is quite random, but I was listening to this last night and is still my favourite Coldplay song.

I first heard it a couple of years ago when it was played during a TV series I was watching on cable TV, called "John Doe" and loved it. I didn't even know it was by Coldplay then.

The MTV seems a bit strange though.

"taboo" subject of blind dates

Is blind dating a taboo subject or actually it's pretty normal these days as more working adults are finding less time to meet potential people and thus go for blind dates arranged by agencies? In the older times, blind dates were usually set up by parents or relatives, but it seemed to have become a thriving business. Maybe taboo is too strong a word, but you know what I mean. People don't really talk about it that openly right? (Maybe I'm wrong)

Then again, what kind of people are more suited to blind dates?

Personally, I'm not really sure if it will work that well for me. I'm very reserved and cautious, so a blind date will probably see me behaving that way. I take some time to warm up to people, if they are worth warming up to. Well, it may be better than in a big social event, but it's kinda awkward isn't it?

If one party doesn't really feel anything during the 1st date, and the other person initiates a 2nd outing, should the person go? Being a traditional/conservative girl, I assume the girl waits for the guy to initiate. Theoretically, there's no harm in giving it a second go, after all, it's only a 2nd meetup, and something may or may not come out if it. If really on the 2nd meet there's no chemistry or sustainable shared interests (I would say priority areas), then it'll just be back to square one.

I wonder what's the success rate.

And how do guys actually decide whether they might want to meet the girl again? Maybe my guy friends can shed some light on this.