Local Wednesday: Backseat Radio II presents Record Store Day Gig

Event: Backseat Radio II presents Record Store Day Gig
Date: April 21, 2012 (Saturday)
Venue: Doppel Kafe, Central Market, Kuala Lumpur

“Wow. What just happened there?” Those were the exact words I said out loud, as the car reversed out of the deserted back alley of Central Market, after the 8-hour gig that just happened at that little cafe up the stairs in front of us.

Record Store Day was brought back to my attention about a month back, when the international music media started promoting their own respective Record Store Day events and news. I remember thinking to myself, (and out loud on Twitter), if anyone in the Malaysian local music industry is doing anything to be a part of this celebration. However, I don’t remember how it happened, but it did. The next thing I know, I found this idea spawning in my head to do this particular music gig. From the start, I was aware that there was not much time left. One month to pull it off. There was no time for second guesses, timid hesitants, skeptical doubts and fearful procrastinations. From the moment I emailed my first Record Store Day gig related email to Jasmine, the owner of Doppel Kafe, I have not the time to look back. I did not want to.

It’s not easy, obviously. I mean. It was fun, throwing the idea out there and getting positive feedbacks almost all the time. People were jumping on board almost instantly, enthusiastically. The artistes loved the idea the moment it was pitched, and there was not a second thought given to come in and play. Whilst there were acts that I had to let slip through my fingers, but they still left with well wishes, and that much, I appreciated every single one of them. I suppose, it was then I saw how supportive the local music industry is. It does contribute a lot, and made the initial recruitment almost effortless.

Tenderfist.

Narmi.

Every week that passed, there was something new for me to worry about. One week I would be rushing to finalise the line up, scurrying about looking for 14 artistes to perform that day, and pestering the managers and band leaders of pending bands for confirmations. Another I would be fretting over the sound system and backline, because sure, I can have what I believe to be a perfect line up, but to present them all through lacking sound equipment would just be defeating the purpose. And another, I would be worried about finding enough crew members to help me out on the day itself so I wouldn’t be running around myself like a headless chicken. And in between all of that, I would scratch my head over everything else, and for some reason, co-ordinating the merchandise counter was not in any split second’s consideration through it all. When the day finally arrived to execute everything that has been planned, I felt I was at my wit’s end, and this last ounce of energy is finally draining out of me. Fun times, fun times.

But I am glad everything came together almost seamlessly on the day itself. How my lovely friends helped me out with every little thing on Saturday. How people would actually show up to check out the gig, especially this one particular fellow, who came half an hour earlier while Ferns was still doing some last minute soundchecking. (Whoever you were, if you are reading this, thank you so much for your support). How friends would take time out from their busy schedules just to stop by and hang around a bit to check out the artistes performing.

Rosevelt.

Lab the Rat.

The beauty about organising your own gig, is that you are basically gathering all your favourite acts together, and checking them all out at one go. Heh. I love Ferns for opening the show with their easy peasy feely weekend kind of music, with Tenderfist‘s quirky lovable beats, and Darren Ashley Band‘s midday party central set. I love Once Upon a Time There was a Sausage Named Bob warming up the small crowd to something heavier, before An Honest Mistake comes in with their pop rock numbers and Rosevelt‘s alternative rock depths. I love Narmi and Rendra Zawawi giving everything a breather before Pesawat and Paperplane Pursuit taking things off the ground once again. I love Lab the Rat with their lovely music, and Busco working things up to the climax where Rollin’ Sixers ended it all with a bang. And not to mention, the sporting Uncle Dominique/Dominic who took over the mic halfway through the Sixers’ set and decided to sing his favourite Spanish song and dance along to the band’s improvisation at the back. Heh.

To be honest, it is still a little hard to believe what I just pulled back there. It all still seems too surreal, and looking back, I still wonder if I have really done what I did for the past few weeks. If I really did, in fact, just put together a local music gig all by myself for the first time. Especially with a day job to mull over, not to mention, during the crucial closing weeks. Me, this little thing that has never even daydreamed about organising a music event.

Happy Record Store Day!

Throughout the first few weeks, constantly flashing through my head was Peyton Sawyer in the second season of One Tree Hill, when she decided to start up TRIC and started getting bands to perform in her club. Particularly, Jimmy Eat World, in the season finale. She was hiding at the back of the club crying, as she watched her then boyfriend Jake Jagielski leaving her. I knew how by having this club and filling her time by finding bands to perform, she made it through that hard period of her life.

Crazy, I know, to be drawing reference from a TV show that has since gone down the drain, but somehow, I could see where she was coming from. I could relate. It was a rather tough spot at that time when the idea was first curated, but somehow, I managed to pull through. Those immediate meetings at the Starbucks, and those quieter nights while I was off on my holiday in Krabi. They were bits of distractions that managed to get me through. Personally, this little project turned out to be my saving grace.

I remember sitting alone at Pesawat’s soundcheck on a Friday night, and it finally dawned on me that this – this thing – belongs to me. I thought to myself: “Yes. This is mine.”

Rollin' Sixers.

Here be the ridiculously long gratuitous liner note, because hey, I am a writer, after all: 

This gig would not have been possible without the support from everyone around me, so allow me to get a tad sappy over here by thanking each and every one of you who has helped me out before, during and after the show. I might not have showed it on that day, being all stressed and tired, but I really do appreciate every single one of your support. It really does mean a lot to me, knowing I am getting ample support doing something that I am passionate about.

Thank you Jasmine from Doppel Kafe and Jeremy of Laguna Music, who both jumped on board almost immediately when the idea was shared with them. Thank you Keng of Awakening Studio, as well as Tim the sound guy, for helping out in the area that I am least familiar with, yet making everything go smoothly that day for the performers. Thank you Cedric for the wonderful poster design, and Adrian for photographing eight hours straight that day.

Thank you Sheila and Ee Liza for being such wonderful door not-at-all-bitches at the entrance. Thank you Luna and Collin for helping out with the emceeing. And most especially, thank you Mun, my cau~ (don’t mind us, it’s a private thing), for being the best stage/band manager I could ever ask for. The gig would not have gone as smoothly if it were not you manning that fort. Thank you Mak from Soundscape Records, Ray from Laguna Music and Rizki for helping out at the merchandise counter.

Rosevelt.

Thank you to the artistes for taking the time out to perform at this little music gig some unknown girl decided to put together. I appreciate every single note that you played with all your hearts up on stage that day. I hope every one of you had fun that day performing, even though it was not exactly a full house you were playing to. Not to mention every artiste’s respective band managers and liaisons, Warren, Arif, Darren, Jared, Avril, Josh, Camel, Izzah, David, Rendra, John, Isaac, Ena, Shaun and Eddy, for making it possible for your respective acts to perform. Not forgetting too Liyana Fizi and her manager Grace. Even though Liyana did not get to perform at the very last minute due to medical conditions, I still appreciate your interest in being a part of it, and the liaison that followed through till the end.

Thank you Reta, Amin, Daryl, Jon and every one else who has helped in promoting the gig just a little bit more at such short notice. Thank you Josh, Jon, Jared, Jasmine, Mun and Kevin for the brainstorming sessions before the show at Starbucks and mamaks, and the post-mortem after. Your opinions mean the world to me. 

And last but not least, thank you for those who braved the traffic and crazy weather to come to the gig that day. Thank you for stopping by, and I hope you enjoyed what the artistes have to offer that day. Also, thanks for the fireworks, Dataran Merdeka.

It has, indeed, been a crazy yet fun ride.

* All photos are taken by Adrian Yap. More photos of the Record Store Day gig HERE.

Local Wednesday: Record Store Day

I never had the privilege to nurture my love for music in the era of vinyl records. By the time I was old enough to get into music seriously, the common medium for music has switched to cassette tapes. I nursed my growing cravings buying a tape almost every week, and sitting in front of the beat up stereo with my finger on the record button, waiting for the DJ to finish talking at the right moment before the first verse of One Headlight flooded my room. I was a generation that reveled in mixed tapes without intro chords, and despised DJs who spoke a little too much into the verses, and came back from his cigarette break a little too soon before the song ended.

Before long, I found myself doing the subtle yet natural transition into CDs, as I grew up from high school to college. It was then that I remember hanging out at my friend’s place after school to see her abundant playlist she downloaded from Napster. There was a record store I frequent too, where I thought sold a fairly good collection of CDs (and vinyls) that the commercial record stores back then would purposely overlook. Disc & Dat was the first place I got my first real CD. All For You by Our Lady Peace was blasting through the speakers, and my dad gave me a very inquisitorial look.

I would still do my occasional trips into Rock Corner to see if they have albums I have heard of, loved it, and would like to add to my growing CD collection. But I realised it had been a while since I stop by, when the other day, I found myself staring at Jonsi’s Go album in my hand, contemplating hard on two things: 1. Have I purchased that CD already? And 2. Should I for more than RM40 a pop?

There was a time when #2 was not a question at all. I would just buy it without thinking twice. Right now, I suppose I am spoiled with online downloads. There is a bigger accessibility to more albums rarely found at this side of the world, and it is more convenient to carry around, storing them all in my old iPod. I believe that the moment we realised we are spoiled is when the age old question “top 5 albums for when you’re stuck on an island” is answered with “I’d just bring my iPod along”. *

Whilst media formats may have changed from something of substance to something of convenience, and the industry makers continue their everlasting debate on illegal downloads, there is one thing that still remains the same – music. No matter what arguments were put out into the world, when it all boils down to it, we are just fighting to keep something we love alive, and besides music capitals trying to stake claims, I don’t ever think it is something that will die. Ever.

+++

This Saturday, the world celebrates Record Store Day, to pay tribute to our once upon a time record stores and vinyl collections, to salute the current talents keeping the lifeline beating, and to look forward to what is to come for the world of music in its entirety. The day may be more widely celebrated on the other side of the world, there is no harm in putting together something of our own over here. This is why yours truly has decided to put together a good ol’ fashioned music gig, featuring 14 local artistes from Malaysia, who have either released an album of their own last year, or will be within this year. A chance for you to catch your beloved numbers performed live, and also get a sneak on what to expect in the near future. Not to mention, their albums sold at a discounted price, available only on Record Store Day.

So, swing by Doppel Kafe at Central Market this Saturday from 2PM onwards. Enjoy a little bit of electro from bands like Tenderfist and Darren Ashley Band, lovable acoustics from Narmi, Rendra Zawawi and Liyana Fizi, good-natured pop rock from An Honest Mistake, Pesawat, Paperplane Pursuit and Busco, vocal driven rock from Rosevelt and Once Upon a Time There was a Sausage Named Bob, and everything in between from Lab the Rat, Ferns and Rollin’ Sixers.

16 acts at the price of RM15, just for you lovely music fans – all because it’s Record Store Day!

To read up more on Record Store Day, click here.

* And yes, I did ended up buying the album in the end. Because hey, it’s Jonsi.

Laneway, Laneway, raining all the way.

Event: St Jerome’s Laneway Festival
Date: January 29, 2011 (Saturday)
Venue: Fort Canning Park, Singapore

More like Rainway. Singapore has been pouring on and off for days leading up to the weekend, and the Laneway Festival was no exception since St Jerome is not a god of clear skies. Great torrents of rain fell on us while we were having brunch, and fortunately, it stopped long enough for us to get to Fort Canning Park and enjoyed one and a half acts rain-free.

I suppose, I prefer this weather rather than a scorching hot one. (The tanlines I have gotten from Rock The World 10 in December are still evident on my back). I have always preferred colder weathers all my life. So, I was not really bothered that the sun did not attend the Festival that day.

Warpaint kicked off the Singapore instalment of Laneway Festival. On time too, might I add. Leave it up to the Singaporeans to be perfect with little things like these. Heh. An all-girl experimental art rock band from Los Angeles. Dreamy on a minor key that was just perfect for that grey sky morning. They kind of gave me a Bjork feel, but less nonsensical.

Halfway through Ladyhawke‘s set, the rain started coming down again. I decided to take shelter at one of the tents set up for the Festival. It poured during intermission, but cleared right up as Beach House took the stage.

Excuse me, while I skim through the first few acts of the Festival, because honestly, they did not really capture my attention. By the time Deerhunter went onstage, I was getting a tad restless and bored already. Whilst having a sound of their own, the bands were everything in between psychedelic rock and synthpop. Dreamy at their own leagues. Although they are pleasing to the ears, they are also, to me, what Rob Fleming would like to call, “something I can ignore”.

I was jolted awake unexpectedly when Holy F@#k came on with their industrial and experimental sound that was surprisingly, much to my liking. I admit, I was not very keen on a band having such an – inarticulate name. But that evening, I learned why they were named so.

Holy F@#k was indeed – holy fuck.

They were all over the place with their effects. The screaming, the 35mm film synchronising, the electronics, the programmed backings… They could have easily been passed of as mere noises, but somehow, they straddled the line so perfectly. The two Matt’s in the band – McQuaid a.k.a Punchy on bass, and Schluz on drums, were the lifeline that strung the pollutions together in one single file and make a crazy tune out of them.

Holy F@#k was, hands down, the best live act at Laneway Festival that night. And it was then, when Laneway Festival truly began.

The most entertaining act for me was !!! (Chk Chk Chk), and it was all because of the lead Nic Offer. It was a great WTF moment for me when he strut up onstage with a pair of shorts and a “I <3 Singapore” T-shirt on. And it was then, from the crowd, someone flung her bra onstage, which later on, Offer was seen swinging it around as he performed.

!!! connected most with the crowd, in my opinion. Offer stole someone’s umbrella from the crowd and started walking around with it. Sort of dove to the front of the crowd and gave everyone hi-fives all round. Offer had the funniest and most suggestive dance moves going on. Funny, because his tummy was jutting out as he does his chicken dances. Heh.

By then, all hell broke loose at Heaven’s gate. The rain was the heaviest throughout Yeasayer and Foals‘ sets. People were walking around huddled under their umbrellas and in their raincoats. Other soaked through and through while struggling across the grimiest mud puddles that would steal your slippers. A couple of foreigners were even doing mudslides with people cheering them on. That was funny.

And I remember specifically a time during Foals’ set. The rain had somewhat quieted down, but during one of their songs with a very powerful escalation, the house lights went on, bright yellow falling on the crowd with hands in the air. Almost simultaneously, the rain started down hard again. From where I was standing, it was a beautiful, beautiful sight.

8 bands and some 10 hours later, The Temper Trap was finally on. Maybe it was the rain, maybe it was because I have been standing at the same spot for so long. Maybe it was their lengthy intro that sucked what was left of the life out of me. But The Temper Trap was not as hyped up as we have all made them out to be. Maybe it was just me. But there was an invisible climate line that each band was supposed to reach, and perhaps go over. The Temper Trap did not do it for me. After such a long anticipation, they became quite an anti-climax.

The band must have had a helluva mixer when putting together Conditions, because Dougy Mandagi did not sound as good live. His vocals were on and off onstage, and for some reasons, it ticked me off. Can he sing properly please, my head was saying. And he gave me the impression that he was being a tad cocky. Headlining Laneway Festival and hitting home so early in their career – heck, even had a crying fan crotch-hugged him when he dove to the crowd. I thought that was amusing.

Surrender, Rest, Love Lost and Drum Song - they all could have been so much more energetic, but Lorenzo Silitto and Jonathan Aherne seemed to be missing a few notes on their guitar strings, and Toby Dundas did not quite hit the right spot on his drums. As if they were holding back. It was only an 80% effort to me. (And I don’t think it’s because of where I stood, because I stood in the crowd and out of it during their set, and other bands like Foals and !!! hit me good when I was standing quite away from the stage).

All in all, it was a pleasant experience. This was probably the first full fledge international lineup music festival I have been to. Come to think of it, I cannot believe I actually spent close to 12 hours being there. Can’t say my stamina is good enough till the end of the day though.

The rain did not bother me much either. Probably because I was already dressed prepared in slippers and shorts, and a raincoat over myself. And of course, hiding under a tent most of the time. Heh. I also liked the fact that there were not any hooliganism going on – or at least, I did not see any going on, which could get pretty ugly at a music festival. Also, I have to take this opportunity to say kudos to the two female DJs – (DJ Jah, was it?), spinning while the bands were setting up and soundchecking during intermissions. Your playlists were impeccable as fillers.

So yes. I had a nice time. I am definitely looking forward to larger scaled music festivals across the world. I just need to be prepared to eat baked beans for days, not shower and sleep in rocked out sweat, and pee into empty water bottles. Heh.

* More better quality photos soon.

W: Singapore.LanewayFestival.com.au
T: @LanewayFestSG

Of Iceland and inspirations.

Iceland has had a tough run these past few years, what with its financial crisis since 2008, and the sudden eruption of Eyjafjallajökull not too long ago. The island has pretty much been non-existent to many before all these hoo-ha. I’m sure most of you don’t even give your two cents about Iceland until the volcano exploded, stranded millions in Europe because of its monstrous plume, and humoured the rest of the world with its almost impossible to pronounce name. I don’t blame you; when I was a kid, I used to think Iceland is equivalent to that of Antarctic – nothing but glaciers of whites as far as the eyes can see, and people as Eskimos living in igloos.

Iceland is more than that. He is the mirror image of that muscle that beats your heartbeat. He is the sunset at 11PM, and the sunrise at 3AM. He is the steamy embrace of the mighty Gullfoss, and the symphonic Northern Lights when lovers meet at the equinox. He has a face of pure and heavenly innocence, but an eerie and worned out world when you stare deeper into his eyes; not unlike a young 21-year-old who’s seen too many heartaches and hopelessness. He is the place geniuses think about when they write music. He is the second home to Damien Rice, and home to Sigur Rós. I’d like to believe that if one could see music, Iceland will look a lot like Vaka, Samskeyti and Fljótavík.

Last week, halfway across the world, there was a free concert dedicated to the people of Iceland. Anyone who has once claimed the island to be their home went on stage for Iceland Inspires that day, singing of hope and comfort – inspiration.

The concert opened with the dreamy and surreal sounds of Amiina, Sigur Rós’ strong sisters in arms, like a gradual wake up call to the nation. There was also a traditional ensemble of Steindór Andersen, Hilmar Örn Hilmarsson and Páll á Húsafelli, paired with the more contemporary harmonies of Hafdís Huld, Dikta, Lay Low and Seabear.

By day, everyone huddles together as Damien Rice and Glen Hansard serenade the crowd with their beat up guitars the beloved The Blowers’ Daughter and Leave, respectively. And as night swallows Reykjavík, Spiritualized‘s acoustic mainlines finishes up with profound gospels, lifting the city up into the floating space: “All I want in life’s a little bit of love to take the pain away.”

It is a concert of returning favours, from the people who have been inspired by Iceland, thanking him for inspiring them when they were once hopeless and lost.

To the land I could only dream of stepping foot on someday, I wish you well in days to come. I hope to one day see you face to face, kiss your rain-damped pavements as your mid-Atlantic air wipes my tears away.

Here is my favourite set off the Iceland Inspires concert: a powerful orchestra of Damien Rice, Glen Hansard, Lára Runnarsdottir and Lay Low with their rendition of Iceland’s folk lullaby, Sofðu Unga Ástin Mín.

Watch the rest of the concert performers HERE, and more of Andri Elfarsson’s photographs HERE.

When I grow up, I wanna be like David Corio.

Event: CONVERSE and Jam Division presents Youth/Decay: Iconic Rock & Roll Photography Exhibition
Date: April 24, 2010 (Saturday) – May 5, 2010 (Wednesday)
Venue: Zinc Art Space, Bangsar

I am hopeless when it comes to music instruments. I was naturally enrolled for piano lessons after my sister when I was 5, only to quit the moment I finally got myself to Grade 8. Better half of my high school days was spent on the school band, only to pay more attention with complicated formations, and to convince apathetic juniors to stay focus and not quit, instead of working on my flute. I also distinctively remember my flute solo being matter-of-factly given to another better player in an orchestra performance years ago. And I never learned to play the guitar, only air guitar – with my left hand.

What are we musically challenged bunch left but our abundant CD collection, a good ear to sift out the good from the bad, and a good eye, to perhaps someday capture moments like these captured by one of the best music photographers out there – David Corio.

After the hype from the exhibition launch the previous night had died down, what was left were the few photography fans, armed with their own DSLRs, with ears on attentively to hear Corio share his stories with famous musicians, while sauntering about the gallery, hoping to take good shots of Corio’s best shots without looking too much of a fool.

I know I felt that way. So, do forgive me if the photos in this entry look weird or amateur (if they aren’t already in general); I did feel intimidated just being in the same room with his photos, let alone being in the same room with him.

The better part of the crowd has left when I arrived later that day. Which was a good thing, since I do not really like crowds. The spacious art gallery left ample space for patrons to move around without obstructing the view of others checking out the photos on display.

To set the mood, drifting in and out from the background was the distinguishable voice of Kelly Jones, only all too appropriate for two reasons: that Stereophonics will be stopping by Malaysia themselves in a few days. And that it is an iconic rock & roll photo exhibition – someday, perhaps, in one of the photos Kelly Jones will sport his leather jacket and Ray Ban shades as he rocked out his solo in Superman. Click. Frozen in time.

With every photo displayed on the wall, Corio told a story behind it. How they were taken, when they were taken. A picture of Eric Clapton actually smiling and letting loose backstage before a gig. An overlapped expose of The Cure, done accidentally, purposely, in a concert setting much too inconvenient for any photographer. A closeup shot of Deborah Harry he took, while the other photographers moved further behind for theirs, and even got a cuffing in the head himself for not following suit.

One of Tom Waits by his piano, too grainy but too perfect to be thrown away. One of Michael Jackson, taken for that split second when he took off his sunglasses and looked back at the flashing cameras – almost scared. That one frozen frame of Bob Marley with his dreadlocks flung in the air like a spider’s legs.

All 36 photos on display during the exhibition are for sale. Some of them cost RM1,800, most of them RM2,000. The thought of looking at some 20 photos that costs as much as the camera I hold in my hands each. Wow.

I noted a few favourites while I was browsing. Two of which were the ones above of Bob Marley and Joe Strummer.

Another is this of AC/DC. I just love photos of musicians and their guitars.

And this of Nick Cave and his long-time collaborator Mick Harvey.

So. Birthday presents for me, anyone? I’d love you forever. Heh.

A plus for showing up that Saturday was that David Corio was there too. He hung back after having a one-hour talk on photography and his works, doing interviews, perhaps even autographs and taking pictures with people.

I even managed to get him to pose with the famous U2 photo he did, which also made the cover of their U218 Singles compilation album, before striking up the courage to shake his hand and introduce myself. Quite a well-mannered guy, with a notable gap between his bucked teeth and talking British with a sort of lisp. I have never been one to come up impromptu conversations. Only managed a lame: “It’s nice to meet you. Your photos are really great.” Meh.

If you are a fan of old rock & roll music, or love photography, or just like to purchase expensive photos out of spite, I would suggest you to stop by this photo exhibition. It is not everyday someone like Corio, who has rubbed shoulders with famous musicians we have only been listening to on the radio, stop by. If you don’t get to meet him in person, it’s still quite a nice trip to Zinc on a weekend.

Someday.

++
Zinc Art Space
Lot 61 Jalan Maarof (opposite Dataran Maybank)
59000 Bangsar
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
T: +6 03 2282 5388
F: +6 03 2284 8044
W: http://www.zinc.com.my

Youth/Decay: An Iconic Rock & Roll Photography Exhibition
Exhibition date: Apr 24 – May 5, 2010
Business hour: 12PM-6PM; closed on Sunday
Admission: Free

PS: Also, if you are a fan of music photography, might I suggest checking out those by the late Jim Marshall. This is my favourite of Keith Richards. RIP.

All our base are belong to VGL!

Event: Video Games Live
Date: April 17, 2010 (Saturday)
Venue: Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

OK, before I get crucified here at my own blog, I have to admit I am not exactly a hardcore video games fan. My video gaming days dated back when computers were still Internet-less and my sister and I were taking turns to play games off the IBM 5¼ inch floppy disks (yes, I kid you not) when we were on home arrest for chicken pox, Dune II: The Building of a Dynasty and Warcraft: Orcs and Humans being my favourites then.

As well as when video game consoles were still using them ROM catridges, and my neighbours and I would trade them back and forth for new games – Super Mario Bros, Tetris, Excitebike (love this), Ice Climber, Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, Adventure Island, Street Fighter, Contra, Double Dragon, to name a few. After that, the rest of my knowledge on video games came solely from my guy friends, who actually play the games.

So, you have got to give me credit that I am not at a total loss when it comes to video games. I guess I would not mind getting in the whole video gaming thing, if I do not actually, well, suck at playing console games. I do. Ask my mom. Other than that, I can always pull the ‘I’m a girl’ card. Heh.

The geekdar is off the charts last Saturday over at KL Convention Centre. Not only was the weekend of the PIKOM PC Fair, Video Games Live was also happening on the same day. It was like saying: “Come buy some computers, and while you’re here, enjoy a concert dedicated to video games!” I am sure some tech geek out there was having a virtual orgasm that day. Heh.

There were two pre-show activities going on before the concert, one being the Guitar Hero challenge, and another, the Cosplay competition. I missed the Guitar Hero session, but managed to catch a few Cosplay characters wandering the foyer.

Here is Nemesis from Resident Evil.

Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter sharing a shot without going expelliarmus on each other.

Can he even see where he is going?

With the immensity of Video Games Live, I guess I expected more people to play dress up. I have seen a larger community of Cosplayers wandering around One Utama a while back, so I thought it would be massive that day. Alas.

Before the concert started, all Cosplayers were ushered up onstage. The one with the loudest applause from the crowd wins.

Cute. /girl

It was a close call between Nemesis and Master Chief. And Nemesis won in the end.

Under the conduction of Jack Hall, co-founder of Video Games Live, the National Symphony Orchestra kicked off Malaysia’s instalment with a medley of Classic Arcade:

Pong. The video game that started it all.

Space Invaders.

Tetris.

And others like Donkey Kong, Outrun, Contra and such.

Tommy Tallarico – who, by the way, is the cousin to Steven Tyler from Aerosmith – emerged after that, sporting his Spidey T-shirt and shoes, to give us a brief run through on what VGL was all about, dropping our infamous lah suffix here and there.

First up was music from Metal Gear Solid.

With some Cosplay going on, and Tallarico hiding in the box behind. Heh.

God of War.

With the bone chilling voice of Laura Intravia.

A member of the audience was invited onstage to play a little game of Space Invaders for 2 minutes. The winning prize was a Katana desktop video arcade machine.

The tricky part was that the player had to move left and right accordingly like the laser cannon on screen. He even had on a T-shirt with the laser cannon on the back. Heh.

Ralph Baer, creator of Pong and the Father of Video Games, also made an appearance that night. Live via Skype, apparently. I was skeptical at first if he was indeed talking to us live, but after getting confirmations from those who have gone to the evening show, it was just a recording. Unless Baer is really semangat, staying up late and all just to say hi to us.

Next up was Sonic the Hedgehog.

Intravia a.k.a Flute Link returned back onstage dressed as Link from The Legend of Zelda for a flute solo. Oh, to have half the talent as she does when I was in high school.

Then, the orchestra did The Legend of Zelda.

An interval.

I wonder what happens if the download fails. You know how slow and wonky our connection is here.

Kickstarting things again with a Disney medley of Kingdom Hearts.

And then. World of Warcraft.

Another special guest. Norihiko Hibino, music composer of Metal Gear Solid, performing Snake Eater.

The beloved Super Mario Bros.

Then, the winner from the Guitar Hero challenge earlier was invited onstage to strut his stuff.

He was to score 220,000 points on Hard, in order to win an autographed VGL poster, signed by Koji Kondo, music composer of The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Bros. He got to play the soon-to-be-released Guitar Hero: Van Halen, rocking out to Jump, playing alongside Tallarico himself. Things got interesting when he decided to up the game, to play on Expert instead.

The kid didn’t win though. But he was only some 20,000 points behind, and he did get the poster after all.

Now, till this point, Tallarico was to me just someone with a great idea to revolutionise the worlds of video games and symphony orchestras. But still, I have definitely underestimated him when the concert continued with him at his electric guitar, going through themes from Mega Man, Halo and Halo 3.

Master Chief returned.

Absolutely loving Tallarico’s Spidey guitar as he rocked out to Final Fantasy VII‘s Advent: One-winged Angel.

For the encore, Castlevania.

And Chrono Trigger.

With Hall on his acoustic guitar.

It was definitely a one-of-a-kind experience, orchestral music that leaves your skin all pimply, mixed with a tinge of fun you get from the video game world.

It goes without saying that it is a must for video games enthusiasts to patronise the concert. Heck, everyone was having a ball spotting as many classic arcade games as they could, and cheering everytime the theme from their favourite game was played live.

But, I suppose, if you were only a fan of the music, you would enjoy yourself too. The hair on the back of my neck stood so often, I thought they were just going to fall off my skin.

Tallarico was quite a good sport too, dropping jokes and banters here and there, so he and his army definitely had the crowd going. Besides, it’s video games. Most of the job is already done for you already anyway. Heh.

But despite the goosebumps, I expected better performance from the National Symphony Orchestra. Quite often, I barely noticed the music was actually live. And I don’t suppose that’s a good thing. Perhaps the graphics backdrop kind of took half of our attention away. Or maybe, I should have stopped taking so many photos that day, and just sit down and thoroughly enjoyed the show. Meh.

But, all in all, the inner geek in me had a good time. She came out from the back of the closet and bathed in the sun of pure geekdom. They totally had me with the introductory poem: “Roses are #FF0000 / Violets are #0000FF / All your base are belong to us!” Good to see my graphic designing days finally paid off with such a cheap thrill. Heh.

I could not stop smiling to myself everytime something I recognise came on screen. Brought back a piece of childhood memory I have almost forgotten over time, but still intact – though vaguely – in my mind. Ah, the kind of smile you would have on your face when you recall those good ol’ games you used to spend time on.

My Saturday was definitely pwned by the people of Video Games Live.

5¼

MTV World Stage : Interview with Pixie Lott

What is it like being Pixie Lott – 18-year-old pop star and already with a #1 hit, Mama Do, under her belt and a much anticipated studio album on the way?

It’s been an exciting and crazy experience so far. I get to travel the world a fair bit and meet my fans from all around. I do miss my friends back home though, and I cannot wait to go back and hang out with them!

Why Pixie Lott?

It’s a baby name my mom gave me when I was borned. I was such a tiny little thing! And the name just sort of stuck around.

How does it feel like being the one female and solo performer at the MTV World Stage?

Haha, it was quite a wonderful and fun experience altogether, especially to share the stage with such amazing bands. I’ve also gotten compliments from fans, so that’s always nice!

Did you enjoy any of the performers last night?

I thought All-American Rejects were good. And it was also nice to see Raygun perform, mainly because we’re from the same country.

Did you have a chance to hang out with the other bands?

No, not really. The schedule is pretty tight for me and there is barely time for me to take a breather. I had to skip the after party because I’ve already made plans to meet up with a friend of mine in Malaysia for sushi. After the show, my parents and I were already craving for food so we just skipped all the hoorah to have a little quiet time. But I’ve met Tyson Ritter of All-American Rejects before, so it was great to see him again here.

You started off your career as an actress in shows and plays like West End’s Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Celebrate the Sound of Music. How has that helped you with your music career now?

It has helped me a lot in the sense of performing to a massive audience. I’ve learned how to keep my nerves in check. It doesn’t get too stressed out about singing in front of a big audience because I’ve kind of done that before already. So, it’s all pretty much natural to me.

Any plans of going back to the theatrical roots?

Sure, why not? I’d like to perform in a play for Chicago.

At only 18, your music career has kicked off quite early in life. Do you ever worry that things will get jaded for you by the time you hit your 20s, like how it was for Britney Spears?

Nah, that doesn’t concern me, really. My label and parents keep a stern eye on me, and I’m confident they will not let me walk down that road. It’s really a matter of choice when it comes to these kinds of things. I grew up in a neighbourhood that breeds such bad influences and vices, but drugs do not really appeal to me.

So, when you’re not performing on stage, what are you doing during her free time?

Sleep. I need lots of sleep! And also hang out with my friends – go watch a movie, shopping or clubbing.

You mentioned hanging out with your friends a lot. Do they treat you any differently now that you’re famous?

Not really. I have been friends with them way before I became famous, and I don’t think they treat me any differently now. But they’re supportive of my career. They go to all of my shows in the UK.

Being only 18 and underage, do you ever have any problems getting into clubs despite your fame?

Sometimes. A lot of times I tag along with my elder sister, and she could bring me in. That’s the good thing about having an older sister. There were a few times when my friends and I would dress up and all, but they’d get turned away. So, it’s one of those moments when I get to laugh at their faces because I get to go in, but they can’t!

But I’ve also gotten into trouble a few times. I was pulled out of the club, and once, I even had my sister’s passport confiscated! She was so angry and didn’t speak to me for weeks. But that’s how our relationship goes. I have a love/hate relationship with her, like all siblings do. But she’s still one of my best friends.

After your performance at MTV World Stage, I’m sure there are a few fans out there developing a celebrity crush on you. Do you have any celebrity crushes yourself?

I kind of have a crush on Robert Pattinson and Zac Efron. I don’t know them in person but Pattinson as Edward Cullen (in Twilight) seems like a kind and strong character, and Efron as Troy Bolton (in High School Musical) is a very nice and kind person.

Since we’re on the topic of guys, how can a guy grab your attention?

The guy would have to have the same interest as me, and he has to be funny too. To me, it’s important to be in the same wavelength with each other to make the relationship work.

Do you have a special someone waiting for you back home?

Haha, no. But I do have a few options.

Who are your music influences?

Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. When I was young, I would put their music on full blast and sing along to them in the living room!

What’s playing on your iPod right now?

Currently, I’m listening to Kings of Leon and MGMT.

You look great in your music videos, Mama Do and Boys and Girls. Do you have a workout plan you stick to?

Haha, thanks. But unfortunately, no. There hasn’t been enough time for me to hit the gym because my schedule has been so tight. I just make sure I consume a lot of healthy food in my diet. I take Vitamin Cs, and fruits – probably a little too much of that, but I just love fruits. Also, plenty of water and peppermint tea. And also to warm up my vocals before hitting the stage every night.

Your debut album, Turn it Up, is dropping into stores on September 14, which is less than a month away. What would you be doing the night before your album is released?

I’m not sure how’s the schedule going to be for me that night, but I’m sure it’s going to be a riot. But if there’s nothing work-related going on, I’d do something as normal as hanging out with my friends. Maybe dress up and head out for a party just to get it out of the system.

Tell us a bit about the album.

It’s up tempo and fun while showing a more serious side of me. It’s an album that portrays the different sides and personalities I have. I try to have as much diversity as I can in the album, and not have one song sounding exactly like the other. It’s my debut album, so I’d definitely want it to be one that will grab people’s attention.

What will you be turning up exactly?

The vibe. The feel. I’d definitely be turning it up loud because loud music is always the best!

You did a cover of OneRepublic’s Apologize and Kings of Leon’s Use Somebody. Are there any songs out there that you wished you’ve penned down first instead?

I’d have to say Love Come Down by Evelyn King. How I wish I’ve written that first!

Finally, in three words, how would you describe your music style?

I’d have to say: fresh, soulful and contemporary.

I will let you in on a secret. Before Pixie Lott arrived for her interview with us, we at the table shared a little info one of us overheard that she is a little bit of an airhead. Did she prove us wrong on that? Well.

Granted the interview was in the afternoon the next day after MTV World Stage, and we were all still tired from the stalkarazzi and the quarter day standaround we did during the concert, she was pretty – nice. Most of the time.

Very much like Raygun, being kind in answering the questions we bombarded her. But it was not rocket science that she was pooped and would like to hop on a plane and head back to the UK to see her friends, which she mentioned more often than not throughout the interview.

Why Pixie Lott?
It’s a baby name my mom gave me when I was born. I was such a tiny little thing! And the name just sort of stuck around.

How does it feel like being the one female and solo performer at the MTV World Stage?
Haha, it was quite a wonderful and fun experience altogether, especially to share the stage with such amazing bands. I’ve also gotten compliments from fans, so that’s always nice!

Did you enjoy any of the performers last night?
Erm, to be honest, I thought they were pretty much the same thing, what with the rock music and tight jeans and all. Heh. But I thought All-American Rejects were good. And it was also nice to see Raygun perform, mainly because we’re from the same country.

Did you have a chance to hang out with the other bands?
No, not really. The schedule is pretty tight for me and there is barely time for me to take a breather. I had to skip the after party because I’ve already made plans to meet up with a friend of mine in Malaysia for sushi. But I’ve met Tyson Ritter of All-American Rejects before, so it was great to see him again here.

At only 18, your music career has kicked off quite early in life. Do you ever worry that things will get jaded for you by the time you hit your 20s, like how it was for Britney Spears?
Nah, that doesn’t concern me, really. My label and parents keep a stern eye on me, and I’m confident they will not let me walk down that road. It’s really a matter of choice when it comes to these kinds of things. I grew up in a neighbourhood that breeds such bad influences and vices, but drugs do not really appeal to me.

So, when you’re not performing on stage, what are you doing during her free time?
Sleep. I need lots of sleep! And also hang out with my friends – go watch a movie, shopping or clubbing.

Being only 18 and underage, do you ever have any problems getting into clubs despite your fame?
Sometimes. A lot of times I tag along with my elder sister, and she could bring me in. That’s the good thing about having an older sister. There were a few times when my friends and I would dress up and all, but they’d get turned away. So, it’s one of those moments when I get to laugh at their faces because I get to go in, but they can’t!

After your performance at MTV World Stage, I’m sure there are a few fans out there developing a celebrity crush on you. Do you have any celebrity crushes yourself?
I kind of have a crush on Robert Pattinson and Zac Efron. I don’t know them in person but Pattinson as Edward Cullen seems like a kind and strong character, and Efron as Troy Bolton is a very nice and kind person.

Since we’re on the topic of guys, how can a guy grab your attention?
The guy would have to have the same interest as me, and he has to be funny too. To me, it’s important to be in the same wavelength with each other to make the relationship work.

Do you have a special someone waiting for you back home?
Haha, no. But I do have a few options.

Your debut album, Turn it Up, is dropping into stores on September 14, which is less than a month away. What would you be doing the night before your album is released?
I’m not sure how’s the schedule going to be for me that night, but I’m sure it’s going to be a riot. But if there’s nothing work-related going on, I’d do something as normal as hanging out with my friends. Maybe dress up and head out for a party just to get it out of the system.

Tell us a bit about the album.
It’s up tempo and fun while showing a more serious side of me. It’s an album that portrays the different sides and personalities I have. I try to have as much diversity as I can in the album, and not have one song sounding exactly like the other. It’s my debut album, so I’d definitely want it to be one that will grab people’s attention.

What will you be turning up exactly?
The vibe. The feel. I’d definitely be turning it up loud because loud music is always the best!

You did a cover of OneRepublic’s Apologize and Kings of Leon’s Use Somebody. Are there any songs out there that you wished you’ve penned down first instead?
I’d have to say Love Come Down by Evelyn King. How I wish I’ve written that first!

Here is Mama Do, featured on her upcoming album, Turn It Up.

++
Also check out:
MTV World Stage : Interview with Raygun
MTV World Stage : Interview with Stank
MTV World Stage “Live in Malaysia”
MTV World Stage : Backstage

MTV World Stage : Interview with Raygun

Tell us a bit about your band, Raygun.

Raygun is made up of me, Ray, the lead, along with guitarist The Adj, bassist Ben and drummer Sam. Adj and I have been a band of sorts for six years now since we were studying in London College of Music. Ben and Sam joined in later and the chemistry was right. Then, as everyone says, the rest is history.

What kind of music of you guys play?

We play a lot of 70s rock. Our influences are those such as David Bowie, T-Rex, Mick Jagger and Iggy Pop, so our music will mostly be inspired by those legends that were big in the mid-70s.

Would you guys consider your music Glam Rock then?

Yes, of course. We definitely would like to bring back all the glamour that was back in the 70s with our eccentric outfits and energetic music.

What separates your from the other bands emerging as of lately?

Well, we are a band who likes to have a laugh. We try not to take things too seriously. There are quite a few bands out there that are quite self-conscious when they go on stage, and we try not to submit to the same path as theirs. We strive to be entertaining and alive when it comes to performing live.

How’s Malaysia treating you guys so far?

Very good! The people have been pretty nice so far. We have never been to Malaysia before and we are liking what we see so far. And of course, the food is just gastronomic!

What was your initial reaction when MTV approached you to perform for MTV World Stage?

We were quite shocked, to be honest. I mean, we have toured with Pink before this, but that was it. We were surprised anyone would even take notice of us beyond that, let alone in Malaysia. But obviously, we jumped at the chance the second we were asked to perform at MTV World Stage.

What can the fans expect from you at the MTV World Stage concert?

Fans can definitely expect Raygun’s set to be an energetic one. There will be a lot of sweating going on, so I hope the fans brought spare change of clothes. Haha.

What do you expect from the fans in return?

Honestly, we are a little nervous performing tonight. This is our first time performing in Asia, and also Malaysia, so we’re not sure how the fans are going to react to our music. We do hope the crowd will not be too reserved, and will let loose and have fun with the music.

Tell us more about your hit single Just Because.

Just Because is a song about indulgence. Like how the chorus goes: “Just because you can, it doesn’t mean you should” – it is all about thinking first of your actions before you do them. A lot of people complain that it’s a song about drugs, but I beg to differ; it’s more of an anti-drug song, if you ask me. Just because you have the means to do all the wrong things in life, it does not mean you should.

Are you guys working on a new album in the meantime?

Yeah, we are in the works on putting a debut album together. Hopefully, it will be ready by the end of the year. It is going to be up tempo, like all the songs you can hear from our MySpace page. Like what The Adj here would say: it’s going to be the next Nevermind and Sergeant Pepper. Haha.

When I read Raygun’s bio release for MTV World Stage, my first thought was, “Sure or not?” It sounded like a very exaggerating piece with heightened flowery and too big promises for a band that has just started off.

They were described as “lead vox and sonic experimentation”, “war guitar and audio discovery” and “pace maker and heartbreaker”. And apparently they “summon up the razzle of New Wave and the dazzle of the Scissor Sisters’ disco, the filthiness of INXS, as well as the rock nous of a band long ready to start a revolution”, as they vow to “set a new blueprint for pop rock”, because they think other bands “don’t try hard enough to pump our blood, or move our feet”.

It was a pretty release set to impress, but it was very hard to buy it for me. I mean, words are just words, right?

In person, Ray Gun, The Adj, Sam Embery and Ben Lyonsmyth were generally nice fellows. Ray was pretty much the lead everyone expected, doing most of the talking and all. The Adj answered too, but eventually, you would catch on that they did not really apply unless for a laugh. Ben and Sam were pretty much just sitting there being pretty. Heh.

Overall, they were a nice band to interview, though it may probably be dued to the fact that they are new and in a foreign country, so they did not want to offend.

Tell us a bit about your band, Raygun.
Raygun is made up of me, Ray, the lead, along with guitarist The Adj, bassist Ben and drummer Sam. Adj and I have been a band of sorts for six years now since we were studying in London College of Music. Ben and Sam joined in later and the chemistry was right. Then, as everyone says, the rest is history.

What kind of music of you guys play?
We play a lot of 70s rock. Our influences are those such as David Bowie, T-Rex, Mick Jagger and Iggy Pop, so our music will mostly be inspired by those legends that were big in the mid-70s.

Would you guys consider your music Glam Rock then?
Yes, of course. We definitely would like to bring back all the glamour that was back in the 70s with our eccentric outfits and energetic music.

What separates your from the other bands emerging as of lately?
Well, we are a band who likes to have a laugh. We try not to take things too seriously. There are quite a few bands out there that are quite self-conscious when they go on stage, and we try not to submit to the same path as theirs. We strive to be entertaining and alive when it comes to performing live.

How’s Malaysia treating you guys so far?
Very good! The people have been pretty nice so far. We have never been to Malaysia before and we are liking what we see so far. And of course, the food is just gastronomic!

What was your initial reaction when MTV approached you to perform for MTV World Stage?
We were quite shocked, to be honest. I mean, we have toured with Pink before this, but that was it. We were surprised anyone would even take notice of us beyond that, let alone in Malaysia. But obviously, we jumped at the chance the second we were asked to perform at MTV World Stage.

What can the fans expect from you at the MTV World Stage concert?
Fans can definitely expect Raygun’s set to be an energetic one. There will be a lot of sweating going on, so I hope the fans brought spare change of clothes. Haha.

What do you expect from the fans in return?
Honestly, we are a little nervous performing tonight. This is our first time performing in Asia, and also Malaysia, so we’re not sure how the fans are going to react to our music. We do hope the crowd will not be too reserved, and will let loose and have fun with the music.

Tell us more about your hit single Just Because.
Just Because is a song about indulgence. Like how the chorus goes: “Just because you can, it doesn’t mean you should” – it is all about thinking first of your actions before you do them. A lot of people complain that it’s a song about drugs, but I beg to differ; it’s more of an anti-drug song, if you ask me. Just because you have the means to do all the wrong things in life, it does not mean you should.

Are you guys working on a new album in the meantime?
Yeah, we are in the works on putting a debut album together. Hopefully, it will be ready by the end of the year. It is going to be up tempo, like all the songs you can hear from our MySpace page. Like what The Adj here would say: it’s going to be the next Nevermind and Sergeant Pepper. Haha.

Here is Just Because.

The new blueprint of pop rock? You be the judge.

++
Also check out:
MTV World Stage : Interview with Stank
MTV World Stage “Live in Malaysia”
MTV World Stage : Backstage

MTV World Stage : Interview with Stank

Hoobastank has been around for about 15 years now. How do you think your music has changed over the years?

Dan: You know how you hang out with the same bunch of friends, and you cannot really tell what has changed because you see them every day. It is the same for us as a band; we see each other every day, and we cannot really tell the difference. I can say our music has progressed throughout the years, but to get a better opinion, you would need to ask the fans who watch us from the outside.

Throughout your career, was there ever a time when things got too hard and you want to just give up?

Chris: Not really. We enjoy what we are doing, so we are really excited about it to even think we should quit. The only time we thought if we should give up was before we were signed to a label. We were a band for about five years before that, and things got grim as the days passed by. We were beginning to contemplate if we should call it quits, and that was when our record company picked us up.

What do you think keeps a band together?

Chris: To me, being in a band is like being in a relationship. We have to want the same things out of life. Also, giving each other ample space to grow. And of course, most importantly, be humble.

Hoobastank’s music is all about self-motivations and lessons in life. What would you say is the most important life’s lesson you have learned?

Dan: The older I get, the more I learn that not everyone feels the same and go through the same emotions as you. Looking back now, I wish that I have done some things and faced a few problems differently.

Chris: As I grow older, I realised that less things matter. The more important things in life are things like family, health and music. We don’t need to fuss over smaller and more detailed things other than that.

In light of your recent album, For(n)ever, what would you do forever, and what would you never do?

Chris: I would forever do rock songs, and will never do country songs.

Dan: Actually, I wouldn’t mind doing country music. I mean, obviously not with these guys here, but someday, I do wish to write some country songs just for kicks.

The Reason has gotten tremendous approvals from fans worldwide. Why do you think it is so?

Dan: Our lead, Doug (Robb), writes a lot of his songs based on the relationships he has gone through, and The Reason is one of them. I guess, why it got so famous is because everyone, at one point or the other of their lives, can relate to it. Whether if it is with your boyfriend or girlfriend, your mom or dad, or your friends, it is one of those songs that generally click for everyone. Besides, it has a catchy beat!

OK, tell us something true: are you guys sick of The Reason yet?

Dan: Haha, no, I don’t think so. The Reason is one of the few more chill out songs for Hoobastank. It is probably the only time when we can stand still and perform instead of jumping around on stage like we would for the other songs. It’s also a nice feeling to listen to an entire arena of fans sing along to The Reason.

Chris: I mean, why wouldn’t we want it? It’s always good for a band to have such an influential song to our name.

Dan: It’s always a good thing to get airplay for the song on the radio. We didn’t expect it to get so big. It’s gotten bigger than the band, even.

Do you guys find it hard to live up to The Reason after that?

Chris: Well, we don’t really sit around and think of how we can keep producing songs as famous as The Reason. The song did wonderfully for Hoobastank, and it has brought us to renewed heights as a rock band. But it would be silly to mull on the fame of it; the only way is to look towards the future and do our best in producing subsequent albums.

Karaoke is a popular past time here in Asia. Which songs would you sing at a karaoke session?

Dan: I would definitely sing along to Sir Mix-a-lot’s Baby Got Back! Also, maybe a few hip hop and rap numbers like Dr Dre.

Do you guys have any guilty pleasure songs stored in your iPods?

Chris: I wouldn’t call them guilty pleasures because I think they are quite talented in their own leagues. I enjoy listening to Justin Timberlake, and I think Christina Aguilera has an awesome voice too.

What about songs out there that make you cringe?

Chris: Hmm, I would have to say songs that sound British but are sung by non-Brits. Yeah, that makes me cringe every time. It just shows that they’re trying too hard.

Dan: There are a few bands out there who dress up all flashy like those people back in the 60s and 70s. I mean, I’m alright with that; I have nothing against their fashion sense. But I guess, your music has to measure up as well. A lot of bands out there recently don’t seem to be real anymore in their music, and they seem to spend more time prepping their image with fancy clothes instead of focusing on getting their music right. I’m just not convinced when it comes to bands like that.

What made Hoobastank say yes to performing at MTV World Stage?

Dan: Well, it is a good opportunity to leave home and play with some other awesome bands in the line up! Why say no when you can say yes?

Compared to your last performance in Malaysia in 2004 and the MTV World Stage tonight, how differently would you guys say the performances would be to each other?

Dan: Hmm, the only difference would probably be me dropping 20 pounds since our last performance here, haha. What with all the jumping around onstage.

Chris: MTV World Stage is almost not like a real show, because we’ll only be doing about four songs out there. I don’t see it as raising the bar since the last performance, but we’ll still do as good as we do in full blown sets, and try to keep it as enjoyable as we can for the fans, of course.

No matter how long we have been on the road, and how tired we get till we just want to go back and laze around on the couch, when we get onstage it is a completely different thing. We just go on autopilot, and we’ll channel this live energy we have from within us and just rock it out.

Hoobastank consists of lead Doug Robb, guitarist Dan Estin, bassist Jesse Charland and drummer Chris Hesse.

Their latest album For(n)ever was released in January 2009 with notable songs like My Turn, The Letter and So Close, So Far.

It feels like another lifetime ago, when I would listen to albums after albums of rock music, shack up at a place of a friend I barely knew just so I can attend Hoobastank’s concert in 2004 (also finding ways to get rid of the cans of complimentary Coke upon entrance), jump till I sweat along to Crawling in the Dark and scream at the top of my lungs to Running Away and The Reason. Uh huh.

Fast forward five years later, and I got a call that I will be interviewing Dan Estrin, the guitarist, and Chris Hesse, the drummer. I spent the night downloading all their albums because I left the first two back in my hometown and the other two I did not bother to even check out, and spent the entire day before the interview blasting the music in the car and on the headphones.

And I noticed how cheesy Doug Robb’s lyrics were for the first time that day. But at least it was a nice blast to the past, when everything was just loud basses, screeching solos, cymbalic ratatats and all too obvious lyrics with no metaphors whatsoever.

Hoobastank has been around for about 15 years now. How do you think your music has changed over the years?
Dan: You know how you hang out with the same bunch of friends, and you cannot really tell what has changed because you see them every day. It is the same for us as a band; we see each other every day, and we cannot really tell the difference. I can say our music has progressed throughout the years, but to get a better opinion, you would need to ask the fans who watch us from the outside.

Throughout your career, was there ever a time when things got too hard and you want to just give up?
Chris: Not really. We enjoy what we are doing, so we are really excited about it to even think we should quit. The only time we thought if we should give up was before we were signed to a label. We were a band for about five years before that, and things got grim as the days passed by. We were beginning to contemplate if we should call it quits, and that was when our record company picked us up.

What do you think keeps a band together?
Chris: To me, being in a band is like being in a relationship. We have to want the same things out of life. Also, giving each other ample space to grow. And of course, most importantly, be humble.

Hoobastank’s music is all about self-motivations and lessons in life. What would you say is the most important life’s lesson you have learned?
Dan: The older I get, the more I learn that not everyone feels the same and go through the same emotions as you. Looking back now, I wish that I have done some things and faced a few problems differently.
Chris: As I grow older, I realised that less things matter. The more important things in life are things like family, health and music. We don’t need to fuss over smaller and more detailed things other than that.

In light of your recent album, For(n)ever, what would you do forever, and what would you never do?
Chris: I would forever do rock songs, and will never do country songs.
Dan: Actually, I wouldn’t mind doing country music. I mean, obviously not with these guys here, but someday, I do wish to write some country songs just for kicks.

The Reason has gotten tremendous approvals from fans worldwide. Why do you think it is so?
Dan: Doug writes a lot of his songs based on the relationships he has gone through, and The Reason is one of them. I guess, why it got so famous is because everyone, at one point or the other of their lives, can relate to it. Whether if it is with your boyfriend or girlfriend, your mom or dad, or your friends, it is one of those songs that generally click for everyone. Besides, it has a catchy beat!

OK, tell us something true: are you guys sick of The Reason yet?
Dan: Haha, no, I don’t think so. The Reason is one of the few more chill out songs for Hoobastank. It is probably the only time when we can stand still and perform instead of jumping around on stage like we would for the other songs. It’s also a nice feeling to listen to an entire arena of fans sing along to The Reason.
Chris: I mean, why wouldn’t we want it? It’s always good for a band to have such an influential song to our name.
Dan: It’s always a good thing to get airplay for the song on the radio. We didn’t expect it to get so big. It’s gotten bigger than the band, even.

Do you guys find it hard to live up to The Reason after that?
Chris: Well, we don’t really sit around and think of how we can keep producing songs as famous as The Reason. The song did wonderfully for Hoobastank, and it has brought us to renewed heights as a rock band. But it would be silly to mull on the fame of it; the only way is to look towards the future and do our best in producing subsequent albums.

Are there any songs out there that make you cringe?
Chris: Hmm, I would have to say songs that sound British but are sung by non-Brits. Yeah, that makes me cringe every time. It just shows that they’re trying too hard.
Dan: There are a few bands out there who dress up all flashy like those people back in the 60s and 70s. I mean, I’m alright with that; I have nothing against their fashion sense. But I guess, your music has to measure up as well. A lot of bands out there recently don’t seem to be real anymore in their music, and they seem to spend more time prepping their image with fancy clothes instead of focusing on getting their music right. I’m just not convinced when it comes to bands like that.

What made Hoobastank say yes to performing at MTV World Stage?
Dan: Well, it is a good opportunity to leave home and play with some other awesome bands in the line up! Why say no when you can say yes?

Compared to your last performance in Malaysia in 2004 and the MTV World Stage tonight, how differently would you guys say the performances would be to each other?
Dan: Hmm, the only difference would probably be me dropping 20 pounds since our last performance here, haha. What with all the jumping around onstage.
Chris: MTV World Stage is almost not like a real show, because we’ll only be doing about four songs out there. I don’t see it as raising the bar since the last performance, but we’ll still do as good as we do in full blown sets, and try to keep it as enjoyable as we can for the fans, of course.
No matter how long we have been on the road, and how tired we get till we just want to go back and laze around on the couch, when we get onstage it is a completely different thing. We just go on autopilot, and we’ll channel this live energy we have from within us and just rock it out.

Here is The Letter, featuring Vanessa Amorosi, taken off their latest album, For(n)ever.

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Also check out:
MTV World Stage “Live in Malaysia”
MTV World Stage : Backstage

MTV World Stage “Live in Malaysia”

Event: MTV World Stage “Live in Malaysia”
Date: August 15, 2009 (Saturday)
Venue: Sunway Lagoon Surf Beach

I was late for the concert because I was under the impression that there were smaller supporting acts opening for the seven headliners. I remembered hearing One Buck Short and Seven Collar T-shirts on the list. So, I took my own sweet time having dinner in Sunway Pyramid, and then accompanying a friend outside while waiting for another friend, who was this close to forgoing the concert.

So, I missed out on Estranged and Boys Like Girls performances. Meh. Apparently, it was raining before the concert began and it started up again during Boys Like Girls’ set, and coincidentally while they were playing Thunder. Heh. Maybe the rain gods like emo rock. Don’t know.

Reports also showed that they performed Love Drunk, The Great Escape and Hero/Heroine, while Estranged, Slave in Us, Ketika Ini and Yang Pernah.

I assumed the Gold ticket for media would be up front where the Moshpit was, but apparently, it was way at the back.

Further back behind from the Red Zone, and next to the Platinum Zone.

So, we decided to fuck it and hang out at the Moshpit instead, where most of the media members were. The security was being a little anal about letting us in because they said it was “already packed” and they could not admit any more people for “safety reasons”, when there was clearly ample space inside. But after some coaxing and ‘promising’ that we will behave, they let us through. Heh.

Next up was Raygun. I have heard some of their songs on their MySpace and I thought they were quite impressive for a new band. Constantly overshadowed by the more popular bands, their names could have easily fallen off the MTV World Stage banners and nobody would have cared. But they managed to salvage their reputation when they grabbed the attentions of many with hits like Just Because, Waiting in Line and See You Later. They had the whole 70s vibe going on, and the only thing missing was their flashy outfits that they raved about in their releases. But overall, they did well, and I am sure they have gotten themselves some new fans that night.

During MTV World Stage, in between sets there were ass-long intervals, which made the night-long all the more unappealing. VJs and sponsors would come out and throw freebies to the people at the Moshpit, and always those at the left and centre, never the right. Don’t know why. And later in the night, they even had this DJ Rouge come out to spin some mainstream tracks. Nobody cared though; most of the moshpitters took this opportunity to just collapse onto one another after their – uh – moshing.

Pixie Lott came up next and did only three songs: Turn it Up, Boys and Girls and Mama Do. I thought she was a little out of place for MTV World Stage. Not only because she was the only female and solo performer, her music is pop. So. Yeah. She did alright, just think nobody was really impressed.

With all the newbies and local bands out of the way, things were expected to get interesting from here onwards. Fans were entertaining themselves during intervals, tweeting one another and seeing their messages on the big screens. Heh. I saw one from someone, who apparently broke his/her H1N1 quarantine just to be at MTV World Stage. Fanatic or just stupidly irresponsible, you be the judge.

There was also a twitter/SMS constipation throughout the concert; nothing went through. So yeah.

As the night grew deeper and the crowd was more than hyped up, it was apparent that we had won the battle between man and nature as the rain decided to come again another day. With that, the 15,000 plus strong gave a hearty rejoice for Hoobastank’s third return to Malaysia.

I caught them back in 2004, and it was nice to see them perform again. They kept the rock spirit going with an opening of My Turn and The Letter, when Doug whipped out an acostic guitar for the latter.

Then, they went back in time to the song that kicked start their career, Crawling In the Dark, and the fans in the moshpit went insane!

Some kids were getting ahead of themselves and started to mindlessly crash against people, when the security came in, pulled them aside, whispered something in their ears before releasing them back to the bunch. And this happened for quite a few times too, heh. So, if you were wondering why things were a tad bit too quiet up front – now you know why.

Half of the time I felt bad for them because they seemed to be having real fun until the security became all mommy says on them. But another half of the time, I was kind of glad people did not randomly knock up against me.

Hoobastank also managed to humour the crowd with a short sing-a-long to the theme of Ghostbusters, which I thought was adorable, before closing with the song that everyone was anticipating forl. No surprises here – The Reason. And yes, you guessed it. Everyone was singing the loudest along to this song.

The rock baton was passed on next to the world’s favourite rejects, the All-American Rejects. The glitter-covered Tyson Ritter (Tyson Glitter – haha), along with his band mates kicked off their set list with Dirty Little Secret, Swing Swing and I Wanna.

They were probably the only band who did the most songs, which I thought was redundant, because while they dragged on with Real World, The Wind Blows and It Ends Tonight (that came with a wonderful piano perlude), I could literally feel the fans behind me in the Red Zone getting bored and falling silent. Heh.

It was also my second time catching them live. First time when I was in Brisbane and could barely see them in between taller people’s shoulders. It was none the better for this. And I thought Tyson was scary looking with his neon bright singlet and glitters and – big eyes.

But anyway, they reclaimed everyone’s love when they closed with Gives You Hell that came with another 15,000 karaoke session.

A lot of people left after that, and if you were one of them, you are going to feel gravely sorry right about now because what finalised MTV World Stage was better than All-American Rejects.

We moved from the right wing of the Moshpit to the centre for Kasabian‘s set, and I was kicking myself why I did not stand there for the entire concert.

It was mind blowing in the centre and I loved it.

No one was more grateful that night than the lead Tom Meighan, as he was alleged to have gotten the H1N1 flu only a few days before MTV World Stage, and had to be quarantined in Australia.

“I’m alive!” he screamed to the 15,000 as he launched Kasabian’s set with songs from their latest album West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum like Where Did All the Love Go, Vlad the Impaler and Fire, as well as the much loved Club Foot and more. They even got girls from the moshpit on their boyfriends’ shoulders and some of them attempting to crowd surf. And, they were probably the only band that managed to set off the manmade volcano at the back of the Sunway Lagoon Surf Beach.

No one was more grateful to be there that night than Tom Meighan, as he was alleged to have gotten the H1N1 flu only a few days before MTV World Stage, and had to be quarantined in Australia.

“I’m still alive! I’m still alive!” he screamed to the 15,000 as he launched Kasabian’s set with songs from their latest album West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum like Where Did All the Love Go, Vlad the Impaler and Fire, as well as other songs like Stop and the much loved Club Foot and more.

OK, maybe Kasabian got more songs than All-American Rejects but fuck, it was all necessary for them. Granted I only know Kasabian by name and Club Foot (but at least I know they exist way before you all did – har har), but I liked their set the most.

They even got girls from the Moshpit on their boyfriends’ shoulders and someone even attempted to crowd surf. And, they were probably the only band that managed to set off the manmade volcano at the back of the Sunway Lagoon Surf Beach. Heh.

Overall, the concert was a good attempt. I was not expecting much from them because seeing that they were short for time and would most certainly perform only radio overplayed hits. And also, a lot of people were not pleased in the Red Zone, what with the uncontrolled moshing and crowdedness, not to mention the fact that no freebies because you guys are just too far away. Glad I was not there. Meh.

But I thought it was good enough. It was a nice opportunity to just get away from life altogether and just be emerged in some deaf defying music. It was good. I desperately wished I could do this all the time, and that weekend could have gone on forever and ever and ever and ever. Alas.

** Yea, I know, bad pictures and videos, what can you do.

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Also check out:
MTV World Stage : Backstage