Limmerpalooza

Fox News, get a fucking life.

2011-05-17T09:11:00.000-05:00

Re the Common non-controversy, Jon Stewart pays a visit to Bill O'Reilly's show and owns him good. But I'm not posting because Stewart is "a shot of Levittown to [O'Reilly's] ass" but because it is so depressingly insane (and inane).

K-Pop's ALEX!

2011-05-01T11:16:00.000-05:00

[Fuck you, yet again, Blogger, for not posting my entries and for giving me error screens in Chinese. I specified my language to 'English', you bastard. That means you should adjust your damn codes and pop up error messages in the appropriate language.]

So, before that freak out, I freaked out about Alex, who is my new obsession. Take a look at the performance below and see why. And I like Oasis. I admit it.

Bommie's all-kill for 'Don't Cry'.

2011-04-25T08:04:00.000-05:00

Love me some Park Bom. She all-killed on the charts, once again showing the dominance of YG. This video is similar to her first single, You and I, in that there's a girl, there's a boy, they fall in love, and he dies. I know, happiness. But happiness is seeing Bommie in all her diva loveliness. Check out the MV.

Chapman To performs a '3D Sex and Zen' movie review.

2011-04-23T12:53:00.001-05:00

Because good news also comes in 3s, Chapman To delivers the last piece of HK entertainment goodness for today. Also unless you have been living under a rock, you probably know that HK recently released the world's first 3D porn, so the producers claim. The latest incarnation of the Sex and Zen series raked in a load of money in its first day, beating the record set by Avatar. Far from being the male moviegoer's wet dream, however, some are complaining that the 3D-ness is improperly focused on flying bullets and swords. Well, one barely legal kid threw some choice words on the interweb about his disappointment, and the ever present Chapman To decided to deliver an interpretive performance. The result is gold, but since I don't know half the slang, it's only bronzish to me. Nevertheless, I did get that the newly crowned 18 year old was not happy that his beloved Vonnie Lui was subjected to dubbing and then blown to bits, among other things.

Ron Ng......mmmmm........

2011-04-23T12:27:00.002-05:00

Moving on...now that Raymond Lam has taken a precipitous fall from grace, time to turn our attention to his other half. I mean Ron Ng. Mr. Ng has always hovered high on my radar, but his acting and singing are of questionable quality. Nevertheless, I generally enjoy his performances. They don't make me squirm the way hmm, Kenneth Ma's performances do. I'm actually very much looking forward to seeing Ron in his latest show, Yes, Sir, No, Sir (though I don't think TVB properly punctuated it), on in the 9:30p slot. He plays a cop alongside Moses Chan. Ron = cop, always a good idea.

This time, the story revolves around a school as Moses is sent undercover as a teacher of a Band 3 (underperforming) school. 5 episodes have already aired, and finally Ron appeared last night - in the closing 30 seconds of the show. Blast it! Luckily we've been seeing him in the ending credits. Well, he's very 型, and let's leave it at that. See for yourself.

Apple Action News pixelates Raymond Lam's animated parts.

2011-04-23T12:00:00.003-05:00

As you know, if you live in Hong Kong and speak Cantonese, Raymond Lam Fung has been getting almost Edison-level press lately for his underground relationship with Mavis Pan. He of exceptional bone structure and she of exceptional...um, chest structure apparently hit it off after filming an awful movie together. She had a bit role in The Jade and the Pearl, memorable for nothing until her relationship with Lam was exposed. Oh, how the beautiful fall fast. The so-called scandal has been brewing for a month now, and because I have nothing better to do, I'm posting Apple Action News's interpretation of this relationship. (AAN regularly makes it to Huffington Post's comedy section for it's inane computer animations of news stories.)

Big Bang's 'Tonight' special edition release...almost.

2011-04-07T10:24:00.001-05:00

YG thinks its such the shit that it apparently keeps its own time. 22 minutes past the release of Big Bang's 4.5 mini album, that is the special edition of Tonight. As always, YG's late! Constantly updating my pages. In the meantime, eye candy.

TOP counts down.

2011-04-04T00:13:00.000-05:00

4 days until Big Bang drops another cannonball of awesomeness (yes, I'm running out of metaphors). I love this sound, and I don't just mean that of TOP's voice, though I love that as well.

It's not uncommon to hear some fans lament about Big Bang's departure from their early days, 'early' meaning anything from VIP to Lies to Haru Haru. But I think that misses the whole point of why Big Bang is such a beloved phenomenon. Great artists are that way because they consistently push beyond the norm. Not to equate Big Bang with the following artists, but Michael Jackson, Madonna, and the Beatles certainly did not confine themselves to the music that launched their careers. I have more to say on this but time for work! Until then, TOP sings to you.

Taeyang counts down.

2011-04-03T09:58:00.000-05:00

Taeyang needs a girl like me?! I can deal. 5 days until Big Bang's special release album. Kid's got short fingers. That's okay.

MBLAQ cries.

2011-04-03T09:56:00.000-05:00

In case we need a reminder, I'm a dedicated YG fangirl, a snobby one at that; I don't think any other company holds a torch to YG. But occasionally I experiment with other K-Pop drugs, like MBLAQ off the JTune label. There's nothing that really stands out for me about them, and only recognize G.O. Nevertheless, I have 2 of their songs on my iPod, and that seems to be critical mass when it comes to these sort of things. Here is their song Cry, which is getting endlessly looped at the moment.

Less than three Liu Xuan.

2011-03-31T12:57:00.001-05:00

What the hell would I write about if I didn't have K-Pop? Ah yes, TVB. And so, here it is. My latest love affair is Liu Xuan. There are some actresses I adore and would quite possibly turn gay for. Tang Wei is high on that list - actually, she is at the top of that list. Liu Xuan is, well, not in an Ang Lee movie opposite Tony Leung, but she still strikes me as crazy sweet. She is also very short for a HK actress and has managed to make Fala Chen look oafish (yes, oafish). This generally makes me feel better about life.

For some unfathomable reason, she decided to sign a contract with TVB and learn Cantonese. This Olympic gymnast is now starring in Grace Under Fire, which is about kung fu and Wong Fei Hong, among other things. It automatically earns negative points because Kenneth Ma is one of the male leads, but Liu Xuan has rescued it from whatever bad acting her co-star is engaged in. I missed the first week and a half so I'm not following the show too closely, but so far so good. 加油!!

Kanauru films Shaun Evaristo's kids dancing to his choreography of Se7en's 'Drip'.

2011-03-31T12:43:00.000-05:00

And while we're at it, Kanauru meets Shaun Evaristo meets Se7en's Drip. I am loving everything that comes out of Kanauru/Movement Lifestyle collabs. Living vicariously through this crew.

Ne-Yo + K-Pop collab?

2011-03-31T12:35:00.000-05:00

Ne-Yo says he wants to collaborate with some K-Poppers. Fan-tastic. So who's first on the list? One would assume the guy everyone calls 'Korean Ne-Yo' (aka Taeyang), right? Wrong. Via his recent Korean concert visit and Twitter feed, he expressed an interest in working with KYP artists only. Okay, obviously this news is to be taken with tubs of salt. We're assuming he's a newbie to the genre and has yet to be confronted with the amazingness that is Taeyang and the YG Family. Plus, Ne-Yo and Junsu from 2PM would be killer. And 'Taeyang' and 'Big Bang' and 'YG' might have pushed him over the 140 character limit. But really, Ne-Yo, get in touch with Papa YG. Good things will happen to you.

(For the record, Blogspot sucks fuck. So much for making this site user friendly for computer illiterate posters. How the hell do you post pictures next to each other instead in one fucking column?)

Liar Liar.

2011-03-31T11:07:00.000-05:00

So maybe YG goes by HK time? In any case, Stupid Liar/Lair has been unleashed! I love the opening bars. Still am not feeling the autotune and die a little every time I hear it in a new track. Nevertheless, I've sipped the kool-aid, and it's delicious. Full track and album dropping on April 8, MV on April 15.

(Keep expecting GD to continue with '...pants on fire.')

Big Bang's stupid little lair.

2011-03-31T10:43:00.001-05:00

Waiting for Stupid Liar to be released. No, waiting for the 30 second teaser to be released. Alas, it's 41 minutes after midnight in Korea and still no sign of this liar. Meanwhile, on YouTube, YG's teasing us about some stupid lair. Oops. I'll gladly be their English editor.

G-Dragon endorses Bean Pole and reminds everyone that you are not as cool as him.

2011-03-23T10:56:00.000-05:00

Fuuuuuuuuuck. G-Dragon, you KILL me!!!!!! How can a 23 year old kid have so much swagga? I want just an ounce of his charisma, a teaspoonful. Untouchable.

JLS's inspired 'Eyes Wide Shut' MV.

2011-03-21T08:52:00.000-05:00

Time to come clean. I like JLS. Generally averse to any act that emerges from a television talent contest, but I've liked most of their hits so far. They make my brand of music, the poppy R&B stuff that I don't mind grooving like a fool to on public transpo. Their latest single (from late last year) just landed on my playlist. It's called Eyes Wide Shut. Yeah, deep. It feels a little early 90s old school, but I think that's mostly because the opening bars sound like they are taken from Monica's Angel of Mine. That said, I don't know what is going on in the video. I don't dislike it; just looks a mess, kind of like mushing all of the following into a 4 minute video.

Inception

Columbia Pictures logo

Rene Margritte's Son of Man

MC Escher

Star Wars - Death Star

Taeyang's Prayer MV

Night Sky star chart

Star Wars - Cloud City

Ne-Yo

Actual JLS video:

Very obsessed with G-Dragon's 'Obsession'.

2011-03-14T10:18:00.000-05:00

Seriously, GD. Dear Leader pisses charisma. I don't understand a word (of Korean) he's saying, but this kid is one powerful drug. I fantasize about being him, when I'm not pretending to be CL. You will feel cooler just by blasting his songs in your ear. Really, try it. His 眼神 (no direct translation but something like the look he gives off in his eyes) cuts. Beware if you're in the audience when he and T.O.P. take the stage. Slaughter.

Shinhwa fangirlism begins.

2011-03-11T09:27:00.000-06:00

New obsession: Shinhwa. I remember these guys from my first foray into Asia in 2002. I have their CD buried somewhere. Kim Dongwan appeared on a recent episode of Strong Heart with Seungri and G-Dragon, and I decided I want to marry someone like him. But I will not be, so instead I have songs like this one to look forward to. Just One More Time (다시 한 번만) off their 9th album, simply titled Volume 9. I listened to it at least 30 times today. Really need to learn Korean.

K-Pop anniversary!

2011-03-11T07:59:00.000-06:00

Cause for celebration! Exactly a year ago today, I stumbled upon a video. YouTube recommended one Wedding Dress by some Korean bloke named Taeyang. And well, you know how it goes. Taeyang and the YG family have accompanied me through one difficult but exciting year, difficult because I was still treading water with my thesis but exciting because I finally finished the damn thing and managed to get a job soon thereafter. One year and many CDs and DVDs later, I am an avowed Big Bang and YG fan. Yes, my life is enriched by the fruits of their creative labor. Since I am too tired to celebrate in any spectacular way, let me just repost the video that started it all. And it should be noted that 0'57" was what sent me over the edge. So thug.

Official MV for Big Bang's 'Tonight'.

2011-03-01T06:37:00.000-06:00

Score! Re yesterday's post about the MV shown on The Big Bang Show, indeed, YG has released a second version. This one is much improved. I still would like to have seen more cruising in Sin City because how hot would that be? But I love that Daesung got a lead role and played jilted lover. He's got an army of VIPs wanting to cuddle, or make violent love. Anyway, no more talk.

Conspiracy theory about Big Bang's 'Tonight' MV.

2011-02-27T21:27:00.002-06:00

Let me be the first to say...

Last night, or 10 hours ago, SBS aired The Big Bang Show, a one hour special of live performances, interview, and a Secret Garden parody. They also revealed an MV for Tonight. Half a day later, this MV has yet to appear in any official form. We know that YG is thinking internationally, even if there are no (public) plans in place for the current album, so it's a bit confusing why he would withhold the video from YouTube when that has been the primary means of international exposure for the group. There is also the issue of conflicting information about the content of the video, namely Daesung's missing bed scene. Yes, word is Daesung plays romantic lead - but the video shown on SBS last night was decidedly unromantic. Similarly, regarding content, as some posters have noted, the song is called Tonight yet much of it takes place during the day.

And a personal note, I was just not impressed. It almost reminded me of the disastrous first I Need a Girl video, though not quite so bad. The content was not cohesive - Las Vegas at night (very cool), day shots at some glitzy neon sign junkyard, and a desert. Yes, all vaguely Sin City, but there was no theme beyond this. (And I'm really not feeling the stylist for this album. Not the biggest transgression so perhaps more on that later.) There are a million possibilities for this song and shoot location, and you're telling me random shots of the boys singing is the best YG can do? This just doesn't seem like a worthy successor to such great videos as Lies (death by pineapple and subsequent incarceration of G-Dragon), Haru Haru (cheesy girl-gets-cancer story line but great tension between G-Dragon and TOP), and one of my favorites, Let Me Hear Your Voice (black and white concept of boys trapped by cityscape). Oh, and how can I forget Tell Me Goodbye, which had nothing to do with Iris, the show for which it was a themesong, but which could have been its own movie.

This is what I think. YG is teasing us and will actually unleash a second, and official, MV that will be much improved and subsequently rock the world. This accounts for the delay releasing on YouTube. Forever a master of hype, he knows that the Big Bang fandom is abuzz from last night's show. The K-Pop universe is on edge. They're no longer waiting for Big Bang to exert its dominance; it's now just a matter of how crushed the competition will be. After a 2+ year wait, it's hard to believe that this would be it for crafty promotion efforts and that Big Bang will simply slip into the usual music show promotions like the mere mortal idol groups. YG knows that fans are crying for more, some literally, and tension is building over the missing MV. He'll hold out long enough for this issue to generate noise and then - BAM - hit us with a superior MV, with Daesung getting his knickers off, or something like that. Fans will be so stunned that we will immediately sing praises of Big Bang and declare once more that YG is in fact a genius; lesser idol groups will whither at their own imperfections and mourn their inadequate management; and overseas non-fans will curiously click the 'featured' YouTube video like I did back in the day and suddenly be opened to a whole new world of wonderfulness. And we will see Daesung in a bed scene.

So, am I right? Wait and see. Of course, this could be a massive fail of a guess on my part. In which case, bring out the next video!

UPDATE: I didn't watch all of the Big Bang Show last night so I missed this bit of news. There is a very brief shot of GD rapping in English on the Tonight set. English version? (In which case I'm not buying another CD.) End the suspense already, YG, and wewease the secwet wideo!!!

Keone Madrid + Mari Martin + Vinh Nguyen = AMEN!

2011-02-27T08:42:00.000-06:00

And how did I forget to share this?!! I LOVE it, seriously. This is how you put your talents to work for God. Nothing else to say, except to explain that it's choreographed by Keone Madrid, who is part of that Movement Lifestyle/YG collective. His partner, Mari Martin, also plays a role. Music: Where You Are by Deitrick Haddon and We Need You by J.R. Support!

Big Bang.......what a tease.

2011-02-27T08:31:00.000-06:00

This teaser for Big Bang's new Intro track and album has been out for a few days but for some unfathomable reason has not made it to my blog. Amended. Yes, went into schoolgirl convulsions when it first popped up on my Youtube. Hello, folks. Big Bang, in Vegas, sporting styling shades, at night. Am now counting down the hours until SBS airs its first special on BB. Word is their newest MV will be released. And if I read right, another one of GD and TOP's tracks off their album is also getting a video. But that one will just have to be leaked in time as it's all BB promotions for the moment.

So, exhibit A - teaser. Exhibit B - my latest editions. I really did not intend on buying these right away. In fact, I didn't even think the BB album would be out in HK. But I was cutting through Causeway Bay this afternoon, by way of Victoria Park, and there happens to be an HMV conveniently located next door. Took the opportunity to boost BB's overseas sales. I actually was going to buy Seungri's album but decided on the other 2. Alas, the only reason was because I need to eat lunch this week. Sidenote, it's one of the albums being sampled in the store so there's a wall of fresh copies. And, for the record, I'm not the only HK fan excited about this release. Three girls, who are well above 10, gasped when they saw the new album and remained huddled around the discs for some time. Doing BB proud.

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B:

Arden Cho and Gerald Ko sing love.

2011-02-26T09:47:00.000-06:00

This is perfect.

Break it down, Seungri.

2011-02-22T08:36:00.000-06:00

Baby Seungri. Such a cute kid. Maknae's trying, real hard. But he's finally breaking through, down, wherever. Big Bang now has 5 bonafide stars.

Big Bang is Back.......almost.

2011-02-22T08:32:00.001-06:00

Travesty. Haven't posted in ages. As a student said on Monday, "Who blogs?! That's so sad." Well, I'm a sad, old woman then.

So what have I been watching (always an appropriate question)? Too many things. Burning Flame III, Last One Standing, Rosy Business, 7 Days in Life, Autumn's Concerto. Currently in my DVD player is Autumn's Concerto (after having, excuse the pun, burned through Burning Flame III several times). My passion for Vanness Wu has been reignited. That show is truly one of my favorites, which reminds me I have to finish a review for it one of these days. However, also on my radar is Big Bang's Korean comeback. It's been 2 years and 3 months since they rocked Korea with an album. Luckily I did not have to wait that long as I had yet to start my steamy affair with K-Pop. In honor of my current eye and ear candy, a picture.

"Fingers up if you own a mad six pack."

GD+TOP = Knock Out

2011-01-08T23:53:00.000-06:00

Starting off the new year right. GD+TOP MV for Knock Out.

I LOVE LOVE Wayne Lai Yiu Cheung!!!

2010-11-30T11:02:00.000-06:00

It cannot be helped. I love Wayne Lai (黎耀祥). He's been plastered all over Hong Kong since last year's successful run of Rosy Business (巾幗梟雄), selling everything from groceries to cleaner to (gasp) fitness memberships. There is nothing to say except he's a truly awesome actor. And fit as hell. Mmm-mmm.

Greyson Chance, Round 2.

2010-11-21T02:06:00.000-06:00

Say what you want, Greyson Chance is pretty awesome. I love his songs, all 2 of them. Here is a recent performance from Ellen. It's his new tune, Waiting Outside the Lines. A little unpolished - vocally he could be stronger in some parts, but it's a kid banging on a piano and debuting a new song on a national tv show. I was doing nothing productive at that age, or this one.

Is William Chan for real?

2010-11-15T10:13:00.000-06:00

Holy shit fuck. Thank you, Charlene Choi! Look at William Chan now! Okay, so maybe this wasn't all her doing, but Mr. Choi has undergone quite the transformation. Maybe it all started with the Rexona deodorant ad he shot some month's back. Shit's powerful. Whatever the prime mover, William Chan is now steps away from becoming a K-Pop star. Exhibit A: video. Now this is one of those shitty TVB jobs, i.e. it's not the real video but some cheap Tseung Kwan O substitute b/c TVB won't show the real one. But it's still, shall we say...fierce? Boy wonder's got some moves, and some muscles. Singing voice, not so much, but keep at it, kid. We'll see if this portends a brighter future.

TVB mid-series thoughts for 'No Regrets' and 'Gun Metal Grey'.

2010-11-15T10:03:00.000-06:00

A couple things to say.

巾幗梟雄之義海豪情 (No Regrets): I'm up to episode 19. Episode 21 aired tonight, and I believe we're in the home stretch. Yawn. The first few episodes were fitting of an anniversary series; of course Spare Rib Boy's (Ngo Kanin) acting was tops. But the second half of the show has veered into numbing anti-Japanese war propaganda. Things that bother me: Fala Chen - sorry, boys, but I just don't see the appeal; Spare Rib Boy - he doesn't bother me but his lack of screen time does, though he seems to be making a comeback in the final week; crazy Japanese guffawing and other obnoxious caricatures - it's too easy and simplistic. This latter point is my main complaint for the last 2 weeks' episodes. I don't mean that this historical period has been overdone. Rather, the static, black and white portrayal of good Chinese folks under the oppressive, and slightly buffoonish, Japanese needs a paint job. There is a slight makeover in the forms of Lau Sing and Gau Mui; both are interesting characters who have firm loyalties but not always steady ways of showing it. And let's credit actors Wayne Lai and Sheren Tang for another round of brilliant performances. But their effort is too often drowned out by background noise. Nancy Wu and Evergreen Mak are both strong in this series, but Ms. Wu especially needs to turn the decibel level down a notch. Lau Sing's housemates similarly need to cut the histrionics, but then, it wouldn't be a TVB series without. Overall, it's been a fair run and I think the pace is picking up a bit as we near the end, but I feel that finishing up this series has become a chore. I watch it because I must, not because I want to.

刑警 (Gun Metal Grey): Meanwhile, the 9:30p slot is no chore at all. I'm even watching it on the teevee instead of waiting until it's uploaded on TVB.com the next day. Much more exciting than the Bowie police procedural I just finished. The story itself is interesting, but I think what I really enjoy is the acting. I don't think I've ever seen an entire Michael Miu show and I never watched anything with Felix Wong (I know, I need to catch up on my 80s shows). I've only recently become a fan of Nancy Wu after seeing her in the original 巾幗梟雄 (Rosy Business) and her love match in this show is played by Vincent Wong, who I'd never heard of. Alas, all are spectacular, all reign in the overacting. Incidentally, it's Jessica Hsuan, who I usually like, who's a non-factor in this series. Mostly I object to her non-role, which is to be the female catch all. When things need to be explained to the audience or when a stupid character's stupid actions are necessary to move the story forward, they call on Ms. Hsuan. In any case, tonight's episode was Felix Wong's character's turning point. He killed a suspect then lied about it. It's all downhill from here for him. But let's hope the show doesn't go the same way.

Bruce Lee + Aarif Lee = 'Bruce Lee, My Brother'

2010-11-14T05:04:00.000-06:00

I kind of shat my pants earlier because I finally made the connection between the new movie about Bruce Lee and one Aarif Lee - the latter plays the former. A few weeks ago I saw parts of Echoes of the Rainbow and while was not left overly impressed by Mr. Lee the Younger, I still thought he did Hong Kong proud. Anyway, according to the font of knowledge, Wikipedia, he graduated with a degree in physics. Um, beat that, anyone else in the HK entertainment industry.

So if you're in Hong Kong lately, you've seen a lot of adverts for a new movie simply titled 李小龍 or Bruce Lee, My Brother. FYI, this coming November 27 is the 70th anniversary of his birth and the city is flipping ecstatic. At least the Hong Kong Film Archive has a whole day marathon - which would be awesome if I didn't have to work. It's screening some of his early work, as in when he 10 years old kind of early. Anyway, I thought they found an actor who at least resembled Mr. Lee the Elder, no easy task, for the movie.The bus adverts have a better profile than the movie poster pictured above. For some reason I thought they had 'scored' a TVB actor. Common sense should have told me this was impossible, for any number of reasons. Poked around a bit and basically was shocked and awed to find out the skinny, sensitive Aarif Lee, who is the type of guy my mom (or I) would want me to bring home if he was 7 years older, will be playing the Bruce Man. Yeah, I admit it, it's the abs. Watch the trailer below, and someone's been working out. And I'm not that, that shallow. MC Jin's in it, an old favorite, and it doesn't look ridiculous.

'Life of Pi' is one of the dullest books I've ever read.

2010-11-14T04:38:00.003-06:00

I can't for the life of me fathom why The Life of Pi is so popular. I've been working on this book for the last 2 months and can't make it past 5 pages without falling asleep. This post is an attempt to wake myself up, not that talking about a boring book is a great remedy. This is almost 400 pages mostly of a boy and a lion trapped on a boat in the Pacific Ocean. Ang Lee is supposedly directing a film version. I'll leave it up to him because right now my brain is seriously half mush.

Libera + 'You Were There'.

2010-11-08T09:31:00.000-06:00

I have a soft spot for boys' choirs. If hope had a sound, I think it would be a little like this - pure, sweet, and simple.

Libera's Japanese release of You Were There.

(One of my students looks like Tom Cully, the soloist. Yes, I'm going to grade him more easily.)

Taeyang + Solar, revisited.

2010-11-08T09:20:00.000-06:00

Doing a little bit of housekeeping and found some images on my desk. Yes, a bit old but still worth sharing.

Exhibit A - allkpop generating controversy by claiming that Taeyang's summer album release performed below expectations. Countered by stubborn facts, such as Solar's iTunes ranking. How many Korean artists have debuted near the top of the RnB chart, sans promotions? Oh, none. Can't hold us down, haters.

Exhibit B -allkpop readers showing Taeyang some love. Yup!

Lam Fung + Miriam = 'Perfect Wedding' themesong.

2010-10-24T12:03:00.000-05:00

林峰，我永遠愛你！！

Despite a lot of TVB misses lately, I can't help but falling in love with Lam Fung every damn time I see his perfect face. He was my first TVB crush (味美情緣 or Taste of Love) back in 2002. I've stayed faithful!

2PM's Junsu can sing.

2010-10-24T11:36:00.002-05:00

All I have to say about this is that Junsu should be in YG. His voice is lightyears ahead of the rest of 2PM. Leave the dark side of K-Pop, Junsu!!

It's rare to find Junsu solos. The closest it comes are his duets with Jay Park which, as much as I love Jay (or his abs), he ain't no Junsu. Here is an unadultered solo.

Ngo Kanin, Round 2.

2010-10-24T10:41:00.001-05:00

Not less than 3 hours ago, I declared my support for Ngo Kanin for Best Supporting Actor. Looks like I'm not the only one. Apple Daily interviewed him and revealed that netizens are in love with Spare Rib Boy's snot. (Explanation: His character - Spare Rib Boy - was falsely accused of murdering a gangster's son, so he nearly got a bullet in the brain. Spare Rib Boy freaked out, started crying, and probably pissed his pants.)

台慶最佳男配角大熱敖嘉年捱出頭
無綫劇集《巾幗梟雄之義海豪情》自播出後，飾演細膽排骨仔的敖嘉年連日慘被欺凌，每晚哭哭啼啼好不凄凉，其出色演繹淚滲觀眾心，隨即掀起網上排骨熱之餘，更令他人氣暴升，火速成為年底台慶頒獎禮的最佳男配角大熱，惡鬥至強勁敵林嘉華。(continued)

Translated article here.

J. Reyez + 'Little Miss Innocent'

2010-10-24T09:23:00.000-05:00

J. Reyez f Chris Jackson on 'Little Miss Innocent'. Okay, making up for several months of delinquent blogging by going on a posting spree, and avoiding some work. This track is...going on my iPod. Listen, download, subscribe. It's been a good 2010 for Asian music.

Jason Chen does David Tao.

2010-10-24T09:17:00.000-05:00

I am looooving Jason Chen right now. He just popped a Chinese cover for the youtube crowd. It's David Tao's 天天. If you're not familiar with Jason Chen, get familiar. I listen to a shitload of youtube artists, and this guy ain't playing. Currently rotating on the iPod is his cover of Far*East Movement's 'Rocketeer' with J. Reyez, who would be amazing even if he didn't do a massive hit cover of Taeyang's 'Wedding Dress'. Check out Jason Chen's latest and subscribe.

Don't steal from Wonder Girls, SNSD.

2010-10-24T08:56:00.001-05:00

No fan of either JYP Entertainment or SM Entertainment, the dueling K-Pop powerhouses that beam up Wonder Girls and SNSD, respectively. But if I'm taking sides, why does this new SNSD concept seem so familiar? Oh yes, because Wonder Girls already owns the retro style.

Exhibit 1: SNSD teaser for "Hoot"

Exhibit 2: Wonder Girls' "2 Different Tears"

Exhibit 3: Wonder Girls' "Nobody"

Ron Ng + Red Butterfly

2010-10-24T08:24:00.000-05:00

Yes, back in my TVB form. This is my spiritual television home. The Beeb is probably where I exist in reality, and the combined US networks are my careless flings. But ahh, TVB......so here is the song I've listened to most lately. Ron Ng sings the themesong for 巾幗梟雄 (Rosy Business) called 紅蝴蝶 (Red Butterfly).

Ngo Kanin for Best Supporting Actor, please!

2010-10-24T08:13:00.002-05:00

I'm burning my eyeballs on a TVB binge. Currently watching 讀心神探 (Every Move You Make) only because it's slightly more interesting than most of the other offerings of late. I'm not particularly a Bowie fan, but he has a respectable record when it comes to appearing in shows that do not suck, quite an accomplishment these days.

What I really want to talk about, however, is the anniversary series. The sequel to last year's hit 巾幗梟雄 (Rosy Business) - 巾幗梟雄之義海豪情 (No Regrets) - started last Monday. In the buildup, I decided to watch the original since it was all over the place in early 2009. Meanwhile, I was still one hot mess back then and missed the whole affair. But I do remember that much of the city was arrested by this show. I was walking home when the last episode aired and saw quite a few folks gathered around a sushi restaurant's outdoor tv screen. Naturally, I played along like I knew what was going on and caught some of the show. In any case, I now have 25 glorious episodes waiting for me, and in about a week, I've gotten through 20. Not bad considering all the work I've been bringing home plus catching up on 讀心神探 and rushing through 3-4 BBC shows.

So far I've only seen 2 full episodes of 巾幗梟雄之義海豪情 but that was enough to convince me to blog about one 敖嘉年 (Ngo Kanin). And let's go ahead and establish that I've crushed on him since 隨時候命 (Always Ready) when he played Charmain's moody brother. 巾幗梟雄 propelled him to substantial fame in Hong Kong though, and he was rewarded Most Improved Actor for his role as a total bastard in that show. Kanin definitely made a bitch of a villain, but I absolutely love his overly polite, good boy characters; his Yau Bong in 胭脂水粉 (The Charm Beneath) was syrupy sweet. I'm happy to say that he returns to form in 巾幗梟雄之義海豪情. Kanin plays 唐吉 (Tong Kat), or 排骨仔 (Pai Gwut Zai/Spare Ribs Boy), a country bumpkin who loves his granny and goes to the big city to become a police officer. The kid is so, so innocent and thus gets picked on by everyone. The real treasure though is Kanin, who captures scrawny little Pai Gwut perfectly. And this post is mainly to say that he better win the Best Supporting Actor Award this year. He is a-mazing.

Aces!

2010-09-28T12:36:00.000-05:00

Ian McKellen rails against the bright young things of today's (British) theatrical scene. The Guardian counters. In his rebuttal, Michael Billington notes the "shining young talent" lighting up the stages. Who does he single out? Dominic Cooper, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and yes, my dearest Samuel Barnett. Spot on. It's been awhile since I posted, well, anything, but especially about Mr. Barnett. But I just finished up series two of Beautiful People and once again, the young man astounds. He only appears at the beginning and end of each episode, but each appearance is so savory. Yes, savory. However, it looks like we'll just have to wait for that talent to percolate.

Taeyang performs 'I'll Be There' on Inkigayo.

2010-08-29T07:11:00.000-05:00

Fucking hot.

T.O.P. + SE7EN

2010-08-28T03:57:00.000-05:00

Oh my fucking goodness. This picture could kill people.

Park Yong Ha passes on to the next world.

2010-07-01T11:02:00.001-05:00

Yes, Taeyang's album came out today and I am excited beyond words, which is why I'm going to write about something else. Many people have been anticipating Solar, but probably the major headline in the last day and a half is Park Yong Ha's suicide. I hadn't seen his shows or movies or listened to his music so when I first heard the news, I only had a generic sense of sadness. By all accounts, he seemed like a popular actor who earned the admiration of fans first through his acting and then his music. When I saw his picture, I thought he looked familiar but couldn't place him because I knew he wasn't in the one Korean movie I've seen. Then I realized he took part in the Lotte Duty Free advert and song with Big Bang, Rain, and Song Seung Hun. When I first came across this video a month or so ago, I remember thinking that Park Yong Ha (I didn't know his name at the time) had a unique, soothing voice that kind of matched his boyish face. But now, no more. Life, people are sometimes like that; just flashes of brilliance, of tenderness, of joy, of hope that bloom and fade.

(Park Yong Ha appears 2nd and is wearing a blue shirt.)

Thoughts on teaser tracks for Taeyang's new album, 'Solar'.

2010-06-27T14:14:00.000-05:00

Alright, I feel compelled to write something about Taeyang's upcoming album, Solar (not to be confused with my favorite Hong Kong band Soler). Really though, it's not an easy thing as Taeyang and his music defy words. But it's 4 days remaining and we have been teased left and right - and I-just-can't-take-it-anymore!!

So, thoughts first on the track listing. There are 13 for the deluxe edition, I believe 11 for the regular one, and a total of 9 new tracks. Wedding Dress and Where U At appear on both albums, and Look Only At Me and Prayer are bonus tracks of the deluxe set. Excluding these, Taeyang contributed to 3 songs. YG standbys Teddy and Kush also contribute as does YB's bestie, G-Dragon. Additional writers, composers, and producers appear as well, so it'll be interesting to hear the diversity but also the unique Taeyang sound that pulls the album together.

On to the music...for some reason, YG thought it was a good idea to give the fangirls a mini-heart attack for the week leading up to Solar's release on July 1 by unleashing 1+ minute snippets everyday.

[Track 1] Intro - Taeyang's "just got a question for y'all. ARE YOU READY FOR SOLAR?" Honey, do you even need to ask? He strips it down in this intro (no, he does not strip down) and teases with only a drum line and a few scattered sound effects. The result is something completely fresh and deliberately evocative of a late spring or summer dawn. Just you, the birdies, and Taeyang.

[Track 2] Superstar - This song opens with an almost sporting arena drumbeat, like our boy Taeyang is getting ready to go a few rounds - which matches the lyrics, or the English parts that I understand. He's telling a girl to get with him and to give him her love because, after all, she's his superstar. It's not aggressive but supremely confident. Interesting because one wonders if this matches his approach to dating, though if his interviews are any indication, he's nowhere near this forward.

[Track 4] Just a Feeling - So how awesome are Taeyang's songwriting skills? VERY. This collaborative effort (with the ubiquitous Teddy) has a steady dance beat but is not overrun with electronica. Producer Teddy is starting to lay off on all that interference and delivers a controlled song that let's Taeyang's voice do the leading. "It's just a feeling..." but I think this album is going to kill. Yeah, all the k-pop kiddies better be scared.

[Track 5] You're My - "You're my chocolate, my sweetest chocolate. I really wanna have you.....You're my ice cream, my sweetest ice cream. I really wanna have you....." Right. Not the coolest lyrics, but maybe the Korean parts are awesome! But random food references aside, this is a super mellow track, perfect for displaying Taeyang's sweet, soulful voice. Just a few sparse piano strains and Mr. Dong to the Yongbae. It's not something you'll put on when making out with your other half, but it's perfect if he's lying next to you, caressing your face as you slowly drift to sleep...wishing he was Taeyang.

Super Junior + SNSD = 'Gee'.

2010-06-24T10:18:00.000-05:00

Update: So it seems that I like every K-Pop cover of SNSD's Gee better than the original. Or at least there are 2 that I prefer. New boy band Infinite (check out their wicked dance skills in Come Back Again) is making quite an entrance and earn points by paying homage to 'classics', including Wonder Girls' Tell Me.

***
Loving Super Junior's cover of Gee. Yes, the original by SNSD is infectious - but wholly irritating. Slow down the beat, subtract the pastel shorts and obnoxious 'cutie' faces, and the song suddenly becomes quite enjoyable!

The final push.

2010-06-13T00:42:00.000-05:00

So the long awaited oral defense for my masters thesis will be tomorrow. In less than 24 hours, the carnage will be complete. If I don't pass, I might just ship myself off to South Korea in a crate. At least then I can be a failure surrounded by awesome pop music. In the meantime, I'm trying to draw on some inspiration from a few hard working lads......Alas, my examination board does not look like this, in which case I'd be ecstatic about my oral.

Team Japan!

2010-06-09T15:59:00.002-05:00

So a month or so ago, I noted a certain Hidetoshi Nakata's collaboration with Calvin Klein. It was a very, um, revealing statement on the upcoming World Cup. Well, now Nakata's gotten his fellow countrymen to join in, though this time the photoshoot isn't with a famous undies brand. But don't despair, it's posh Dunhill that has hooked up Team Japan with some sweet threads. Result below. Unfortunately I can't find a massive copy, but this assault of finely suited men should nevertheless get you - if you are a heterosexual woman - geared up for some World Cup action!

'Hands Up' for Big Bang!

2010-06-08T10:43:00.000-05:00

Big Bang has been spoiling us recently with the sudden release of their Tell Me Goodbye MV and their appearance and sweep at the MTV Japan VMAs. They dropped their latest single release today. The Tell Me Goodbye CD features the title track, a remix, and third song, Hands Up. I wasn't too hot on it when they first sang it at the VMAs, but I'm giving it a fresh listen without the static of screaming girls - and I looooove it! It's bouncy and infectious, which means haters will hate. It has a club feel but isn't overpowered by electronica. There's still enough space for Daesung and Youngbae to lay down their smooth vocals with room enough for li'l Seungri and the big bad rappers, G-Dragon and T.O.P., to do their thing. Hands Up is just what we need to kick off the summer!

Big Bang at the VMAs (MTVJ).

2010-05-29T12:52:00.001-05:00

Alas, I cannot quit being a fangirl. I think I was born a fangirl and will most definitely die one. Anyway, tonight was the MTV Japan Video Music Awards...starring Big BANG! (Vanness Wu was also nominated.) Details out of the way - Big Bang was nominated for 2 awards (Best Pop Video - Koe Ki Kasete and Best Newcomer - Gara Gara Go!) and won both. G-Dragon also won for his collaboration with W-inds. Did anyone doubt that these boys wouldn't sweep?

Now, the sprinkles on top of the cherry on top of the icing. An interview, in Japanese, taken from what appears to be the Coca-Cola room. [snark]

G-Dragon acting a total goof with the Tell Me Goodbye CD.
Youngbae saying '4 years, 5 years' and sounding like a perfect little American-born Korean.
T.O.P. looking confused, constipated, or pissed because he's in a obnoxiously sponsored interview room.
Youngbae, again, giving the sponsors exactly what they want - a Coke-filled moment of ecstasy.

My love for Big Bang knows no bounds.

Sunye and Christina Ricci look alike, kind of.

2010-05-29T12:05:00.002-05:00

A few months ago, I commented on Christina Ricci's resemblance to Mrs. Toby Stephens, or, more commonly, Anna Louise-Plowman. Well, with the Wonder Girls making a very brief return to Korea to plug their latest hit 2 Different Tears, we've been seeing them all over the teevee. And once again, I'm getting visions of Ms. Ricci, this time in the form of Wonder Girl Sunye. The pictures don't quite capture the look, but if you watch her hosting this week's Music Core with fellow Wonder Yubin, you'll see Christina Ricci's long lost Korean cousin.

Rain looking hip for 'Hip Song'.

2010-05-29T11:41:00.000-05:00

Damn, Rain. He's rocking out to his latest, Hip Song, in some classic threads, 'normal clothes' as one commenter exclaimed. Shirt's a little tight there, but I ain't complaining.

'Rhapsody in Blue' + 'Fantasia'.

2010-05-28T15:30:00.000-05:00

Going to a Gershwin concert tomorrow. Surprise, I do have slightly more sophisticated musical tastes. A video to get prepped. This is one of my favorite pieces of cinema from the last decade.

Rhapsody in Blue from Fantasia 2000

K-Pop does World Cup.

2010-05-28T15:18:00.000-05:00

Just caught an interesting post over at iBigbang, a fansite that I admittedly check multiple times a day. They're asking readers what they think of the many World Cup songs being unleashed by K-Pop idol groups in preparation for the upcoming tournament. The results of an online survey are posted and you can check out the stats (Big Bang comes in at #2 for male groups).

Meanwhile, after seeing release notices for non-Big Bang World Cup songs for weeks, and ignoring them for weeks, I finally gave all the groups a listen. Here's what I think......

T-Ara/We Are the One - It's an appropriate blend of 'I heart Korea' shirts, pom poms, and actual soccer balls. Plus they throw in a lot of international flags in order to please K-Pop fans near and far, or because the World Cup is a massive global sporting event. In any case, this is a cheerful song with plenty of 'ole's to get you into a celebratory mood. Probably as close as a girl group can get to the spirit of these raucous games without compromising their cutesy image. Thumbs up!

Kara/We're With You - What is going on here? Do they even know that the World Cup is a massive soccer tournament? These ladies look like they popped out of a bubble gum factory. The song is typical K-Pop fare with plenty of fluorescent pastels and amply short skirts, but watching the video, you'd have no idea it was Kara's World Cup entry. I can't comment on the lyrics because I'm lazy and haven't looked up the English translation, but zero points for a festive World Cup-y atmosphere. And for the record, Goo Hara looks like an android.

After School/Dreams Again! - The video itself is a bit dull, unless you are an After School fan, in which case it's awesome! It's basically a no budget, behind-the-scenes MV with the added bonus of demonstrating to the world that these ladies look fucking gorgeous even in floppy red t-shirts. As for the song, it almost has an ethereal quality, though I'm not sure if that's the music or them. You're probably not going to jump out of your seat and run down the street draped in a Korean flag when you hear this song, but it will leave you feeling proud of your team, if your team is Korea.

4Minute+Brown Eyed Girls/Once More, Korea! - So this song is what you get when you combine the Village People, Pet Shop Boys, and two hot Korean girl groups. 4Minute and Brown Eyed Girls give Go West a Korean makeover, and it works surprisingly well. Then again, anything by the Village People qualifies as a stadium hit. It has double the energy and is repetitive enough to get fans clapping and bouncing their heads; the rapping also gives the song a bit of a funk factor. It helps if you understand Korean though otherwise you'll be thinking about soccer while going west.

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Super Junior/Victory - Face painting, bullhorns, flags, banners, cheerleaders, flying toilet paper - what more do you want in a World Cup video? The boys even manage to sneak in some Sorry, Sorry. It's all a bit cheeky, but they look and sound like they're having a bloody good time, and their persistent shouts of 'Victory, victory, Korea' are pretty infectious. Even makes me want to cheer for Korea!

2PM/What's Your Celebration - Cheerful punk is how I'm going to try to describe this one. It's different from the usual 2PM fare, which will either thrill or disappoint, and you'll probably want to bounce up and down more than pop and lock. The boys also throw in some anthem moments that do a good job of generating that energetic soccer match atmosphere.

2AM/No. 1 - The question everyone's asking - why are they autotuned? Alas, some things in life are meant to remain a mystery. The song and video have definitely grown on me, thanks especially to goofball Jo Kwon. It's really soothing and in that way is similar to the group's other songs. But I'm not sure soothing is what you want when it comes to the World Cup. It feels more like a consolation song, something to calm the fans when their team gets knocked out (not saying Korea needs this though America sure does). I also think this is the South Korean entry on the official World Cup album

Big Bang+Queen Yuna+Trans Fixion/Shouts of Reds - Well.....do I need to say anything? Everything these guys touch turns to gold, especially true because they've enlisted Olympic gold medalist Kim Yuna, who, for the record, sings better than everyone in EEG. I'll explain it this way. My university has one of the most storied college football programs in America, and the Friday before every home football game, we all barreled into the arena for a huge pep rally. It was this euphoric chaos - students painted and adorned with our colors and mascot, alumni cheering like our football program was actually good again, and general fans going nuts because everyone around them was going nuts. Never mind that our program sucked; that kernel of hope inside every sports fan kept inflating as the night went on. For me, that's what I want in a World Cup song, something with equal parts of spontaneity, exuberance, and madness so that I can cheer with pride. This song captures all of that and is just what I need to get ready for World Cup fever!

Big Bang + Park Bom = 'Forever with You'.

2010-05-23T11:10:00.001-05:00

Love me some Park Bom. Give this lady a full album!

SNSD and 2PM's Caribbean Bay song and MV finally released.

2010-05-22T05:52:00.000-05:00

So gratuitous.

Asian Entertainment News of the Day for 5.23.10

2010-05-22T05:50:00.001-05:00

Chinese knock off alert: Mr. and Mrs. Smith + The Incredibles = Mr. and Mrs. Incredible. The new film directed by Vincent Kok and produced by Peter Chan was unveiled at Cannes and immediately bought by international distributors.
Chinese knock off alert 2: Chinese artists cop Lady Gaga's style.
Debating TVB's position in the new world - 1) does it have the right stuff, 2) will competition improve its output?

'Once Upon a Time' MV for '71-Into the Fire'.

2010-05-20T03:24:00.000-05:00

The new Korean War movie 71-Into the Fire will be released soon. It tells the story of 71 student soldiers from South Korea who defended a school against hundreds of North Koreans. I believe there's an anti-war vibe (though not completely sure on this), which is highly appropriate considering the current situation between the two Koreas over the sinking of the Cheonan in late March. That news deserves a separate, more serious post, forthcoming, but the MV for the soundtrack allows for some appropriate reflection on the whole matter. Although promotions have been pasted across Big Bang boards for months, I haven't gotten overly excited about the film. After all, T.O.P., who stars in this movie, isn't my favorite - though I still love the man. But this MV has singularly improved my already good impression of him. Without saying a word, he packs so much emotion into 4 minutes. While he usually shoots sex bombs from those famous eyes, here he manages to bring the innocence, fear, courage, and devastation of a young solider at war. If you're not moved, kindly oil your tin heart.

The song is Once Upon a Time by December.

'Mysteries of Love' invading TVB's 9:30p slot next week.

2010-05-19T04:16:00.001-05:00

A couple weeks ago, Sisters of Pearl premiered and slightly boosted the sagging 8:30p TVB power hour. Okay, not really, though I think the show is still more interesting than In the Eye of the Beholder and Suspects in Love, combined. I've been half keeping up but lost interest these last few episodes. Everyone has a malicious plan stretching decades back, generally striking a wooden stake through the heart of believability. Don't be surprised if the pet dog is holding a grudge. Meanwhile in the 9:30p slot, Ada Choi and company are rocking steady with Fly with Me, which I haven't seen. The show is ending this week though which means TVB gets to try again for that elusive 2010 super hit. The latest contender is The Mysteries of Love (談情說案) starring Raymond Lam Fung, a man I don't mind spending every weeknight with. The story's a little suspect, starting with the fact that Lam Fung is supposed to be a genius physics professor at City U. Um, clearly the writers and casting department have never attended a college physics class. Unbelievable character development aside, there will be love, forensics, explosions, and Kenneth Ma Gok Ming. Also not the biggest Kenneth Ma fan, but he won't quit our TV screens these days so I think it's just best to accept his presence (and focus on his costars).

Comedian Joe Wong performs at the annual RTCA dinner.

2010-05-18T13:38:00.000-05:00

I don't know why I haven't posted this before, but a few months back, comedian Joe Wong was a guest at the Radio and Television Correspondents' Dinner in Washington, D.C. He turned in a pretty sharp performance and while he didn't go Colbert - slightly more difficult considering the administration, he still delivered some uncomfortable moments, albeit for the right side of the aisle.

Amongst the newer crop of comedians, he's one of my favorites because he generally refrains from the frat boy humor currently in vogue. He also capitalizes on his Chinese and immigrant experience in ways that no one else can. Considering the difficulties in transitioning from Chinese humor (which largely avoids the sarcasm and bite of American comedy) and in grasping enough of the language and culture to actually be funny, this guy's a true talent.

(Jesse Jackson and Bill O'Reilly tablemates? Interesting dinner conversation.)

Go go 'Gallants'!

2010-05-18T09:27:00.000-05:00

Get ready for......Gallants! This new movie has an old school feel with some old school actors, but since I'm not well versed on the Hong Kong glory days of yore, I really don't know what the hell this film's about. Perhaps the real locals will have a better idea. In the meantime, here's a trailer, and yes, MC Jin continues his assault on Hong Kong. He's invaded the interviewer's couch with Big Boys Club, the Jade Solid Gold mike, every ridiculous TVB game and variety show, and of course, you can't drink a box of lemon tea without humming his hit track ABC. Go Gallants! Go Jin!

Dong to the Youngbae interview series starts now.

2010-05-17T15:33:00.001-05:00

Heaven will either be filled with angels and fluffy marshmallow clouds - or copious amounts of pop music and entertainment. I'm kind of aching for the latter now, though there is the whole issue of getting to heaven. In any case, there have been a series of interviews with the men of Big Bang - and yes, their latest video clearly requires them to be characterized as such. Retrospectives on G-Dragon, Daesung, and most recently Seungri have been read and re-read, and re-read again. But at long last, it's dear Youngbae's turn! I can't wait for this 10 part series to come out. Check out any of the BB fan sites to get the latest. I recommend Always Taeyang this time around - because if you're going to spazz about the TY, you might as well spazz with someone even crazier than you.

News of the Day for 5.17.10

2010-05-17T04:18:00.001-05:00

Low voter turnout in yesterday's elections in Hong Kong as pro-democracy advocates seem to be fighting a losing war against political indifference.
Robot officiates at Tokyo wedding - because that's how they swing in ol' Japan.
China gradually restores internet access to Xinjiang after it was cut off following last summer's rioting.
Hello Kitty is losing its adorable cotton candy luster.
Shanghai wants folks to stop wearing their jammies out in public.
The Guardian explores British women's ballooning breasts. Only The Guardian.....
For whatever it's worth, the new Miss USA is Lebanese American Rima Fakih from Michigan.
In defense of non-Latin script in web addresses, and 百度 (Baidu).
Boston University students get graduation ceremony, 40 years later. BU's probably expecting an alumni donation in return.

A special news section......YouTube celebrates its 5th birthday! Big Bang fans celebrated by storming the site to watch their latest MV Tell Me Goodbye. Supposedly, the average visitor only spends 15 minutes a day on this site; clearly I am not the average visitor. And that is why this news merits added attention. Without YouTube...well, I clearly would be a lot more productive. Anyway, check out their birthday channel with guest appearances by YouTube stars over the years. I also just watched Conan O'Brien's contribution which included 5 of his favorite videos. Funny haha.

Wonder Girls presents '2 Different Tears'.

2010-05-17T03:43:00.000-05:00

The Wonder Girls' Nobody is being flogged, tarred, and feathered to death here in Hong Kong, perhaps because of the Chinese release of their CD a couple months ago which includes a Mandarin version of the song. I've been riding the anti-wave a bit while waiting for them to produce another Nobody-sized hit so I kind of missed this release a couple days ago. Their new song 2 Different Tears isn't as infectious but it has a subtle disco vibe that has me bobbing my head as I write. The video's a colorful mix of 70s and 80s nostalgia, plus Bobby Lee saturated in varying shades of glitter. The whole retro look fits the Wonder Girls well, and I like it so much better than the underage schoolgirl look of other girl groups (ahem, SNSD). Hopefully they can find ways to keep it fresh thus extended their American shelf life.

There are 2 versions. Posted is the Korean, click for the English.

Big Bang releases 'Tell Me Goodbye' MV. [Do not watch if you have heart condition.]

2010-05-17T01:32:00.002-05:00

[Fangirl squeal.] This MV dropped very unexpectedly today, and the ladies are beside themselves. No teaser, no hints, just *boom* - hotness. YG knows how to make a statement. Kids of K-Pop, step aside.

No disrespect to all the other boy groups reigning in K-Popdom, but really, I can't see any other group pulling off this video. Maybe they can get the individual elements - the period, the suits, the color, the story, but the sum sexiness cannot be equaled.

G-Dragon waxing lyrical in the rain + Taeyang channeling 1930s smooth + Daesung rocking the fedora + T.O.P. playing old school gangsta + maknae Seungri palming a revolver = unearthly hotness

There are groups that have better choreography or more collective muscle mass, but none have the musical and stylistic diversity of these ~~boys~~ men. They can do hip hop (V.I.P.), punk (Oh My Friend), R&B (A Fool's Only Tears), alt-rock (This Love), ballads (Let Me Hear Your Voice), and pure pop (Lollipop 2); they sing in Korean, Japanese, and English; they look fi-ine whether they're sporting funky skinny jeans and high tops, street wear, suits, or...nothing. Criticize them for autotuning the hell out of their music, but that's a plague on all the houses of K-Pop. As this video shows, they don't need no stinkin' autotune. Just give them a solid track and they will lay waste to the competition without busting a single synchronized move or showing any skin. I mean, ovaries are popping out of control (allkpop, Soompi, Big Bang Updates) despite the fact that these guys are just standing around for most of the video bundled up in suits and gloves. Now that's hot.

Greyson Chance: pop genius.

2010-05-14T06:38:00.000-05:00

If you keep up with internet memes, you will probably have heard about Greyson Chance, a kid from Oklahoma who cannonballed all other Paparazzi covers with a performance at some school assembly. He appeared on Ellen Degeneres' show after Perez Hilton got ahold of the YouTube video and took a call from the Divine Miss Gaga. Turns out the kid composes his own shit, and it is fan-fucking-tastic. What was I doing at 13? Not being this awesome, that's for sure.

Here is an original entitled Broken Hearts. You might be wondering what the hell this kid knows about broken hearts, but he's getting inspiration somewhere.

Fare thee well, Labour.

2010-05-13T17:39:00.000-05:00

Alas, a gritty Gordon Brown didn't do the trick. (Actually an April Fool's Day poster. And they forgot the comma. How common.) Good thing there was a wellspring of euphoria from the 2008 election that has basically buoyed liberals in every political confrontation from America to the UK since then. All I'm going to say about that right now, since it's 6:30a and I haven't slept, is that Nick Clegg ought to be satisfied with himself.

2PM's 'Without U' wins again.

2010-05-13T15:34:00.000-05:00

I'm fiercely loyal to the YG Family and Big Bang will always be number 1 in my fangirl heart, but what can I say......2PM does the job while BB's on hiatus. They don't have the personality of my favorite Korean boys, but they do sport enough 6 packs to send me into a stupor.

Catch their latest performance on M! Countdown before it's pulled from the internet. Poor Junsu's got a bum knee so he can only stand there looking like a hard ass, which he does proper well. Meanwhile, poor Nichkuhn is still sporting that awful bronzy mop. It looks like a high school science teacher's leftover toupee.

Hong Kong hosts pen spinning competition.

2010-05-13T15:03:00.000-05:00

This is a couple months old but no less newsworthy. I tell you, these Asians want to excel at everything. It's not enough to be math and science and piano prodigies. Now these little runts are turning to pen spinning. Is there any field Asians won't try to conquer? This story is so McDull - Hong Kong's favorite underachieving piglet. We can't all be doctors and lawyers and engineers, but dammit, we can at least try to be the best damn pen spinner this side of the harbor.

Aim high, kids.

News of the Day for 5.13.10

2010-05-13T14:49:00.001-05:00

Robert Mugabe wants to send an ark of animals to Dear Leader. Definitely can't make up this kind of crazy.
(Women) marrying men 7-9 years younger could find their life expectancy decline. Of course this doesn't take into account that if my husband is Taeyang, that is so damn worth it.
Friendships could ease depression among elderly.
A reporter for The Guardian suggests that what South Africa really needs is an IKEA. Um...yes, nothing like cheap, mass produced furniture in neon colors to get your country on the right track.
Nepali butler inherits some pricey Manhattan property.
The Terracotta Army expands.
Rural China is not reaping the benefits of the country's economic boom.
Hawai'i's Health Department workers get relief from new law limiting requests for President Obama's birth certificate.
The Navy's new policy allowing women aboard submarines troubles current and former servicemen, who clearly don't see the irony when speaking about the camaraderie that includes 'man hugs and bottom pats'.

William Chan's 6 pack smells fresh.

2010-05-13T03:34:00.001-05:00

Who would've thought li'l William Chan, EEG's latest boy wonder and occasional co-host of Big Boys Club, was hiding a 6 pack (look closely)? At least he's trying. The bigger question is why are he and Sherman Chung spraying their chest and nether regions? Answer - they smell. That's right, this is the way Hong Kong pushes deodorant, and Rexona have enlisted the two to blast their bodies with freshness. Mmmm, smells like teen spirit!

Is Rain Hollywood's biggest badass?

2010-05-13T02:53:00.000-05:00

Right, to all 1.5 people who sometimes read my blog, I have a mission --> VOTE FOR RAIN! The adorable Bi - that is, adorably ripped - is nominated for an MTV movie award this year. He's up against Angelina Jolie, Channing Tatum, Chris Pine, and Sam Worthington for Biggest Badass. And while I do have a soft spot for Captain Kirk (M. Pine), really, Rain was in a movie called Ninja Assassin. That kind of makes Star Trek sound like a dull evening with Grandpa. As for the other nominees, sure, they can all create massive amounts of hurt, but how many are badass enough to be caught posing in this getup?

Right. None. So join the K-pop army and get this adorable ninja killing angel a golden bucket of popcorn!

And in case you forgot how much ass Rain can kick.......

News of the Day for 5.12.10

2010-05-12T02:22:00.000-05:00

WTF is going on in China?! Another round of school attacks leaves 7 dead.
On 2nd anniversary of the Sichuan earthquake, those still missing are officially declared dead.
China wants to end internet anonymity.
April car sales in China slide.
North Korean soccer fans may face World Cup blackout after the two Koreas fail to reach a broadcasting deal.
Everyone gets a share of crazy elections. Now it's the Philippines' turn.
Poor South Africans not feeling boost from World Cup.
Some Sudanese children are too hungry to learn.
Arizona's neighbor, New Mexico, takes divergent approach to illegal immigrants.
Working overtime can lead to heart problems.
More nuts may mean lower cholesterol.
A phone call from mommy can be as comforting as a hug from her.
The internet is running out of addresses.
Speech bubbles may aid hearing in noisy places and make you look like an astronaut.

News of the Day for 5.10.10

2010-05-09T23:28:00.000-05:00

Convicted murderer in China is freed after supposed victim is found alive.
China's unique marriage between state and capitalism.
Malaysia comes together in an attempt to create a full-length crowd-sourced film.
Is technology destroying music?
Chinese teachers on exchange adjust to American life.
Young people are increasingly attentive to online privacy.
A young artist goes nameless.
The irrational exuberance of early adopters.
Top 20 baby names for 2009. Someone remind me why this should matter to me.

Baby fox gets unstuck from watering can.

2010-05-08T11:03:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe but there are some things that make me squeal more than Taeyang, like cute furry baby animals. And I'm not alone. Pictures of a baby fox getting its head crammed into a watering can made it to the top of BBC's shared news section. Collective 'awwwwww'.

The 'Xidan Angel' signs a recording contract.

2010-05-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a touching story from Beijing. A young street singer dubbed the 'Xidan Angel' after the district where she performed finds an even bigger audience on the internet and attracts the attention of a record company. Let's hope they preserve her identity and not turn her into a cardboard super girl.

2ne1 + 'Take a Bow'.

2010-05-07T22:54:00.001-05:00

It's official. I love 2NE1. (Do we sense a theme today?) My brother and I have been throwing comments back and forth about our favorite Korean groups and, while both of us agreed early on that Park Bom's got pipes, I never really took interest in the girl groups - because I'm shallow like that. But with the little brother going on and on about T-ara and SNSD and all the other Sanrio-encrusted girls he's into, I took time to revisit the resident female talents at YG. They're still relatively new and haven't lined up even a mini-hit parade, but their debut songs (Fire and I Don't Care) turned out to be a bit catchy after a few listens. Hopefully the powers that be over at YG work their magic and give these ladies some awesome music. Hmm, or better yet, G-Dragon, T.O.P., and the members of 2NE1 could write their own material.

In any case, these girls are fierce. You won't find these chicas dressed up as cheerleaders or in matching pastel shorts, though Dara could go for the cute-off if it came down to that. Otherwise, CL's rapping + Park Bom's singing + li'l Minji's dancing will knock you down. If I'm choosing a dodgeball team, I'd take these 4 ladies over all 9 Girls Generation. SNSD can Oh! and Gee on the sidelines, or step into the court if they want to risk that plastic. (Yeah, I went there.)

You know I'm posting a video. Covering Rihanna's Take a Bow.

JLS + 'One Shot'.

2010-05-07T09:15:00.000-05:00

It cannot be helped; I like JLS. I didn't understand the screaming teenage throngs when they first emerged on the X Factor scene, but a couple years later they're still going strong and putting out pleasing pop hits. And that's really all we want in a boy band, right? Oh, and solid abs. They deliver on both counts. Maybe too I'm charmed by pint-sized frontman Aston Merrygold, who has an affable kid next door appeal, like the guy my mom would want to mow our lawn. JB and Oritse, on the other hand, remind me too much of goofy Turk from Scrubs while Marvin, by default, kind of claims the 'bad boy' label (those eyes!). Anyway, their single One Shot from earlier this year.

Hankyung sings for the Shanghai World Expo.

2010-05-07T05:32:00.002-05:00

Presumably, a song celebrating the Shanghai World Expo should be vibrant and uplifting, trumpeting China's accomplishments and hearkening visitors the world over to visit the great nation. So why does Hankyung's contribution to this effort sound so somber? It's like he's singing his own elegy. Nothing to do with his lawsuit against SM Entertainment or Super Junior's newly announced and much reduced lineup? Ohhh, so much trauma in the K-Pop world these past few months.......

News of the Day for 5.7.10

2010-05-07T01:01:00.000-05:00

China posts an alarming increase in energy use over the last 6 months, prompting worries amongst both the Chinese leadership and the international community.
New York grannies gather every Wednesday to protest America's wars.
Formspring, a networking site popular with the Justin Bieber crowd, allows kids to let loose, anonymously, on friends and classmates.
New research revives the debate about whether Neanderthals and humans mated.
Exploring the role of a doctor's gender in patient care.
Scientists struggle to create meaningful tsunami alert systems.
HBO's documentary about slain UN diplomat Sergio Vieira de Mello recalls the man that one writer likened to a cross between James Bond and Bobby Kennedy.
Summer movie guide for Hollywood films.

News of the Day for 5.4.10

2010-05-05T05:49:00.000-05:00

Keep your toddlers away from TV if you value their health and education.
Taiwan opens a tourism office in Beijing, its first on the Mainland.
An inter-religious custody battle brews in Malaysia.
China rejects press passes for HK's pro-democracy Apple Daily.
Robert Ebert has issues with 3-D. Tell 'em, Bob!
Kids more attracted to pretty fruit.
Get enough sleep or you might die.
The American right swings between black and immigrant fury.

Will TVB finally win our 8:30pm hearts and minds with 'Sister of Pearl'?

2010-05-04T05:41:00.000-05:00

I've been neglecting my Hong Kong entertainment for awhile, just like TVB has been neglecting to put a show worth watching in the 8:30p slot for some months now. The latest offering gives some hope though. 掌上明珠 (Sister of Pearl) seems to have the right blend of star power, family drama, and jewelry (it's Hong Kong after all) to induce the masses every night. The show is fronted by actual actors with proven records, which is always a bonus when it comes to TVB. Jessica Hsuan and Kiki Sheung go head to head as sisters who let love and their father's pearl business get in the way, while Bowie Lam and Michael Tao provide all the other dastardly, scheming plot lines that make for your daily hour of family fun. The 1950-60s costumes and set are added polish. Time will tell if this show sucks, but I really hope it doesn't.

Taeyang's live performance of 'Where U At'.

2010-05-04T05:28:00.000-05:00

The man is a beast.

So I was watching videos of Rain, who I like because who doesn't like Rain? The man is fit as hell, he sings, he dances, he acts, and he even eye smiles. But he's never made me want to do anything immoral. So what is it about li'l Taeyang that makes me feel like a bad Catholic girl? This......

Alexander of U-Kiss raps a few bars.

2010-05-03T05:58:00.001-05:00

Alexander of U-Kiss ain't no MC Jin, but cute rap effort - if there is such a thing - by our resident HK rep in the K-Pop world. He's basically saying that he has no clue what to say.

News of the Day for 5.3.10

2010-05-02T23:25:00.000-05:00

The art of plastic food in Japan.
One Egyptian MP tries to revive the galabeya, the country's traditional dress.
Taiwan executes 4 men under pressure from victims' families.
May Day pictures from around the world.
90 year old woman hits hole in one. Hooray!
Asian Americans - get tested for and vaccinated against Hepatitis B.
Ping pong gaining popularity in the UK.
Digital pilgrimages to the shrine of St. James. What would Chaucer say?!
Knowing her place: Maid Marian in Ridley Scott's new film.

News of the Day for 5.2.10

2010-05-02T15:04:00.000-05:00

Exercising in 'green' space not only improves your physical health but also your mental health.
Mammoths' hemoglobin acted as 'anti-freeze' and helped them to survive in frigid temperatures.
Shit and waste a good tea makes.
Roller coasters may lead to temporary hearing loss.
South Korea seeks retaliation for naval attack.
American media returns the favor and dissects the UK election.
Thailand goes to every length to push a message, including tv shows.
Apparently there were May Day clashes next door in Macau. Should use TVB.com to watch the evening news instead of MC Jin's Big Boys Club.
Men read maps, women remember routes.
Television is the cockroach of media - it persists through everything and others should take note.

Baywatch, Korean pop style.

2010-05-02T07:35:00.002-05:00

UPDATE: That's just hot.

Fuuuuuck. I'm not particularly a fan of either 2PM or SNSD, but dayum! Yeah, Nichkhun, flaunt that shit. I don't think I need to elaborate here. Credits to allkpop.com for disseminating hotness.

News of the Day for 5.1.10

2010-05-01T02:17:00.000-05:00

Happy May Day!

Retired generals warn that fat kids are a threat to America's security.
Britain's German soldiers in World War II.
Why we talk shit behind each others' backs.
Malawi aims to ban polygamy under Muslim protests. (The last quote by a Muslim representative is particularly revealing.)
Researchers begin to examine the effect of technology and social networking on the nature of children's friendships.
Marketing Toy Story 3. The article says that Disney is targeting a group of 'core fans' - who were about 3 years old when the first movie came out. That makes me feel frighteningly old.
Bootlegging in Sharia-ruled Sudan.
Spate of school attacks leaves Chinese wondering why.
An extensive study of tornadoes is underway in the American midwest with hopes of improving warning systems and forecasting.
Science gets the shaft in UK elections as well.

Limmer loves Vocolate!

2010-04-30T14:57:00.000-05:00

Going through the old YG catalog and started listening to Wheesung the other day. I am very much in love with his last CD, Vol. 6: Vocolate, released late last year. Although he and YG parted ways about 4 years ago, there's still a very hip R&B infused sound to his tracks. Anyway, this is the song that happened to be playing when I decided to post, so here's a live version of 눈물 쏟고 또 쏟고 (Tears Keep Flowing and Flowing).

News of the Day for 4.30.10

2010-04-30T03:58:00.000-05:00

A British man attempts to duck Big Brother for one month.
Pennsylvania man fined for illegally shooting a bear after luring it with loads of donuts and pastries. What a waste of donuts and pastries.
Australia attempts to introduce the world's most stringent cigarette packaging regulations by banning branding.
Shanghai's World Expo is yet another attempt for China to demonstrate it's growing influence. More from the NYTimes.
Dutch Muslim women at society's forefront.
Bigot-gate causes panic among Labour's upper ranks, but in the Prime Minister's defense, the woman did ask where '[a]ll [those] Eastern Europeans...[were] flocking from'. Um, try Eastern Europe. Meanwhile, the Guardian impresses with headlines and calls last night's debate 'the X Factor for ugly people' and explores the candidates' inner ape. Elections are fun!

News of the Day for 4.29.10

2010-04-29T01:16:00.000-05:00

Arizona's ridiculous new law spurred by an immigration non-crisis.
A deeper look at the two Koreas and now the sunken warship that threatens to divide them further. Would North Korean involvement indicate Kim Jong-Il's weakening power? Also, China's rising stake in Korean affairs.
Chili peppers for pain relief.
Gordon Brown faces bigot-gate.
UK's white ruling class.
Ghana's invention workshop, via BBC's From Our Own Correspondents. (One of my favorite radio programs/podcasts.)
Happy Meals may get the boot in Santa Clara.

News of the Day for 4.28.10

2010-04-28T14:02:00.000-05:00

China lifts HIV/AIDS travel restrictions ahead of World Expo.
Tail of Denmark's Little Mermaid's journey to the Shanghai Expo.
China loses 2000 Olympic bronze medal for fielding underage athlete. Surprised? No.
China aims to tighten internet controls in order to prevent leaks of 'state secrets'.
French president Nicolas Sarkozy visits China.
South Korea mourns naval disaster deaths and treads lightly around the issue of North Korean involvement.
That whole thing Asian thing about personality and blood type, this time in Japan.
Glue, eggs, and smoke bombs - that's how Ukraine's Parliament gets shit done. Take note, Congress!
Chechen president accused of ordering the kidnapping of an exile who was later killed during the botched abduction.
Affirmative action that makes a difference for Indian women.
Nancy Drew's iron grip on women in power. This quote in particular caught my attention: "Girls who read, especially voraciously, are not the girls most focused on popular culture." I beg to differ.

News for the Day for 4.27.10

2010-04-27T04:40:00.000-05:00

The curious relationship between chocolate and depression.
The curious relationship between the religious and celibacy.
The curious relationship between Playboy and the Hollywood sign.
The curious relationship between chimps and death.
The curious relationship between quolls and cane toads.
The curious relationship between landfills and deodorant.
The curious relationship between Taiwanese politicians and the mafia.
The curious relationship between Brazilian cowboys and life.
The curious relationship between Russian adoptees and a Montana ranch.
The curious relationship between the Pentagon and PowerPoint.
The curious relationship between Chinese hospitals and doctors.
The curious relationship between public radio and classical music.
The not-so-curious relationship between health and a balanced diet.

News of the Day for 4.26.10

2010-04-26T06:07:00.000-05:00

Papal condoms, gay marriage blessing, singing with the Queen? Re a memo for Pope Benedict's upcoming visit to the UK, someone in the British Foreign Office is clearly out of touch with the Catholic Church. (UPDATE: That someone turns out to be a 23 year old Oxford graduate. Smart kids.)
Sandstorm season in northern China. I can say from experience, this blows [groan].
Japanese rally to kick the US off Okinawa.
Stephen Hawking warns against contacting aliens.
The BBC investigates the cost of virginity in the Arab and Asian world.
Controversial book airs Samsung's dirty laundry.
After several years of reading Britain's take on US elections, a Times article dissecting the recent television debates in the British election.
Anti-yoga yogis increasingly reject the consumer, personality cult-driven nature of yoga.

News of the Day for 4.24.10

2010-04-24T13:35:00.000-05:00

Yea! Just what China needs - a car show!
Sunbeds can be addictive. So when will research show that whitening creams have a similar effect?
Naps + dreams can aid in learning. No word yet on what dreaming about Korean pop stars helps anything.
It's 2010, but good ol' racism is still chugging along. A story about a white family on vacation in Florida who insisted they not be served by 'people of colour' or anyone 'with a foreign accent'. It clearly did not occur to them that they, in fact, have a foreign accent when visiting the States.
Malcolm Tucker, the master of the F-bomb and fictional character on the f-ing hilarious political comedy The Thick of It, provides a weekly election briefing over at the Guardian. It is fucking brilliant.

Toronto women rate the men of Big Bang.

2010-04-24T13:04:00.000-05:00

The good ladies of Toronto took part in this highly scientific survey to determine who is the best looking Big Bang member. Daesung seems to be a favorite, though I'm wondering what pictures they showed. Probably not Taeyang + Prayer MV shots because if Canadian women saw the six pack on that man........