soundtrack of 2012

(Make sure to play all videos in 360p / 480p for better video and sound quality)

January

Ritual Union by Little Dragon

This song is so uniquely done I cannot stop listening to it up to this day. I'm in love with Yukimi.
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February

Scale It Back by DJ Shadow Feat. Little Dragon

Obviously still on a Little Dragon high.
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March

What You Were by The Drums
My favorite from their latest album entitled 'Portomento'.
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April


Everlasting Light by The Black Keys
There is so much freshness in this song don't you think? I'd want to watch a Black Keys show someday.
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May


Conversation 16 by The National
The National. Matt Berninger's voice. Dessner twins. Bryan Devendorf (who looks exactly like John Lennon). Need I say more?
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June


Reunion by M83
The live version of this is way better. M83 is such a great band it makes me cry sometimes...
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July


Truth by Chiddy Bang Feat. Passion Pit
For my upbeat hiphop cravings.
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August


Girl I Love You by Massive Attack Feat. Horace Andy
So mysterious. So real. So dark and eery. Beautiful...
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September


Call It What You Want by Foster The People
I never gave attention to Foster The People even though their songs were everywhere! But this particularly one stuck out to me because of its unique tune and that music video...wow.
And they're as good live!
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October


Ghost Dream by Blouse
I love this song so much I decided to make a whole fashion collection out of it.
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November


Entombed by Deftones
My 'tear enhancement' song.
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December


Winter Beats by I Break Horses

This song is annoying but I like it at the same time. Weird...
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What have you been listening to?

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Soundtrack of 2011

So, I guess this may be a bit overdue but I've been kinda slacking off in the blogging department. I originally planned to post about this last month but I just didn't have the time. Anyways here are a few tracks that summed up my 2011. Check it out! (Warning: These are addictive.)

January

I got really into Two Door Cinema Club. I would play them all day for a month or two...I'm not really sure how I got hooked to them but I'm guessing it's because of the Tap Tap game for iPhone? Their song "What You Know" was one of the default songs on the app.

"This Is The Life" was one of my favorites, followed by "Cigarettes in the Theatre" and "Come Back Home".

February

Since the Deftones concert was nearing, I had to listen to a few tracks off their new album "Diamond Eyes" and yes it got glued to my ears! Everything on the album was an instant fave but according to my iTunes, "976 Evil" was the most played. I also liked the other tracks like "Sextape" (who wouldn't?), "Risk", "Beauty School" and a couple of old tracks like "Change" and "Digital Bath" but I won't include those singles for my 2011 soundtrack since I've been listening to those a few years back. I just had to rekindle some old feelings...

March

One song. "Forever And Ever Amen" by The Drums. 'Nuff said.

April

I pretty much loved everything on Incubus' new album "If Not Now, When?" and it is still on loop as of today. I still haven't digested "Tomorrow's Food" and "Defiance" though...

"The Original" was the first song I fell in love with and I don't think I will ever fall OUT of love for it. Of course "Adolescents" was released tad early than the album itself and it was magic in my ears when I first heard it. "Switchblade" and "Thieves" were favorites too! And the list continues... (oh, and if you're a real Incubus fan, you'd notice something wrong here. Please forgive me.)

May

Okay, May was a mix between a lot of songs. The Temper Trap's "Sweet Disposition", Katchafire's "Seek Ye", White Lies' "Unfinished Business" and Wilabaliw's "Illuminate 1" for local music cravings. What a strange mix of songs huh? But I remember playing "Unfinished Business" over and over again, it even gave me a push to go to the gym just so I could listen to it while running around the track. God I miss this song...

June

It was pre-Incubus month. The anticipation for their concert next month has begun...

Malay did a pretty cool rendition of Incubus' "Promises, Promises"! I actually even thought it was better than the original. Views changed through time of course but a statement like that coming from me is a huge thing! Hah! And I love how Pochoy Labog does an Incubus cover WITHOUT doing a Brandon Boyd rip-off. They had their own style and it was awesome.

July

Ay...July is fangirl month. Incubus is set to perform on the 28th and of course I had to listen to a few of their new tracks! The B-Sides just got released and yes you guessed it, hooked! "Rebel Girls" was my favorite. I liked it so much I had to analyze the message and came up with a surprising conclusion! The play of words suddenly made sense. Hah! Oh Mr. Lyricist, why must you be so experimental and clever? I love it.

"Hold Me Down" and "Surface To Air" were two of the other B-Sides.

August

I had to distract myself from the post concert depression and RHCP's new song "The Adventures Of Rain Dance Maggie" came in perfect timing! And the music video shot in Venice, California gave more impact to this song. Although no more John Frusciante in this album, another John, Klinghoffer is as awesome.

September

September is definitely Young The Giant month! I discovered them when I saw they were touring with Incubus. "Guns Out" was the first song I got obsessed with. Literally, the first click on the play button was magic. I also liked "My Body" and "Islands" (which I'm planning to include in my first fashion show playlist in the near future...wow, I just spoiled that.)

October

October is Oh Land month! Don't even get me started. This is real talent....she's pop but not garbage! I fell in love with her when I first saw the video for "White Nights". I literally play raped it for the next couple of the days. Nanna continues to be an inspiration to me now. She's making me want to start a trio! Loved all her songs in the latest album actually. "Wolf & I", "Break The Chain" and "Rainbow" to name a few...

November

I found myself listening to two songs on repeat for a month. It was Lana Del Ray's "Video Games" and Brigitte's "La Vengeance D'une Louve". These are amazing songs from two different artists! Brigitte is a folk musical duo from France. Seriously, I get so much inspiration from their music, it's crazy! I am willing to fly to France just to attend one of their shows.

December

Another tie-up between two songs! Jeffertitti's Nile "Sleep Tonight" and Gotye's "Somebody That I Used To Know". I actually knew these songs a month earlier but really paid attention to it's beauty a month after. "Sleep Tonight" is a good meditation and zen time song, I recommend. I've been seeing Gotye's songs everywhere now and I'm glad musicians like him are getting attention. It's about time people stopped listening to crap.

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Highlights of 2011

2011 has been a magical year for me. This year, I met lovely people, one of my dreams came true, and enrolled in a new school to name a few.

JANUARY: I started my first trimester in a new school where I am finally enrolled in a course where I love what I'm doing which is Fashion Design and Merchandising. I believe that it is never too late to change paths especially if you feel you're heading the wrong direction.

FEBRUARY: Starting the year with a bang! A Deftones concert that is. I love Deftones and they have been part of my life soundtrack.

MARCH: I got closer with two people I hardly knew 2 months ago. I don't get to see them that much nowadays but I'm thankful for all the fun and laughter we shared. And I miss them to death!

APRIL: Packed with photoshoots in a month. I was helping my friend Patrick build his portfolio and styled a few of his shoots. Met new friends, learned a whole lot of things and of course, had fun on the way...

MAY: I had my first gig as a photographer at the Manila Beer Event. Thanks to my friend, Marita. I was a frustrated concert photographer, and still am.

JUNE: I went to Fete De La Musique for the first time! This was a night to remember. I met a bunch of lovely people, hung out with old friends and it was pure fun and music in one night! It was amazing and I can't wait for this year's!

JULY: Best month of the year. Why? After years and years, I finally met my music heroes, Incubus. Especially the man behind the words, Brandon Boyd. I will never forget the wonderful experience and it is a story worth telling my grandchildren. I am still in disbelief as of the moment and I probably will never get over the experience. Their music has touched my soul and seeing them in the flesh and speaking to them was very endearing and life-cherishing. Magical is one word I can describe it. Oh, and I got to meet new people I share the same passion with...

AUGUST: My first ever trip to Ilocos! It was for our History of Art and Design class. I can't believe I didn't pay enough attention to that city back then. I felt like it spoke to me, we connected. I also got to ultimate bond with my good friend, Brix! I love Ilocos and I can't wait to go back soon!

SEPTEMBER: I got into an internship with stylist Teej Nepomuceno. Although it didn't last that long, I'm glad I learned a lot from the short experience and it can definitely help me in my future endeavors in the fashion world.

OCTOBER: It has officially been one year since my 18th birthday!? Time is fast! I spent my 19th birthday with a few of my close friends in a small intimate gathering with great music and laughter. I wouldn't have it any other way...

NOVEMBER: I had my first ever trip to Quezon! The city was gorgeous! I love how raw their lifestyle is. There was inspiration everywhere! From the galleries, the pottery store where they taught us how the whole pottery process is done, and Carlito Ortega's live demonstration of his art where he showed us the simplicity and diversity of welded brass. His art spoke to me. He inspired me to explore the complexities of heating brass and playing with metal.

I got involved in one of my friend's short indie film. I'm glad I was part of the team together with a bunch  of talented people. The experience was very tiring with 16 hours of shooting! But nevertheless, I had fun and met new friends.

DECEMBER: We had our second Betches Christmas gathering which was a tradition we started just last year. Me together with six of my best friends all gather up in my place coming from different parts of the city. We would catch up and laugh just like the good old times...

Every December, our family flies to Hong Kong to unwind. I've been to Hong Kong countless times but it gets more special every year. It's the only time of the year where we really get to bond as a family and that's the most important thing about the trip...next to shopping. Hah

The gifts I've received this year have been surreal. Cheers to better years! Sending love & light to everyone! Happy New Year!

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Deftones experience

February 12, 2011

I know it's a bit too late but hey, better late than never.

I bought my VIP ticket 2-3 months before the concert. Talk about excited?

To be honest, one of my heads up was wanting to hear songs from their new album, "Diamond Eyes" which was my new favorite record followed by "White Pony". Although I loved their old ones, I instantly fell lyrically in love with the new record upon hearing it for the first time. Thus, topping my favorite Deftones album.

I love concerts. There's always that adrenaline feeling that I look forward to. If I could go to concerts for a living, I would do it. Haha

I talked my Sister into accompanying me knowing the fact that she knows nothing about the band. She accepted the offer and much to my surprise, she actually had fun.

Front acts were Slapshock...who were really good. I just wish they would ditch the themed Dickies outfits. But music-wise, no complains. And I kinda looked forward in seeing my crush, Chi Evora (drummer). Ha!

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Jamir Garcia of Slapshock
(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

...and Urbandub, who were the usual spot-on performers. They started a song with a technical difficulty ruining that hard intro. Hahaha! But they were really professional and chatted with the audience while things were being fixed. They played two more additional songs for their set for some reason regarding Chino and the others.

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Gabby Alipe of Urbandub
(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

After a couple of songs, people chanting, and a LOT of waiting, out comes Abe, Stephen, Frank, Sergio (filling in for a very ill Chi Cheng) then a very ecstatic bouncing Chino starting the show with "Birthmark".

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Chino Moreno
(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

Next song was "Engine No. 9", then a very jumpy "Be Quiet And Drive"

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Chino Moreno
(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

Forgive my oily face. It's hard to stay fresh and dry in a swarm of wild, screaming, sweaty fans you know. Hahaha

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Abe Cunningham
(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

Next songs were "My Own Summer (Shove It)", "Lhabia", Abe Cunningham started a hard hit of the bass drum, we all knew what song was next. "Around The Fur" it is. I remembered singing my lungs out to that song. One of my favorites.

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Chino Moreno and Stephen Carpenter

(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

I'm just gonna skip to my favorite songs...

Again, Abe starts it off with a powerful hit on that bass drum. And we all knew what song was going to be played at that first beat..."Digital Bath"! We were screaming even before Chino sang the first word.

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Stephen Carpenter

(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

"Royal" was one of my favorite tracks off the new record. I literally screamed all the words until I got sore.

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Sergio Vega

(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

Songs from the new album were played next "Sextape", "Rocket Skates", "You've Seen The Butcher", and "Beauty School". "Sextape" was one of the songs I was excited to hear, I got hooked to it the first time I heard it. And so did everyone else. Chino went really close to the right side of the VIP section during "You've Seen The Butcher", giving the VIP people a worth it buy for that wallet piercing price of the VIP ticket. Haha

Now, Chino did not make it unfair for the left side of the VIP section. During "Passenger", he again went really close to the audience. He even took a hat of some guy while singing a verse, he tries to give it back to the owner before returning to the stage but another guy grabs it. Chino asks the guy to hand it to him so that he could return it to the original owner. Beat that!

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Chino Moreno

(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

Now for the best part, during their last song "7 Words", Chino made sure to interact with every section in the audience. He ran towards the silver section and hung in one of the steel bars, and continued singing.

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011

(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011

(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

I waited for him to go back the stage, touched his sweat, and grabbed his chain necklace (thinking I could rip it off his neck. Guess not...I just mini choked him. Sorry, Chino)

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Chino Moreno

(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

After a long set of 25 songs, they finally wrapped it up.

DEFTONES Diamond Eyes Tour 2011: Chino Moreno

(Photo by: Beverly Kho)

Setlist:

Birthmark

Engine No. 9

Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)

My Own Summer (Shove It)

Lhabia

Around The Fur

Digital Bath

Knife Party

Hexagram

Minerva

Bloody Cape

Diamond Eyes

CMND/CTRL

Royal

Sextape

Rocket Skates

You've Seen the Butcher

Beauty School

Hole in the Earth

Kimdracula

Back To School

Change (In the House of Flies)

Passenger

Encore:

Root

7 Words

Oh and here's two people fighting over Abe's drumstick! Hahaha.

I was close to settling the fight by just grabbing it and running away but I remembered that running isn't really my forte and I would be caught then doomed. So I ditched the idea.

Click HERE for more photos!

Videos to follow!

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