Previous Page Sunday, December 18, 2022 Christmas music or songs have been playing non-stop: at home, or on the road. Here's some holiday cheer with some humor. It's an "oldie" in modern terms (two decades back), but still a cult favorite during the holidays. Here is an orchestral remix of "Carol Of The Fries", starring that fine employee from Burger King hahaha: I like these "Back To The Future" Fan Club names: Slackers. Rejects. The Pinheads. This Sucker's Electrical. Hahaha. Some of us are just that. Or were. Hahahaha. Regardless - loud and proud. Wouldn't want to change a damn thing. Quote of the day: "If you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything". I'm ecstatic that "Everything Everywhere All At Once" been nominated for multiple awards. It deserves the recognition - it's a very unique / different film. It's bold, daring and has messages that anyone can relate to. More thoughts on my "Film Forum" at another time. Saturday, December 17, 2022 Hey, Video Game Pianist - please record every Vince Guaraldi "Peanuts" track or piece haha. And of course - watching Charlie Brown or Peanuts specials / original animation always gets you into the holiday spirit. Here's the real deal - from "A Charlie Brown Christmas" to, "A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas" haha. I'm hearing John Cho has a new film lined up. I'll look more into this. I'm keeping a look out for news and updates on future projects of any or all Asian-American actors. I am quite sure that even Steven Yeun (who doesn't update his social media or deletes posts), is busy and is having a nice career - he is just going about things very quietly or discretely. Other than voicing that "Invincible" show, he was in Jordan Peele's "Nope" recently and with other notable films such as "Minari", "The Humans", and "Mayhem". Sung Kang? I think he's just busy with car projects, advertisements / sponsorships. Simu Liu is also busy - after vacationing with his new GF, we learn that "Barbie" is coming out next summer (with a new teaser trailer). I'm intrigued - that's all I have to say about that. And he has a new rom-com or drama as one of the leads in "One Trues Love". Can't wait. Ke Huy Quan always spoke fondly or highly of Harrison Ford as well - especially during the filming or behind the scenes from "The Temple Of Doom". It's a damn shame or tragedy however, not to even consider a brief cameo from Short Round in a new Indy film. Like Han Looh from "Tokyo Drift", I think the out-dated establishment or industry considers these Asian characters (no matter how popular they were) - expendable and just an after-thought. Not only very disrespectful, but very racist / discriminating as well. We Asians still deal with this shit today. For Sung Kang's character, it took a "Justice For Han" fan movement to bring the character back to the franchise. Friday, December 16, 2022 I'm curious about Simu Liu's role in "Barbie". I usually hate movies based off of toys (except Toy Story), video games and whatnot - they tend to be horrible. If it's a juicy, major role - then I'll be interested in watching it. Well, even at least a few good scenes might be worth it. Simu mentioned along the lines of being an impressive script - hard to believe when it's a movie about a damn toy (a girl's toy no less haha). Who wants to make a bet or wager that Erik The Electric won't do the 100K+ calorie challenge (or 150K calorie challenge) that he said was his goal earlier in the year (at least not this year). It's almost the end of the year - and I'm thinkin' he might have had a change of mind or chickened out (or just not ready). Thursday, December 15, 2022 Action star Donnie Yen - say it: "His Name Is Yen. Donnie Yen". He produced / directed a new film called "Sakra". His film repertoire is noteworthy: "Raging Fire", "Come Back Home", and "Sakra". I don't have access to the platform to watch these films, but perhaps one day it'll be accessible somewhere. When you go to a buffet - do you immediately pile up your plate with carbs or fried food galore, or take it easy with bits of everything one plate at a time. Until you have consumed 5+ plates. Hahahah. That is a legitimate question of the year hahaha. Of course, deserts. Buffets are all about deserts. Wednesday, December 14, 2022 I'm glad to hear that Joe Jitsukawa is doing well on his "journey" with his new business. He probably could use some tips on cleaning tiles however haha. It's as cumbersome and arduous as cleaning grout from your shower - hell no. Starting, operating and maintaining a new business is hard-working endeavor. It can't be half-assed, or it won't succeed. It isn't easy - it takes a lot of energy and motivation. If you don't have an ounce of any of that, might as well quit early in the conceptualizing stage or don't bother with it all. It also helps that they have a large following or audience, from years of JK team success - in spreading the word of course. What is there to look forward to next year, or the year 2023. Not much - or can't think of any. Nothing noteworthy yet, but I'm on the look-out for any new Asian-American films, projects, collaborations, etc. For me - what new repertoire am I going to learn / play. And - am I ready to father a second child when it's difficult enough with one. But children are bundles of joy. I think so. But for now - let's pray / hope for another one. In life - nothing is guaranteed. For sure - "When You Say That You Are Ready, Your Are Really Not Ready / Or Never Will Be Ready Anyway So Why Not" type of deal. And I might have to change my habits. It seems that I eat as if I love food more than life itself. Tuesday, December 13, 2022 It's been awhile - PianoChess. I could barely follow a game, since I'm terrible at Chess. With mild ADHD, it doesn't really hold my attention anyway. The VGP is quite busy I'm sure, so not much Twitch action. Going back to the Pauly Shore podcast episode, and the guy hating technology. Well - we get it that he's old school. The pros and cons of it can be overwhelming, but at the same time - the pros outweigh the cons by a large margin however. The cons of it - digitizing everything and reliance on the internet / online shit has made certain things obsolete. Folks are more inclined to stay home, shop at home, do everything at home. The reminiscence of "Blockbuster" chains or stores are no more. And Pauly hit the point that online access exposes racists everywhere. That goes with the territory however - and there needs to be more block / delete / ignore functions. I guess the perks of being a Web Master. And it could be that Pauly is also just incompetent at technology haha - "Buuuuuudddddeeee - what the hell is this thing???" (with a buzzed-out, airy voice haha) The "secret" in doing a "Secret Santa" gift exchange, is to do a "Not-So-Secret" Santa gift exchange. Meaning - let everyone know what they want or have them pick their items out, and purchase it that way. Unless it requires more shopping time, then hell no. The bottom line is that the recipient is going to hate what you give them anyway, so why not hahaha. Monday, December 12, 2022 I never really watched nor got into the "Let's Play Video Games" type of Youtube videos, but Jayperior sounds like a genuine dude. So believe the guy if he says there's no "bad blood". But Sungwon shared what happened to his last collaboration, so you never know. Whether I'll sub to Jayperior depends on the type of content and frequency. Well, I had to like his latest video thanks to Sungwon's lovely singing voice for the cat's theme song haha. Only the "Dudes Behind The Foods" can eat well, and mock convincing french accents. Hahaha. That, and the Jello Pudding Guy. Sunday, December 11, 2022 K. 547a - playful, and a bit mischievous. I think it epitomizes W.A. Mozart - but his music is vast, which can evoke all kinds of emotions. But for the most part - a lot of the repertoire are light, bouncy and playful. More thoughts on the Classical Piano blog at another time. I'm not sure if I'll get to Mendelssohn's Rondo Capprioso by the end of the year - hopefully. But when you put yourself in a whole different reality, the music just flows. That McDonald's Employee Guy ( God knows how many freakout McDonald clips there are out there haha) - I'm sure he muttered or mumbled "You're Short" as opposed to what he claims - "We're Short-Staffed" hahaha. The customer had to lash back. Folks - these videos are uploaded not only for your amusement, but also "How Not To Act". Both business and customer need to respect each other. Arguments / disputes happen everyday, everywhere. But it's these extremes - it's a lol. Saturday, December 10, 2022 It appears that Simu Liu is vacationing with his new gf in some paradise island (never heard of that place). For anyone stuck in cold-ass area, it's enough to make anyone jelly haha. But it's deserved - it seems he's been working non-stop without a break. Not just films - but charity work, game shows, interviews / panels, reality shows, etc. We hope we'll hear about his forthcoming projects soon. For a lot, including myself - vacationing in Hawaii is the most ideal location. However, it is arguably the most expensive. Twas interesting to listen to Pauly Shore - whatever happened to him years after "Bio-Dome" (a Two Huge Thumbs Down from Siskel & Ebert - or, they didn't even bother watching it) haha. He still sounds the same - talkin' as if he were high on something, or vocalizing without thinking (like a monotonous drone / robot). Podcast highlights w/ Scissors Bros:
Thursday, December 08, 2022 In relevant matters or news, Dustin Nguyen has been busy the past year and / or summer - finishing up Warrior S3, played a part in the new 47 Ronin film, and now is appearing in an indie film "The Accidental Getaway Driver". It's always a breathe of fresh air to search and find Asian-American actors or personalities being busy and involved in projects. In a recent Simu Liu ComicCon panel, he quipped or commented on something where "it appeared that he was doing absolutely nothing these days, because we haven't heard any projects from him yet". When the films are close to release or released, I'm sure there'll be news or he'll advertise them on his social media. I'm curious as to "One Trues Love" is about. I highly recommend this new interview regarding "Everything Everywhere All At Once" coming after their Gotham Awards win. They talk about what the film meant to audiences, it's surprising / ongoing success, and the meaning of the film (which there can be many). But in its fictional and fun format, it had messages at heart. Be the best and most happy version of yourself. Be kind. In a violent, nasty world we live in - kindness always goes a long way. What choices or how our lives would have been different if we had taken this path or made this decision. For me - I am finally happy with my true identity I have found now. As a bonus - a listener asked Jamie Lee Curtis who was a tougher opponent: Evelyn Wang or Michael Myers. Just have to listen to this to find out haha. Wednesday, December 07, 2022 I hope the Video Game Pianist can play some more medleys. Sometimes, recordings of individual pieces are nice. But I think the VGP has a knack for medleys and improvisation on the spot. I'm all for Re-Imagining and Re-Inventing / "modernizing" pieces - as long as they don't completely sound too different or off haha. Classical pieces can never get tiring - just like Christmas music or whatnot. They can be played over and over, or sung over and over. The beauty of interpretation is that you can personalize it a bit. Of course - you still want to stay true to a period piece, or piece of the period without overdoing it.
Tuesday, December 06, 2022 When you have Youtubers like Mac Eats tryin' balut (and even a fat Bobby Lee haha), you'd think to yourself - perhaps I should try it. Nah - no way, no how, never. If it's even more like a hard-boiled egg, then more reason not to. Since I hate hard-boiled eggs. Good luck to Simu Liu and his new social life. He's a busy guy - a lot of new projects, and becoming involved with charities. "Alice in Borderland" S2 seems interesting - from the trailer, it looks like it's wrapping up as the finale. You can only wish for a new season of "Blockbuster" - but I get the sense it is a one season only deal. The only dems you could really trust should be human beings like Andy Kim or Ted Lieu. Otherwise - I wish they were independents. I think they put a bit of positivity back in the party, where most of it is just "self-interest" / "corrupt" bullshit type (and some who might be racist as hell). While any bozo can play "notes", can they actually play "music". It's the age-old question of playing with style / feeling, or whether playing mechanically or like a stiff robot. Sunday, December 04, 2022 Yo, Mac Eats - hook us up with some Ocky Way. Or have him come up to the NW. Damn - he probably needs his own food show or program haha. As they say - "The Delicious Way, Is The Ocky Way" haha. Weather systems can be fickle. You can look at a forecast a week in advance, and weather would appear fine with some sun for the week. And a few days later, almost everyday becomes "Chance of Snow", Chance of Snow", "Chance of Snow" type of lunacy, etc. At this rate, we'll never leave the house. Better start somewhere. K. 547a is playful, bouncy piece. Which is why I need to include it. Saturday, December 03, 2022 Music Gear Maestro Andrew Huang - what is a plug-in? haha. It's some type of software enhancement. Probably similar to an add-on, with whatever differences. I'm so lazy, I get tired just by looking these things up haha. Mendelssohn's Praeludium in E Minor is a fun piece. I'm not sure which I'll get to first - the Rondo Capprioso, or the surprise piece K. 547a. Friday, December 02, 2022 We've stayed home all week - haven't driven in awhile as well. I guess I sort of have a slight weather-phobia. One thing is for sure - if a person is not confident or suffers from nerves when it comes to driving in inclement weather, don't do it. It's better to err in caution, then to suffer from over-confidence. I'm glad to hear Ke Huy Quan won Gotham Awards (in addition to other recognition). What, he'll be the next Batman? haha. Joking aside - it's a start. Society still is never going to recognize an Asian Guy as a lead. We still need to fight the fight. Music is universal. It's for everyone. You don't have to be the composer's nationality or race / ethnicity to play or express music well. I'm sure most composers would agree - they would want their music to be heard and played worldwide. Thursday, December 01, 2022 Some blue skies / sun is a sight for sore eyes. Not sure how long it'll last. But this week's "snow-pocalypse" was something - it ain't over yet until the week's done. It's unnerving to think this might become the norm every winter. Perhaps it is time to move to the Desert haha. If anything, you can practice regulating your body core temperature by doing sissy squats, and conditioning yourself in extreme temperatures so that your Mitochondria can kick-ass haha. Who is Hans Kim - no, not Hans Gruber haha. The guy sounds like just your ordinary guy, but he's a comedian apparently that just tells it like it is. Sometimes - that kind of observational humor is the funniest. You don't have to cross the line of racial or racist humor in "trying" to be funny. Unless it's done by your own. I recommend Henry Cho fo' sho'. Hans Kim also sounds like he would be Rudy's brother haha. Wednesday, November 30, 2022 Maestro Lang Lang with 100+ million streams on Spotify! Very deserving - his performances always inspire. Sometimes, we wish that utility crews can respond as quickly as 911 emergencies (well - can't say that all the time in life). But the reality is - it is a process (the duration and length depending on the severity and whether it's widespread or not). But continued kudos to the utility crews or companies in staying on top of things. Still - you wonder why a certain area gets priority. Apparently - we had an outage before 1 AM (the wet, heavy snow I bet). We weren't spared, but fortunately it was resolved within several hours or so. This week seems like what we experienced when we had arctic temperatures - hopefully not as bad. Goddamn. Before the year's out, 1 or 2 more recordings. Mendelssohn's Rondo Cappricioso is the goal. It is not an easy piece - but the fairy tale-like melody was inspiring enough to continue working on it. Tuesday, November 29, 2022 An early winter wonderland - as serene as it is, it is treacherous. I don't take my chances driving - yeah, I'm terrible at driving in even a small amount of snow. I guess there's inclement weather everywhere - except for that very SW corner of the US (near San Diego / Mexico) where it appears protected from any severe weather systems. I mean c'mon - you look at a weather forecast map, and that area usuallly seems to be in the clear. Times like this, moving to the Desert might be a good idea. But then again, with 100+ temperatures - you feel like moving to the arctic or something. Monday, November 28, 2022 Simu Liu on "The Simpsons" - did I miss it already. Hopefully on a rerun. Well - the recent video in the Phillippines confirms that Bobby Lee is gettin' fat again (is he even shrinking dwarf-style haha). What blubber haha. Sunday, November 27, 2022 So far - Thanksgiving feast leftovers is what it's all about. We probably need to take a break eventually haha. And Christmas decor / music. Holiday / Christmas Movies To Watch or Recommend: Jimmy O. Yang in "Love Hard" / Classics: Home Alone (the soundtrack alone is worthy of a playlist on spotify), How The Grinch Stole Christmas (the original animation), Jingle All The Way (if not to mock / make fun of Ah-nold's comedic acting or lack thereof as Turbo Man - "That Does It! Nobody Eats My Cookies!" with that Austrian accent haha). I enjoy Olive Garden - the only spam email I allow haha. And AA issues. Saturday, November 26, 2022 It's been awhile since a "Fun With Dumb" podcast - but you can't pass up an Eric Nakamura / Giant Robot guest spot. I've heard about Giant Robot, via Goh Nakamura. D-Choe and Margaret Cho were pioneers. It pertains to Asian-American pop culture, back in the day when Asian-American culture was made invisible / not even recognized by society. We have come a long way. But some things have stayed the same unfortunately - still, non-Asians or society in general still lump Foreign Asians and Asian-Americans together. They can't distinguish between an American Asian and a Foreign Asian from the motherland. We certainly have to continue to educate that kind of distinction through our endeavors. Who is my favorite Asian? That I cannot answer. It's as impossible as saying what my favorite classical piano piece is. There are just a lot of them, and I would not be able to answer it without saying multiple answers. In the end - I support the movement as a whole. But I do have my group of favorites (personalities or actors whom I've mentioned throughout my site). Friday, November 25, 2022 What a feast - a delicious one at that. I ate so well, you can call me an Asian Fat Albert I guess haha. Or 8 months pregnant. Thursday, November 24, 2022 Happy Turkey Day! Enjoy the eats, and expand them waistlines and asses or cakes haha. WoW PvP - strafing, jumping / hopping, the 1 vs.1's. It helped a bit in getting used to an FPS like "Doom Eternal". It's been awhile since Doom 3. I think I'm ready for a more difficult mode of play. It's been fun. But I think I'll be returning to WoW for Dragonflight. What changed my mind? Well, exactly the strafing, jumping and all that goodness haha. Re-installed the files, and it appears playable now. New DF site to be created soon. Wednesday, November 23, 2022 Daniel Dae Kim's tireless and fervent efforts or activism in highlighting issues (whether it's in politics, violent or tragic events in society, etc.) have always been a breathe of fresh air or relevant for me. I don't always support every endeavor, but certainly most of it. Especially ones that deal with Asian-American issues. His latest efforts include Exec. Producing a film about an Asian-American family. Go watch it. Who didn't grow up knowing, or watching the "Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers" haha. With that said - I give my condolences to arguably the most popular Ranger. What the hell am I sayin' - I never watched this show. But it is as familiar as the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" or "Saved By The Bell" during that Saturday morning lineup. In retrospect, I should've or wished I grew up learning / playing J.S. Bach, W.A. Mozart and L.v. Beethoven during those days. Instead - I quit piano or hated it, and just lived an awkward life in an imaginary world (such has been the life for a teased reject). Happy Thanksiving / Holiday week - stay healthy and safe. Tuesday, November 22, 2022 Andrew Huang continues to: be filled with information, entertain and make us laugh (if you read his sarcastic tweets). Of course - sometimes, I have no idea what he's talking about since he's the Music Production / Gear Guru. And I have no idea. I'm glad that Ke Huy Quan is receiving recognition for "Everything Everywhere All At Once". Again - it was a standout performance, one which most actors would fuck it up with the over-acting schtick that is prevalent in the industry. If you read or know his story, he wasn't offered an audition for more than a year after his iconic roles in "Temple Of Doom" and "The Goonies". He had to give up acting. Such is life or story of an Asian-American actor, where back then - only minor / stereotype roles were available. Learning scales in music should be like learning your ABC's. It shouldn't be complicated. But at the same time, it shouldn't be taken lightly or for granted. A "Quick Lesson" refers to nothing in-depth of course. There's obviously more to than "just practice". Since a lot of pieces involve scales / arpeggios (chromatics for example), it behooves a learner to start with pieces that are not too difficult or tricky at first. And then work your way up. Slowly. Building up your finger dexterity and strength is key. What exactly is the difference between a bean bag or a fat guy - I can't tell the difference either haha. Sunday, November 20, 2022 Happy Thanksgiving / Holiday Week! I could imagine grocery or general shopping this week is going to get hectic - especially finding parking. Get it out of the way quick and early haha. Holiday Movies To Watch: Jimmy O. Yang in "Love Hard", and the classic: "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" (although I hate public transportations or I might just have phobias). Refining and finishing the No. 20 Piano Concerto second section / movement is going to be a challenge. But I've already got some practice in. K. 511 is another piece to return to. For now - I hope the next upload is Mendelssohn's Rondo Cappricioso. Or another surprise piece. Saturday, November 19, 2022 Wow, Andrew Huang - I don't think I've ever seen such a wide-ass or "fat" electric guitar before hahaha. Holy, heavy snowfall Batman! Only in the region right by lake erie or whatever you call it (I failed geography) - most of NY state is spared however. The folks probably should start building igloos. If the snow were the heavy-type, rooftops and other structures might collapse. Which means - clearing it often would be necessary. Even light and fluffy types could be problematic - excruciating shoveling however. Who else has seen that Kroger lady in a public freakout? haha. Probably at a Dollar Tree or some discount store giving the cashier a hard time. When a person loses an argument, that person has to resort to hurling insults all of a sudden? "You have holes in your shoes", "You look like you have lice" hahaha. I think this rivals the Print Center Lady customer at Staples calling the employee "ugly" haha. Nostalgic Song Of The Day: "It's The End Of The World As We Know It, And I Feel Fine" - R.E.M. Friday, November 18, 2022 If you have a guest appearance as a character on "The Simpsons", you know you definitely made it as a bona fide celebrity status haha. With that said, the episode where Simu guest stars as Hubert is a must-see. Simu Liu definitely deserved the #1 spot on Toronto Life as "Most Influential". One of the most influential / popular globally as well. Billy Joel has songs or tracks that are not as known or not as aired / played on the radio back in the day. Usually, an artist's hits are only aired or played. It's fun finding these gems. But I've heard some of them on his "Greatest Hits" volumes. Thursday, November 17, 2022 So who is "Skinny" Vinny? haha. I usually don't watch any podcasts with guests I have no idea who they are, or if the topics of discussions are of no interest to me. But hey - I thought, there could be some fat jokes in there haha. Anyway - it turns out that he works for Steve-O's podcast, and does other stuff. Also, my favorite "Casino" scene - the "I Want Equal Amount Of Blueberries In Every Muffin" scene hahaha. And every couple fight / arguments / cussing out. The Barbell Brigade "Don't Be This Guy" scenarios are very much like how we act when we try on clothing at a department store. Too lazy to find the right rack to put it back, so we put it anywhere. But wait - there are floor employees that can do that as part of their job haha. Such is the tremendous influence of a star pianist or musician such as Lang Lang - he can make certain pieces very desirable to learn / play. And they turn out that way. Well, not everything - I still have no interest in any Debussy. Hahaha. Wednesday, November 16, 2022 Mac Eats doin' food challenges - coolness. Don't expect him to finish it all - he ain't a food eating competitor. But it's hella fun, hilarious and entertaining. Adding that to a channel is part of the creative process in new flavors or ideas. As endless as my appetite seems sometimes, I wouldn't be able to finish a 72 oz steak. Eat most of it? It depends, but even that I would doubt it. C-Mac's "Yeeeee Haaawww" is priceless haha. He is the real "C-Town Cowboy". Tuesday, November 15, 2022 The holiday season usually begins after Thanksgiving, but I guess it's never too early to start decorating or playing Christmas music. I wouldn't be surprised if some were already trying to be festive even after Halloween haha. I finally saw the Simu Liu episode for "Running Wild" - at least the host pronounces his name correctly haha. I grew up watching "Survivorman" and "Dual Survival" (for the laughs at least, and before the original two were ousted), and nothing else. Everything else are just inauthentic substitutes. Military personnel might have the training to "survive", but I highly doubt they know real / genuine survival skills. I'm beginning to believe that having "Primitive Skills" is more useful than most practical things today. Gaming Gurus never play in Easy Mode. Unfortunately, I'm not one of them. I'm currently battling my way through "Doom Eternal". There is a lot of jumping / dashing involved (to get one from one location to another) - double jump + double or single dash + latch & climb. It's as important as busting demons - otherwise, you'll never get anywhere. I'll eventually work my way to Nightmare mode. Is returning to WoW a possibility? Never say never - but highly doubtful. Monday, November 14, 2022 "Everything Everywhere All At Once" was a unique film - something actually different, which there has not been any in recent years. It is definitely a Game Changer - congratulations to both Daniels. If Ke Huy Quan is to be nominated (which he absolutely deserves for his nuanced / subtle or natural performance of multi-characters), he should be in the Best Actor category. There are no other male leads in there (James Hong was exceptional, but he wasn't in a lot of scenes so more supporting I guess). It doesn't make sense - but it is still a racist industry for sure. So he might not be nominated at all. Congratulations to Tim Chantarangsu for his upcoming second child. I'm having a tough time with just one. Sunday, November 13, 2022 *My condolences - RIP for the passing of Prof. Zhu Ya-Fen. I highly recommend reading Maestro Lang Lang's autobiography to find out more about Zhu Ya-Fen, and her influence in Lang Lang's life. Piece Of The Day - Lacrimosa, Requiem - W.A. Mozart "Blockbuster" was a funny, nostalgic ride that took us back to the days of VHS's, DVD's of the famous chain - not to mention hiding behind a genre section for hours haha. The last few episodes tidbits; the former-child actor-turned-drunk who ruined Blockbuster's Christmas Santa event for kids haha. Perhaps they should have thrown in a one-liner: "This Guy Should Have Been The Lead For 'Bad Santa' ". Wait - when he was a kid, did he really kick Emmanuel Lewis? haha. Or was it Gary Coleman or Doc Willis? They must all be related hahaha. I hope there's a second season - the ending of the last episode just left the door wide open for more. Sort of like a K-Drama leaving the viewers still not full after eating a semi-full plate of food. It deserves another season. Even if not, the humor and stories were well-worth it. How likely is a "Harold & Kumar 4" going to happen. Not anytime soon (if at all) - but slightly more likely than "The Goonies 2" ever happening. Saturday, November 12, 2022 Some more "Blockbuster" tidbits or notable scenes: Timmy comes in with his metal cash case ready for depositing, does his "Say Ello To My Liddle Fwehn!!" shtick haha, Eliza leaves to avoid him possibly rapping ( probably a reference to his "I Punched Keanu Reeves" hit hahaha), and then Timmy proceeds to spend most of the money on "Special Guy Day". Now that's special haha. Also - making fun of the real estate billboard tag line haha. I've been working out to one of them dancin' cardio videos. As they say - even if you can't dance, your body tends to naturally move with the rhythmn or beat. You work up a sweat once you get into it. Likewise, on a piano - my fingers will just move and play once I get into a piece. No other way to explain it. Studying or reading the notes is usually secondary - just details, scribbling-dibbling details, etc. Friday, November 11, 2022 Mad props to C-Mac, aka Mac Eats / Mac Talks. Canvassing or hustlin' on the streets all day, and now - hand deliverin' a customer's order personally. And what did he have to go through? A broken / malfunctioning hotel shower, long-ass connecting flights, and the customer appearing not to be at home in the first place haha. A few more episodes in for "Blockbuster". Some other hilarious scenes: the fat lady employee dancin' in the store after trippin' with some energy drinks. Timmy / Eliza separate dating fiascos, and Timmy / Percy ruminating letting out that "Who Let The Dogs Out" kind of barking hahaha. There are a lot of one-liners, the type of humor that "Cobra Kai" is infused with. Also - it has that "Office Space" vibe. I'm contemplating a piano solo rendition of Mozart's II. Romanze section of the famous Piano Concerto No. 20. My first attempt (upload) several years ago in hindsight, was a bit slow and uneven. It might to be time to re-awaken it, or the Adagio piece. Thursday, November 10, 2022 Thursday tidbits: Why the hell would anyone want to pay for a tiny, pixelated check mark (it's not even worth a penny). You'd be better off deleting the twitter account. With a few episodes in, "Blockbuster" is funny, fun and nostalgic so far. Scene Of The Day: one of the employees confuse the "Hungry Caterpillar" for the "Human Centipede" hahaha. Speaking of Randall Park, I'm keeping tabs on "Shortcomings" which he'll direct. Not sure which platform it'll be on, but might check it out. What other new projects he'll appear in. Wednesday, November 09, 2022 There haven't been any new updates regarding John Cho - I hope he has some new projects lined up. I'm sure it'll happen, I'll make sure to read / watch / listen about them. I think Simu Liu knows all too well about "mis-guided" or "inappropriate" humor (in fact, I consider his humor fine). Let's get real - everyone does it, and everyone is doing it. So an Asian Guy (w/ Simu a celebrity now) is not allowed to? Nah - I just give a calm "Fuck You" to our detractors and continue doing what I'm doing (and all Asians should as well). This is the only way to break free from stereotypes or conformity / submissiveness. Congratulations to Andy Kim! He's down-to-earth, relatable and actually works for the people. A very rare breed for a dem. I'm still against the 2-party system - too much self-interests and corruption. I prefer to avoid anything related to politics, but it's just as well to just make fun of them just for "fun" of it haha. I'm 'secretly' working on or practicing the Liszt "Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2". In any endeavor, it just takes patience, practice and potential. Sunday, November 06, 2022 Lazy Sunday Tidbits: I'm so lazy, the main reason I hate Daylight Savings Time so much is that I have to adjust clocks haha. Hahaha. But anyway - it might be nice for that extra sleep, but it throws off eating / napping / sleeping schedule of an infant. Speaking of lazy, I am usually lazy anyway. It's usually because of a complete lack of interest or motivation. In a Bobby Lee cackling voice (emotionless / apathetic) - "AAAA-yeeeeee don't give a damn". Except for music - I usually perk up right away and immerse myself. And our daughter - although I admit, I need to find more energy or creativity. I thought that the reason Sungwon Cho preferred wearing glasses is because he would look less fat haha. Joking aside, that would be my reasoning. As well as my glasses acting as another pair of eyes as compensation for my tininess. If Bobby Lee needed glasses, him as well haha. Saturday, November 05, 2022 Tropical Storm-level wind events happen once in awhile - but expect wind storms every year. With climate change, these things are becoming the norm unfortunately. It's been a wacky weather so far - summer like weather until mid-October, and all of a sudden - 360 degree change. Why don't we just dump La Nina already - where the hell is El Nino haha. We were spared this time - but not to say it wasn't windy (tropical storm force gusts hitting our house in all directions it seems). More Joyoung's tutorial service in learning pieces - practice habits. Consistency is important, but quality of them is more important. If you practice as if it were a chore / or no passion nor energy in them, practicing everyday is going to become more of a chore / burden and is counter-productive. Instilling passion / inspiration in learning an instrument or music is an endeavor or a challenge. There are many who do it for the wrong reasons - or their motivation is just to make money or have a career. Which is fine and dandy. At least never lose sight of what is also important. Thursday, November 03, 2022 Am I going to be in the proper 'state' of mind to watch "The Electric State" haha. But congratulations to Ke Huy Quan and for his next project. As usual - I'm cautious about these things, because I do not know how large or minimal a role is. Sometimes, it just might not be worth it. Ke can be seen in ABC (abbreviated, starring along with his EEAAO co-star), whenever that is released. Mendelssohn's "Rondo Cappricioso". I'm not sure what is said about Mendelssohn and his works - although I heard some are not very positive (in the lines of, not inspiring or generic melodies - although I might be mistaking for another composer). Perhaps to the casual listener. But you can find pieces that are fun and inspiring. Sometimes, that's all you need. You need to take a break from all the deep, heartfelt melodies sometimes and just enjoy something that is catchy or fun. For me - the "Rondo Cappricioso" plays out like a fairy tale or a fantasy piece - this is a pure fantasy piece in my opinion. Afterall - he composed the Wedding March for "Midsummer's Night Dream". Wednesday, November 02, 2022 I've been curious as to what Sung Kang has been up to. All I know is that he's been busy with his passion project in cars and re-modeling cars in his garage. Other than his stint or cameo in the Obi-Wan series, I have not heard any new projects from him at all. Other than that campy horror comedy. But I'm still keeping tabs on his status now and then, but good luck if he's only focused on cars at this point. Or continue directing / other projects. Growing up (mostly after my teens), I would usually put in a Billy Joel CD (Greatest Hits Volumes I-III) whenever I go on a road trip. Either that, or a Weird Al album / CD. Unfortunately, all my physical CDs have been thrown away long ago as part of cleaning house. These days, everything is digital. But for collectors - whether it's vinyl, CD, DVD or whatever - there's nothing like it. In terms of Classical Music - I prefer to have the sheet music than scrolling through a tablet. In the end, music is music and that is internal / eternal. Nothing can take that away, whether a physical copy or paper copy is thrown out. Mendelssohn's Spinning-Song was a fun piece - challenging, in terms of maintaining the piece at the proper tempo / pace. Next up for Mendelssohn - "Rondo Capriccioso". But that needs more time. I'm more looking forward to the K. 498 third movement. Tuesday, November 01, 2022 If Randall Park had TikTok, it's been removed / deleted. If Randall Park had any social media, they have been removed / deleted. I think any personalities that no longer update should do the same. With that said, Randall Park in "Blockbuster" is releasing soon or has it already. The irony of it all - it's Netflix that drove Blockbuster into bankruptcy. Had Blockbuster delved into the Online Streaming business, I'm sure that they could have competed well. In the end, nostalgia rules them all. Speaking of nostalgia - I'm sure some folks remember the Friday nights visiting your local Blockbuster, and renting from the porn/erotic section. Right, Bobby Lee? haha. Hate or love "The View", I just watch interviews that are worth watching. "Wandavision" is another show worth checking out, if I were subbed to the channel. Monday, October 31, 2022 Would a typical listener be able to differentiate between an Ocarina and a Flute if they heard it - I don't think so. It isn't easy, and I would probably confuse the two. They practically sound the same, and are too similar in sound. However, it is possible. I think Ocarinas have more of a subtle, warm sound to it. While the Flute might be a bit more sharper / crisper. Probably due to the shape and material of each. In the end, I would prefer Ocarinas for solo pieces or compositions. In an orchestra or symphony, probably a Flute. I always say, "If You Can't Pronounce It, Don't Announce It!". Non-Asians usually have trouble pronouncing Asian names - especially long-ass ones. You know what, "Just Call Me Bobby" in that case (even if I'm no longer fat) hahah. Sunday, October 30, 2022 I don't think much at all about what is taking up so much space on my disk / hard drive, except when you have to make room or space. Apparently, I need to find more space (at least 50 GB more) to download another game or two (Free-To-Play that is). One thing is for sure - no more subscription monthly fees for games. Gaming is no longer taking too much of my time - only for recreation now and then. I'll probably increase my practicing / playing time as a result - even then, I prefer to play sparingly or just whenever I'm inspired to. Friday, October 28, 2022 It's "Spooky Time", Indeed! Whoa, Whoa haha. Halloween is just around the corner - in case if anyone is even remotely interested haha. Nah - there's always room for candy, horror movies, and haunted houses. Andrew Huang and his collabs never ceases to amaze - Album In A Day, 100 Riffs, etc. That Yokel song - "I Left My Pants In Chicago". If they ever made a full parody replete with Banjo and the like, I'd download that haha. Thursday, October 27, 2022 Just because Simu Liu attends a premiere for a superhero movie, it doesn't mean that he has a cameo in it. I think he just likes to advertise them (whatever floats your boat I guess), since he's part of the superhero universe now. Also - "Shang-Chi 2" is 2 years away, so we won't be hearing anything about it in the immediate future (at least not until another year has passed). But hopefully there'll be rumors or leaks. I decided to quit / unsub WoW. It's been quite the journey. I would've tried uninstalling and re-installing the game, but even the Scan & Repair was stuck in an endless cycle with errors. Corrupted files, not smooth file transfers / patch updates, and the final straw - the important icons you click on to access game information / content at the bottom right corner were completely unclickable (greyed out). It appeared permanent (perhaps a corrupted file, but I'll never know). Blizzard Support never had the decency to even reply with: "Sorry, this is something we cannot help or assist you with" answer - no reply after two days. In the end - it was a sign for me to finally move on and find something else. The monthly subscription fees were adding up anyway. Blizzard Support has declined (apathy in its place), the quality of content has declined. It was time to leave. I'm sure there are other games that sell for less, with actually newer and enriching content. Wednesday, October 26, 2022 WoW Dragonflight pre-patch released yesterday, and already I found a possible "I'll have to quit / unsub" situation (for real this time). I'm probably the only one with this, because I have not seen or read any other players with an issue like this. Apparently, I cannot click on or open any of the "utmost important" icons that gives player access to the content in the game - group finders, PvP / PvE queue-ing, talents / character information access, Quest information, guild finder, Equipment / Bags, etc. These gives players access to actual game content. Without it, it is useless. It isn't the mouse - everything else is clickable / movable. This'll depend on Blizzard Support's reply or lack thereof. My time with WoW might finally be coming to an end. And I was just about to set up the Dragonflight web page. It might be, "Doom Eternal" here I come. I'm re-thinking whether I should stay subbed to some of the podcast channels. To be honest, I only subbed for just a few videos with certain personalities or types of discussions. It appears Doc Willis is not a mainstay on Bad Friends - I find myself not really watching them as a result. Perhaps I'm the only one who thinks a Bobby Lee vs. Doc Willis (both roasting and making fun of each other) is funny haha. Would you go to an Asian restaurant that didn't have actual Asian chefs or cooks? Hell no. Supervised underlings might be alright. Likewise - I would never bother reading / clicking, or just shrug off anyone trying to give advice or information as if they were full Asian or authentic Asian. Tuesday, October 25, 2022 So the McRib is apparently is going to go on a "farewell tour" of its own with its final appearance on 10/31. C'mon, McDonalds - you should have made it a permanent item on your damn menu haha. It's what everyone craves apparently, especially Tim Chantarangsu haha. Or the HFC. Dustin Nguyen in "Blade Of The 47 Ronin". I'm curious as to what that's about. Does Dustin have a juicy role - is he a villain, a hero, or one of the leads. Regardless - Dustin Nguyen usually plays kickass / badass characters. You can have good music and make videos out of it at the same time. Andrew Huang is the master of musical sarcasm, and has that wit that no one else can really match. I laugh my ass off most of the times. It is definitely a head-scratcher, a facepalm moment, or shaking my head moment. Monday, October 24, 2022 W.A. Mozart's K. 498a third movement (Rondo) is quite dynamic - looking forward to that. Thoughts on the uploaded recording for the second movement at another time on My Classical Piano Blog. Mozart's music is beautiful and catchy not only in the melody but also in the rhythm / beat / phrasing. Which is why K. 332 is one of my favorite Sonatas, and one of the uploads I'm happy with. Sunday, October 23, 2022 Lazy Sunday tidbits: You gotta like / favorite a Video Game Pianist stream when: it's over 1 hour at least, or if he includes a Banjoe-Kazooie intro theme (dancing not required haha). Joking aside, they are all worth listening to. Bobby Lee is also the "Lazy Guy", "Fat Guy" and "Hobbit Guy" haha. I might no longer believe in love. But the other emotions or acts however: voluntary empathy / sympathy, kindness, generosity - they are still viable. Exception to the rule is Tim Chantarangsu's new Tee (what I call, "Love Sign Language" haha. He appears to be quite the "artiste" as well hahaha.). See pic below: 
Saturday, October 22, 2022 So Elton John recently had a concert in Tacoma, just 2 hours away from where I live. Did not know that, and it was part of his farewell tour in this continent. Billy Joel and Elton John are two icons of rock music with songs that fans can just sing over and over. Over and over. It's that influential. Music can touch a person's soul, and no - it's not only to make money for the superficial at heart (if they have one that is haha). Melodies or lyrics that can move or inspire you (eternally) - that's on par with a lot of Classical pieces in the Classical world. That's what I truly call "genius" (a term everyone uses very loosely these days - it's lost its meaning). If there was a Music Heaven, they would be up there with the Classical Composers. I would also add Joe Hisaishi. With that said - "Your Song" and "I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues" are some favorites. It's a type of music you secretly sing-a-long with, but won't admit to it. Back in the day, it used to be "not cool" or "not hip" to listen to artists like them. We had to listen to what they consider "cool" - metal, rap, hip / hop, alternative or other crap like that. These days - whatever inspires or moving to me, I'll enjoy or like whatever the artist. But modern music - that is a rarity or non-existent. You have to find / listen to hidden Youtube musicians, not the pampered / showcased ones. So Autumn or Fall weather finally arrived - we'll be soaked for awhile. Thursday, October 20, 2022 I think Henry Cho should upload his standup clips to a Youtube channel haha. I'd have a new playlist right there. Speaking of standup, I'm curious if Jimmy O. Yang has any new clips or videos. It's been awhile. Although after doing a search, Jimmy O. Yang is set to star in "Interior Chinatown"; about an Asian Guy looking for leading roles. Sounds like an all-too-real situation / scenario - where in reality, that has been rare or non-existent due to racism / stereotypes. It's been slowly progressing / changing these days. I've heard of Cefaan Kim - he's quite the reporter. He puts himself out there in the frontlines, sometimes becoming a target / victim of the same racism he reports. He goes out there with pride and confidence - unwavering and uncompromising. That's the ticket - knowing that you might be a target, just going out there and having that sense of responsibility / obligation to report news for the audience. Congratulations, well-deserved awards. Wednesday, October 19, 2022 The Video Game Pianist is one busy guy - as a pianist or marathoner / runner now (as well as learning new things) haha. As long as there are updates. If it has been almost a year or more since updates, usually the social media or platform is abandoned. It warrants removal / unsubbing / deletion of course. Simu Liu is set to Executive Produce and star in "7 Wonders" for Amazon Prime. I think this platform is going to give Netflix a run for its money eventually. This is something to look forward to. Simu Liu is also one busy guy - actor, superhero, author, survivalist, dancer, jokester and now exec. producer haha. Tuesday, October 18, 2022 Highlights of the road trip - water park (slides / hella long waits for one of them), food (breakfast buffet every morning), hotel pool and hot tub, waterfront / burger & whiskey eatery. I don't think I've had a tastier burger so far than the spicy pepper one (I'm sure there are more out there). So I ended up enjoying the trip. It's never easy for me to go out to a new place or trying new things. I'm just a "stick with what's comfortable or familiar" kinda guy. That, and just being away from crowds. But for the sake of our kid, my wife / family life, it was necessary. As much as we can annoy each other, I was very happy that my wife and infant daughter had a good time (despite my anxieties and issues still showing at times). So now - I feel more open to going on another trip. But I can become complacent and not-in-the-mood again, which is always ominous. With the second and third movements from Piano Sonata No. 26 needing more time, I might have another surprise piece in store. Not going to say much, except that it is from one of the Big 3 composers. With nothing innovative these days, nostalgia / reunions are always nice. I haven't seen the "Back To The Future" reunions in awhile - not since the Josh Gad experience (check out his George McFly impersonation / impression - eerily same. You'd think it was the actor himself just by hearing it). Ke Huy Quan's reunion with the stage where the Pirate Ship scene was filmed from "The Goonies". Nostalgia. Friday, October 14, 2022 When Steebee Weebee's trip to the Laundromat (or "Laundry Mat"? haha) is the only exciting / worthwhile podcast content recently, it's time to go on a road trip. Other than Bobby Lee fraternizing with the locals, eating snacks (balut), and learning what "You're Fat" in Philippine language. I pretty sure that's what he meant actually. C'mon - On The Road Again? More like, Bobby is Gettin' Fat Again haha. Speaking of road trips, I haven't been out of the house extensively in several years or more. I'm usually not one to try new things or experience new things - so it's usually a hell naw in going to this place or that. If you're stuck in your comfort zone, you'll never grow out of it. I guess it's a lesson to be learned. It's Friday, and the trip is almost over - time just go by too quick when you don't think about it. So far - I can't deny that's it's been like a real vacation for once since leaving home on this trip. And the food is always highlights of any trip. Final thoughts next time. Monday, October 10, 2022 I think Sungwon Cho could have a second career as a freestyle rapper or musician haha. I definitely recommend his brief freestyle "Taking A Fat Shit After Eating A Double Big Mac". Yul Moldauer as an alternate - does it mean that he just made the cut, or didn't but was accepted as an insurance. Either way, he's talented enough to be on the team anyway. Good luck to Yul and the US Team. Gymnastics, Synchronized Swimming and even pro wrestling. They are more authentic sports than others haha. Other than the four famous Piano Sonatas (Moonlight, Pathetique, Appassionata, Hammerklavier), if a pianist can delve into Beethoven's 32 Piano Sonatas - I'm sure they can find a treasure of melodic / emotionally powerful pieces. I have yet to find more. But in the meantime - No. 26 is highly underrated, and should be showcased / played more (in my opinion). But you can stick with Moonlight or Pathetique if that floats your boat. More thoughts at another time. Sunday, October 09, 2022 Lazy Sunday tidbits:
Saturday, October 08, 2022 Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 26 is my surprise piece. A surprise, because it wasn't initially planned. But I ended up practicing it more and more. It's an emotionally powerful piece that tells a story or feels like a journey (like so many other pieces from various composers). This piece, and J.S. Bach's "Goldberg Variations" (and a few other pieces) - I would confidently be able (as well as the desire) to play in front of an audience (whether it's just one, two, a few or many). Although I have not much experience in. More thoughts on the Classical Piano blog at another time. But for now - I am working on finishing the Piano Sonata, the second and third movements (which are connected in a way, or transitions seamlessly as if it were one movement. The "Waldstein" is another one that comes to mind). Friday, October 07, 2022 A person might have an insignificant glitch / blemish in their social life or whatnot, but any person with that blemish should just shrug it off and continue to focus on their own happiness / success. I hope Simu Liu is doing that, for his mental health's sake haha. Simu is on the rise, and becoming more successful (hopefully happy to) and busy than a lot. And that says a lot. Most would just salivate for the spotlight and attention - perhaps that was the motivation. Just be very wary or cautious of who you hook up with - they might just use you for the spotlight. Fortunately, it didn't work this time haha. It goes without saying - I follow or a fan of / support personalities because they are genuinely either funny, entertaining or both. Or even relatable. But - it does not mean that I agree with their thoughts or have similar tastes. In fact - I hate the shit that they like and vice versa - they hate the shit that I like or find good (whether it's a movie, show, or other). If you find yourself having to agree or like everything the person you support or are a fan of likes, it's better to just unsub / unfollow and find someone else. Because there are plenty of talents out there. But hey - there might be situations that a person just might apparently have similar tastes and likings. I just avoid / ignore any shit that I hate. Being a reject all my life (perhaps due to my small, mongoloid head? haha - but the reality is, folks are shallow like that). I guess I'm not familiar with "break ups" and whatnot. However brief they might be - it is hilarious in a sense. But make sure to dump their asses first haha. Thursday, October 06, 2022 I was able to watch at least two films from my list: "Everything Everywhere All At Once" and "Don't Make Me Go". It'll have to do. There is nothing else, except for shows on platforms such as Netflix - Alice in Borderland S2, Blockbuster, Beef. I'm still on the look-out for any new Asian-American projects in film, but it has quieted down and I haven't heard anything new or worthwhile. *Tidbits from the new Tigerbelly podcast with Chase "Corleone" Cokaliong. Chase looks fatter than Bobby, but apparently - Bobby Lee is lookin' fat again. Or was he just hiding that double chin / no neck haha. Oh yeah - "Pump Up The Sphincter". Right, Baby Bobby? haha. What a joke. "How many inches are in a foot?" Bobby's reply: "There are 9 inches on my foot". Call him the Asian Bluto - "I'm a Zit. Get it?!" Wednesday, October 05, 2022 I'm looking forward to Randall Park in "Blockbuster", releasing on 11/03/22 on Netflix. It's about that nostalgic Blockbuster VHD / DVD chain - more specifically, the last Blockbuster store during the time when the chain was becoming bankrupt or obsolete (the era of online streaming taking over). Randall Park also has other projects, directing "Shortcomings" with Justin H. Min and he'll be in the Ant-Man sequel (as if I ever heard of that character - my gawd, what won't the MCU come up with next. Turd Man? haha). I'm curious as to what role Ke Huy Quan has in Loki S2. I used to wonder how pianists can play without looking at the keyboard, or just play as if they were in another realm or reality, or in a dream-state. I sort of have an understanding now. On the surface, memorizing the piece is a reason - but still, almost all pianists are going to be looking at the keys (including myself - mostly the sheet music for me haha). When a pianist is into the music and just let the melody flow, your fingers just naturally plays the notes. This is natural / relaxed playing. There is no other way to explain it. You can even close your eyes. A lot of us are not at the stage yet, but only Maestro Lang Lang can. What's my surprise piece? It's something I haven't really talked about, but have been saving it. That is all. The "Dudes Behind The Foods" impressions are spot-on. Check out their Jello Pudding guy impression, and now Tracy Morgan haha - *with pouty lips, "Baw. Pawk. Fwanks!!" Tuesday, October 04, 2022 "It's A Small World" is an iconic song, and ride / exhibit at Disney's Epcot Center (or somewhere in Disneyland haha). I believe it can be played either way convincingly - either as a solo piece or with an orchestra. It's just that with an orchestra or symphony, there could be more flavors / possibilities in terms of hearing different instruments and sounds that they make. If somebody is going to play it as a solo piece, it has be approached with a plan in mind. It's not easy to do it on a piano - only a Lang Lang can. But then again - whatever floats your boat. Sometimes, just a simple approach is enough for some. But it wouldn't be as appealing, as it can be done by practically everyone. I'm most similar to Bobby Lee (except not that stubby or fat - he's losing weight however) - ADHD / OCD, incel or unappealing, hate physical contact now, not giving a rat's ass about things, etc. As Asian Guys, we are somewhat products of what we went through or experience in life, but Bobby's experiences have been more extreme / different in that sense. And he's also famous and well-liked. How much Bobby actually lies or says untruths - I do not give a rat's ass. I just take them with a grain of salt, and accept them as truths. Because they might be truths to others. Fortunately for me - I use music as an outlet / therapy, and to share. Everyone should have some kind of purpose. I'm also a Munko follower / believer. Sunday, October 02, 2022 The new Wifi card did the trick. Although I should have gotten it when the first symptoms of card issues surfaced (internet loading problems when other devices were fine), it is difficult to tell sometimes whether it could just be a temporary hiccup or not. My desktop is practically a new system now - except the casing and power supply. I would like to replace it with something more compact or lighter. It goes without saying - two essential components in a system is the Wifi / Network card and Nvidia GeForce RTX series (CPU and memory are givens I think). Keep tabs on them. Coincidentally, I was able to watch John Cho's new film "Don't Make Me Go" on Amazon Prime (after purchasing the card). Thoughts on the film in Film Forum page. *Donnie Yen's films "Raging Fire" and new film , "Come Back Home" look absolutely epic and blockbuster material. It's about damn time - Justice For Vicha! Friday, September 30, 2022 Right now - it's between either Mendelssohn's "Spinning Song" or "Rondo Capriccioso" for the next upload. Or even a surprise piece. I might look for more Brahms as well. I think Bobby Lee is more disproportionate in his legs (so am I), but I guess they're all dwarf-like haha. I'm enjoying Bobby Lee's newfound confidence, swag and - immediate Two-Face haha. He says that he'll never date again, and then immediately "tries" dating ("Tries" is the operative word. Bobby Lee needs to be careful of this fetish he has, since the problems / racisms of how Asian Guys are perceived still exist today). He says that "It's Not Me" and he does not like caressing, cuddling and then he says he's in the mood sometimes. When I say that I'm not into something or when I dislike something, I mean it. But he does readily share with no shame that he watches porn (perhaps with Pee Wee Johnson at a theater haha), hates skydiving, and loves video games haha. Thursday, September 29, 2022 Do I Like Brahms? I do now haha. Sometimes, you can find beauty in most melodies - even if on the surface it appears to be abstract, non-linear or dissonant. Not every melody has to be heavenly to be beautiful. Disney songs have that charm. Have a listen to Lang Lang's new album. I only knew Coolio from Weird Al's parody "Amish Paradise" - now that I know the lyrics to haha. It's unfortunate that Coolio never gave permission for the parody, but I wonder if he's at peace with it now. I might have to get a new Wifi card. Wednesday, September 28, 2022 I think wedding ceremonies (especially extravagant ones) are only for show and attention. It isn't necessary, but to each their own. Just bring your parents, a pastor, and go to that "Chapel Of Love" or some simple chapel to get married haha - or to a marriage court to get legally married. You get it done fast, and there you have it. Speaking of chapels, they usually have nice acoustics and would be an ideal place to play or perform a piece like the "Goldberg Variations". You know, that place with the huge-ass organ haha. I guess it's a fantasy of mine. Perhaps Hurricane Ian should be renamed to Hurricane Candy or Hurricane Nikocado haha. Storm surge? It's the HFC jumping into the ocean. But joking aside, this is one serious hurricane. Climate change is real, and these things are going to happen more frequently if things don't improve climate-wise. It's everywhere. Speaking of candy, I used to look forward to Halloween not just for horror movies, but a reason to buy candy for myself haha. Congratulations to Felix Zhang for getting a perfect score and making history on his AP Calculus exam. The stereotype of Asians being Math gurus continue. But still - it's an achievement and something to be proud of. As for me, I failed Remedial / Rebo Math haha. I joined the Chorus in high school as an extracurricular activity only. I knew I was mocked / snickered at by classmates for lacking a singing voice. My voice is soft-ass for sure. I'm not tone deaf though. Fast forward to present day, I am very happy that I cultivated my passion for Classical Piano / Repertoire at least. Tuesday, September 27, 2022 If you want a new, in-depth interview of Yuji Okumoto aka Chozen (from "The Karate Kid, Part II"), here is a new one from Patrick Epino aka National Film Society - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwJLel7Qsog Patrick pulls no punches in asking questions that wouldn't be asked in mainstream. How did you get those massive pecs? How often did you get the stereotypical "You can speak english well!" reaction because of this role? What was the audition process like for "True Believer"? I recommend watching "Free Choel Soo Lee" for "true" authenticity however. We visited Yuji's restaurant Kona Kitchen several years ago - when "The Paper Tigers" was in development stage (extras auditioning, location scouting, etc). I definitely wish to re-visit it, but having a baby - we haven't been eating out in restaurants (food courts don't count haha). Hopefully one of these days. Monday, September 26, 2022 I am hyped for "Alice In Borderland" S2 - this was the original in concept / idea, and executed well with a lot of tension / action. It's been several years in the making, and it's about time. I'm lookin' out for more trailers. So did Simu Liu lose Celebrity Jeopardy but at least advanced to the semi's? According to fans or followers, they make it sound as if Simu won or something. But Simu clearly stated "Not me winning". So this is my take - although Simu lost the game, he "at least" advanced to the Semis. Otherwise - I have no idea since I don't watch game show crap. Sunday, September 25, 2022 Sunday tidbits: The way the HFC says "Finger-Lickin' " deee-licious hahaha - perhaps the KFC bucket image of the Colonel should be replaced with HFC's mug with the slogan, "So Fat" instead of "So Good" haha. What do you get when you combine the Forward Party with the Yang Gang? The Forward Gang! haha. Lame joke. But joking aside, the Forward Party is the real deal. Didn't Simu Liu already buy his parents a new car or automobile? Or perhaps his parents are just window shopping and trying out a tessie. I would never buy from that weird-shaped head, balding "Guy" either. Daniel Dae Kim is an eloquent speaker. I haven't heard any updates from Daniel Dae Kim, but I heard he'll be speaking at a Dr. Phillip Jaishon event. Perhaps I only recently visited his social media. The Solo Shuffle Showdown - thoughts on the WoW page after watching the tournament. It might entice me to trying it out eventually - although I just stick with BG's. Saturday, September 24, 2022 When learning an instrument or music, online tutorials can be helpful. In this digital age, I wouldn't be surprised if in-person lessons become obsolete one of these days. However - there are benefits to learning live, as opposed to online. It would behoove me to create a lesson plan / or a tutorial of my thoughts or instructions on approaching the piano or learning pieces (classical). But I would be more inclined to be interested in individual tutoring if at all. Just random thoughts, nothing organized or definite at all. I would either recommend music institutions such as the Lang Lang School or Institution Of Music to learn, or even the VGP as an instructor. They provide their own insights, and fun / easier ways to learn without it being too didactic / uninspiring (as old society is). I picked up Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody No. 6 again. This time - slowly. This is the mistake of all pianists - thinking they need to play a piece at tempo right away when first learning. The melody might be addicting or flowing, but don't get too carried away by it. Things need to be taken slowly at first, to get your hands or fingers to adjust to the pacing and to play things evenly. That's another Tip Of The Day from JYS online tutoring service. But this is something almost everyone is going to say anyway, so it's nothing new or revolutionary. More thoughts on the Hungarian Rhapsodies on my Classical Piano Blog at another time. Friday, September 23, 2022 Hey, Andrew Huang - is "parallel processing" just as difficult as "parallel parking"? haha. Never heard of it, but what a concept / idea. But c'mon - at least everyone is terrible at parallel parking, unless you park for a living haha. Since there is nothing worthwhile to watch or just nothing interesting recently, some Youtube docu-series or documentaries might be ideal. Wakaji Matsumoto - an unsung Artist / Photographer from history. Thanks, Janmdotorg - they also have panels, discussions based on their museum and cultural history. Thursday, September 22, 2022 It's nice to see updates on Aaron Takahashi's baby daughter. Sherilyn is definitely one of the cuter babies out there. I haven't seen Aaron Takahashi in any commericials recently, considering he is the "Commercial Guy" (make us Asian-Americans proud). And no - 1 second appearances do not count. That's a damn shame - I would've turn them down. Unless you were paid well (four or five figure salary for a few second appearance - it's like being paid for doing nothing. And then life is ghoooooood I guess haha). Overall, Lang Lang's "Disney Book" is a nostalgic, stellar album for all ages to listen. Anticipate quite a few virtuosic / unique arrangements, and videos that stand out. I might have arranged / played "A Whole New World" a bit faster, with less divergence. Sometimes - a piece or a song can be arranged differently in a variation or improvisational form. The reasoning can be as simple as because there are already a lot of pianists playing it the same way (with a few minor differences). I mean really - how many times have I seen sheet music of a song or piece arranged by somebody, and is very similar or same as others haha. Nuthin' like the feeling of your baby saying their first words (however unpredictable it might be) - "da-da", and recently, "ma-ma". Wednesday, September 21, 2022 I listened to most of Lang Lang's "Disney Book" album. The Poppins Fantasy medley is a virtuosic arrangement - it has that Liszt feel. For me - it has that right / appropriate pacing, rhythm and the themes from that film are prevalent or can be heard clearly. *It's Halloween season - time to get yer haunt on haha. I prefer to visit real haunted houses (although almost all of them need town approval or private property) - but the list for haunted attractions changes every year it appears. Check out hauntworld. Quote Of The Day: "I'm a basketball player. My Name Is Jeremy Lin" - Mac Eats. Mine too (or So am I), hahaha. We Asians are all "Jeremy Lins", because he's famous and the muthafuckas can't tell us apart anyway haha. Uh - what is basketball, by the way? (serious question). Tuesday, September 20, 2022 D-So and Ed Park tackle on some heavy or serious topics / subject matters sometimes. I usually listen / watch podcasts to laugh - usually one of Bobby Lee's podcasts or a Tim Chantarangsu / D-So foodie collaboration. Ed Park always tells it like it is - since he experienced what it's like to be mis-treated as an Asian Guy (or on the receiving end of racism). Of course - the idea to condemn an entire race from a few bad apples or racists is something not to do. I've had that mentality when I was much younger, but it really doesn't exist anymore. Or course - there is nothing wrong with just supporting or hanging out with your own (the reality is - even the most normal or regular person is mostly going to support their own). However - we shouldn't overlook the fact that other races have supported us big time as well. And how about their conversation on the overuse or reliance of plastic surgery in K-Pop or in K-Actresses in general. It's a damn shame. I think it should end at coloring your hair or heavy makeup. Altering your facial structure - there are some serious self-esteem issues there. It goes as far back as Michael Jackson I guess - but he blamed on a disease. Monday, September 19, 2022 Yesterday's run through of the entire "Goldberg Variations" (with repeats) felt more natural and relaxed, less tiring. Fortunately, I don't have to re-learn them again yet. In fact, I want to do a re-do of just a few - 1 and 5 in particular. But sometimes, you can't replicate a practice session. The takes don't turn out as well as when one is practicing sometimes. It's all about being relaxed in the mind and heart at any moment. This piece is a metaphor for my life's journey in a way, and it's a permanent part of my repertoire. I highly recommend Lang Lang's videos on it for in-depth insights, his experiences, and performances which inspired me to learn the piece. Gotta appreciate Henry Cho comedy or humor: When yer in the middle of watching something (sporting event, movie, other, etc. - or just Guy Time or Alone Time) and yer wife interrupts: "Hey Henry, which do you like?" "Yes - I like that" More questions. "No, I don't like it". More questions. "Sheesh, Woman. Whatever gets you the hell outta the room!" hahaha. Sunday, September 18, 2022 I have yet to listen to the entire "Disney Book" album from Lang Lang. So far, my favorites are "Rainbow Connection", "We Don't Talk About Bruno" and "Beauty And The Beast". "The Rainbow Connection" being my top favorite - this piece (to me) has just the right ingredients of a beautiful melody, dynamics / rhythm or pacing, and that sensation of 'unfulfillable yearning / longing' without getting overly sentimental. Akin to Mozart's Flute and Harp Concerto. And J.S. Bach's Aria. I think the power of music is that it can be felt or interpreted in many ways. For me - I need to hear the main melody or line clearly throughout the piece. Ornaments and improvisation is fine, as it long it does not overtake the melody. Saturday, September 17, 2022 Andrew Huang never ceases to amuse / amaze with his musical creations and sounds. I have no idea about a lot of the weird gear, new equipment stuff since I'm not into music production. And I certainly have no idea about abstract / advanced theory stuff - "phyrigian frenetication " or whatever - sounds like a made-up word or phrase. But it probably is a real term. Gotta check out "Dust and Dewdrops". I can't deny the "beauty" in Maestro Lang Lang's new music video - it seamlessly integrates the animated film with the music, to make a beautiful video flow seamlessly or timelessly (dare I say artistically) . Lang Lang has seemingly done it all in the Classical world - he has crossed over or collaborated with rock music, pop music and now Disney music! I'll be one of the few to say that I'm not into Disney songs, but they have a type of charm / sentimentality that everyone possesses. Otherwise - why would everyone want to visit Disneyland in the first place? haha. Friday, September 16, 2022 It's been awhile since Nobuyuki Tsujii has uploaded his performances - any or all is fine. The most recent - several Chopin pieces, including a Piano Concerto. Probably as rare as the VGP uploading or streaming nowadays. Congratulations on Maestro Lang Lang's new album, "The Disney Book" which is releasing today. Again - I prefer Hisaishi Studio Ghibli music as my go-to music. But I can't deny that Disney songs are sentimental. Some of them are too sentimental / melodic, that I have to avoid them. Such is the case with a few pieces that can get overwhelmingly emotional (Liszt's Concert Etude "Il Lamento" is one of them - too emotionally powerful for me). Well, I was hoping for Mulan's "Reflections" as his official video to celebrate the release (if that song was part of the album). But I'm currently having fun with these pieces: Brahms, Capriccio Op.116 No. 3 G Minor Mendelssohn, Spinning-Song Mendelssohn, Rondo Capriccioso Thursday, September 15, 2022 Mendelssohn's "Rondo Capriccioso" is another new piece I'm excited about. Not sure if this'll be ready before the Brahms' piece, or vice versa. Either way - that Mendelssohn piece unfolds like a fairy tale to me. One melodic motif / theme leading into another one - like a fantasy scene in a fairy tale progressing into another one. And now, some more tips from Joyoung's "Playing With Purpose / Passion" Tutoring Service haha. Well - a made up name if I ever were to tutor or teach. The title is straight-forward as to the reasons why. A lot of music teachers only teach for the sake of teaching, or to make money. While they might be very knowledgeable, sometimes being too didactic or structured might not be the most effective method. It is not to say however, just to do whatever in any way. There always must be structure for sure - for any first-time or aspiring teachers, this is a new experience. Here is brief, straight-forward tip: "Approach or look at a piece as a whole, and not as individual notes (especially when learning). Fine-tuning or polishing the notes can come later after familiarizing or being comfortable with the structure, and melody of the piece as a whole. That way, recognizing patterns become much easier. Patterns, whether it is in a supporting melody or main melody, exist in almost every piece (unless it is an improvisational type)". How to effectively play fast runs or lines that are mostly chords of all types. This is still something I'm trying to figure out myself. Wednesday, September 14, 2022 Perhaps the HFC can help finish Erik The Electric's giant slice of cake - or eat an entire slice for him haha. Well, I enjoy cake myself - cupcakes, birthday cakes, any sugary goodness. I don't really eat much dessert anymore (but snacks unfortunately, are still addictive). But whenever I can, I'll eat 'em fo' sho'. My blogs are usually nothing more than commentary on anything funny on social media, from any that I'm subbed to or follow. Or news / updates on Asian-American personalities whom I support. I don't really blog much about myself. There is nothing to blog about anyway, when I'm practically just an empty shell. Devoid of emotions or any "giving a crap" kind of deal. The only thing that keeps me going are my loved ones (family), and classical music / piano (also - supporting the Asian-American movement across all industries). Music evokes emotions out of me. Perhaps I can't say that I'm completely devoid of any emotions or care. It might only come out once I play certain pieces. But that's about it. Brahms' Capriccio Op.116 No. 3 G Minor might be almost ready. The power of music - once you can let the melody flow through you, your fingers can automatically hit the notes sometimes. I don't even really think about it anymore. Nobody should think too much about it. I still play / practice the "Goldberg Variations" - it can never get tiring. Perhaps physically (with repeats), all of them. Tuesday, September 13, 2022 Mac Eats, Mac Talks, Mac Collabs, Mac Freestyles, Mac "Pan Handles" haha - lovin' it. NY PIzza used to be considered the standard or benchmark of all Pizza's. I used to live in NY - not the city. I was addicted to their Pizzas - devouring a pie faster than the "Cobra Kai" kids grabbing slices from a party hahaha. I'm not sure what happened, but I'm not surprised at all if the quality has gone down. Nothing is ever the way it used to be any longer. I haven't played / practiced much since I've been watching Cobra Kai S5 and related interviews, etc. But I have been "practicing" in my head - essentially, thinking about the melodies, and "air playing" that is. Monday, September 12, 2022 A-Ha's "Take On Me" is the ideal Karaoke song for sure 'a-hahaha', just as Survivor's "Eye Of The Tiger" is the ultimate radio / song to rock to while driving. Sungwon Cho - the undisputed "Take On Me Challenge" song guru (except for that Take On Me Challenge Guy who did it in multiple octaves higher - insanity). Fortunately, cooler / cleaner air. The wiIdfire wasn't close to us, but from afar or distance - it might have appeared so. Anyway, I hope the last of the heat wave has passed - old man winter might not spare us however. Not looking forward to it - there might be a lot of cold spells again next year. I haven't practiced / played in awhile, but I'll be back to Brahms and Mendelssohn again. Currently, my focus repertoire (and others). Sunday, September 11, 2022 I'm glad to hear that Ke Huy Quan is set to appear in "Loki" S2. That is news - although he finished up work in ABC (abbreviated - another show). The success of "Everything Everywhere All At Once" and Ke's performance in that film - I hope they build a career for Ke. As they say - it's never too late to have one as long as you're still alive. Saturday, September 10, 2022 I would like to find and play more Asian-themed pieces from Asian composers (Hisaishi, Tan Dun, etc.). It'll take awhile to find them, but I'm sure they are out there. "Jasmin Flower" is a beautiful piece. Music can sometimes make or break a film, show or program. That's how powerful it is - depending on the nature of the film or show, it can either ramp up tension / suspense, or just put you to sleep if it's lousy haha. "Jaws" is an example - minimalist music, and "The Shark Is Not Working" actually made the film work. Remember - always 'shake well' a "Shakewell" for maximum potency haha. Did Bobby Lee just notice that Shakewell looked like a Hippo? haha. Can't be worse than lookin' like a Hobbit. Hey Bobby Lee - perhaps you should spend more time with your pal Pee Wee Johnson at your local theater haha. Bobby's certainly the "Slept King" - he'll fall asleep anywhere, anytime haha. Friday, September 09, 2022 Cobra Kai Season 5 is here - watch it, or Chozen is going to "keep you for his collection - in a body bag" haha. Has it been one hundred episodes of "The Good Doctor" already? I completely forgot about it, as I don't watch network tv anymore. Most content I watch are either from Youtube, online independent stuff, or Netflix streaming (very selective stuff for me however haha). Two shows on Netflix to look forward to: Steven Yeun in "Beef", and Randall Park in "Blockbuster". Where can I download Money Mark's "What Would Jesus (or Buddha, God, Vishnu for that matter haha) Won't Do"? Perhaps a Bobby Lee insinuation in there haha. Wednesday, September 07, 2022 Everything is becoming digital - streaming, or other digital services are what is becoming the norm. But sometimes - there is nothing like having a physical copy. Whether it's a CD, DVD, LP / Vinyl - collectors know it all too well. While most musicians / pianists might be alright with just a tablet, having the actual paper copy of the sheet music / score of various composers is irreplaceable . In the end however, music is within or internal. It is just in written form on paper. Or in a digital form on a tablet. Or whatever. So let's be clear. Fat "Ladies" (Lizzo) can actually sing. Fat "Guys" (Ricky Shucks) can actually dance. Fat "Things" (HFC, Nikocado) can actually eat! hahaha. I think Steebee Weebee and Jeremiah need their own infomerical channel or show haha - they definitely get the most out of ad breaks on their channel (for once, I watch through them rather skipping). Whether they are a typical Football Meat Head fan, a Coreano Loco or Vato, or a "southern hostile" Hillbilly, they do it all haha. Sunday, September 04, 2022 Fortunately, there's been an influx of some lazy Sunday / juicy tidbits from social media (sprinkled throughout last week however). Here is the culmination:
1. Tire Busters fiasco ("Oh, it's sir now?!!"). New slogan: Tire Busters - Where We Literally "Bust" Your Tires haha. 2. Fat Lady At The Drive-Thru Wants Her Sauce 3. Staples Customer Lady Pissed That Print Center Lady Did Not Know How To Do Print Outs And Abuses Her haha. Saturday, September 03, 2022 I used to hate Avocado growing up. I don't mind it now - I have Avocado / Runny Egg toast often in fact. But I get Ricky Shucks - the soft, creamy texture when you bite into it / combined with the subtle taste isn't something that appealing. What I don't get is how Guy Fieri can hate eggs in all forms (well, I hate hard boiled eggs - Yuck). You're tellin' me, after all these years, seasons and all of them breakfast / brunch episodes of "Diners, Drive-Ins, And Dives", there hasn't been one dish, meal or concoction that didn't have eggs in them? That's difficult to believe, unless Thai (oops, I meant Guy) specifically ordered before every episode "no eggs" haha. "National Cinema Day" is useless to me, for this year at least. Two points - other than "Easter Sunday" (which my wife already watched), or re-watching "Everything Everywhere All At Once" again in theaters, there isn't anything else worth watching. $3.00 is still too much for these crap-tastic films - I would not want to watch them even for free. Fuck no. Secondly - we can't take our infant into theaters anyway. So there. Hey, Jonathan Park - Bobby Lee called you a disgrace. Wanna challenge him to a softball or a wrasstlin' match? haha. Friday, September 02, 2022 Aww, 'Shucks'. Ricky Shucks got moves, I guess Fat Guys can dance too hahaha. And oh yeah - he hates Avocado. I can write an essay on that haha. I think Tigerbelly should be re-named to "The Three Stooges" (Bobby "I Look Like A Hobbit" Lee, "Flat Face / Fucked Up Legs" Gilbert, "Plain / Always Cut Off My Mic" George haha). Especially if they plan to phase out "I Don't Have Titties" Khalila - get rid of / re-do the logo also. Speaking of the new episode - how often do non-Asians mistake an Asian for another Asian. For example, Bobby Lee - "Hey, it's Roger Chan! Roger Chan! - over here!!". Oh, and Roger Chan (oops I mean, Bobby Lee) - absolutely kick out Rudy. She's givin' you attitude, but living off of your hospitality at home? *Shaking my head. It's nice to finally see Munkos in action - especially through film or skits. The Munko army is growing. Roll call - Hong, Solomon, Pinka. Who else wants to step up to the plate. More thoughts / opinions of the new films on my Munko Choe fan page. Wednesday, August 31, 2022 It's been awhile since we had a nice picnic at a park - there's just been too many heat waves. I'm not patient enough to troubleshoot issues effectively, especially computer network / internet ones. Sometimes - you have to cover all bases, do your due diligence and eventually the answer or resolution can just appear or happen. Our impulse is usually to call for service. It's maddening, but issues can go on for days or can be resolved right away. For internet connection issues - the first thing I do is check for outages. If alright, then I reset / restart the modem. If issue persists, call ISP to boost signal or other options. If issue persists, remove / re-add network, do searches for answers (although I cannot trust a lot of what's out there). Last resort is usually the LAN or Wireless card in the PC (out-dated drivers, hardware). I might need to upgrade it eventually. My focus now is mainly Brahms and Mendelssohn. Sunday, August 28, 2022 There haven't been any social media / lazy Sunday tidbits unfortunately - which means, no activities or nothing worthwhile these days. Podcasts have been few and far between in terms of worth listening to or watching, the ones I'm subbed to have been undergoing a lull or just stuff I would not be interested in. But that's just me - they have tons of viewers who are. Well - I'm always on the lookout for new or interesting ones. The problem - I end up unsubbing the new ones, since they stop uploading after awhile. What a trend haha. Other than just watching the Bobby Lee "Mole Incident" over and over haha. And of course - "Bobby Lee Farting In Front Of Crystal Flanagan's Mouth" incident hahaha. There is one tidbit - if Nikocado is indeed on a weight loss break, all the more reason for me to stop watching the guy (and I was just gettin' into his freakouts haha). If there is any innovative and fresh content, it's the "Everyone Is Munko" content or Munko Choe. You might think that the Munko world might only be for Artists (which by the looks of it, most are), the point is - everyone is a Munko, and everyone can be a Munko. It's just a matter of finding your inner Munko - right, Rich Brian? hahaha. This rings more true than the opinion of "Everyone is a racist. Everyone can be a racist". Is everyone hiding something, and is there really no sincerity or genuine kindness in this world. But if you look at things from a Munko perspective, perhaps this negativity can change. It's all about being free from being a prisoner of the status quo, of your anxieties, from stereotypes. It's about being creative and expressive in whatever you are passionate about. Video Of The Day: "Being Asian In America" from PRC (Pew Research Center). I can sympathize - I used to get those looks or glares long ago - "I can't date you. You're an Asian Guy!". But that was back then, the thinking has changed somewhat. It's still problematic in a lot of backwards parts of this country, but who the fuck cares anymore - there are no Asians there anyway. Saturday, August 27, 2022 The fish / salmon burger was alright - tastier than I thought. But you can hardly taste the salmon. I prefer the fatty density of a ground beef patty however haha. Never judge a book by its cover I guess. Still - I adhere to my intuition. I usually prefer to err on the side of caution. Some new comedy films: Ken Jeong in "Out of Office", and Jimmy O. Yang in "Me Time". I'm not sure about the latter - from the clip Jimmy provided, he says he plays a villain character (probably a satire or a parody). Because his character dresses like a nerd or a yuppie, you'd think c'mon - how threatening or scary is a Nerdy Asian Guy? haha. But judging by the character name, he's probably just a generic villain. Friday, August 26, 2022 And now a word from our sponsor: "Hey, Power Lifters! Now you too can run a marathon in just five or six hours. Just a measly five or six hours! haha. Just follow the Bart Kwan program, and you too can finish the marathon with cramped up legs that feel like heavy, hot potatoes for the final three miles. And don't forget to take frequent breaks, and 'taking a shit' breaks haha". Anyway, joking aside - anyone who finishes a marathon is a winner. I nearly pass out trying to jog or run for more than three miles. But a marathon? Damn. When it comes to food, I'm not privy in trying new things. If it sounds grotesque or disgusting, I won't try it. Hamburgers should remain fatty, ground beef patties only. Anything else would be puke-inducing. Veggie burgers is a disgusting concept - even moreseo if you hate veggies. I can't fathom a fish burger, but that's what we're having for dinner. Thursday, August 25, 2022 Simu Liu's second career as a talk show host might come to fruition in the near future haha - check out his Jimmy Kimmel Live hosting duties. Also - second career as a villain. Simu apparently is going to take on a villainous role in a project called "Atlas". He'll be busy for sure, with other projects. I'm keeping a look out for any "Shang Chi 2" sequel news or rumors. Probably too early at this point. When it comes to the arts (painting, sculpture, music, dance, etc.), it's all a mental game also. You have to be comfortable in your own skin, in your own interpretations, and in your own beliefs. Of course - mastering the fundamentals is always important. That's just "on the surface" stuff. Artists strive to expose the emotions and other hidden meanings behind it all. That's when creativity is at its highest level. There are just too many that are only focused on the spotlight, fame and money (if you can make a nice career out of it, by all means - happy success to you, of course). It's only to say that creating and sharing the arts become lost in the process. The essence of the arts become destroyed and too mechanical as a result - the same shit over and over. Wednesday, August 24, 2022 Good luck to Wong Fu Productions' new podcast format - podcasts are the new go-to content these days. I was wondering when WF was going to upload new content - sometimes, taking a break from skits is necessary. To replenish and rest - since innovative ideas do not come easily and lacking these days. "The Break Room" sounds just fine. Otherwise - would "Three Wongs Make A Podcast" sound quite sketchy? haha. Just made that up, but quite lame and racist - just a parody off of that racist shirt from that bankrupted clothing business long ago. There are quite a few "What Are They Up To?" or "Where Are They Now" Asian-American personalities, actors, etc. that have not uploaded in quite some time. I just have to do a search, and either some news or no news come up. Roll call again: Randall Park, Rich Ting, Dustin Nguyen, Steven Yeun - these folks are busy. Fortunately, I'm glad to see that these guys are quite busy with various projects. Tuesday, August 23, 2022 The easiest way to turn $.01 into $1000 is to multiply it by $100,000 haha. Otherwise - pan handling, canvassing, or whatever you want to call it - fuck no. I can't imagine doing that for an entire day - I don't even enjoy being around crowds, albeit approaching / talking to a complete stranger. Kudos to Mac Eats or C-Mac for doing something like this. He made money though, and then donated it. It's a moot point whether the person you're giving it to is a scam artist, a con, or just wasting it away on some smokes (probably what that fat lady would most likely do). I guess it's just the act itself of donating. I prefer Studio Ghibli music to play or listen. In fact - I listen to Hisaishi concerts or recordings almost everyday. It's part of a playlist while working. However - I think the track or song called "Reflection" from "Mulan" would be something I'd want to play. The words, music do resonate with anyone who had self-doubts, felt the anguish / uncertainty in life (whether from failing to fulfill parental expections or other). Lea Solanga (a famous Filipina singer - and no, Khalila - don't try to pretend that you can sing hahaha) sang this nicely for the animated film - she was also in George Takei's "Allegiance" theater play. Although an orchestral accompaniment enhances a piece, there are certain pieces that are more suitable for 1 instrument only or solo (piano solo) because of the nature of the piece or ambience. "Rainbow Connection" is one of them - more suitable for a piano solo or another instrument solo. You can play all these pieces in any key practically - there are many different types of arrangements, transcriptions, etc. But the melody remains the same. Monday, August 22, 2022 There is the easy way, there is the hard way, and then there is the "Ocky Way" haha. I've never heard of anyone create anything out of nothing until now - just give this guy random ingredients, and he'll make scrumptious sandwiches out of them. Check out Mac Eats for more delicious experiences. The dude needs an eating show on VICE channel or something. He's as real as Eddie Huang was. Johannes Brahms' music is really an "acquired taste" type for me. It is melodic, but in a dissonant or abstract way. I never really got into the composer, until now. Sometimes, a musician has to be open-minded to everything before making judgments. The Magic Of Gina Alice haha - it appears she's a Brahms guru, seeing a bunch of pieces on her album. The power couple of Classical Music - Lang Lang and Gina Alice. Sunday, August 21, 2022 Sunday tidbits from social media:
Saturday, August 20, 2022 I always believed that it's better to focus on one or just a few things, as opposed to becoming someone who is a "Jack Of All Trades, Master Of None". But if you can do well as that "Jack", why not. Ryan Hayashi is not only an accomplished and talented Magician / Illusionist, he appears to be an adept Story-Teller / Content Creator haha. Jay Chou is another one - accomplished / famous Musician, as well as a surprisingly convincing Magician / Illusionist that surpasses most known ones. Why do certain folks keep social media if they no longer update (they let months and years go by with no updates). They should just delete them. Probably they forgot they had them, or plain lazy. Otherwise, followers should just unfollow. Sung Kang no longer tweets. Same with Jason Scott Lee. I'm curious about updates on Joe Seo - he used to update regularly, but has been absent for a few months. Friday, August 19, 2022 It's good to hear Daniel Dae Kim's childhood story, or "The Street You Grew Up On". For some of us, the past is something to just forget about or something that never happened, as if waking from a bad nightmare. For us, life started at a much later time (for me, the age of 40). Danie Dae Kim is one of those down-to-earth celebrities, and likeable Asian-American personalities. Although I might not agree with some of his viewpoints or dislike a lot of his tastes (I avoid re-tweets like the bubonic plague - to put in perspective, I'll stop visiting for weeks at a time for that one retweet to be buried underneath new, original tweets before checking again), he has been the bright light in what has been a dark and dreary society rife with racism / discrimination; through his tireless activism for Asian-Americans and other works. Roasting Bobby Lee aside (always fun haha), I hope Bobby Lee breaks out of his shell and knows when to say "No" on a consistent basis. His best opportunity would have been appearing in Jo Koy's "Easter Sunday". I heard he was offered a minor part or a cameo. Jimmy O. Yang, being one of the Exec. Producers I think, had a cameo. It's a must-see film eventually. One thing in life is certain - nothing lasts forever, and stuff / things in society will disappear from memory eventually. It's a waiting game - to bypass / not acknowledge the existence of all this unsavory shit, and just focus on our own success and happiness. For anyone wanting to spread awareness however, that is important also. For me - I only need to hear or see a brief clip of a music video. Depending on the music, a clip can already say or express a lot (although you might not get the entire context of it). The opening line (the first few notes / rhythm at least) sounds similar to a melody in Rach's second Piano Concerto. I'm not sure if Lang Lang has any say in whether making one of his videos available to watch or restricting it, but there might be a PR team managing his channels. Thursday, August 18, 2022 While Felix Mendelssohn has nice melodies, they don't evoke deep emotions. They are light and happy on the surface, but sometimes - that is enough. Basically - how a songwriter can compose a simple song about everyday things such as coffee to an upbeat or catchy melody. It would be a nice break. However - Mendelssohns' Rondo Cappricioso has a very dreamy, waltz-y atmosphere (you can probably hear several different composers in this one, if at all). After all - his most famous melodies are the Wedding March and from "A Midsummer Night's Dream". "The Rainbow Connection" is a known melody from one of the Muppet movies back in the day. It's very sentimental - looking forward to Lang Lang's music video. Could be visually nice. Wednesday, August 17, 2022 Favorite fried chicken: Jollibee (over Popeyes). Favorite fast food burger: Five Guys (over In-N-Out, even moreso since this place is only available in 1 or 2 states). Social media has gotten to the point where everyone is just competing against each other for views, followers. And they end up relying on that to become famous, make money, etc. While networking / being social or outgoing helps, they are not guarantees. While having a lot of followers helps, they are not guarantees. What happened to the days where you just have them to mainly communicate with others or your friends, family, acquaintances and share your interests / share who you are. Instead - social media has become a negative machine used mainly to become famous and belittle / step on others. What to do when it's hot - find a nice cove or area near a cold, clear river / lake (mountain lake perferrably where the water looks clear / pristine) to swim or picnic at, or go to a water park (ideal - but it can get crowded as hell). Tuesday, August 16, 2022 I heard about Simu Liu in a possible "The Simpsons" episode. I'm surprised that the show is even continuing to run (I thought it had ended a few years ago), but why not. Who can't get enough of the "The Simpsons", which started / re-ignited cravings for Donuts haha. Jo Koy's "Easter Sunday" is something I'd be interested in watching. From any indications of the trailer, it looks hilarious. Sometimes, down-to-earth stories involving family conflict / strife can make for funny stuff. Especially that this is an Asian-centric film (Philippine Culture specifically). I have to babysit while my wife watches it in the theater with friends. Perhaps in return, she'll agree to rent "Don't Make Me Go" (starring John Cho) on Amazon Prime? haha. It's a worth a shot. There isn't anything worth watching in terms of films this year - this year has been lackluster in terms of films to look forward to. I only saw "Everything Everywhere All At Once", and that was worth every penny. After that, there is only handful to rent as I've listed (but unfortunately, I cannot watch them all). "Don't Make Me Go" would be the next to rent. Saturday, August 13, 2022 Further proof that J.S Bach's "Goldberg Variations" is not meant for sleep-inducing. I got only up to Var. 15 before my 6-month old was getting fussier and fussier. Probably my playing haha. Well - up to Var. 10, she had that blank stare. Anyway - going through this in its entirety is further practice for me in finger agility and stamina. So I'll continue with it. I'm not second guessing any musician's cover of a song - in fact, they are sometimes more preferrable (especially parodies haha). It's the original that I despise or hate, whichever suck-ass / lame band it comes from haha. Well, most modern day bullshit band / singers at least (except if it's Elton John, Billy Joel or Phil Collins - then it's the cover singer who suck ass haha. That trifecta of classical oldies can be sung over and over. Over and over.). This is why I prefer a Youtube musican's / content creators original compositions or songs rather than covers - etc. Goh Nakamura, Tomo Nakayama, etc. Andrew Huang is no exception - "Rappin' Without The Letter E" is still my favorite to this day. Friday, August 12, 2022 Classical Live Stream concerts (mostly ones that are free), are very rare. Unfortunately, I missed Lang Lang's performance in Salzburg (time zone differences can really put a damper on viewing these things - any live streamers would know). And it's a one-chance only deal where you cannot go back and watch it (it's removed once finished). I'm not sure what he performed, except it's repertoire that is different. I think it's important to have a diverse repertoire. It definitely speaks volumes about a musician's versatility. However - I have no shame in admitting that I do not like or I am not inspired at all by certain pieces or composers, regions, or whatever. To each their own I guess. Leo Vice aka "The Lion Emperor" on The Steebee Weebee Show. It's absolutely important to continue to talk about stereotypes, and continue to break them down. Jo Koy's "Easter Sunday" is a possibility (at least for my wife). And I heard Jimmy O. Yang is in it - probably a minor role. Sorry, Bobby Lee - you were too stubby / fat, "shifty", and "Too Asian" to be considered haha. It's ok - I was in the same boat in other situations (as far as being "Too Asian" is concerned). I hope you get invited to "something" or "anything" eventually. Wednesday, August 10, 2022 The sudden proliferation of Sungwon Cho skits is heaven - they are quick, and to the point. No need to waste time, and drag a video out haha. Sungwon mentioned he only does them when he feels like it, the way it should be. He's not obligated at all - I'm sure he prefers board game videos and "try all this" type of food videos. Speaking of which, almost every foodie out there is doing "try all this at this place" video. It has become too saturated and uninteresting - as if anyone can do it. It's easy views and money for a lot of foodie or mukbang Youtubers. I'm still debating whether I should temporarily sign up to Amazon Prime to watch John Cho in "Don't Make Me Go". I just despise signing up or registering for any shit. I just browsed through a reference score of Horowitz' transcription on themes from Bizet's Carmen (I did have a listen to an RCA recording long ago - astounding and very technical. Sounds like an improvisation off of the Habanera theme). Now this is a challenge. Well, I guess any Liszt transcription / paraphrase is a challenge - in terms of having patience and discipline. Monday, August 08, 2022 I think State Fairs or even Street Fairs can be more fun or appealing than actual Amusement Parks - in terms of food vendors at least haha. Food is what makes Fairs in my opinion, because who doesn't love food. Just don't tell Nikocado or the HFC - there'd be none left hahaha. C'mon, Tim Chantarangsu - are you just going to sit there and take it. Are you going to let that "Cuban" (or whatever the fuck he is) special guest think you're Korean - "Let me guess, You're Korean"? hahaha. Saturday, August 06, 2022 Well, I wasn't expecting an Ethan Klein guest spot on TigerBelly but what a surprise. I guess the "beef" over the Mole incident can rival the Choe beef - the ultimate freakout podcast video haha. It's ok, Bobby Lee. I have moles, skin tags - never got them removed and don't give a shit. But - they are not big-ass moles as what Bobby Lee had. Hell - I would've noticed it and commented on it myself hahaha. Just don't tell Ethan about your Foot Fungus haha. I would like to see an Ethan Klein vs. Nikocado (btw - he's back! probably took a break to patch up his relationship) wrasslin' match. For music production videos / music videos that are both entertaining and informative: Andrew Huang. For skits that are both entertaining and informative - Sungwon Cho ProZD. I am putting together tips or suggestions in learning a piece: 1. Listen to a piece from a performer first and get to know / familiarize the melody. If inspired or interested, proceed to step 2. 2. Learn the notes and dynamics. 3. Once learned, interpret the piece in a way that move / inspires you without overdoing it. 4. Memorize the piece (if performing or just as a bonus). *Memorization is another skillset - some can memorize a piece right away or unconsciously, while others like myself need to focus on a piece more (only did it for "Un Sospiro" so far). Which is why I prefer just using the sheet music, since my mind is all over the place. There is nothing wrong using it - as long as you don't stop or get interrupted for too long. If you can make the performance still flow seamlessly, by all means use the sheet music. Thursday, August 04, 2022 I prefer Andrew Huang's original compositions or songs rather than any reworks or covers. Still - his production / music gear tips, tricks and other information is useful and makes his videos entertaining. Even though I have no idea what he's talking about - since I am not a music production enthusiast / composer / song writer. I am looking forward to a Schubert Adagio piece. On paper - it appears complex. Once you get in the groove or the hang of it, it is heavenly. Actually, I look at this piece like a poem or poetry. Or a Nocturne. It unfolds as such to me. Tuesday, August 02, 2022 Who has steadier hands than Sungwon Cho for his skits haha. Even with one of them hand-held selfie stick thingies (no idea what they are called), a lot of creators still tend to have the shakes most of the time. Or have their thumbs get in the way of the picture or video, Beavis & Butt-Head style haha. I would fail miserably. For us - we should just stick with tripods. I look out for podcast topics or subjects when it is just like an everyday conversation or ramblings. When you talk about how Elon Musk's titties are bigger than Nancy Pelosi's hahaha. Or when you compare weird head sizes / shapes. Roll call - D-So has a big, alien head. P.Riley has a tiny head. Nick The Ear - can't say, his Ears are too big to even notice his head haha. Others (the no-neck tier): Bobby Lee has a big, fat head. Danny Cho has a big, ugly head. And the finale - Doc Willis has a Covid-shaped head with a touch of a Grimace or Hamburglar hahaha. Saturday, July 30, 2022 I thought Lang Lang's new video track would be "Poor Unfortunate Souls" from "The Little Mermaid" haha. You know, that Fat Ursula sea w (b)itch (commonly mistaken for the HFC) hahaha. That has a catchy beat to it, with more possibilities. After the Goldberg Variations, a Schubert piece and Brahms might be next. I've been practicing them on and off, but practicing. You know somebody is guilty or if something is staged / faked (a bike thief sketch for instance) if the excuse is "My brother / mother / father / uncle or whatever Gave It To Me" hahaha. My favorites - The Tire Busters fiasco, and the Fat lady at the drive-thru not leaving unti she gets her sauce. Give her damn sauce already! hahaha. Friday, July 29, 2022 Some very important points in playing music or anyone wanting to perform - efficient practicing habits (know your repertoire to practice or themes beforehand - it'll give that extra kick if you have a sense for the theme of the day), confidence / believing in yourself, and of course - passion / dedication to the craft. A pianist's or a musician's development is different for everyone. But here is the thing - anyone or everyone has the potential. It depends on how dedicated / passionate you are. I think any concert pianist can tell you that it takes a certain amount of discipline / hard work (and some luck) to have a career. It is not an easy path. As a consolation, even just playing as a hobby or for enjoyment should be more than enough - as long as it affects your life in a positive, enlightening way. And to others as well. When social media platforms such as Twitter, video platforms such as Youtube (to some extent) and now Instagram are trying to force followers to click on "suggested content" (as well as annoy the content creator themselves), you know things are getting more corrupt. Really - they are more like "Throw In The Garbage / Auto-Delete" content. You have to minimize / re-size your browser window so you don't have to see that or accidentally mis-click (which these platforms hope you would do). Especially Twitter - the "more tweet" section randomly shows irrelevant crap. And "Their trending" section - that can be avoided by re-sizing your browser window to completely hide it. I'll never sign up for these. If anything, I'll look for newer platforms or innovative ones that can eventually challenge the existing ones in the future (if at all). "Jesus, God, Buddha, Vishnu, help me wregheeh" hahaha. Thursday, July 28, 2022 Could that "Popeyes" baby be one of the cutest thing ever - a pudgy baby (or "Lookin' Like The Michelin Baby or The Stay Puft Baby" haha") jabbing at some Popeyes container with chicken, as if the baby is either pissed off at it or wants to devour the whole thing. Jay Chou's new album could be the "greatest" of his albums - but I haven't really had the chance to listen to his older ones. I became a part-time fan of Jay Chou via his collaboration with Lang Lang in the "Dream" video. And then his "J-Style Trip" show introduced his Magic / Illusion prowess. Sorry, Ryan Hayashi. I think he can one-up you. Only Var. 26 is left! I might get to a Schubert or a Hisaishi piece before being able to polish Var. 26. Awesome news - the Forward Party merging with some formidable groups to form a major, legit third party. (It's The New Voltron Crew - Ready For Battle haha). It's about time - change is coming, and change is inevitable. The way things are, the status quo has always been complacent and apathetic. Things would never change the way they are. It's absolutely true for any demographics. If you want to get things done, you have to do it or create for yourself. Tuesday, July 26, 2022 So we're playing the guessing game - it's always fun. Lang Lang's new track announcement, and what the Forward Party's announcement is. For the new track, I would say a track from the "The Little Mermaid" (the bluish color in the video picture / and what appears to be showing seafood in another picture could be clues). Or it could be something entirely unexpected, like Aladdin (the cartoonish blue genie anyone? haha). As for the Forward Party's announcement, it could be a collaboration / partnership of some sort, or a new venture / project, or a new video / advertisement of some sort. I highly doubt that Andrew Yang is considering running again. If at all - it might be somone from the party. First off - the issue of getting a third party on the ballot is an obstacle. For me, little annoyances such as "do this", "do that", "why this", "why that" are enough reasons for me to break off any relationship. Under normal circumstances, I would be much happier being independent and without a partner. Simply because I could think, say and act as I want to. I still do in private haha. But the reality is - being a parent and having a spouse are life-changers, and have changed me. Other than having a caregiver as well, which is a benefit haha. Monday, July 25, 2022 C-Mac or Mac Eats / Mac Talks, said it well - "embrace the pain". It's the only way to move on and be happy / or at peace. Or turn it into something positive. This is why I stick to music as an identity - it is soothing and therapeutic. I think the "Goldberg Variations" has a permanent place in my heart. It's not just beautiful music to me - it's also sort of like a journey. A theme that is turned into a variety of different forms that can evoke certain emotions. I'm ultimately looking forward to Var. 26. Sunday, July 24, 2022 The Video Game Pianist does not stream often or frequently (due to a busy schedule I reckon), but it's always nice when there is an upload. So what is Lang Lang's new video about? If I had to guess, it's another track from his new album - perhaps from "The Little Mermaid"? Considering the coloring. I don't enjoy crowds nor gatherings. Hell - I don't even enjoy being around people in general. But when food is involved, who knows haha. At any rate - it is only a very rare occurrence that I attend anything like this. Sometimes, I have to be more flexible. Saturday, July 23, 2022 A personal journey can be either literal, figurative or metaphorical. In the case of Munko Roland, he's apparently hiking across this country. Good luck! Definitely watch out for treacheries (actually, I'm not sure who that Munko is in the Choe clip or video). I just went through the entire Goldberg Variations during yesterday's practice, sort of in a semi-finished form. As I said, Var. 26 is going to take time - essentially, on how I want to express it. I'm taking a break from Podcasts - not the "obsessively listening" all day, everyday I used to do. Sometimes, podcasts can get stale (at least uninteresting and irrelevant in the topics / subject matters) and you just need to take a break - unless there is something that's to my taste or relevant. In the meantime, I'm lookin' out for new Sungwon Cho skits, witty / sarcastic tweets from the Music Production Guru Andrew Huang, and Munko revelations / epiphanies. See ya, wouldn't want to be ya. Friday, July 22, 2022 There are reports breaking out about Simu Liu in a relationship. He has been very silent or absent on social media these days - I'm sure still doing a press tour for his new book, and some new films coming out. One tweet that I think was clue - "She doesn't like cooking her food at the table" - could that be her, and didn't any of Simu's followers get that? I guess not. If I were Simu, I'd just focus on my career. Take relationships with a grain of salt - chances are, the person might be using you for some nefarious or self-serving reasons. But hey - if it works out, it works out. If not, then fugheddaboutit. Most eventually will just get sick and tired of each other, get on each others' nerves, etc. Having a Part-Time relationship might be better off. Unless the said person is committed in being a Caregiver as well haha. I initially reacted negatively to Shane Gillis' controversial, "racist" comedic act without getting to know the person. He came out and appeared to be sincere about this whole ordeal - probably only after getting axed from SNL. Some folks never learn however. In this society, most can't be trusted to begin with. When they say these things or when accidents come out, that's exactly who they are. Just take a look at any hollywood fucks. No wonder why prejudices and discrimination still happen - especially in the lowly sci-fi genre. But I trust Andrew Yang, and the folks who say Shane isn't like that. Can I call you "Suga" Shane Gillis? haha. Why is Suga attached to every Shane guy haha. It just comes off as smooth. I think playing a piece on any instrument (whether it's a violin or a piano) with or without having to be inspired first, is a type of talent or skillset in of itself. For me - I need to be inspired by the melody first or find purpose. If you feel light and happy, play light / happy piece. If you had a traumatic life and just want to share, play sorrowful pieces. I think the danger is that the emotions can overwhelm you sometimes, and affect your life. Wednesday, July 20, 2022 Here are some interviews with John Cho on his new film and issues involving Asian-Americans in film: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/john-cho-mia-isaac-dont-make-me-go-twist-1235179359/ https://www.msn.com/en-us/movies/news/john-cho-on-how-e2-80-98harold-and-kumar-e2-80-99-approached-race-e2-80-98we-were-ahead-of-our-time-e2-80-99/ar-AAZIqFH https://news.yahoo.com/john-cho-mia-isaac-cherished-160434249.html "Don't Make Me Go" should be the next film to watch - not sure if I'll find time, or convince my wife (very particular about saving money and it's only rentable on Prime). I already have a hefty must-watch list, but the reality is I won't get to all of them."Yes" To "NOPE"? "NOPE" is another film perhaps - if anything, since Bobby Lee was actually invited! hahaha. Among others: "The Humans", "After Yang", "A Shot Through The Walls" (all on different platforms). Monday, July 18, 2022 Rented / watched "Everything Everywhere All At Once" last night, and it was one heck of a fun movie and more - my thoughts on my Film Forum page. Comedy Central needs to pick up the new Beavis & Butt-Head somehow. Two shows on there that are worth watching - "Drunk History" and "Key & Peele" (how did I just find out about these guys (masters of parody), after all - what can top their "Slap Ass' skit hahaha). Sunday, July 17, 2022 John Cho must be busy as a new author, and his new film. I'm on the look-out for his interviews for "Don't Make Me Go". If you can rent it on Prime, go watch it. From the trailers and clips, it appears to be a relatable, realistic film in terms of father-daughter dynamics. I haven't practiced or played Schubert's "Wanderer Fantasy" in awhile. I'd say it has got to be the most difficult piece in a C Major key haha. But again - experiencing J.S. Bach has helped a lot. We all become all the more wiser in approaching a piece. After the Goldberg Variations, definitely need to add Schubert, Brahms, Haydn. A lot of pieces, but I've been practicing them over time. Friday, July 15, 2022 Go watch John Cho's new film "Don't Make Me Go", streaming now on Amazon Prime. Also on my watch list - renting "Everything Everywhere All At Once". If you enjoy Lang Lang's tutorials and explanations, I definitely recommend his "Goldberg Variations" videos. What is astounding to me, is how all this can be memorized / performed on a nightly basis (during his concert season - but it has ended). I said before - this is at a whole different level, something professional concert pianists should be able to do. With a little effort, it is still possible. When a melody flows through a person, the notes come naturally. I'm not going to play any Disney songs any time soon - it's not for me. I prefer Hisaishi pieces. Speaking of Jay Chou's "Still Wandering" video, Schubert's "Wanderer Fantasy" comes to mind (another work in progress in epic pieces). But I'm more focused on Liszt and Beethoven. Of course - J.S. Bach has become a daily presence in my repertoire. Thursday, July 14, 2022 I'm glad to hear that Daniel Dae Kim's son has started acting or getting into the acting business. While anyone in the business might know how extremely difficult it is to build a career (if any), I'm not sure if his son is going to pursue it full-time. Perhaps the son is preoccupied with something else, and just taking whatever opportunities that might come. One thing is certain - if you have a weak mind and are the type to give up easily (like myself), there is absolutely no chance. It's persistence (as well as luck to some degree). Even then, nothing is guaranteed. Liszt's "Il Lamento" Concert Etude No. 1 can be seen through two lenses. Either as a Nocturne - it has that very dream-like quality, or as an elegy / sorrowful piece. The latter - it can be a very emotionally taxing / depressing interpretation. I try to play / practice it as both. Either way, it is one of the most emotionally powerful pieces that I've encountered. That, and Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 26. Sunday, July 10, 2022 So fans are wondering what happened to Nikocado - which is it: a. hospitalized at the heart attack grill or just hospitalized b. taking a break to go on a diet (a 'fat camp' vacation for Niko) c. taking a break to get weight loss surgery (My "400 lbs" Life - Congrats on the 400 lbs hahaha) d. smooching with the HFC in the bahamas e. RIP (highly doubtful) Is it wrong to recite the "Powdered Toast Maaaaaaannnn" to your five month old hahaha. Yes, that Powdered Toast Man - using his superpowered cinnamon "pangoo" or "fart" to propel him flying backwards to your breakfast table near you hahaha. Hey Bobby Lee - "What's That Shit On Your Face That's On The Shit On Your Face" hahaha. Saturday, July 09, 2022 I am not familiar with Shinzo Abe in terms of his beliefs / achievements, but his face and name are familiar. My condolences as well. If he was an "Immortal Beloved" in the political world / all over the world, that's a good thing I guess. Security is too lax or non-existent in a lot of countries apparently. Lang Lang's fingers effortlessly flying on the keyboard, regardless of the complexity of a piece. If he wanted to replicate a piece with exact precision or what a machine / robot could put out (practically most known pianists out there), he could or would. But then, he would look like a boring stiff or a machine. Real fans appreciate his flair and style. Anyway, check out Lang Lang's new collaboration with phenom Musician / Magician Jay Chou! More similar Bobby Lee qualities I possess - "I just want to play 20 hours of video games without being disturbed / interrupted", "I sleep better alone", "I detest cuddling", "I have several moles as well", etc. Hahahaha. Friday, July 08, 2022 DashieXP in Tim Chantarangsu's Thai Fieri skit was hilarious - no wonder his name sounded familiar. Oh yeah - he lost weight for sure haha. One of the most important advices or tips you can hear from a podcast - always be yourself, or never be afraid to be yourself. If you try too hard to "fit in" or "conform" to what is popular, you'll never be happy. In the end - it's always quality over quantity. And might I add - know what you makes you happy, or what your passion is. And run with that. Did Bobby Lee break up with her because he was watching too much porn? hahaha. We'd be all guilty however haha. But the new TigerBelly episode was mostly a serious one - Bobby Lee was quite honest. If being in a relationship ties you down or restricts your freedom from doing the things you want, get the hell out. For me - relationships are overrated anyway haha. Well, it was a hilarious episode - Bobby Lee being exposed as the "Mole Man" (the huge ass mole near the mouth of that generic guy - see the pic haha). And of course - always blame Kevin Shea. But who the fuck is Kevin Shea. Hahahaha. I'm really similar to Bobby Lee in many ways (ADHD / OCD, not giving a shit about things, incel, etc.) - except for enjoying theater movie trailers / previews. I fucken' hate them - they are not only filled with shitty movies, they take up almost half the time of the actual movie you are about to see. I automatically either sleep through them, or just browse on my phone. I rarely (almost never) go to theaters anyway, so it works out. Thursday, July 07, 2022 I'm glad to see Maestro Jay Chou and Maestro Lang Lang collaborate once again on Jay Chou's new music Video, "The Greatest Works Of Art" - it is a stylish, artistic music video (highlighting the arts in this case). I definitely recommend "Dream", which is a favorite between the two Maestros. Jay Chou has the additional profession of a Magician / Illusionist as well haha. The home stretch or final variations to upload (journey coming to an end / close) - Var. 20, 23, 26, 28, 29. These are arguably the most exciting / dynamic ones, so I'll post commentary on my Classical Piano Blog once I get to them. Var. 26 for me is the "climax" of the entire piece - it encompasses the emotions of happiness, excitement, pain / sorrow in the entire variation. Afterwards, the variations come to a close / final resolution with the Quodlibet in var. 30. Tuesday, July 05, 2022 Whether you're "Yang Gang" 4 Life, or a new member of the "Forward Party", there is a common goal - to get a Third Party on the ballot (Forward Party). I might actually consider voting for once (for the first time in my life). Next Variation to upload might be either 27 or 23. Sunday, July 03, 2022 I had to add Sungwon Cho's impromptu or freestyle duet to a catchy beat to my playlist - I called it, "Taking A Fat Shit After Eating A Double Big Mac" hahaha. Happy Fourth weekend. Saturday, July 02, 2022 If there is nothing better to do on Fourth Of July weekend than setting off early fireworks, how about binging on the Fourth Of July weekend "Twilight Zone" marathon haha. The annual traditions for this holiday weekend and New Year's. Check out Tim Chantarangsu's new music video "Pillow Pet", for anyone with a big booty or plump, hefty cakes fetish haha. For sure, "Pillow Pet" delivers where "MyPillow" can never hahaha. No - it's not very "ladylike" to laugh loudly, but it is very "Bobby Lee-Like" hahahaha. I guess that's what they call a "Belly Laugh" or "Shrieking" haha. No Chaser should get Tyson on somehow. Disclaimer - he might "eat any of their children" however. D-So can do quite a Tyson impression, while Tim Chantarangsu can do a spot-on the "Jello Pudding Guy" impression hahaha. Friday, July 01, 2022 Simu Liu is definitely busy these days, mainly promoting his new book / memoir "We Were Dreamers" (a best-selling one at that - congratulations on making the list). He is also busy with other promotions, interviews and new films. You are not going to find updates on their social media - interviews and other news can be found by 'searching' or 'doing a search'. Roll call - Simu Liu, John Cho, Randall Park, Steven Yeun (so far, no updates on the latter two). We Asian men / guys have had to deal with the 'ugly' stereotype for decades (and other unsavory ones). These days, confidence / swag / talent is all that we have. A bonus - if you are calm, cool and calculating in the face of any adversity or obstacles. I'll keep saying it - just focus on becoming more happy, successful and at peace than any of your detractors or negative ninnies. Never acknowledge their existence - focus on support for like-minded individuals or anyone going through similar situations. Thursday, June 30, 2022 I need to hear John Cho sing Tina Turner's "What's Love Got To Do With It" in its entirety hahaha. You don't need vibretto, just falsettos hahaha. With that said - go watch John Cho's new film on Prime releasing on 07/05/22. Wednesday, June 29, 2022 Rich Brian with a new track - "Lagoon". I still need captioning to learn the lyrics haha. I still haven't memorized "Edamame" - who has? haha. I might need to create a playlist for "Dudes Behind The Foods" podcasts. Or "Dudes Behind Pornhub Gossip" hahaha. Monday, June 27, 2022 So I think I only spotted Jupiter in the night sky - too many damn trees covering the Eastern horizon. Not even Mars or Venus. Plus - the air pollution, near by city lights - it makes for a difficult viewing of celestial objects. Saturn would have appeared too faint with all these aggravations - probably more visible in a clearer area. The Brawl at the LAA vs SEA game - perhaps you should get these teams to rumble at the next "Survivor Series" hahaha. Shohei Ohtani - I stick by whichever team he is on. Sunday, June 26, 2022 It's the beginning of a hot, dry summer - the first scorching weekend up here. Stay cool and hydrated. July / August tend to be quite dry up here - I just have to hope there won't be any more extreme temperatures as last year. We saw 100+ temps, and during the winter - near single digit Arctic temps for a few days. Damn. With clear skies this week, I should try to catch the rare 5 planetary alignment at some point. I usually have to wake up during those hours to feed our baby anyway. The problem - all the goddamn evergreens in the way haha. Probably only two or three planets if at all. J.S. Bach's Variations yet to finish (the home stretch): 16, 17, 20, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29 Saturday, June 25, 2022 The words Vegan / Veggie and Burgers do not go together haha. Just the sound of it makes me want to puke - yuck. Just get me a juicy, fatty burger and that's all I need. At this point - what repertoire Lang Lang has not tackled or performed yet? It seems he's done it all or performed them all. Classical music repertoire is vast - so there is plenty. However - most of them might not be that inspiring or melodic at all. It depends on a listener's taste. One thing is for sure - Lang Lang's record label is going to make money off his new album and his name. Disney is going to make money off of this. In that sense - it is all a gimmick. But with some collaborations and select pieces, it appeals to a broader, modern-day audiences / listeners. Is classical music on the decline? I don't think so. But it is imperative that we continue to share and encourage others to listen and perhaps, show interest in learning an instrument or music. Sung Kang recently posted on his IG a picture or image of the iconic RX7 from "Tokyo Drift" scene - as well as what looks like a recent pose in conjunction. Is he modeling or something, or is there something that we do not know about? Friday, June 24, 2022 Maestro Lang Lang's new album, "The Disney Book" is another album that focuses or showcases non-classical music. I don't think it matters. These days, you can play or perform any kind of music in different genres if one is capable. Lang Lang has expanded his repertoire to include contemporary / modern music and collaboration with different artists / musicians in different genre. That's a standout and a superstar for sure - which I think the Walk Of Fame star is well-deserved. My opinion / taste however - Hisaishi / Studio Ghibli music is far more melodic and has far more moving / beautiful harmonies than Disney. I would prefer Studio Ghibli / J. Hisaishi over Disney any day, anytime. I'd like to share or showcase Hisaishi music or repertoire - which I've been building a new web page for (in my Classical Music page with other composers). As much as I've listened to Hisaishi music often or frequently, it is also very therapeutic to play and share them. I'm not sure if I heard improvisational elements in Lang Lang's select Disney single that he shared. Quite fine - however, I recommend the VGP or Video Game Pianist for the ultimate improvisational play style. Tuesday, June 21, 2022 Don't fall for gimmicks - more often than not, the quality suffers (not always the case, but usually the case). I always keep this in mind - "Keep It Simple, Stupid" haha. There is no need to make things fancy. But if the purpose or goal is marketing or advertising, then why not I guess. The food industry suffers even more with gimmicks and exorbitant prices. When it comes to burgers, just give me that small / dark, fatty / juicy spot that smells of oil haha. Sunday, June 19, 2022 Happy Father's Day to all fathers, dads, and new dads, new dad dudes, etc. haha. My love language is food - just get me good eats and I'll be happy. But I'm extremely grateful for our baby daughter, and it warms my heart everytime just to see her laugh or smile (by doing a Bobby Lee impression hahaha). Kidding aside, enjoy the day. A lengthy blog on My Classical Piano Blog about new repertoire and J.S. Bach. It's been awhile since a new music video / song from Tim Chantarangsu. Not since "Homegirl"? I forget - c'mon, all guys want dat booty, busty, curvy shit hahaha. Saturday, June 18, 2022 Perhaps Simu Liu can make a second career out of hosting haha. I'll probably post a Classical Piano blog on my focus on the "Goldberg Variations", which initially I only intended to play / upload just my favorites: 5, 11, 12, 13, 21. J.S. Bach pieces are as much finger exercises as they are beautiful pieces to play. New repertoire in the works as well. Sungwon Cho might not think much of TikTok (only for 10 year olds haha), but it is a platform where a creator can upload impromptu skits, content or random thoughts (and upload them to YouTube - without having to create a Youtube video) Friday, June 17, 2022 Always remember the Vincent Chin tragedy (40th Anniversary Remembrance which began the Asian-American Movement For Justice) - https://caamedia.org/blog/2022/03/03/vincent-chin-40th-remembrance-and-rededication-set-for-june-16-19-in-detroit/ Bert Kreischer's Gandalf - To me, he looks and sounds more like a D. Choe (beard and face shape) / Doc Willis (deeper ghetto voice) combination hahaha. There is a tinge of an Asian accent too. Damn. Thursday, June 16, 2022 Who The Hell Is Herman K? Who The Fuck Is Bill W? Who Dat Bobby Lee?? hahaha. Bert Kreischer and Bobby Lee (Two Fat Dudes Behind The Booze) - Hey, it's Jolly Santa Claus and His Little Elf! (or Hobbit) hahahaha. By the way, HJs > BJs. What a revelation, Farmer Bobby - she sighs haha. *sigh*. Wednesday, June 15, 2022 I'm looking forward to my first Father's Day celebration this Sunday haha. As new parents, we celebrated my wife's first Mother's Day. Nothing spectacular, just good eats haha. Golf phenom Collin Morikawa is still a phenom. Despite his slump, I believe he'll get out of it - eventually haha. However - if he slips out of the Top Ten, that might cause some concern. Lang Lang as a child playing better than most pianists (including me) when it comes to pieces like Chopin's Etude or other difficult pieces. I still have trouble with that piece and many others haha. Tuesday, June 14, 2022 Happy 40th to Maestro Lang Lang. New Journey indeed - looking forward to finding out what his new repertoire is, once his new concert season begins. I also hope the future brings more classical piano or classical music enthusiasts / pianists, as music education should focus on making learning fun and cultivating passion (if possible). The old / traditional ways of learning are still useful, but not very practical anymore. I need to re-learn some Advanced Music Theory (Advanced knowledge is nice, useful for composing / improvising / transcribing music, but not necessarily needed for playing music). Sunday, June 12, 2022 Once in awhile, you have to just immerse yourself in the soothing sound of an Ocarina. It's similar to a Flute sound I think, but a bit warmer or softer / drier sound. I can't really explain things, but the result is still beautiful. Anyway - it's back to listening to some Milt Ocarina. I've been re-organizing my Youtube subs - removing / unsubbing ones that no longer update or rarely update. As in life, we all need to just have a tight-knit group around that one supports or watches regularly. No need to add extraneous shit or crap that you might not really visit often anyway. Mark yer calenders: July 5 - "Everything Everywhere All At Once" rentable on VOD and July 15 - John Cho in "Don't Make Me Go" on Prime Video. Saturday, June 11, 2022 It's ok, Sungwon - I bookmarked that TikTok right away haha. Sungwon Cho sounding as if he won the lottery hahaha. In a decrescendo / ritard - "I just made a thing called TikTok". "You can follow that TikTok".*pause* "In the link below". *long pause* a deflating sigh hahahaha. Thursday, June 09, 2022 Maestro Lang Lang's Music World was featured in a "J-Style Trip" episode - an absolutely breath-taking institution. Speaking of Jay Chou, is a music video or a new album in the works or already finished / completed. Write or compose a Munkoo with the following format: 1 2 3 4 5 4 3 2 1. I'm not a poet, and I suck at writing poems or poetry. I wouldn't be able to come up with a Haiku as well haha. But I guess in this Munkoo endeavor, it's about creativity and subject matter than style to me. This doesn't even have to have a theme - I'll probably think of something along the lines of Asian-American Pride, Classical Music, or something humorous. Tuesday, June 07, 2022 John Cho in "Don't Make Me Go" is a must-see. It's part of only handful of films that I want to see, but I have to either subscribe to a platform / channel, or rent via VOD. It's on Prime, so perhaps just sign up for the 90 days trial. The others: Everything Everywhere All At Once, The Humans, After Yang, A Shot Through The Walls. Unfortunately, I probably would not be able to rent all of them (if available) due to budget constraints / time. It is that tight. Right now - Everything Everywhere All At Once seems to be the priority (more so since its successful run in theaters). Then Don't Make Me Go. Afterwards, it's just a waiting game. Monday, June 06, 2022 Voice actor / board game guru Sungwon Cho even has conquered the MCU introduction like no other - replete with his own lovely singing voice, skit characters, etc. Next I'd like to see a rendition of Mozart's "Queen Of The Night" Aria 'a capella' haha. Hey - if he could do convincing Goofy parodies of songs, why not. I self-diagnose myself as having mild ADHD, OCD, PHA (porn hub addiction - right, Bobby Lee? haha). Kidding aside, if I did actually tested for them I probably would. I definitely inihibit some symptoms. Sunday, June 05, 2022 From Andrew Huang's twitter: Who is the most melodically creative contemporary songwriter? I don't know any songwriters - there are quite a few on Youtube, but do not know much. With my limited familiarity, I would say Goh Nakamura and Tomo Nakayama. I just enjoy and find inspiration in simple lyrics about everyday slice-of-life subjects. D-Choi as well, but it appears he no longer writes or composes songs. He's now into a new app. Tire Busters? More like Tire Scammers. I mean really - if they damage or bust your truck or car and you have to pay for it, just ask the guy who was a victim. And c'mon - would you really want to give your business with an owner who comes out and starts name callin' as well - "Lil Bitch", "You're a piece of shit", "You're fat", etc. hahaha. I bet they don't even use authentic parts. And with a name like that, Fuck No. Thursday, June 02, 2022 Hiking is an activity I enjoy - but it's been several years. Unfortunately, the days of just going on long, arduous hikes are not really feasible anymore. Just going through trails mile after mile in the wilderness to your destination - whether it's a crystal, clear lake or mountain top. It is damn nice. Take advantage of it. May has been cold and wet, but hopefully it'll be more seasonable during the summer. Uh, Nikocado - that's nail / foot fungus haha. It's ok, I have nail fungus myself. Tuesday, May 31, 2022 It's the last official day for Asian-American Heritage Month, but again - every month is Asian-American Heritage Month to me. "Loud and Proud, See Ya Would Not Want To Be Ya, Aw Hell No" - type deal, fo' sho'. That's how we need to think in my opinion, in order to establish a consistency in Asian-American visibility and representation. It has improved and is progressing for the past year or two, but still - long ways to go in terms of consistency. Congratulations to Simu Liu for making the Best Seller's list for "We Were Dreamers". Golf phenom Collin Morikawa is in a slump - hopefully, he'll get out of this. I'm sure he'll have his moments again. Monday, May 30, 2022 To find acceptance eventually, you have to face rejection after rejection. Or you would have to be willing to face Rejection after Rejection. That's the only way to learn and grow. - Joyoung's "My Liberation Notes". I just made up this quote, but it is something that some of us need or have no choice but to follow. That might be our only path - so giving up should not be an option. Unfortunately, I had already given up years ago. Although I've been starting over now, I'm not sure if I can break out or liberate myself from the mindset of not wanting to face rejection. Saturday, May 28, 2022 I was surprised to find Jackass 4.5 on Netflix. Nonetheless - that's on my list to watch. In the Long Jump stunt, person #2, 3, and 4 (new guy?) got the worst of it. The end guys were spared haha. Have Nikocado or the HFC jump on them, none of them would survive hahaha. I believe Lang Lang is going to have a new repertoire come his new concert touring season. I wonder what that could be (or what he's been working on) - but who knows. I decided to try to complete the Goldberg Variations myself. They are like 30 separate pieces, and memorizing all of them is definitely an endeavor or something extraordinary. And to perform them concert after concert. This is where it stands for me: Most technically challenging: 20, 26 Most difficult to express: 25 Favorites: 5, 11, 12, 13, 21 Friday, May 27, 2022 I don't read novels - mostly because of my ADHD. I'm too much of a visual, emotive guy (sort of like having to look at a coloring picture book or something haha). But if you are a reader, there are new or up-and-coming novelists or authors out there. I just found a new one - David Yoon, and his book "City Of Orange". Thanks, John Cho. And while you're at it, have a read for John Cho's "Troublemaker" and Simu Liu's "We Were Dreamers". Again - the only exception to this are two that I keep and have re-read over: Maestro Lang Lang's autobiography and "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-Americans From The '90's Until Now". But that is colorfully illustrated anyway. It's not just Mac Eats - it's the Mac Collabs, Mac Talks and Mac "Skits". Enjoying the brief TikTok moments. Thursday, May 26, 2022 Another congratulations to Simu Liu, who is to host the Time100 Gala on ABC. Gotta love the everyday, simple subject matters that are relevant on podcasts like the recent "Fun With Dumb". I just hate airports - I'm not a flyer anyway. But in regards to escalators - I prefer not to stand. As the saying goes - "Just get to where you're going, Stupid" hahaha. And by the way - you would want to begin jerking off downward in the bowl only when you're about to come or orgasm haha. "The Art Of Jackin' Off" - probably either Bobby Lee, Pee Wee Herman or Doc Willis would know something about that (in a movie theater for sure haha). Wednesday, May 25, 2022 Congratulations on Gina Alice for her new classical album - an expansive repertoire covering a variety of composers / pieces (from classical to contemporary). I only heard her play one of Rach's Preludes from a Lang Lang video - delicate, expressive and soothing. The unimaginable pain and grief from these school shootings. It's one of several shootings that have occurred recently. Talk is talk, and that's all that is being done. In other words, nothing is being done. Keeping guns away from psychotic or violent individuals and minors is not easy - it's usually at the expense of responsible gun owners, hunters or law enforcement / military. I hate guns or any form of weapons myself. But considering the violence in today's society, it is necessary for protection. I'd prefer to use my fist or hand-to-hand combat. I have no experience in any, so there haha. Kidding aside, our ultimate goal should always be to avoid conflict / confrontation. Peace. But sometimes - it can't be helped. Self-Defense as means of fighting as the last resort. Piece Of The Day: Nobuyuki Tsujii, "Elegy" Tuesday, May 24, 2022
Sunday, May 22, 2022 I heard about the Gold House Co. Gala yesterday, in celebrating A100 list of Asian-Americans across industries. An important event, and hopefully it'll be an annual occurrence. I do not really know most of the names on the list, but hey - you can't go wrong having Tim Chantarangsu around haha. Some words of wisdom from Simu Liu: "Find a way to create your own content so that your future is not solely in the hands of other people. Write, collaborate, find likeminded people who want to do the same. The system was not designed for you to succeed, therefore you have to disrupt it somehow". Saturday, May 21, 2022 Damn, the new "When Foodie Calls" episode at the Rennaisance Fair is like an entire parody, since the dynamic duo were in character with their "Rennaissance Accents" hahaha. Who doesn't like Pillowy Bosoms? For fat guys, they're 2 Chest Pillows for you haha. I think Tim and D-So should collaborate on a new parody music video called "Rennaissance-Style" (if you heard Nuoc Mam Style and Byuntae Style). They can get "The Very Cool, Very Swag" Guy to do the dancing haha. Friday, May 20, 2022 I need to check out "Blockbuster" with Randall Park. Remember that movie rental chain? haha. Back in the day - renting not only the latest movies (DVD, VHD or whatever) but video games and some erotic shit as well haha. How about Simu Liu in "Barbie"? Not sure about that - but if his agent said that the script was "one of the best", why not. But that is a phrase that is an automatic red flag - as in, "never trust this mofo" type haha. Because more often than not, it turns out the complete opposite. RIP Dr. John Cheng - a true American hero. And you can take that fuckin' fact to the bank. Thursday, May 19, 2022 So I heard John Cho is joining Season 2 for "The Afterparty". The premise sounds interesting, but it's on Apple TV+. Apple products are hella expensive, but in some ways - higher in quality. Still - there are always pros and cons to everything. Congratulations to Simu Liu for his book release / tour for his memoir, "We Were Dreamers". Everyone is becoming an author these days haha. Good luck to Collin Morikawa! A win is way overdue, but at this point - just placing well is enough. Sunday, May 15, 2022 What a treat - a live stream recital from the Video Game Pianist. Live stream concerts are rare. Kudos to the recital, with some of my favorite melodies - Hisaishi's Summer and To Zanarkand from Final Fantasy. Let me caption this. From Daniel Dae Kim's tweet: 
Saturday, May 14, 2022 Social Media Tidbits: Parry Shen - Hey Parry, perhaps you should explain to Kelly what "over" actually means haha. Is it over, over? It's "Over" type of over, over. Nikocado - Dr. John would have been proud of what happened at the beach haha. Before trying to lose weight, how about another Heart Attack Grill round? You know you want it, "Billy Bob" haha. "The fatter they are, the fatter they fall uh, huhuhuh". Erik The Electric - who's looking forward to the 1M Calorie challenge? Ok - perhaps not that much haha. Hopefully, it'll be a challenge that'll eclipse the 100K. Thursday, May 12, 2022 There was the Viewer's Choice Awards, now it's time to vote Simu Liu and "Shang-Chi" for the MTV Awards! Otherwise - as Beavis & Butt-Head observed, "MTV is old. Uh, huhuhuh". The channel is not worth it. I think NBC is leaping ahead in terms of diverse programming or news / programs that are actually important (of course - still a long ways to go to be consistent in that approach). Shame on ABC for lagging behind or falling second - it seems ever since "Fresh Off The Boat" went off-air, things have either stagnated or going on a downward spiral. Albeit slowly. Tuesday, May 10, 2022 Again - congratulations to James Hong for receiving the Walk Of Fame star. And again - it's all thanks to Danie Dae Kim and all the support from the Asian-Americans. Should I revive the James Cage White "The Very Cool, Very Swag Guy" web page? haha. You guys do know that this is just a character. Either way - this guy is just a simpleton who treats himself "As A Reward". For taking two steps in his house. And gets tired already. Hahaha. *Well, I guess it's time to dust off the Beavis & Butt-Head fan page (with rumors or news of a new movie / revival series). Monday, May 09, 2022 Of course you should dump the person's ass if she gained 50 lbs or more (I'm talkin' about HFC or Nikocado fat) hahaha. A Bobby Lee fat might be tolerable haha. But it's up to you - if you're like Tim Chantarangsu who has a fat / jello ass or butt cheeks fetish. Lang Lang and Joe Hisaishi - now that's a "Dream Team" in music. So the Video Game Pianist hasn't streamed in awhile - other than running marathons, he's probably busy with teaching, performing and collaborating as well. Sunday, May 08, 2022 Happy Mother's Day! As wet and cold as this weekend is. My wife has become a first-time mother herself. I guess I should look forward to Father's Day as well haha. I did not know about the origins for May as Asian-American Heritage Month as well. Thanks to the Asian-American Foundation. That's information worth knowing fo' sho', for once - "The More You Know" type. Saturday, May 07, 2022 Raymond Lee is a new talent I haven't heard of - but he's been around. Fortunately - you'll have to visit other Asian-American personalities / talents in social media who'll showcase them (once in awhile). With that said - the new "Quantum Leap" reboot or sequel. I was never into the original - although the concept was intriguing. But the show might have had one of the most interesting or catchy introductions. The premise of a guy leaping from life to life forever doesn't sit well with me. Because every beginning has to have an end. Hopefully - the new sequel or reboot can explore some issues. Certainly, Raymond Lee's character can travel through time with more adventures / possibilities (with the timeline expanded up to the 2000's at least). Perhaps the new crew can figure out a way to be able to have leaper control of how he leaps, or even finally have the control or power to return home. Sung Kang's Fifth Brother character in the new "Obi-Wan" show - does he even have any lines? And does he have scenes where he wields a ligthsaber? They might be saving them for subscribers to watch, and for sure - they're keeping scenes with Vader hidden. Friday, May 06, 2022 *Raymond Lee in the "Quantum Leap" sequel / reboot! More thoughts later. Composing itself is not easy - I think anyone who can compose a piece or a song that is lasting and / or leaves a lasting impression on the public (either play or listen to a piece over and over - and especially singing a song over and over. But don't fudge up lyrics as Tim Chantarangsu would haha) can be considered a certified genius (that word has been thrown around loosely and casually these days, and it sort of lost its meaning in my opinion. But nothing wrong using the word casually for levity / humor). Of course - anyone with an impeccable memory or can play by ear / transcribe well fall into different genius categories. For me - it's one of those I wish I could be but am not haha. I can only just read notes. Maestro Lang Lang's interviews are always informative and educational. For any up-and-coming or aspiring pianists - take every recital, concert or performance seriously (prepare for them very seriously - not taking any one of them lightly). That definitely sounds like good advice. Peter V ridin' around in a DeLorean. DanAKADan using a DeLorean in his new music video. Man I gotta get me a DeLorean as well haha. Thursday, May 05, 2022 Again - RIP Norman Mineta. There are certainly Asian-American personalities / actors that I do not know about, but are in shows on various channels or networks. It is a goal this month (during Asian-American Heritage Month) to discover them or find out about them (if possible). CapeUSA, Gold House Co. and Character Media are just a few that highlight various ones - but certainly far more that fall under the radar. Justin H. Min in "Umbrella Academy" - this the first I've heard. Justin is known for playing an A.I. in "After Yang". Keep it up! Also, vote to re-elect Andy Kim. From my classical piano blog page: Nobuyuki Tsujii's composition "Elegy" was a heartfelt tribute to the victims of the Tsunami and earthquake that rocked a coastal area / town in Japan many years ago. So much so, his encore Carnegie Hall performance of his piece moved him to tears. Music should evoke us in that way to be honest. That is why I play. That is why I learn. That is where my passion comes from. I have not heard a melody as beautiful as this or stands out like this in this modern era - there doesn't seem to be any. Other than Joe Hisaishi's masterful compositions, you have to go back to the Big 3 of J.S. Bach, W.A. Mozart and L.v. Beethoven. With that said, I was compelled to finally play and share his piece. Of course - I wanted to play it a bit more andante and delicate. It's an elegy, a tribute. Although I might tend to put more emotion in pieces. This'll be a mainstay on my recordings / uploads page. Also recommended - Nobuyuki Tsujii has his own official Youtube channel of all his classical / professional recordings. Wednesday, May 04, 2022 *RIP Norman Mineta (who served with Clinton and Bush administration). I think the search engine DuckDuckGo is highly underrated. It is not as known, but definitely a nice change - currently using it as my default search engine (have been trying it out for awhile). The only issue is that it might not pull up as much information as other established search engines. Not a concern for me. Question For The Week - What happened to Ke Huy Quan's twitter account? It has a suspension notice - a Bullshit's bullshit. This is a big WTF. Either Ke quit or deleted his account (why all of a sudden - he was posting regularly. So this does not make sense) and this is just the wrong status screen, or it is the incompetent / prejudiced rats at work on twitter. It doesn't matter. There are other ways to follow / support Ke, or any content creator of your choice (Instagram, TikTok, Watching /Saving PR videos, etc). Tuesday, May 03, 2022 With the A100 Gold House List for Asian-Americans for this year, has Ke Huy Quan been added? Perhaps in one of the past years - otherwise, it would be an utter travesty. It seems Sung Kang might have been overlooked as well, but he might be in a past list already. With the continued success of "Everything Everywhere All At Once", Ke Huy Quan is a stand-out. I definitely recommend having a listen or watch John Cho's commentary for Golden's "Inspir-Asian" - a brief testimonial or look back on how he rightfully refused or declined to play a stereotyped / accented role in a past movie (as crap-tastic as it was). And how he influenced the role to change. He talked about this in a TigerBelly podcast. A lot of offensive / racist shit goin' on back in the day. I'll keep saying it - any bozo can play notes. What makes a musician stand out or their interpertations worth listening to / inspiring, is how one can look beyond the notes or look deeper into the notes for possibilities. I'm intrigued by young, up-and-coming artists / musicians. Or ones that are hidden in a different platforms / youtube. Monday, May 02, 2022 I think the definition of "soulmate" can go beyond just in a marital / spousal sense - it can be a companion or somebody you have a common bond with. You don't even have to be friends or close. For example, Munko Choe - anybody who's been through shit might become a fan. Perhaps just somebody you can relate with or have common interests with. It can also be musician, artist, comic, etc. Pertaining to Choe, Bobby Lee might have said "he's the best" in the softest, most unethusiastic voice I have ever heard haha. By the way - Bobby Lee still looks fat. I firmly believe now that Doc Willlis is a bit mentally challenged if he thinks kimchee is made of "brussel sprouts, mung beans and miracle whip" hahaha. I guess Mariel sounds like she would be snappy. Most women are. When we try to reasonably or logically defend ourselves in an argument, it is like: "What?! Do you think I'm dumb?!" - damn truth, this isn't going to work out hahaha. Relationships are overrated indeed. Sunday, May 01, 2022 It's Asian-American Heritage Month! Continue to be loud and proud. My focus is on any or all Asian-American projects in film, in stream / VOD, or other. Of course - hopefully, juicy Cobra Kai S5 news (if at all). It's ok, Jeff Chan. I hate cooking too. But I love to eat haha - Jollibee is my go-to place however. I've subbed to his channel for some helpful fitness tips and moves. Bart Kwan might have impeccable pecs, but he is gettin' a bit fat however hahaha. Be careful with your arm, Bart - you still need it for some intense jackin' off sessions later hahaha. I'm considering J.S. Bach Goldberg Var. 8 and 12 - as the final recordings. Of course - all of them are addicting. The more you play and practice them, the more you learn and find more nuances that are intriguing. It's funny that initially, it usually never appears that way. Some Vars just don't stand out as much as others (ones that might be more melodic) - unless you do a deep dive in practicing / learning. Friday, April 29, 2022 There is definitely something wrong with this picture - Crip Mac in an odd-lookin' pink automobile. Just as about as wrong or odd as seeing Bobby Lee in a Spider-Man costume hahaha. Hahahaha. Might as well buy Crip Mac some Barbie Dolls to play with as well haha. Have you ever felt that way about music - it should come from the soul, or heart. Not just from the fingers and mind. Sure - mastering the technique and the technical nuances requires a certain amount of mental fortitude and finger dexterity / stamina. But the most important thing is feelin' it. It should be the same with other art forms - painting, dancing, etc. It is the most effective form of therapy. Although not exactly means to the end, ends to the means or whatever, suffering / pain does help with expression. But not always. But it helps. In fact, I probably would not have found my passion for classical piano if not. In the end, we are all damaged / scarred in one form or another. But we cannot let it control our lives. Be at peace, and move on. We have families to take care of, and create. Thursday, April 28, 2022 88Rising is showcasing a lot of up-and-coming talents / musicians. I think "Humble Swag" is going to give Rich Brian or Warren Hue a run for their money haha. The most important issue these days: Is In-N-Out ever going to branch out of just 1 state, or expand? It don't matter to me - as long as there is Five Guys (my favorite burger joint). But preach on, C-Mac. Appropriate key changes in a composition or a piece can make a piece that much more beautiful or melodic. Playing a piece with frequent key changes isn't easy - just as difficult as composing a piece with a lot of them. Sometimes, my mindset is still in the previous key. It just takes practice and experience. Practice and experience. This is certainly an attribute of classical composers and compositions. It's what makes Hisaishi compositions beautiful. Wednesday, April 27, 2022 Wednesday tidbits: Sungwon Cho aka ProZD (or Cho Sungwon) - I would have guessed Professor or Professional for what "Pro" is short for. How about "Protruding"? (stomache-wise) hahaha. Not sure about "ZD" Aaron Takahashi And Wife - lookin' sharp for East West Players gala. Daniel Dae Kim - I'm sure he was commenting on the visuals or effects. Otherwise, he would have to be a bona fide idiot (something we didn't know about) to think it was actually real haha. Tuesday, April 26, 2022 If I had to pick apart a content creator / musican's brain for thoughts on music and ideas (or for just humor / sarcasm), it's Andrew Huang. I might not know or be familar with music production / creation gear or equipment (albeit music production itself), but he's full of information and entertainment. You don't have to be a music production guru to follow or support a content creator. Also - competition is only healthy if you are looking to improve yourself. Otherwise, just focus on yourself. And of course, there are classical musicians / pianists / composers that I listen to for inspiration - Lang Lang, VGP, Nobuyuki Tsujii, Joe Hisaishi - to name a few. Monday, April 25, 2022 Apparently, Rudy hates short people haha. That's it - it's time to make fun of Rudy now (afterall, she sounds kinda "slow" haha). Being an average height, disproportionate-bodied Asian guy myself (I stopped growing after 6th Grade - with short legs, weird-shaped knees that stick out, etc), I guess I can sympathize. C'mon, short / average height people unite! And cripples are welcome too (how about it, Ricky Berwick?). We should all be in the "Revenge Of The Nerds" mode, but even among us - there is still racial division / segregation unfortunately. K. 498 Piano Sonata has been a very ambitious piece for me to learn. It has the most Concerto-like feel to it (in terms of melody, flow and difficulty). I guess it's no wonder that it is not as known or advertised out there. But I'm workin' on it, simply because it has the feels. Saturday, April 23, 2022 For me - every month is Asian-American Heritage Month. It's that kind of attention that is required in order for progress to be made any further or consistently (in particular amidst the Anti-Asian Hate climate of today). But May it is officially - looking forward to that. And definitely support James Hong - he definitely deserved the Walk Of Fame (no thanks to fuckin' hollywood - all the thanks to Daniel Dae Kim and other supporters). James Hong is still employed and counting, still acting in relevant films of today (a repertoire that cannot be rivaled). If there were another season of Jay Chou's "J-Style Trip", more magic / illusion shenanigans around Asia! Definitely one point or lesson I would instill or teach to a student learning classical music or the piano (besides mastering the fundamentals) - play with passion / enthusiasm. Play or interpret how you feel. Don't confine yourself to the rigidity or inflexibility of the status quo. Friday, April 22, 2022 I also have to express the sentiment that - I hate brussell sprouts! haha. Nothing you put on it (garnish, flavoring or otherwise) can make a difference for anyone who hates it - just as much as I hate cauliflower. Goddamn - this should be a new full-length Vlog from D-So (one of them "I Hate Diets" type hahaha). Ranting and raving about brussell sprouts, broccoli or other - hell, just throw in the "I Don't Believe In Salads" mantra. I find Mozart's K. 427 Mass (complete work) to be the greatest vocal or choral work there is (arguable however). I used to listen to this over and over - I prefer the more dynamic interpretations. Although I no longer am aware that certain sports exist (don't give a fuck if they do), "38 At The Garden" and "Linsanity" are definitely worth checking out / watching. Inspirational. Thursday, April 21, 2022 Wong Fu Productions should produce / make a full-length film out of "Russell" or a short series ("UP" was one of my favorite Pixar films). That would be cool - but we all know it's just a parody at this point. The quality is certainly there - beats out a lot of hollywood crap fo' sho'. Wednesday, April 20, 2022 I'd like to see Pornsak Pichetshote's "The Good Asian" be made into an episodic show or a full-length movie (since I don't read nor collect comics) so I can check it out. Since the protagonist is an Asian-American male detective (practically non-existent in the comic book world), it is a breath of fresh air and something worth paying attention to. For once. But it is a pipe dream at this point - it'll take a heck of a lot of funding and fan support, as well as Pornsak being interested in that in the first place (as well as being in complete creative control - which would be the main priority). But it is highly doubtful - not that he has time nor any interest. Nonetheless, "The Good Asian" still makes a worthwhile, standalone noir comic for any comic fan to enjoy. Out of any modern composers, Joe Hisaishi stands out. In particular, his compositions for Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli films are iconic and impressionable. So trying to play his pieces are always fun and inspiring (never gets tiring, just like a lot of classical pieces). I'm re-doing them - this time, only selecting 4 to 6 favorite ones. Either playing a modern composer's pieces or video game music, it all comes down to learning the fundamentals or having learned Classical Music as the foundation. Tuesday, April 19, 2022 How cool is this - John Cho can be seen in a new film "Don't Make Me Go". However, it's on a platform that requires subscribing to. When you are on a budget, it doesn't make sense to sign up for multiple platforms just to watch a film or show that is on a particular platform. Perhaps I'll try the 90 day thing again. WoW's next expansion has been revealed. Thoughts on my WoW SL page. That is all. Other than continuing to enjoy D-Choe / Munko content (epiphanies can happen during this time). First, Bobby Lee is called out for having Pee Wee Herman's jackin' off tendencies in theaters. And now he's called out for lookin' like a "Yellow Lime"? hahaha. Shame on you, Rudy. Sunday, April 17, 2022 "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-American History Throught The '90's Til Now" could be a legitimate textbook for school curriculums. At least - it should be required reading for any or all who are new or objective to the Asian-American experience. It's the only way to learn. I'll cherish my copy. I already read through some passages or chapters, there is heck of a lot of information. My favorites - "Better Luck Tomorrow" back story with the actors, and "Harold and Kumar". For me, I would never consider or claim any hollywood halfie or mixes as "Asian", since they would consider themselves white first and foremost anyway (it is an indication there is some shame to have Asian blood in that sense). I'd just lump them in a separate category, or with the rest of the terrible and miserable hollywood mofos. The only other book I cherish or keep, is Maestro Lang Lang's autobiography "Journey Of A Thousand Miles". I threw everything else away. Saturday, April 16, 2022 Happy Easter weekend! Unfortunately, Easter is one of those holidays that you can completely forget when it is haha. It's like, "When The Hell Is The Beginning Of This Season?", 'When The Hell Is Easter Again??" I heard about Wong Fu Productions' UP live-action sequel or skit - with a grown up Russell. My only disagreement is that I envisioned that Russell would still be fat - perhaps D-So as adult Russell? haha. Donnie Yen is back with "Coming Back Home". I still have yet to watch "Raging Fire" - however, I don't think that'll be available on VOD or any public platform anytime soon. But always remember - His Name Is Yen. Donnie Yen. Andrew Yang's "Forward Unlocked" - a combination of a candid testimony of his experiences / thoughts with witty stand-up punchlines haha. Thursday, April 14, 2022 I'm looking forward to getting my copy of "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-American History From The '90's Til Now". It's considered a luxury purchase - just a collectible, a preferential purchase / not exactly what is needed. Well, as a compromise with my spouse - get it used. Never have trusted "used" items, but who knows. I'm a camping dummy as well. The reason I haven't gone camping in years, is not because of the mosquitoes - but because of having to set up tents, campfires, etc. haha. Who needs the aggravations of having to do that shit, or is it just being very lazy? hahaha. What a podcast with Will Sasso on TigerBelly, especially when the subject matter is mostly about "The Art Of Farting Silently And Spreading Your Ass Cheeks" hahaha. MadTV was highly underrated, and under-promoted back in the day (if you count advertising on the side of a bus that is haha). So "Watchu Gonna Do, When Sassomania Runs Wild On You?!" Tuesday, April 12, 2022 I hope Simu Liu has a successful book tour for his new memoir, "We Were Dreamers". John Cho had a successful one for "Troublemaker". These days, is everyone becoming an author now? haha. Creating your own fake ID would look more realistic than the ones floating out there haha. Collin Morikawa placing third at the Masters is definitely "damn good". I guess it's the "Jeremy Lin Expectation" of Asian-American athletes to win or be on top all the time. It's not going to happen. All I could say is - hold your ground, do your best and fight / speak out against racists / bullies. Alright - the Tim Chantarangsu humpin' the pillow story made the podcast worthwhile hahaha. Monday, April 11, 2022 I think either Bobby Lee and Doc Willis would make fine ventriloquist dummies haha. Are there even fat ones however? hahaha. There's always a source of tension and jealousy when it comes to someone's success and popularity. Competition in that sense, can be very cut-throat and unhealthy. It only helps if your focus is only to improve yourself, not to out-do another person. In the end, just focus on your own happiness and success. And most importantly, be passionate and enjoy what you are doing. With that said - nice to see Joe Jitsukawa on the D-So podcast again. Saturday, April 09, 2022 Whenever Sungwon Cho aka ProZD can do a brief skit or an impromptu funny, it has to be whenever he feels like it. Skits are just bonuses. With that said - I'm laughin' at your laugh that you were forced to laugh which sounds like a robotic, mindless laugh haha. Haha. haha. I'm messy with finger foods. If something is delicious, I just shove food in my mouth. So far, we've had more power outages than the past few years combined. At least one or two are a given every year due to changing climate / extreme weather. Also - we are living in a remote area where it's more likely or prone to outages. In fact, there were two instances even when the weather was calm (a complete mind-boggling, WTF case). As much as we want the utlity crews to restore power as quickly as possible, they have been doing what they can and have been on top of it quite well (unless it's a severe, wide-spread case and if they are short-staffed. Then we're screwed). Kudos however. And why wasn't there a wind alert yesterday? Another WTF. What an advice - "Expand the hips, shrink the lifespan" hahaha. Friday, April 08, 2022 We were treated to Summer-like temperatures yesterday, and now it's back to Winter temperatures for awhile. Wacky weather indeed. Just finished watching the K-Drama "Forecasting Love And Weather", which was surprisingly enjoyable. A lot of messages and metaphors. Anyway - would you prefer to have forecasters do what they call "excessive forecasting" or whatnot. I prefer to err on the side of caution. It is maddening, and you question their competence if any given forecast is way off or extreme / doomsday-like. But for the most part, nothing is ever that precise. But forecasts usually hit the spot (give or take a slight deviation or error). You can't forecast unpredictability, which weather can be sometimes. I thought about recording / uploading one or few of Chopin's pieces in each category (Prelude, Etude, Nocturne, Waltz, etc.) It might not happen - the Ballade, Scherzi and Polonaise are quite the doozy. But currently working on a Polonaise and a Ballade. Is Niko at it again at the Heart Attack Grill? haha. Even the owner is somewhat fat haha. And just after he had a hospital visit. I might need to create a Nikocado playlist called "The Heart Attack Grill Chronicles", from the time he was a twig to how heavy he is now. Thursday, April 07, 2022 I'm finding myself becoming a Choe disciple haha. Not the Book Of Yiddish, but the Book Of Choe. Preach On. In most cases, my guess was a developing Lymphodema haha. But cancer is nothing to joke about - but nothing is confirmed, or and a lot of subject matters are brought up strictly for viewership whether it's the truth or not. It's a curiosity how thin folks like Erik The Electric (who used to be both fat and anorexic) can out-eat whales like Niko and the HFC. It is a capacity issue as well, but you don't have to look like it. But overall - it's called regular exercising / dieting. Reasons why they can still have huge challenges and mukbangs. Monday, April 04, 2022 I'm also curious as to whether Erik The Electric is serious about a 150K calorie challenge. That would be a must-see for sure. And he'd have to give himself more time to reach that goal. Considering the combined sizes of Niko and the HFC, you'd think they'd be able to take down that amount of calories (albeit weighing as much hahah). But they couldn't even finish Pizza Hut's Big Box challenge - but hey, it's actually enjoying the food orgasmically that matters. Maestro Lang Lang finally updated! He's been busy with his foundation activities and concert tour I reckon. Sunday, April 03, 2022 Other than getting the entire "Bad Friends" crew (Doc Willis, Rudy, Tino, Fancy B) on their podcast, I'd like "The Scissor Brothers" try to get Ricky Berwick haha. Or a David Choe. I don't give a rat's ass about guests - the hollywood types are terrible, miserable human beings for the most part. There is only a handful that are worth paying attention to. Anyway - definitely some Haunted content, at a real haunted location. Gotta love the opening "Revenge Of The Nerds" reference - "Go ahead, put us down, one of these days we'll turn it around" (We've already have - sort of, still a long ways to go. Our Asian-American Movement needs to make these changes consistent and regular or the norm). The 2 Macs In Da House!, Return Of the Macs indeed. Thursday, March 31, 2022 Congratulations to John Cho for "Troublemaker" making the Bestseller's list. Add 'Author' to his repertoire - if I was actually interested in reading, this would be a must-get for sure. As for the Asian-American book "Rise", it has colorful illustrations so it makes reading tolerable (my ADHD at work - if reading bores the crap outta me haha). I'm glad to hear that Bopomofo Cafe is expanding, and has opened a second location. Now open one here in the Pacific NW so I can visit one. My type of natural laughing - it's a belly laugh for the most part. It's becoming a combination of a Bobby Lee and Doc Willis laugh - but I have a neck haha. From Ke Huy Quan's Twitter. How cool is this - Michael Jackson appearing to have a Kodak moment with "The Goonies" members on set I think. However, it can also be evidence of Michael Jackson's child molesting tendencies haha. I mean, c'mon - look how close they are in this image (that is some scary shit): 
Wednesday, March 30, 2022 It's been uneventful these days, or not much to blog about. I can rant about my wisdom teeth or my diaper changing chronicles, but this seems too commonplace anyway (I've been blogging mostly to support or acknowledge our Asian-American movement since it has not been that way). If the TOOF aggravations subsides, I prefer to not opt for oral surgery or having it pulled. Who needs the aggravations and possible complications / side effects. Hell no. I guess I'm already panicking haha. But if it persists, then no choice. With that said, our Asian-American athlete news: Collin Morikawa - the Golf Phenom has been struggling this year. I've been keeping tabs with the Tracker tweets, he's had some great rounds or moments. Hopefully - he'll regain momentum in future tournments. Yul Moldauer - not much updates on his performances, but his practices have been astounding. Keep it up! Jeremy Lin - Good luck in the playoffs! Shohei Ohtani - he's big, strong and talented enough to play / excel at multiple sports. He's already excelling at baseball in multiple categories and positions. Not many if at all can accomplish that (practically nobody these days - because maybe "Bo' Only Know Sho'" hahaha). Piece Of The Day: Chopin's Ballade in G-Minor. Probably one of the most well-known melodies, and often played piece. When played properly and at tempo, it is a magnanimous / beautiful piece. As beautiful, romantic and tragic as they come. Tuesday, March 29, 2022 I'm curious as to what new project Donnie Yen (who I call "The International Sensation") is involved in. There have been no updates recently. Other than learning cooking tips on how to make an omelette. I don't even know how to cook haha. Henry Cho is one of the funnier clean-cut comedians out there - just check out his standup clips on his facebook. I also recommend Jimmy O. Yang - his observational humor is on point. And to Bobby Lee / Rudy: "You're right. I wear a mask so I can look like a weirdo" *sarcasm. Hahaha. Monday, March 28, 2022 I haven't tried that many cheesecakes in my lifetime, but The Cheesecake Factory is up there in terms of tasty cheesecakes. Definitely in terms of density and flavor (I prefer dense cheesecakes, not the loose / grainy ones). This shit can fill you up quick in all its tasty glory hahaha. I used to enjoy going to Theme or Amusement Parks just to watch folks freak out on rides (now we can do it watching D-So on Kiddie Coasters haha). Six Flags are known for coasters - damn, haven't been to one since I was a kid or young'un. As rare / non-existent as Disneyland. The "Bad Friends" crew should've had some kind of Cams on them while riding the coasters, but props to Bobby Lee (and even Rudy /Where's Doc?) for goin' on them. I guess he has balls - balls as big as his head haha. Andrew Huang never ceases to amaze - in sarcasm, humor and music production! He's the Go-To Guy for all your music needs. I also recommend the VGP, but he's probably busy becoming an athlete / marathoner as a second career. Most of my Must-See list of films are from A24 Productions. I'm wondering if they are available on VOD yet - definitely plan on renting / watching. Head on to "Film Forum" for the list. And that's all I have to say about dat. Saturday, March 26, 2022 I've been keepin' up with John Cho's recent "Troublemaker" press / book tour. If there are two books to get, it's this and "Rise" - the Asian-American history that's "Rising" on the charts. How out-dated are "Yo Momma" jokes hahaha. Still relevant. Imagine telling a 10 Year Old - "Yo Momma So Ugly, She Don't Need A Costume For Halloween. She Scares Everyone" hahaha. Or even this: "Yo Momma So Fat....She Was Mistaken For The HFC" hahaha. Thursday, March 24, 2022 I cannot believe that C-Mac (Mac Eats) had never tried either Jollibees or Popeyes yet. Both are delicious - but I'm a Jollibees guy. I always get the Spicy chicken, fried and crispy to the tee. I "dunno" - you can't equalize everything. There'll be some legs that are more crispy or meaty than others. Sweet spaghetti is an acquired taste - I don't mind it. I believe that it should remain savory, not sweet. One of them "Pineapples Do Not Belong On Pizza" type deal haha. I love the Mango Pies - hands down favorite pies. Compatibility is the one of the most important asset in a relationship. It's definitely like winning the lottery when it comes to finding someone who enjoys activities that you do. For Joe Jitsukawa - traveling, traveling and more traveling haha. However - it all boils down to whether you can consider this just a friendship type of interpretation when you're with someone, or something more. Certainly a bonus - finding someone who is willing to go to a haunted location or going to haunted attractions at anytime / anyday haha. You gotta check out Ryan Higa's parody of paranormal investigating video (back in the day when he used to do videos instead of streaming games - his new career apparently). Tuesday, March 22, 2022 I wouldn't be a bit surprised at all if Guy Fieri wanted to gag or vomit after trying some of the foods in a "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" episode hahaha. When you are on air, of course you are not going to blatantly blurt out - "Yuck. This is disgusting". Instead, immediately talk about the texture, different ingredients that went into the meal or food hahaha. Nice digression. Why is it so easy for folks to disparage or say something sucks or is terrible (a terrible music, or movie for example) but have to fake it when eating something disgusting or inedible. Apparently, my wisdom tooth has been acting up. I wish it never had to come to oral surgery to pull it out, but I might have to. Wisdom teeth are something along the lines of, "Why the hell did God create these - so humans can suffer through surgery when the time comes?". And you know about my phobia about surgeries and post-surgery life. Picture Of The Day (a screenshot from a Bad Friends podcast) - "Strike A Pose, Doc Willis!" By the way, his legs end where the image ends haha. Shapel Lacey Would Be Proud. 
Th WoW AWC team "Three And A Half Men" considered hiring Doc Willis as their honorary cheerleader. Or at least was their inspiration to come up with their team name hahaha. Friday, March 18, 2022 Here's actually a cool event, John Cho / Kal Penn reunite in a virtual celebration for "Troublemaker" - https://www.anunlikelystory.com/event/cho Social Justice week. For Asian-Americans, it seems to be an everyday, never-ending or long-term ordeal unfortunately. It's been awhile since I've been to the dentist, but a "TOOF" is paying the price for it. Anyone else who has a phobia, concerned about the "fuckin' up their TOOF" situation? hahaha. I wonder if medical malpractice includes dentistry. I recommend watching the "Fun With Dumb" Leo Vice guest podcast episode, and then jackin' off to a Leo Vice pornhub video. I'll say it again. Any bozo can play notes or can be a technical keyboard wizard - there's already too many out there anyway. It's the interpretive / emotive quality that separates the rest. That's what I look for. Monday, March 14, 2022 I am considering purchasing "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-America From '90's To Now", even if I'm on a tight budget. It is on my wish list however. Take it from internet / gaming guru Jimmy Wong - it's most important to feel good / comfortable on the inside first, rather than focusing on the outside. My "Must-See" films list has not changed (when time permits or when films available on VOD):
Friday, March 11, 2022 What a lineup for "Beef" - with Steven Yeun and Ali Wong as leads (with Ali, you know there is going to be automatic comedy). And I heard about the guest appearances or roles - I'm curious as to what Bobby "Nut Sack" Lee would think - probably another freakout haha. I'll keep a lookout for the trailer. It's probably only in production or beginning stages. Who actually goes to buffets and eat salads / fruits only. That never made sense to me haha, but to each their own. I go there to devour carbs, carbs and more carbs hahaha. An HFC or a Nikocado's Seventh Heaven haha. Thursday, March 10, 2022 The new teaser trailer for "Obi-Wan Kenobi" has fans beginning to salivate. Apparently, Sung Kang is playing one of the Inquisitors (a villain in simpler terms, but part of the new Empire tracking down all remaining or hiding Jedi). According to his instagram and the trailer, there is only 1 brief scene of him. It does not tell much at all. My guess or suspicion is that his character is going to appear in just 1 episode - but hopefully, it'll be action packed. I might not be much of a Star Wars fan, but I felt "Revenge Of The Sith" was a fun, dark ride (other than the original trilogy). It certainly had the most badass lightsaber duels out of all the films. Parry Shen in "Madelines". Looks interesting. Simu Liu hosting SNL, and now presenting at the Oscars. He should've actually been nominated for a change. Or any Asian-American for that matter. In due time - just keep fightin' the fight. Congratulations to "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-America From The '90's to Now" for its continuing or growing success. Get yers today, and make it #1! Tuesday, March 08, 2022 Who wouldn't want to hear Mariel "Speak In Tongues" haha. That shit would be hilarious - sort of a schizophrenic rant sounding like a Gregorian Chant on steroids hahaha. I don't know how D-So (other than getting paid) does it, but I hesitate to go even on Kiddie Coasters haha. Sunday, March 06, 2022 What a celebration panel for the release of "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-America From The '90's Until Now" at the J-Museum. With the 20th Anniversary of "Better Luck Tomorrow", it would have been cool to have most of the cast there. But we'll take Parry Shen haha. And Dante Basco is still relevant hahaha. So much relevancy and salient points. Asian-Amercians have been made invisible for so long, it's become almost an accepted or tolerated practice to discriminate, bully and even attack us. That begs the question - who can you really trust except for your own (not many if at all). "Rise" is just a godsend or an overdue breathe of fresh air - to educate and enlighten today's generation. Out with the old, in with the new (the objective or fair-minded that is - otherwise, out with everyone). We have to continue to create for ourselves and find support / share. Friday, March 04, 2022 Apparently, the Wong Fu Productions' showcase of films or music videos are from several years ago - some recent. I think I already remember some of them - "In Between" was interesting, still highly relevant today. Dan aka Dan - I hope he's still creating music. There needs to be a podcast with the entire ensemble gathered in one episode, one podcast and completely roasting each other. Roll call - Bobby Lee, Steebee Weebee, Tino, Jeremiah, Rudy and of course - Doc Willis. This would be hilarious haha. Thursday, March 03, 2022 I am looking forward to watching / checking out some of Wong Fu Productions' showcase of short films by up-and-coming, new filmmakers / artists as such. Especially involving Asian-Americans. It is most important and imperative that we do not get lost in the shuffle - thus, we have to continue to create, showcase, find support. It is sustainable and there can be further progress. Although there is progress in terms of Asian Representation, it is still not enough. Tokenism / fetishism still exists unfortunately, as problematic as they are. Mainstream media is too self-serving - only about what is in it for them, not diversity. I've always suspected that they do not give a rat's ass either way. But publicity is publicity. Still - never trust them muthafuckas. I guess it's an inversely proportional thing - Bobby Lee losing weight (really - he still looks fat however haha, perhaps it's the Hobbit Head hahaha), and Doc Willis gaining weight. Either way - I guess their common ground is either they're both fluid or ambiguous in terms of sexual preferences, or they both still have a porn problem haha. Wednesday, March 02, 2022 Two notable books or novels - John Cho's "Troublemaker" and "Rise: A History Of Asian-America From The '90's Until Now". Of course - Asian American history goes even farther back, with notable pioneers across industries. It's a colorful illustration, and from the sneak peeks on their twitter, it highlights a lot of important moments. Get yours today. Steebee Weebee has a theme song for himself as well haha. The Lee Brothers might be vocally challenged ( it's ok, so are many others - in a simpler language - tone deaf), but they sure can write lyrics. One chord progression at a time haha. Tuesday, April 19, 2022 How cool is this - John Cho can be seen in a new film "Don't Make Me Go". However, it's on a platform that requires subscribing to. When you are on a budget, it doesn't make sense to sign up for multiple platforms just to watch a film or show that is on a particular platform. Perhaps I'll try the 90 day thing again. WoW's next expansion has been revealed. Thoughts on my WoW SL page. That is all. Other than continuing to enjoy D-Choe / Munko content (epiphanies can happen during this time). First, Bobby Lee is called out for having Pee Wee Herman's jackin' off tendencies in theaters. And now he's called out for lookin' like a "Yellow Lime"? hahaha. Shame on you, Rudy. Sunday, April 17, 2022 "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-American History Throught The '90's Til Now" could be a legitimate textbook for school curriculums. At least - it should be required reading for any or all who are new or objective to the Asian-American experience. It's the only way to learn. I'll cherish my copy. I already read through some passages or chapters, there is heck of a lot of information. My favorites - "Better Luck Tomorrow" back story with the actors, and "Harold and Kumar". For me, I would never consider or claim any hollywood halfie or mixes as "Asian", since they would consider themselves white first and foremost anyway (it is an indication there is some shame to have Asian blood in that sense). I'd just lump them in a separate category, or with the rest of the terrible and miserable hollywood mofos. The only other book I cherish or keep, is Maestro Lang Lang's autobiography "Journey Of A Thousand Miles". I threw everything else away. Saturday, April 16, 2022 Happy Easter weekend! Unfortunately, Easter is one of those holidays that you can completely forget when it is haha. It's like, "When The Hell Is The Beginning Of This Season?", 'When The Hell Is Easter Again??" I heard about Wong Fu Productions' UP live-action sequel or skit - with a grown up Russell. My only disagreement is that I envisioned that Russell would still be fat - perhaps D-So as adult Russell? haha. Donnie Yen is back with "Coming Back Home". I still have yet to watch "Raging Fire" - however, I don't think that'll be available on VOD or any public platform anytime soon. But always remember - His Name Is Yen. Donnie Yen. Andrew Yang's "Forward Unlocked" - a combination of a candid testimony of his experiences / thoughts with witty stand-up punchlines haha. Thursday, April 14, 2022 I'm looking forward to getting my copy of "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-American History From The '90's Til Now". It's considered a luxury purchase - just a collectible, a preferential purchase / not exactly what is needed. Well, as a compromise with my spouse - get it used. Never have trusted "used" items, but who knows. I'm a camping dummy as well. The reason I haven't gone camping in years, is not because of the mosquitoes - but because of having to set up tents, campfires, etc. haha. Who needs the aggravations of having to do that shit, or is it just being very lazy? hahaha. What a podcast with Will Sasso on TigerBelly, especially when the subject matter is mostly about "The Art Of Farting Silently And Spreading Your Ass Cheeks" hahaha. MadTV was highly underrated, and under-promoted back in the day (if you count advertising on the side of a bus that is haha). So "Watchu Gonna Do, When Sassomania Runs Wild On You?!" Tuesday, April 12, 2022 I hope Simu Liu has a successful book tour for his new memoir, "We Were Dreamers". John Cho had a successful one for "Troublemaker". These days, is everyone becoming an author now? haha. Creating your own fake ID would look more realistic than the ones floating out there haha. Collin Morikawa placing third at the Masters is definitely "damn good". I guess it's the "Jeremy Lin Expectation" of Asian-American athletes to win or be on top all the time. It's not going to happen. All I could say is - hold your ground, do your best and fight / speak out against racists / bullies. Alright - the Tim Chantarangsu humpin' the pillow story made the podcast worthwhile hahaha. Monday, April 11, 2022 I think either Bobby Lee and Doc Willis would make fine ventriloquist dummies haha. Are there even fat ones however? hahaha. There's always a source of tension and jealousy when it comes to someone's success and popularity. Competition in that sense, can be very cut-throat and unhealthy. It only helps if your focus is only to improve yourself, not to out-do another person. In the end, just focus on your own happiness and success. And most importantly, be passionate and enjoy what you are doing. With that said - nice to see Joe Jitsukawa on the D-So podcast again. Saturday, April 09, 2022 Whenever Sungwon Cho aka ProZD can do a brief skit or an impromptu funny, it has to be whenever he feels like it. Skits are just bonuses. With that said - I'm laughin' at your laugh that you were forced to laugh which sounds like a robotic, mindless laugh haha. Haha. haha. I'm messy with finger foods. If something is delicious, I just shove food in my mouth. So far, we've had more power outages than the past few years combined. At least one or two are a given every year due to changing climate / extreme weather. Also - we are living in a remote area where it's more likely or prone to outages. In fact, there were two instances even when the weather was calm (a complete mind-boggling, WTF case). As much as we want the utlity crews to restore power as quickly as possible, they have been doing what they can and have been on top of it quite well (unless it's a severe, wide-spread case and if they are short-staffed. Then we're screwed). Kudos however. And why wasn't there a wind alert yesterday? Another WTF. What an advice - "Expand the hips, shrink the lifespan" hahaha. Friday, April 08, 2022 We were treated to Summer-like temperatures yesterday, and now it's back to Winter temperatures for awhile. Wacky weather indeed. Just finished watching the K-Drama "Forecasting Love And Weather", which was surprisingly enjoyable. A lot of messages and metaphors. Anyway - would you prefer to have forecasters do what they call "excessive forecasting" or whatnot. I prefer to err on the side of caution. It is maddening, and you question their competence if any given forecast is way off or extreme / doomsday-like. But for the most part, nothing is ever that precise. But forecasts usually hit the spot (give or take a slight deviation or error). You can't forecast unpredictability, which weather can be sometimes. I thought about recording / uploading one or few of Chopin's pieces in each category (Prelude, Etude, Nocturne, Waltz, etc.) It might not happen - the Ballade, Scherzi and Polonaise are quite the doozy. But currently working on a Polonaise and a Ballade. Is Niko at it again at the Heart Attack Grill? haha. Even the owner is somewhat fat haha. And just after he had a hospital visit. I might need to create a Nikocado playlist called "The Heart Attack Grill Chronicles", from the time he was a twig to how heavy he is now. Thursday, April 07, 2022 I'm finding myself becoming a Choe disciple haha. Not the Book Of Yiddish, but the Book Of Choe. Preach On. In most cases, my guess was a developing Lymphodema haha. But cancer is nothing to joke about - but nothing is confirmed, or and a lot of subject matters are brought up strictly for viewership whether it's the truth or not. It's a curiosity how thin folks like Erik The Electric (who used to be both fat and anorexic) can out-eat whales like Niko and the HFC. It is a capacity issue as well, but you don't have to look like it. But overall - it's called regular exercising / dieting. Reasons why they can still have huge challenges and mukbangs. Monday, April 04, 2022 I'm also curious as to whether Erik The Electric is serious about a 150K calorie challenge. That would be a must-see for sure. And he'd have to give himself more time to reach that goal. Considering the combined sizes of Niko and the HFC, you'd think they'd be able to take down that amount of calories (albeit weighing as much hahah). But they couldn't even finish Pizza Hut's Big Box challenge - but hey, it's actually enjoying the food orgasmically that matters. Maestro Lang Lang finally updated! He's been busy with his foundation activities and concert tour I reckon. Sunday, April 03, 2022 Other than getting the entire "Bad Friends" crew (Doc Willis, Rudy, Tino, Fancy B) on their podcast, I'd like "The Scissor Brothers" try to get Ricky Berwick haha. Or a David Choe. I don't give a rat's ass about guests - the hollywood types are terrible, miserable human beings for the most part. There is only a handful that are worth paying attention to. Anyway - definitely some Haunted content, at a real haunted location. Gotta love the opening "Revenge Of The Nerds" reference - "Go ahead, put us down, one of these days we'll turn it around" (We've already have - sort of, still a long ways to go. Our Asian-American Movement needs to make these changes consistent and regular or the norm). The 2 Macs In Da House!, Return Of the Macs indeed. Thursday, March 31, 2022 Congratulations to John Cho for "Troublemaker" making the Bestseller's list. Add 'Author' to his repertoire - if I was actually interested in reading, this would be a must-get for sure. As for the Asian-American book "Rise", it has colorful illustrations so it makes reading tolerable (my ADHD at work - if reading bores the crap outta me haha). I'm glad to hear that Bopomofo Cafe is expanding, and has opened a second location. Now open one here in the Pacific NW so I can visit one. My type of natural laughing - it's a belly laugh for the most part. It's becoming a combination of a Bobby Lee and Doc Willis laugh - but I have a neck haha. From Ke Huy Quan's Twitter. How cool is this - Michael Jackson appearing to have a Kodak moment with "The Goonies" members on set I think. However, it can also be evidence of Michael Jackson's child molesting tendencies haha. I mean, c'mon - look how close they are in this image (that is some scary shit):
Wednesday, March 30, 2022 It's been uneventful these days, or not much to blog about. I can rant about my wisdom teeth or my diaper changing chronicles, but this seems too commonplace anyway (I've been blogging mostly to support or acknowledge our Asian-American movement since it has not been that way). If the TOOF aggravations subsides, I prefer to not opt for oral surgery or having it pulled. Who needs the aggravations and possible complications / side effects. Hell no. I guess I'm already panicking haha. But if it persists, then no choice. With that said, our Asian-American athlete news: Collin Morikawa - the Golf Phenom has been struggling this year. I've been keeping tabs with the Tracker tweets, he's had some great rounds or moments. Hopefully - he'll regain momentum in future tournments. Yul Moldauer - not much updates on his performances, but his practices have been astounding. Keep it up! Jeremy Lin - Good luck in the playoffs! Shohei Ohtani - he's big, strong and talented enough to play / excel at multiple sports. He's already excelling at baseball in multiple categories and positions. Not many if at all can accomplish that (practically nobody these days - because maybe "Bo' Only Know Sho'" hahaha). Piece Of The Day: Chopin's Ballade in G-Minor. Probably one of the most well-known melodies, and often played piece. When played properly and at tempo, it is a magnanimous / beautiful piece. As beautiful, romantic and tragic as they come. Tuesday, March 29, 2022 I'm curious as to what new project Donnie Yen (who I call "The International Sensation") is involved in. There have been no updates recently. Other than learning cooking tips on how to make an omelette. I don't even know how to cook haha. Henry Cho is one of the funnier clean-cut comedians out there - just check out his standup clips on his facebook. I also recommend Jimmy O. Yang - his observational humor is on point. And to Bobby Lee / Rudy: "You're right. I wear a mask so I can look like a weirdo" *sarcasm. Hahaha. Monday, March 28, 2022 I haven't tried that many cheesecakes in my lifetime, but The Cheesecake Factory is up there in terms of tasty cheesecakes. Definitely in terms of density and flavor (I prefer dense cheesecakes, not the loose / grainy ones). This shit can fill you up quick in all its tasty glory hahaha. I used to enjoy going to Theme or Amusement Parks just to watch folks freak out on rides (now we can do it watching D-So on Kiddie Coasters haha). Six Flags are known for coasters - damn, haven't been to one since I was a kid or young'un. As rare / non-existent as Disneyland. The "Bad Friends" crew should've had some kind of Cams on them while riding the coasters, but props to Bobby Lee (and even Rudy /Where's Doc?) for goin' on them. I guess he has balls - balls as big as his head haha. Andrew Huang never ceases to amaze - in sarcasm, humor and music production! He's the Go-To Guy for all your music needs. I also recommend the VGP, but he's probably busy becoming an athlete / marathoner as a second career. Most of my Must-See list of films are from A24 Productions. I'm wondering if they are available on VOD yet - definitely plan on renting / watching. Head on to "Film Forum" for the list. And that's all I have to say about dat. Saturday, March 26, 2022 I've been keepin' up with John Cho's recent "Troublemaker" press / book tour. If there are two books to get, it's this and "Rise" - the Asian-American history that's "Rising" on the charts. How out-dated are "Yo Momma" jokes hahaha. Still relevant. Imagine telling a 10 Year Old - "Yo Momma So Ugly, She Don't Need A Costume For Halloween. She Scares Everyone" hahaha. Or even this: "Yo Momma So Fat....She Was Mistaken For The HFC" hahaha. Thursday, March 24, 2022 I cannot believe that C-Mac (Mac Eats) had never tried either Jollibees or Popeyes yet. Both are delicious - but I'm a Jollibees guy. I always get the Spicy chicken, fried and crispy to the tee. I "dunno" - you can't equalize everything. There'll be some legs that are more crispy or meaty than others. Sweet spaghetti is an acquired taste - I don't mind it. I believe that it should remain savory, not sweet. One of them "Pineapples Do Not Belong On Pizza" type deal haha. I love the Mango Pies - hands down favorite pies. Compatibility is the one of the most important asset in a relationship. It's definitely like winning the lottery when it comes to finding someone who enjoys activities that you do. For Joe Jitsukawa - traveling, traveling and more traveling haha. However - it all boils down to whether you can consider this just a friendship type of interpretation when you're with someone, or something more. Certainly a bonus - finding someone who is willing to go to a haunted location or going to haunted attractions at anytime / anyday haha. You gotta check out Ryan Higa's parody of paranormal investigating video (back in the day when he used to do videos instead of streaming games - his new career apparently). Tuesday, March 22, 2022 I wouldn't be a bit surprised at all if Guy Fieri wanted to gag or vomit after trying some of the foods in a "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" episode hahaha. When you are on air, of course you are not going to blatantly blurt out - "Yuck. This is disgusting". Instead, immediately talk about the texture, different ingredients that went into the meal or food hahaha. Nice digression. Why is it so easy for folks to disparage or say something sucks or is terrible (a terrible music, or movie for example) but have to fake it when eating something disgusting or inedible. Apparently, my wisdom tooth has been acting up. I wish it never had to come to oral surgery to pull it out, but I might have to. Wisdom teeth are something along the lines of, "Why the hell did God create these - so humans can suffer through surgery when the time comes?". And you know about my phobia about surgeries and post-surgery life. Picture Of The Day (a screenshot from a Bad Friends podcast) - "Strike A Pose, Doc Willis!" By the way, his legs end where the image ends haha. Shapel Lacey Would Be Proud.
Th WoW AWC team "Three And A Half Men" considered hiring Doc Willis as their honorary cheerleader. Or at least was their inspiration to come up with their team name hahaha. Friday, March 18, 2022 Here's actually a cool event, John Cho / Kal Penn reunite in a virtual celebration for "Troublemaker" - https://www.anunlikelystory.com/event/cho Social Justice week. For Asian-Americans, it seems to be an everyday, never-ending or long-term ordeal unfortunately. It's been awhile since I've been to the dentist, but a "TOOF" is paying the price for it. Anyone else who has a phobia, concerned about the "fuckin' up their TOOF" situation? hahaha. I wonder if medical malpractice includes dentistry. I recommend watching the "Fun With Dumb" Leo Vice guest podcast episode, and then jackin' off to a Leo Vice pornhub video. I'll say it again. Any bozo can play notes or can be a technical keyboard wizard - there's already too many out there anyway. It's the interpretive / emotive quality that separates the rest. That's what I look for. Monday, March 14, 2022 I am considering purchasing "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-America From '90's To Now", even if I'm on a tight budget. It is on my wish list however. Take it from internet / gaming guru Jimmy Wong - it's most important to feel good / comfortable on the inside first, rather than focusing on the outside. My "Must-See" films list has not changed (when time permits or when films available on VOD):
Friday, March 11, 2022 What a lineup for "Beef" - with Steven Yeun and Ali Wong as leads (with Ali, you know there is going to be automatic comedy). And I heard about the guest appearances or roles - I'm curious as to what Bobby "Nut Sack" Lee would think - probably another freakout haha. I'll keep a lookout for the trailer. It's probably only in production or beginning stages. Who actually goes to buffets and eat salads / fruits only. That never made sense to me haha, but to each their own. I go there to devour carbs, carbs and more carbs hahaha. An HFC or a Nikocado's Seventh Heaven haha. Thursday, March 10, 2022 The new teaser trailer for "Obi-Wan Kenobi" has fans beginning to salivate. Apparently, Sung Kang is playing one of the Inquisitors (a villain in simpler terms, but part of the new Empire tracking down all remaining or hiding Jedi). According to his instagram and the trailer, there is only 1 brief scene of him. It does not tell much at all. My guess or suspicion is that his character is going to appear in just 1 episode - but hopefully, it'll be action packed. I might not be much of a Star Wars fan, but I felt "Revenge Of The Sith" was a fun, dark ride (other than the original trilogy). It certainly had the most badass lightsaber duels out of all the films. Parry Shen in "Madelines". Looks interesting. Simu Liu hosting SNL, and now presenting at the Oscars. He should've actually been nominated for a change. Or any Asian-American for that matter. In due time - just keep fightin' the fight. Congratulations to "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-America From The '90's to Now" for its continuing or growing success. Get yers today, and make it #1! Tuesday, March 08, 2022 Who wouldn't want to hear Mariel "Speak In Tongues" haha. That shit would be hilarious - sort of a schizophrenic rant sounding like a Gregorian Chant on steroids hahaha. I don't know how D-So (other than getting paid) does it, but I hesitate to go even on Kiddie Coasters haha. Sunday, March 06, 2022 What a celebration panel for the release of "Rise: A Pop History Of Asian-America From The '90's Until Now" at the J-Museum. With the 20th Anniversary of "Better Luck Tomorrow", it would have been cool to have most of the cast there. But we'll take Parry Shen haha. And Dante Basco is still relevant hahaha. So much relevancy and salient points. Asian-Amercians have been made invisible for so long, it's become almost an accepted or tolerated practice to discriminate, bully and even attack us. That begs the question - who can you really trust except for your own (not many if at all). "Rise" is just a godsend or an overdue breathe of fresh air - to educate and enlighten today's generation. Out with the old, in with the new (the objective or fair-minded that is - otherwise, out with everyone). We have to continue to create for ourselves and find support / share. Friday, March 04, 2022 Apparently, the Wong Fu Productions' showcase of films or music videos are from several years ago - some recent. I think I already remember some of them - "In Between" was interesting, still highly relevant today. Dan aka Dan - I hope he's still creating music. There needs to be a podcast with the entire ensemble gathered in one episode, one podcast and completely roasting each other. Roll call - Bobby Lee, Steebee Weebee, Tino, Jeremiah, Rudy and of course - Doc Willis. This would be hilarious haha. Thursday, March 03, 2022 I am looking forward to watching / checking out some of Wong Fu Productions' showcase of short films by up-and-coming, new filmmakers / artists as such. Especially involving Asian-Americans. It is most important and imperative that we do not get lost in the shuffle - thus, we have to continue to create, showcase, find support. It is sustainable and there can be further progress. Although there is progress in terms of Asian Representation, it is still not enough. Tokenism / fetishism still exists unfortunately, as problematic as they are. Mainstream media is too self-serving - only about what is in it for them, not diversity. I've always suspected that they do not give a rat's ass either way. But publicity is publicity. Still - never trust them muthafuckas. I guess it's an inversely proportional thing - Bobby Lee losing weight (really - he still looks fat however haha, perhaps it's the Hobbit Head hahaha), and Doc Willis gaining weight. Either way - I guess their common ground is either they're both fluid or ambiguous in terms of sexual preferences, or they both still have a porn problem haha. Wednesday, March 02, 2022 Two notable books or novels - John Cho's "Troublemaker" and "Rise: A History Of Asian-America From The '90's Until Now". Of course - Asian American history goes even farther back, with notable pioneers across industries. It's a colorful illustration, and from the sneak peeks on their twitter, it highlights a lot of important moments. Get yours today. Steebee Weebee has a theme song for himself as well haha. The Lee Brothers might be vocally challenged ( it's ok, so are many others - in a simpler language - tone deaf), but they sure can write lyrics. One chord progression at a time haha. Thursday, February 24, 2022 How unsual was Twosday or 2/22/22. I guess it only happens once every century haha. Still - that is rare. Congratulations on "Shang-Chi" and their "Super" Critics Choice Awards nomination. Although I believe that they should have been nominated in the Non-Super categories as well - it is deserved. Simu Liu joins the ensemble for "Hello Stranger". Sounds epic - just have to keep track on when my must-see films are going to become available on VOD or in theaters. K. 498 is fun to play - I kind of feel that it has that Concerto-like feel to it. Sunday, February 20, 2022 What is my musical IQ - I'm certain it's at least competent. All I know is that I'm a terrible test taker - I guess I never did well under pressure or in a similar situation. But when it comes to playing music, I run on feeling and knowing a melody. That's how I roll son. As long as I'm inspired and relaxed, the possibilities are endless. Of course - basic knowledge / understanding of music theory is essential (advanced topics not as much, although it helps with other skillsets). I could say for sure that the VGP (Video Game Pianist) would ace musical IQ tests - in fact, he has videos on them. Saturday, February 19, 2022 What a relief - I'm glad to hear Mike Song's father was found or returned alive and well after going missing on a hike (with the onset of a snowstorm as well). It's always the most difficult thing to endure when a loved one goes missing. Also to feel hope - it's never easy. But that's what keeps most going in life - hope and optimism. I don't get the hype for Reeses cereal. I wanted to try it, and my survey says that Peanut Butter Crunch is more tasty or full / dense in taste. Stick with the chocolate itself. Friday, February 18, 2022 Ke Huy Quan returns! He hasn't acted since like forever - he's best known in "The Goonies". I think he had a role in the last season of "Head Of The Class" back then. Ke returns in a new film called "Everything Everywhere All At Once" - what a title haha. A24 has films to look forward to, add this to my list: "The Humans" "After Yang" "Everything Everywhere All At Once" In terms of action flicks - "Fistful Of Vengeance". I should re-post this blog on my Film Forums page. Thursday, February 17, 2022 Pianists or musicians out there are already technically gifted, and more are out there that I do not know about. But I'm looking for expressive and even personal interpretations (albeit maintaining the integrity of a piece more or less). I always believed that any bozo can play notes. That is not the issue. I think Joe Jitsukawa's solo adventures (even as a traveling, rich / wealthy hobo) should be more interesting than being tied down with somebody. Now Dat Is Not A Mudda Boolsheet haha. Wednesday, February 16, 2022 I'm usually in awe of the Video Game Pianist's transcriptions. I can imagine it takes years of ear training and transcription experience - especially for a complex or intricate piece. It's a skillset that is quite rare. It isn't just that people are too stupid these days, it's also that people are too damn racist / violent to give a hoot. Who can you really trust, right? Not many. We are truly living in a racist idiocracy. I think we need to make David So an honorary Sicilian or a bona fide Pasta Chef haha. At least he wouldn't attempt serving escargot or whatever that crap is. Sunday, February 13, 2022 And so it begins - new life, new journey. Every newborn is a precious life - your life has to revolve around the baby, especially if it means screwing up your sleep schedule (no more being the second Slept King for me haha). It is tiring and taking some getting used to. I believe you can still do activities that you enjoy doing, just less of it. It came as a complete shock initially, since the due date was not until this week. It happened at the beginning of the month. Kudos to Wong Fu Productions for the "Shell" series. Memories for me are fictional to begin with (they are not real, and never have been) - it's like waking up from a bad nightmare. My life actually began after 40. Jiajun Chen - what a pianist. Pianists or Musicians come in all shapes, sizes and colors - including the fat ones haha. Joking aside, his emotive expressiveness in the pieces is just right up my alley. Thursday, February 03, 2022 Am I the only one not in the loop about what an NFT is or a Wordle is hahaha. They are currently the trend or the fad of today, just as that fidget spinner or bop-it gadget was back in the day haha. Rekstizzy might not be as fat as a Bobby Lee, but he sure laughs like a Bobby Lee. Hahaha. New guy to follow. Tuesday, February 01, 2022 Happy Lunar New Year! Let the new year be filled with more beautiful music, and delicious eats haha. What a Spring Festival Concert - I wish I could find a Youtube video to add to my playlist. Although this is the month where I'll be a new parent, classical music always continues. Sunday, January 30, 2022 Lang Lang, Gina Alice and Winston Lang - that's a very musical family. Happy 1st Birthday - he'll grow up or be raised with a meaningful childhood, and might follow his parents' footsteps as an accomplished pianist. Or completely something else. Some forgotten or "What-Are-They-Up-To" Asian-Americans: Jason Scott Lee, Randall Park and Brian Tee. Brian Tee appears busy, being on Chi-Med for NBC. He might leave the show from I've been hearing, considering the current storyline. He'll also be in "Expats" for Amazon Prime. Not that I'm going to sign up anytime soon for a peculiar show, but it's something I'd watch or figure out a way to watch. Saturday, January 29, 2022 So what is Daniel Dae Kim working on now? It looks like another project - is it that Last Airbender (or whatever you call it) remake or revamp. It is way overdue. When was the last time you heard "healthy" in the same sentence as "fast food" - probably never haha. And by the way - Bobby Lee has tinier hands than DFD (albeit fat ones haha).It's ok - mine are average. But working toward being able to do finger push-ups smh. I won't be able to finish K. 311 Sonata anytime soon, although I began to practice it again. It is glorious. Thursday, January 27, 2022 Holy Sunshine, Batman ! After consecutive days of heavy fog, it's going to be a clear day. Enjoy it while it lasts. Liszt's Transcedental Etudes sound quite tough. The only pianists I've listened to or watched that can play them well are the VGP (Video Game Pianist - apparently, his bread and butter) and Nobuyuki Tsujii. Wednesday, January 26, 2022 I'm lovin' Joe Jitsukawa's Failed Relationships advice vlog. He might be hella young, but sometimes - you can learn more from younger ones, than from some senile, old fucks. I think relationships are overrated - only if they are not your bread and butter. Meaning - don't force it, or don't feel obligated to have one. If you are more of a loner or feel more comfortable doing things alone or away from folks, then nothing wrong with that. It's what makes you the happiest and most fulfilled. It's about finding what makes you happy, and finding that self-esteem - whether it's in an activity like creating or sharing music, art, or whatever. If you feel the need or have to get into a relationship, perhaps it's time to have your head examined or checked out. One sneak peek at Nikocado's Patreon or social media, and I can see why it is not Family-Friendly hahaha. But I might need to create a fan page for all that fatty gloriousness haha. Monday, January 24, 2022 I am looking forward to watching Wong Fu Productions' "Shell" series. The first episode kicked it off well. The idea of artificial memories is intriguing - desirable ones that is. But my credo or belief now - memories should always stay or remain fictional or a figment of one's imagination. It's better that way. Because reality usually never works out for a lot. In a nutshell, my life before 40 was nothing but a dream or fictional memories to me. In fact, I have no recollection or any at all - except the eating, sleeping, going to school, being terrified of recitals (I'm still not sure how I played Chopin's Revolutionary Etude when I did not have the stamina back then), the depression / anguish / boredom of life. And then I woke up from a bad nightmare. My life really started when I found a renewed passion for Classical Music / Classical Piano. And finding an internet kinship or relating to the likes of a Bobby Lee (well, I used to be semi-fat but have ADD/OCD) or a Ricky Berwick haha. January is almost ending already. The reality is sinking in faster than the Titanic. I don't know what I'm more nervous or anxious about - my doubts about my fatherhood abilities or all the responsibilities that entails. A child should be the most precious thing for parents no doubt. It should be life-changing either way. Sunday, January 23, 2022 (Part II) C-Mac definitely speaks the truth - 100% agree. He can sound intimidating however haha. But if anyone knows him, he's down-to-earth and is as real as it gets if you've seen any of his Mac Eats. The main problem - there is not enough support / coverage for Asian issues, or Asians as victims whenever Asians get attacked or bullied. Everyone seems to just shrug it off - but when it's a black or white issue, they act as if the world is ending or they won the lottery. The on-going Anti-Asian racism that is as subtle as it is blatant - it's been like this for decades. They don't care, and we don't seem to count. There are plenty of supporters or goodness out there however. We just need to reach them, and ignore / avoid the trolls, haters, racists. Sunday, January 23, 2022 (Part I) Holy Heavy Fog, Batman! (marathon notwithstanding). Talk about more wacky weather - dense fog rolling in like the damn bay area day after day. Or something out of a John Carpenter horror film. What a "Dudes Behind The Foods" podcast episode - when you casually talk about your "Shit" routine in the morning (I prefer to blast them out in the crapper, and letting out an "aaahhhhhh" hahaha), or takin' your sweet-ass time takin' a shit. Or your experience gettin' "felt up" at the doctors for a hernia-related issue hahaha. Them talkin' about it would get anyone aroused I guess. Films to check out: "Free Chol Soo Lee" - the Asian-American movement appeared to have begun here. As well as the rally for Vincent Chin. "A Shot Through The Walls" "The Fabulous Filipino Brothers" (if you are a fan of Dante Basco) Friday, January 21, 2022 What's easier - memorizing or learning all the digits to Pi, or memorizing every word in a Rich Brian track haha. Warren G ain't got nuthin' on Warren Hue - Hue can spit lyrics much faster and do it better fo' sho'. Oh right - it's not that r & b crap haha. To this day, "Edamame" and "Dat Stick" are my favorites. At least there is close captioning or subtitles wherever or whenever available. The piece is Brahm's Cappriccio Op. 76 No. 8 C Maj. Do I Like Brahms? (Not the lame kdrama haha). I haven't played any Brahms at all, but the composer should be part of any pianist's repertoire. This is a very interesting piece to say the least. Thursday, January 20, 2022 I think Jimmy O. Yang and Darren Barnet are a match made in heaven haha. Kiddings aside, they have rapport - whether in Jimmy O. Yang's Kitchen or on-screen rivals in "Love Hard". I watched some Jimmy O. Yang's standup clips - funny, witty and relatable. Aside from various podcasts that I listen to, standup comedy is a crapshoot. Either it's funny or it's not. To each their own. But Jimmy's comedy seems to be clean cut AND funny. Similar to Henry Cho. That combination is very rare. These days, comedians tend to be more edgy and offensive in order to "attempt" to be funny. RIP Bob Saget. Dayum. I might need to add or download Steebee Weebee's music tracks to my playlist haha. Or just listen to them on bandcamp. Wednesday, January 19, 2022 Wow. I might need to return to playing some Brahms pieces. It's been awhile - I did try out a fantasy cappriccio I think. The Gold House or The Gold List 2022 is where it's definitely at. I would only add Justin Chon's "Blue Bayou" to the breakout indy list. It's one of the superior quality films in 2021. I believe mental illness and being a racist is not indicative of one or the other. However, a racist can be either mentally ill / have mental issues or be completely normal. Mental illness just brings out the racism that is usually hidden in everyday or anyday folks. It goes to show that nobody can really be trusted. But that's the strength and power in a lot of folks who still have faith in humanity, and refuse to stop believing in the goodness or kindness in others. It's been very difficult to believe these days if you only look at the violent, negative videos. Monday, January 17, 2022 How is it that it's already past mid-month of January - time stops for no one or moves as fast as it wants. And how can I prevent myself from becoming too anxious. Perhaps just thinking about other new parents-to-be that might go through the same thing. It's probably the same thing for Philip Wang and was for Aaron Takahashi. My criteria for effective teaching or tutoring - instill passion (if possible) or inspiration in what they are playing, make learning enjoyable / fun, and a bonus (if the pupil or student has achieved progress through continual guidance). Sunday, January 16, 2022 I highly recommend getting "Rise: Asian-Americans In The '90's To Now" - it's a colorful illustration and very informative. To shed light on the realities or plight of Asian-Americans throughout history, it includes the racism / racist propoganda in it. For educational purposes - read at your own risk. As well as the who's who of unheralded contributors, personalities that have helped shape society as well as up-and-coming personalities that we now know. Other recommendations: John Cho's "Troublemaker", and Andrew Yang's "Forward". Speaking of which, Forward-Thinking in more ways than one, is also a state of mind or mindset that I'm intrigued with. It's practical more with real-life issues. If anything, it's a healthy way of thinking - focus only on moving forward, becoming happy / successful in life (becoming happy is a success - not necessarily materialism). It's been awhile since I visited Andrew Yang's sites, but since he's back to becoming that entrepreneur or business / innovator that we all know, perhaps. The "Yang Gang" never ends. Friday, January 14, 2022 Yesterday was Korean-American Day - coolness. There should be other "Asian-American Days" as well. Be loud, proud and unapologetic. AAPI Heritage Month in May. For me, everyday is AAPI Heritage. I'm usually always on the lookout for any or all Asian-American / Asian projects. You know you have OCD if you keep singing, or sing "Yeah Yeah Yeah" all the way through hahaha. Well, Doc is observant somewhat - almost everyone tries to do only the bare minimum in life: eat, sleep, work (rinse / repeat) haha. Unless you have productive hobbies or activities in your life. Or a family. Whatever happened to that "Office Space" dream of doing absolutely nothing, and it turns out everything anyone could ever dream of haha. There probably needs to be an exodus or unsubbing in droves from that goddamn platform to have "Cowboy Bebop" renewed. At this point - keep on going, aim for 1M signatures (that'll take forever). Thursday, January 13, 2022 James Hong should have been on the Walk Of Fame long ago - it's unfortunate that it had to take a fundraising campaign from Daniel Dae Kim and others just for consideration. It's long overdue. But congratulations. I just found a documentary on pianist phenom Nobuyuki Tsujii, and his learning methods / abilities developed at a young age - "Road To The World". Now that's real magic. I stick with quality programs or shows from Wong Fu Productions and others, because it is lacking out there. Their most recent production - "Shell" - appears to be an intriguing concept or story. Might check it out. Wednesday, January 12, 2022 The stunt team for "Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings" definitely deserves the nomination for the SAG awards. I think "Shang-Chi" also deserves Best Visual Effects and Best Action Film. Period. But unfortunately, not this time. At least The Critics Choice and People's Choice in regards to that. Also - Simu Liu in Variety 500 (whatever that is). There really is nothing that I'm looking forward to this year in terms of what new films to watch, practically Non-Existent so far. But I'm always on the lookout (if "One Trues Love" doesn't release this year that is). New Beginning Pieces: F. Schubert, Impromptu Op. 90 No. 1 F. Chopin, Nocturnes Op. 32 No. 1 and 2 L.v. Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 26 The Jackson Five-And-A-Half has a nice ring to it - right, Doc? hahaha. Tuesday, January 11, 2022 There appears to be a lot of promising, young pianists out there. With the right guidance, the potential is limitless or the possibilities can be endless. You can't really teach passion. It has to be cultivated or developed, or it has to have existed in oneself to begin with. One advice - don't play as if you are afraid of making mistakes. It happens. If you let the music flow (whatever inspiring piece it is), then things are going to fall into place. And learn J.S. Bach! That Doc story about his fight with his gay Uncle was hilarious. Hahahaha. And next time - any lady going on a date with Doc, it's probably better to just go directly to McDonald's. Otherwise, he'll get pissed again at that "Little Obese Lady" haha. Monday, January 10, 2022 I always felt that I would never be ready to be a parent anyway. It's one of the Yes And No situations when I'm asked if I'm ready - it's both, if that makes any sense. Changing my mindset and preparing for a new, different lifestyle might never happen if I don't experience it. I have to try look at it from a completely different perspective - as something enriching, rewarding and life-changing. Rather than dreading or being scared of it - the anxieties usually happen anyway. What part of the spectrum am I in haha. With ADHD and OCD, can I be an effective / responsible parent, father? It might certainly force me to change for sure. The realization is creeping in day by day. Lofty goals of exercising regularly, and even trying to place well in a Marathon, is something to actually admire. Kudos to guys like the Video Game Pianist and others. Bobby Lee - I think it's also Choe who made you look like a fool haha. "The Slept King" theme song composed by the Scissor Bros. is fire - add to your playlist haha. Sunday, January 09, 2022 *My list for Top Asian-American / Asian performers or breakthrough performances in 2021: Simu Liu (Shang-Chi), John Cho (Cowboy Bebop), Justin Chon (Blue Bayou), Jimmy O. Yang (Love Hard), Daniel Dae Kim (The Hot Zone: Anthrax / from the clips shown or from what I've heard, it is riveting). More videos and interviews on Character Media for your own favorites. Every once in awhile, listening to a serious podcast episode with serious topics or subject matters is worth it or a breath of fresh air. Everyone should take an extended break from all the silliness and hilarity of funny ones. Sometimes, they can get extreme or a "facepalm" / "shaking my head" ignorance kind of deal - but they are always a "listen or watch at your own risk". With that said - apparently, Steebee Weebee is not the "Bug Guy" hahaha. He would fail on a first episode of a fictional reality survival show fo' sho' haha. More worm eating! Also - what part of the spectrum would you consider Bobby Lee at haha? Let's count the symptoms (ADHD, OCD / being fidgety, etc.). I can tell ya one thing. It's a good thing that Bobby Lee is sticking with comedy, because he would make the "Very Cool, Very Swag - I Like It" Guy sound or sing like Whitney Houston haha. Saturday, January 08, 2022 My New Year / New Beginning pieces would be: Schubert's Impromptu Op. 90 No. 1 (bright, energetic, projecting boldness / confidence) and Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 26 (abstract, beautiful melody). Learning J.S. Bach pieces first comes highly recommended - since being comfortable with the left hand is imperative. Unfortunately, I avoided J.S. Bach most of my life and did the opposite. Be familiar with the melody. Learn the melody. And then learn the notes. It works for some. The Big 3 of J.S. Bach, W.A Mozart, and L.v. Beethoven have pieces known for Multi-Voices or flowing melodies / themes in either hand - which makes pieces much more beautiful and appealing. Wednesday, January 05, 2022 With the big thaw might come big floods for a few areas (depending on the amount of snow). I'm all tired or sick of snow, but it appears the weather is stabilizing / normalizing a bit. It'll be back to "I'm Tired And Sick Of Rain" now haha. My anxieties in weather doesn't really help my anxieties of becoming a new parent. As exciting as that might be, it is quite scary. I'm just so used to being single with single habits. The mindset has to change. Let's continue to focus on supporting with the live-action "Cowboy Bebop". I prefer to have it picked up by a different platform (might not even be possible however since every platform has their own agendas) - however, I would consider subscribing to it. Chopin's Nocturnes Op. 32 No 1 and 2 - quite melodic. Tuesday, January 04, 2022 Aside from my personal aspirations and resolutions for what is going to be a very important year for me, I'll certainly continue to look out for and support Asian-American projects and personalities. Simu Liu had an impressive 2021 for certain - "Shang-Chi" is becoming a household name now, hosted SNL, braved / conquered the spicy hot wings on that channel, and other films in his resume. I definitely recommend watching the Unforgettable Gala 2021 for Asian-Americans for the lo' down. I hope this year is going to be even better with even more projects and opportunities. At this point, we just need to continue to create for ourselves. After a brutal week of cold and snow before New Year's, I really hope things are normalizing or settling down. Extreme weather / temperatures can be attributed / correlated with climate change (perhaps not directly), and it should always be a wake-up call for change. To take care of the planet better. Saturday, January 01, 2022 A new year - but this year, a new beginning / new life. Reality check or the realization that it is actually happening is coming closer. I would never have thought I would become a father / parent. It's probably the most scariest (but most exciting / rewarding / important) event ever. I spent almost all my life with a very irresponsible, lazy mindset. That needs to change this year bigtime, otherwise there'll be consequences. There's always a part of me that'll think - "what the hell did I get myself into", because it'll always yearn to just remain single / individual. But my wife / spouse has changed me for the better. Heck of a lot better. And I'm sure children can too. Yet, I still retain or have a lot of my bad habits. If you make resolutions, don't expect to change overnight. It seems to be an endless cycle - everyone relapses eventually, and nothing really changes. But there is always that possibility of change. I can always hope. Since I tend to panic or have needless anxieties, I need to somehow focus / figure out a way on changing my mindset / relaxing more. That's probably should be my top resolution. More thoughts later. |
