LEARN TO LIVE - LIVE TO LEARN

New website

2009-11-26T10:01:00.000-08:00

Given that my old website disappeared because Geocities had finally ended, I chose to pick up the Blog approach that so many artists are doing these days.

So, feel free to check out my new establishment:

http://sketchsurfer.wordpress.com/

=)

Music - Indie Rock (Continued...)

2009-10-26T22:07:00.000-07:00

"This band is the greatest form of music I have ever heard of in my life!". "They are incredible! They sound amazing!". "They're different, that's why I like them.". "I knew them when they were just starting out!".

What outcomes usually come from an audience when viewing art? Appreciation or displeasure. Essentially you have the makings of a critic. And is not music the audio form of art? One can easily argue that it is since music can awaken the senses within the human psyche very similar to that art does on a canvas or sculpture. But what makes good music?

It's been a very long time, and music has evolved thousands of times over and each time it has, it has essentially found a place in the human heart. Today music lives louder than it ever has in generations. We can carry it with us, we drive with it, it makes a statement about ourselves, changes our minds, calms us, angers us, drives us, moves us, and can even bring us to tears. There is no doubt that music is very important to us all.

A new trend of music called Indie, short for Independent, is a style of music that is taking over the next generation. I have listened to this new style of music reminded me of some older stuff and yet sometimes Indie Rock definitely needed to be placed in an Indie category for good reason. Some songs were good, and some weren't. Hit and miss, musicians do this all the time; not just this genre.

It seemed that most Indie artists really focus on lyrics and play the music to help carry their message. Indie Rock certainly doesn't sound like the Rock I listen too. It's choppy, the drum beat is simple or electronic. The singing is muffled on the mic or echoed to the point of difficulty in hearing the voice. It's not "orthodox" to normal Rock. Does this make it bad? Does this rock style not meet the standards?

Certainly not, there are millions who love Independant Rock. I have been told that it was newer than anything I had ever heard. This may be true, but after so long, I think we have done everything and merely are trying something again. Even Pixar is making stories that might seem new, but the principles and story are still the same. Nothing is wrong with telling a good story.

What else in this world sounds like it has an electric guitar, a simple beat, and with a slight ringing of vocals holding a very high note?
Try the 50's.
Try even the 80's .
Try the Beatles more specifically.
Or even the Beach Boys.

Is Indie Rock truly that different? Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. Is it good? For some it really plucks at the heart strings. While for others the repeditive vocals and starving garage band sound put them off faster than wind on a match.

Personally, I listen to everything and will even give Indie a chance.
But to call it the greatest form of Rock today?
I must take a side on this, and disagree.
I have heard this sound before and it sounds exactly like the Golden Oldies and some Classic Electric Rock from the 80's. Not to say Indie Rock stinks, I like some artists for their execution and how everything melted together. Like art. Its just that I think GOOD music can take many forms, and not just because you heard it first, like the lyrics, or appreciate one small segment of the track that stands out the most, DOESN'T make it good! It failed to even impress me. Perhaps this is because I grew up listening to Jazz. Or maybe it's because I left my radio on all day switching through channels like I were watching TV. To me, good music is just that, good music...throughout the entire track. Believe me, I will listen to a Stereo over watching TV any day. I love music, almost a little too much. If the music is good, then maybe i'll listen to the lyrics next. Like a good book, I want to be emeresed in it, not just read the golden letters on the pages of a blue-lined packet. As for the music itself, the kind of Indie I have heard vary so much in variation from electronic euro-rock to punkish simplified rock. This bores me. I listen for the musicians, the clever connection between the band. This will help with the lyrics, if all you are looking for are lyics then listen to rap. They got plenty to say with less of a squawky voice. Maybe a few balls too compared to the whining and tattle-tale lyrics. Clearly, I don't sound like a fan of Indie Rock. The truth is, I am not.

But the other side of the truth (about 1/8th) is that I am. Certain artists do perform to what I specifically listen for and twist my music buds to joy. Such artists can play very well and sing just as well on top of it, therefore I listen to them completely and never even dream of changing the track! No need to force myself to listen through it just to say I need too. They sound great!

Times are changing. And like a critic that I am with music since I was a child, I say, right now I will remain skeptical of this particular genre.
...
Tell you what, I'll give it a year.

Music

2009-09-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

Music is something I have always loved with a passion.
At times I find it almost like a separate language in itself. We can certainly relate from it and draw from it emotion, or thoughts; and at times, music can be influential too.

A fortune cookie I got at a Chinese restaurant read: "Calming music helps make the right decisions." Haha! I know take advice from a fortune cookie? Not likely. Would calm music seriously help you make the right decisions? I don't know, that's quite a moral question! If I were listening to calming music I know that I certainly might fall asleep...which to me is a pretty positive decision. Or I guess I would start to read or get some work done, then yes, now we are hitting home on the fortune cookie.

How about aggressive-music? Would you be able to make the right decision with that kind of music blasting in your ears? I have little idea of how that could be true. But I know for a fact that aggressive-music could definitely speed up the thought process, and therefore maybe a more concise decision would be made. So for example, if someone was jogging to hardcore music on their ipod on a pleasent Saturday morning, and suddenly notices a baby in a stoller roll into on-coming traffic...what would happen? Well! That aggressive-music would be the soundtrack of-the-day and the person --just might-- feel like Superman or Superwoman! Time to feel like a badass and save the day! :D ... erm, let's say the baby is saved. my point is that aggressive-music does play a part in decision making.

On a personal note, music to me is a language that speaks universally. It can evoke emotion or tell a story with or without words to anyone! I find that remarkable. I preferably like music without words since that sort of music captures a moment in time. A lot like poetry actually. But today's singers and performers are no true poets am I right? Today's music artists like to talk about their problems and hope that the beat carries to the bump of the booty. Which is fun. But I can only take it for so long. Actual music that is well constructed, in creative-harmony with other instruments, is like time travel. I dunno about the rest but I love to get lost in the music.

We can certainly set the mood with music can't we?

Music speaks, all we have to do is listen. =)

To read or not to read

2009-09-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

I find it quite difficult to get into reading. Perhaps it's because I am not interested. Or I am too lazy. Well, no, not really. Because I do enjoy a good book...it's the sitting down and reading it moment that I struggle with. I guess for me it's got to have the right situation. Like in an airport....

"Responsibility"

2009-09-12T19:25:00.001-07:00

Now THERE'S a boring word. A word that is frowned upon by the youthful generations. The rebellious ignore it, and the risk takers tease it. Responsibility is an act for the innocent, quiet, and for the goody-two shoes.

The responsibility to do something without being told or the responsibility to make the correct decision. In a way, any decision we make ought to be a responsible one, otherwise you are without reason (in the eye of the beholder of course). The obligation, weighing the options, and then answering the yes/no decision generally pass through the mind whether you do this fast or slow.

It's the fork in the road upon a decision we make that I have come to analyze as a problem or not. We could choose one decision that might complicate things or make life, as we know it, a little more interesting by never solving the original issue. Drama if you want to call it drama.

What I find fascinating is how people arrive at their conclusions that they must face every day. I'm not talking about putting extra money into the Cancer Donation jar. I'm talking about choices between what is right and what is wrong on a personal level. Responsibility for your actions.

Of course, everyone lives a different life and do what seems most appealing to them. Generally the person will choose the 'right' course of action! And by 'right' that means what they find appealing to them the most.

Recognize the fork in the road, place a decision, and then look to your Morals. Yes and that opens up a VERY large web of conclusions to a decision between 'right' and 'wrong'. But what I find isn't the choice between right and wrong that is the ultimate solution. The outcome of a less complicated situation certainly sounds more ideal! TO THE LOGICAL THINKER. In a way we all use logic at some point. It's almost automated into our minds that the right course of action ought to be easier, smoother sailing, smarter. "It just makes sense". Complications are always inconvenient and no one likes drama. So why stick to something that you know will complicate things? Especially if you know those complications won't be a positive one.

180!
Let's say despite all of it, you want to stay in a complicated situation. Because there's a goal involved. Something you want so badly has to come through, so that YOU can be made happy as the end result...."Everybody's happy!". Not really. In order for your goal to be achieved in this complication, bridges will have embers on them if not burned. Complications will only be achieved along the way. Then finally, once you have what you were striving to have for so long - you feel satisfied and face the fact if it was worth it.
Nothing ought to be asked if it was worth it when it clearly is. It is our human nature, we are selfish by nature.

So what is responsibility? It's up to you to make the decision of what is right and what is wrong.

All the advice I can say is, just be sure you don't light your own fire under your ass. ;-)

Go Go GO!

2009-08-09T00:46:00.000-07:00

I swear some things are too coincidental to ignore. It's as if things are set in motion and are all related. It's like a Traffic Controller at an Airport, flashing his lights and guiding a large jet onto the open freeway. Too many things are connecting in a good way depending on how you look at it. For me, anything that makes you move in a direction without leaving carnage behind you is a good one.

Losing a job, another arises with new possibilities. Leaving Chico has this expression for me that just speaks: "Play time is over". In a way, I shall take that too heart and pick up my bags and take the drive. Makes perfect sense. I will never be truly happy unless I am doing what I love to do. That is to animate! My dream has never died and I will make it!

A song hit home to me on the Radio by Nickelback; an unexpected artist to catch my attention really. But it was the lyrics-- it was too perfect. A driving rhythm, a reflective sound, and passionate vocals.

I love this song (and i usually dont post such...):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gDjcfCp5nU <---Youtube Link

My best friend gave me the best advice
He said each day's a gift and not a given right
Leave no stone unturned, leave your fears behind
And try to take the path less traveled by
That first step you take is the longest stride

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had, if today was your last day?
What if, what if, if today was your last day?

Against the grain should be a way of life
What's worth the price is always worth the fight
Every second counts 'cause there's no second try
So live like you're never living twice
Don't take the free ride in your own life

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had?

And would you call those friends you never see?
Reminisce old memories?
Would you forgive your enemies?
And would you find that one you're dreaming of?
Swear up and down to God above
That you'd finally fall in love if today was your last day?

If today was your last day
Would you make your mark by mending a broken heart?
You know it's never too late to shoot for the stars
Regardless of who you are

So do whatever it takes
'Cause you can't rewind a moment in this life
Let nothing stand in your way
'Cause the hands of time are never on your side

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had?

And would you call those friends you never see?
Reminisce old memories?
Would you forgive your enemies?
And would you find that one you're dreaming of
Swear up and down to God above
That you'd finally fall in love if today was your last day?

Little Things in Life

2009-07-28T18:38:00.000-07:00

I finally got to design my first T-shirt that might be considered for the shelves on JC Pennys, Kohls, or Sears. It's a taste of what's to come which is pretty sweet if I may say so myself. However two more people just got laid off and for reasons I am not aware of. It seems there's never a true break in the work area, always gotta keep on your toes!

Still, I met a young man flying a remote controlled helicopter in the middle of the apartment complex. I had always wanted to see if they worked outside and apparently they did without losing control. We struck up a conversation which was immediately impeded by his lack of english-- but this made my day. He was a Brazilian native! Visiting his brother in Chico he saw my Capoeira shirt and we shared thoughts and some Portuguese. Even though it was a sparse conversation, the fascination of meeting a Brazilian in the middle of Chico is interesting.
That pretty much was a good highlight of my day, and apparently a friend who I have not seen since graduation is in town. Ciao!

Hard Work

2009-07-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

Life can have its up and downs like the economy. In fact, the economy is almost one giant image of the human life. In the worst of times panic happens and the urge to fix the problem is sought after for instant gratification. If you are patient enough to wait it out though, you might end up leaving better off than you started. Still, the urgency to correct it is too great for some.

So--! Interesting train of thought at work that is simple and easily understood, yet i'm sure not many have thought it all the way through until they finish reading this. And most likely come up with their own alternate endings.

My work habits tend to reflect on how I deal with some problems I have noticed. I get the job done but not at a level that I am expected at. And that level is 110%. Once I understand this however, then the bar is raised and what I find the normal level of getting the job done - is now 110% and I give it 110%. Which is now the new 100% . But I won't give any more than that, unless the bar is raised again. I am a work horse by nature with less sparkle and more spine. Knowing that I am getting the job done is something I take pride in and to know that I've done an exceptional job only furthers my actions--!

Praise, when deserved, seems to drive me to do even better. Some people like the Drill Sergeant role and train their employees in that fashion. For some it works, for some others like me, it doesn't do much. Not that the drilling gets to me, it's the fact that if I am not pleasing the boss and can't find the solution to the problem-- then what am I doing wrong? If I am praised for something, it gives me a Direction. Not pride nor an ego boost, but Direction. I have found a way to go and I am stickin' with it!

Usually if I am being hounded and not told what to do there is a very good chance that my Direction will turn right at the one who is hounding me. And that won't work either, because now my new goal is to set this "boss" straight.

If anything praise from people, family, or friends come and go like clockwork. You hold onto those praises and you will notice that you're "good work" by second-nature, might be seen as Thoughtful. Meaning that you Listened. If you don't care that you are being seen as Thoughtful...well... too bad because it seems to be the next compliment up the ladder :).
But yeah...

Hm, might as well go clean up the place; kind of getting a little messy by the sink again.

Drag Strip Riot

2009-07-22T20:23:00.000-07:00

That previous post was actually written a week ago since the accident. It's been over a few days.
And I hadn't set up this Blogger appropriately...

(I'm also starving right now, must hurry)

The thought of not having a car at all bothers me greatly. Think about it, not being able to go places, visit friends or drive around town?

"Well, who wants to drive around and waste gas? Call up a friend to pick you up! Or ride your bike!"

I probably would if that were the case. However I didnt realize how much that car spelled out 'Freedom' to me. I literally could go anywhere I wanted as long as it was running and full of gas. That Camry has seen every element you can think of and endured a thrashing on Hwy 5. I've even slept in the backseats down and my legs in the trunk space during a wakeboarding trip.

Freedom is a state of mind, much like paradise. I've heard many different perspectives on Freedom and some are simple while others are complex and almost unfulfilled. I am not certain why, but driving is a lot of fun! I love moving forward- being in control and driving into new terrains. Exploring is more than just a desire for me, it's more like a necessity. One could say that I would need a truck or something to satisfy my travels. And they are correct. Although that Camry has met MANY already. Like a man in days of trains and horses. This car is mine and I'll drive it where ever I please.

On the weekends of course ;)

Tank

2009-07-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

I never get into accidents, or not since I got my license in High school.

I drove a 1986 Honda Civic 5-speed stick shift that had more pep on curves than muscle on a straightaway. Still, that car had no power steering, auto windows, a mirror on the left side, and not to mention a tough shifter. Driving this car was like going to the gym at slow speeds! This thing was a "punk" if it were animate.
Although, I love it to death, because it taught me how to really handle a car. Wouldn't have it any other way.

Fast forward to 2009.
Now I drive my dad's old Camry 1999 - i've been driving that car since the beginning of college without a scratch. Only two incidents where people have backed into my car have I ever needed a repair to the car. I'm not a cocky guy when it comes to actually doing something well. I don't need to share that I'm that good, because in truth, you'll end up eating your words sometime soon.

I found it amusing that my Dad asked me one day, "Aren't you thinking of saving up for a new car soon Andy? That car is 10 years old now".
"Nah, it's a Toyota, that thing will last me for at least another 5 years".

As I am driving back to Chico I start to notice someone in my blind spot and peak to my left. It's a green suburban lumbering next to my car at 75 mph as we're on Hwy 5. A small blue car hugs my bumper as if he wanted a 'bump-draft'. Ahead of me is a U-Haul Truck moving around a tire shred. Paint the picture and frame it!

A black car darts from behind the blue car and then behind the green SUV like he was Dale Earnheart himself! That spooked the green SUV (or something!) as the vehicle thumps over the yellow divider. I can't stop - I'll hit the blue car. I can't honk in time if I stay put - he's coming over like he forgot I was there. I can't speed up - there's a U-Haul truck closing in since he's a lot slower.

Gotta take the outside and slow down to a stop and let these idiots pass me.
I reach for the horn with my palm as I drive onto the gravel. (Gravel is a very loud sound by the way at 75mph.) The blue car starts to back off, but not fast enough for me to avoid the green SUV in my lane. I'm off the road and hit a patch of dry grass. The grass took my wheels, and down a 45 degree embankment I went! All I remember saying each once was "Damn it" and "omg!"
Slamming into a barb-wire fend and up the other side, I flew onto the side road. I lost control of the car and began fish tailing badly - ready for a spin out for sure. I fought the turns and caught the wheel again, sliding down the embankment once more and crushing another fence post as my car gripped the gravel once more. I pulled the E-brake and held the wheel straight-- and stopped the car before touching the highway pavement. I stepped out of my car, walked leisurely to my broken mirror and called AAA.

Tangent: I'm not a country nut but one thing I respect about Country music is that they are usually pretty real in their lyrics. Tracy Lawrence "Find Out Who Your Friends Are" - nailed it as I called some friends for advice and assistance in case my car cut out on my way back to Chico. Go ahead and listen to that one or look up the lyrics. I don't care if it's cheesy, that thought process behind it is as legit as a Linkin Park song. Just not as emo. =)

Anyway, I was okay, the bags never deployed and I got the car back today with a fixed mirror and lights. The car's chassis however...looks like 10 bears attacked it and left their nail marks all over the hood.

I think about it now, I will say it--- I am VERY impressed with the handling and beating that this sedan took on the highway! I joke about luck, but it just wasn't my time for injury either. This car did exactly what I wanted to get out of a bad-situation much like a controlled roll on the floor if you find yourself falling or being thrown in jiu jitsu. Not the most delicate way to relate things no, haha!

Nevertheless, driving that car back to my apartment was more than satisfying to see and feel it's smooth ride once more. I am damn proud of this car. It took quite a trial. It's even got the scars to prove it.

Note: I have to pay for all of its damages and it still needs a 135k check up not to mention i need to fill it up with more gas soon. Glad to have it back! Should name the darn thing.