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vApathyv's blog
on 06.30.2010
25 MOAR Songs That Would Be Great For Rock Band 3
Okay, so here I am again, with another surely polarizing and hate inducing post about Rock Band. My last blog detailed 15 keyboard heavy songs that would be a good fit in the game, but in this one I'm just putting 25 songs that would highlight all of the new features put in the game, as well as a couple songs that just would be fun to play. Read on, and leave all hate in the comments.
(Seriously though, thanks for being generally good sports about this you guys. I know music can be a VERY opinionated subject, and I'm glad to see everyone that's commented on my blogs so far have been a very understanding bunch. Stay classy folks.)
1) Heart- Magic Man
It's an absolute crime that we have not seen any Heart in Rock Band yet. And while they have wound up in Guitar Hero twice, it's always puzzled me- why has such a wonderful band not made it to the superior product yet? Especially with this song, a song that's pretty much a staple of most classic rock playlists. It's got it all- memorable riffs, a singalong chorus that nobody can ignore, and a guitar solo that perfectly balances that edge between fun and difficult. And did I mention it features one of the best harmonizing vocal lines in rock and roll history?
2) Lynyrd Skynyrd- I Know A Little
I'm not gonna lie...I really don't like Lynyrd Skynyrd. I understand their importance, but they're just not my thing. Simple Man was overrated, Sweet Home Alabama was overplayed, and Freebird was overrated AND overplayed. But this song however? This song is the exception. A southern-rock powerhouse track, this is sure to kick the ass of even the most hardened guitarists, not to mention that keyboard. Dear lord, that keyboard. This track would easily be the 'boss song' of the game for the new peripheral, not to mention just all out fun to play on any instrument.
3) Fleetwood Mac- The Chain
Another classic song, this song has always struck an emotional chord with me. The haunting harmonies, the heavy lyrics, and that memorable "If you don't love me now, then you'll never love me again" chorus. But the best part of the song? The chill-enducing breakdown. Once that bass kicks in through the silence, the guitar starts to shred, and that inimitable "The Chain will keep us together" chant echoes through the speakers, you're practically overcome by the emotions the song illicits. Put this song in the game, PLEASE.
4) New Order- True Faith
I know, my other RB3 list was very new wave heavy. However, I neglected to mention one of the greatest new wave groups of all time, and that's a wrong I had to right. And I know, they have another, far more popular song that would probably prove better for the game, but the fact of the matter is this song just doesn't get enough love and, thanks to a rather well-done cover by Anberlin, this song has gained relevance lately, making now the best time to put it in the game.
5) Rush- Caravan
Hey! Did you guys know Rush has a new song out? Did you know it's from an album that comes out in 2011? Does any of this sound eerily familiar to the whole Chinese Democracy situation from Rock Band 2? Now, I'll admit. This song doesn't have any fancy keyboard, or harmonies, but it does have one thing the rest of the songs on this list doesn't: it's fucking Rush. And, even in this day and age, the golden boys of Canada still have the magic. Though they may have acquired a bit of a heavier edge over the years, they still know how to craft some amazing music. Wouldn't it be awesome if all that amazing music from the album made it to Rock Band 3?
6) David Bowie- Changes
CH-CH-CHAAAANGEES!! As anyone that knows me well enough would tell you, I am a massive David Bowie fan, to the point where I would say he's the greatest musician ever. And while this isn't exactly my favorite song by him, this would be a perfect fit for the game, thanks mainly to that dominating piano line. Not to mention, it'd be funny to watch vocalists trip up at the off-kilter vocal delivery present during the chorus.
7) Beastie Boys- Intergalactic
I know what you're thinking...it has no guitar. The bass is barely there. It has one very boring organesque piano sample and a drum beat. This wouldn't work at all. Well you know what I have to say to that? Fuck. And. That. Thanks to the advent of harmonies, this could be the PERFECT get-drunk-and-get-down track for three vocalists. Imagine three guys, callin' back, dropping rhymes, trying to imitate the poses from the video. For that alone, I think this song deserves to be in the game.
8) Beck- Where It's At
Ah, Beck. I would be lying if I didn't think of this song due only because of the backing piano sample, but that's just one of the many good things about this song. A fun to play drum beat (With a solo, no less), Beck's always-obscure-but-never-boring lyrics, and even some basic harmonies. Not to mention it's just a fun song to listen to. And hey, there's a guarantee that this will be more fun on guitar then the other Beck track we got.
9) Sonic Youth- Bull In The Heather
Okay, I admit. This song doesn't have an amazing guitar riff. No funky, plucky bass line. No harmonies. No piano. It's got a decent drum beat, but a very repetitive one nonetheless. And the vocals are good, but they're not something amazing in this song. So why this song? Because, when you combine it all together, it just makes for one hell of a song that greatly exceeds the sum of it's parts. Add a digital Kathleen Hanna dancing on the stage during the song Harmonix, and you've got magic on your hands.
10) Alkaline Trio- Time To Waste
I'm pretty sure everybody is going to hate this song, I'm not going to lie. I hardly know any people that know who this band even is, let alone people that actually like them. But me personally, as well as my girlfriend, we both love this band...so naturally, we've been chomping at the bit for a chance to play one of their songs in the game. The advent of the keyboard controller and harmonizing vocals suddenly makes this more possible then ever before, thanks to this song. Sure, it's from the time when they stopped being an amazing pop-punk band and started being a really good alternative band with some darker punk leanings, but it's still a great song nonetheless, and a song I'd love to see in the game.
11) Dethklok- Hatredcopter
Guitar Hero got a Dethklok song, so why can't we? And while Bloodlines is an amazing choice, I don't want to see the same song in both games, hence why I choose this one. It's hard as hell and will certainly fill the spot of "That WTF-hard metal song that everyone wants to play but nobody can play well", and is one of the few songs you'll find from the 'band' that features harmonies- in this occasion, entire lines sang by drummer/former Snakes N' Barrels vocalist Pickles. A perfect choice for the band if ever I saw one.
12) Pendulum- Propane Nightmares
Pendulum is, admittedly, an odd choice for a game that isn't DJ Hero. However, as one of the most prominent electronic acts around, as well as one of the few to still stick to instruments, they're just dying to be presented in a video game. And this song is a perfect display of what makes them great- amped up drum beats, slamming guitar and bass rhythms, and an awesome display of vocal/keyboard double duties that all combine to make a simply great song, electronic or otherwise.
13) Avenged Sevenfold- Little Piece Of Heaven
I know, I know, I know- "Avenged Sevenfold? What the fuck man, you suck." Well, whatever. This song is about as un-Avenged Sevenfold as it gets, taking on a boldly theatrical tone, complete with a choir of singers, piano, trumpets, violins, the whole nine yards. It's a darkly humorous song lyrically, telling a tale that I honestly never even noticed until the music video. Gameplay wise though, it would fit in perfectly- the background harmonies, the piano, the shifts to the drummer singing, everything. This has the potential to be one of the most 7-man band songs in the game.
14) Blood Brothers- Peacock Skeleton With Crooked Feathers
Alright, another love 'em/hate 'em band that I'm sure nobody other then me enjoys. An incredibly frantic group, this shows the Blood Brothers arguably at their best, and is a perfect entry course into just what their music entails- a fast, catchy Casio beat, dueling vocals, rapid, frantic changes in the rhythm, and an all around frenzy of madness that few other bands can pull off. It'd probably fall in to the "Visions" category of "This shit isn't music" to most people, but I personally think it'd be an excellent addition to the game for the people willing to give it a shot.
15) Against Me!- Miami
First off- ignore the video, just listen to the song. It's a fan video. Moving right along, this is another band like Alkaline Trio, where I don't know many people that know who these guys are, but they're one of my favorite bands ever, so much so that I even have a tattoo based on their first album on my back. Now, avid Rock Band players will notice that two of their songs are in the game already, but those two songs were after they took a drastic change in their sound, moving from ultra-frenzied folk-punk anthems to more of a alt-punk sound with intense lyrical messages. This song comes from the more of a middle ground between the two, when they were starting to slow down a bit but still had a bit of their signature sound left over.
16) Paper Tongues- Trinity
I just recently started listening to these guys, and I gotta say I'm a real big fan so far. Discovered out of North Carolina by the world famous Randy "Yo Dawg" Jackson, these boys attempt to fuse their different musical backgrounds of hip-hop, soul, funk, and alternative into it's own magnificent beast, with beautiful results. And while they have another song (Ride To California) that would arguably be more fun to play, I picked this song mainly because of the heartfelt vocal delivery and the standout keyboard line during the chorus.
17) Klaxons- Gravity's Rainbow
Man...am I the only one that liked these guys? Another not-so-popular band, these New Ravers from the other side of the water bring their own brand of frantic chaos to the scene themselves, combining many elements to form their own unique sound before suddenly disappearing for three years. One of their more popular tracks (And their first single), it also has all the staples of a good showcase for the new features. And, ya know, I'd actually like to see some other people figure out who these guys are.
18) The XX- Crystalised
This band here? I think I just discovered them like...four, five days ago. And while it's a very slow, typically mopey indie track, it's also a great beginner's entrance into the harmonies, and just a hauntingly enchanting song to listen to. Easy doesn't always equate to boring, so long as the song in question is good enough. Not to mention this could easily be the voxtar song of choice for the game.
19) Nine Inch Nails- Every Day Is Exactly The Same
Yes, another easy, kind of boring song. But this is another track that could be used to warm people into the new keyboard peripheral rather well, not to mention the appeal of Nine Inch Nails is kind of hard to top. And while it's not the best choice from them for another game, this has always been one of my favorites by them for the bleak, hopeless sound the song portrays, and I'm all for that sort of thing in a video game.
20) Outkast- Bombs Over Baghdad
I will make this clear- if you don't like the idea of this song being in a video game, then I'm afraid we can't be friends anymore. This song is absolutely perfect for a game like Rock Band. It's got the frenetic drums, it's got the guitar (Not to mention the guitar SOLO), and hell, it even has a bit of keyboard in it. But what really makes this so perfect, is being able to get two guys up there and doing their own Big Boi and Andre 3000. Harmonix said that they were open to the idea of hip-hop making it to Rock Band...well, put this song in and prove it.
21) MGMT- Flash Delirium
Taken from my favorite new album to come out this year, this song is another excellent display of harmonies, brought about by a band that many have hoped would appear in a rhythm game for quite some time. Luckily, their new album features a more stripped down, 60's-70's esque psychedelic sound, making it all the more likely that it could actually happen. Not to mention, this songs eventual devolution into madness would be a pretty fun thing to play.
22) Justice- D.A.N.C.E
What's that? More dance music? Hell yeah more dance music. The standout track by the two frenchman that aren't Daft Punk, this song has all the right qualities to be made into a playable Rock Band track. How could you not have a smile on your face by singing such charming lyrics? Not to mention the fact that, in the chase for branching out and getting diverse artists and genres in-game, the realm of dance music is practically untouched...so what would it take to be able to do the D.A.N.C.E in Rock Band?
23) Brick- Dazz
Speaking of genres, if there's one thing Rock Band needs more of, it's the funk. We're not content to one single 3-pack...we need more. And what better song then Dazz? It brings the funk in spades, and brings it with keyboards and harmonies to boot. Play this song at a party and everyone's almost guaranteed to dance.
24) The Gap Band- You Dropped A Bomb On Me
Another awesome funk track, and probably my personal favorite of all time. I never was able to explain why I love this song so much, but whatever it is I just can't stop listening to it again and again and again. Not much to say about this, it's simply a great song.
25) The Roots- The Seed (2.0)
And ending this list is another hip-hop songs by one of the best acts in the genre. I know that not many people have a fond respect for hip-hop (A certain comment section from a Def Jam Rapstar post comes to mind), but this is one of those bands that I can't really imagine anybody hating. It's got a simple guitar line yes, but this could easily be one of the most fun and versatile vocal tracks in the game, especially if they did it as harmonies. Plus, who doesn't wanna see a man with a giant afro playing drums?
Aaaaand there you have it, 25 more picks from my personal collection of bad music tastes, for you guys to pick apart. I'm probably going to hold off from doing another one of these, seeing as how I've pretty much suggested enough songs to fill up the rest of the track list at this point...so, sound off in the comments, tell me how wrong I am, and I hope to see you all for Stereotoid!
(Shameless Plug)
on 06.07.2010
Songs That The New Keytar Peripheral is PERFECT For In RB3
A quick primer- this is the first non-Stereotoid related article I've written since we started so this will probably come off as vaguely amateurish. Moving right along...
So, as anyone who's played the Green Day Rock Band demo (Or simply saw the article
Nick Chester
posted), Rock Band 3 is set to feature some form of keyboard/keytar peripheral. At first I didn't think much of it, aside from the obligatory "sweet, more gameplay for me". Though, just like anything else Harmonix has ever done in a video game, during one long drive with the radio cranked high, my mind started turning and I saw the possibilities. So, in an article that will surely only excite myself and Xzyliac, let's get to listin'.
Journey- Seperate Ways (Worlds Apart)
Okay, so I'd be lying if I said I wasn't typing up this entire thing just because of this song. In fact, it was this song coming on the radio that sparked this whole idea. But still, listen to it. Listen to that keyboard. That's perhaps one of the few times where anybody could call a keyboard part "badass". And of course, in true Journey fashion, once the rest of the song kicks in it just gets better. It has all the makings of a great Rock Band song (Seriously, why do we only have two Journey songs in the game anyways?), except with an awesome keyboard part that's perfect for being included as an example of how well the new peripheral can work out in the game.
...However, the music video is just ridiculously goofy. Thank the 80's for that, and thank Harmonix for using in-game avatars as opposed to music videos.
Guns N' Roses- November Rain
Another fairly obvious choice, yes, but usually when debuting a new peripheral for a music game, you need a couple songs in the game that shine specifically because of that peripheral (Like, say, what Won't Get Fooled Again did for the drums in RB1). And while the first suggestion is perfectly rounded out on all instruments, for November Rain the majority of the song takes a backseat to the piano parts, up until the guitar solos that is. This would be a perfect song that spotlights the keywhateverweget and would even be a nice song to introduce a keysomethingoranother solo with. Plus, most people would agree that some more classic GnR would be a great thing to have, and even if I'm not the biggest fan in the world I can't deny that.
Death Cab For Cutie- I Will Possess Your Heart
Yeah yeah, go ahead, instantly invalidate all of this for including an uber-popular indie hit on it. But realize one thing- if Rock Band didn't put a bunch of radio hits in their games, they probably wouldn't sell nearly as many copies and, therefore, wouldn't be able to eventually shower you in (Insert not-that-famous band you love here)'s best songs as DLC later. Plus, as a general rule I try to keep it semi well-known with my RB lists. Aaaaaanyways, another staple of throwing in a new instrument is that you have to have that general 'easy' song that allows you to come to grips with the new mechanics and, this song would be perfect for such. I only suggest that they use the radio edit as opposed to the eight minute long album version, or else everybody will be bored to death before the singing even occurs. Plus, it'd also fulfill the aforementioned 'popular indie song' criteria that RB seems to have in their starting tiers usually (Like Float On in RB2).
Muse- Apocalypse Please
A band that's sorely requested time and time again in the world of Rock Band, Muse would also be a perfect band to show off the new peripheral. There's quite a few songs from them that would make good additions to the game with or without piano parts, but ultimately I went for this song simply for how much piano is present in the song. Combine it with typically bombastic lyrics from Muse about the end of the world, and you also have a perfect song to go about your keytar/vox dreams.
Seriously though...keyboard or otherwise, we better get more Muse in the game.
The Dead Weather- The Difference Between Us
And now let's get a little weird. Suggested by the always-brilliant Xzyliac, this would be a perfect track to showcase some of the more quirkier sounds you can get out of a keyboard, not to mention a simply awesome track from in my opinion the best of Jack White's fifty bajillion different bands. Add in the fact that we've already seen three tracks from The Dead Weather in the game and you could actually see this kind of happening.
Queen- Bohemian Rhapsody
Like you didn't see this coming. Everybody and their mother wants this song in the game. And hell- if Guitar Hero can throw it into their game, why can't Rock Band? Unless Queen Rock Band becomes a reality and they save this for that, I honestly would be pretty surprised if this doesn't show up in the game eventually. One of the greatest songs in the history of ever. EVERYBODY knows the words to it. I'm sure you've re-enacted the car scene from Wayne's World millions of times, you understand why this needs to be in.
Styx- Come Sail Away
Come on. COME ON.
Depeche Mode- World In My Eyes
Okay, so this one may be a little bit of a stretch but...I'm sorry, I just really really like Depeche Mode. This would be another one of those easy ones, and might not even be too popular to the majority of the people buying the game but few can deny the impact Depeche Mode had on the world, and I think it's high time they wind up in something other then Lips. Not to mention, even if the keyboarding parts might not be that hard, you still have a really fun drum line and some great vocals to sing.
Eurythmics- Here Comes The Rain Again
Another far cry to be sure, but it's still another great example of how the keyboard reigned supreme in the 80's, and another song that features a great drum track that's sure to challenge even the hardiest of fake-plastic-skin beaters. Though you can't mention this song without talking about the wonderful vocalwork of Annie Lennox. Is it sad that I'd kill to see this song in the game? No? Good.
Berlin- Metro
More 80's madness? You better fucking believe it. Berlin's another one of those amazing examples of keyboard-driven awesomeness, and the added benefit of having a hot lead singer like Terri Nunn probably had something to do with their success. Sure, most know them for the cheesy ballad Take My Breath Away from Top Gun, but this song always takes the cake for me. I promise I'll cool it with the 80's now.
Devo- What We Do
ARE THEY NOT 80'S!? NO, they are new Devo. As any fan of the band would know, they have a new album coming out this month, so why not throw their newest tracks into Rock Band? As Xzyliac said so elegantly to me on Twitter about 25 minutes ago, "New Devo > Old Devo", so instead of going the easy route and saying Whip It, I'd rather this amusing little track that shows just how much a bunch of old guys can rock. Sure, it might be a bit easy on the guitar side, but just try to play this song without a grin on your face.
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons- Beggin' (Pilooski Re-Edit)
Let's get old school. REAL old school. Originally from 1967, this song would be perfect not only for some piano action, but an excellent display of harmonies from an era that perfected the art, from one of the standout groups of the time. This particular version is a slight remastering from 2007 (Some of you may have heard it in a certain shoe commercial) that would be perfect for Rock Band and an excellent way to alleviate the almost total lack of music from the 60's present in the game.
The Animals- House Of The Rising Sun
This is quite possibly one of the greatest songs to ever be written, why isn't this in a game yet?
And finally, we have...
Patch keyboard compatibility into existing Rock Band songs
Alright, so, let's be honest- this will probably NEVER happen. Not even counting the Rock Band Network, Harmonix has well over 1000 songs in their catalog already. For them to go back and put keyboard support into every one of those songs that has a keyboard part would be simply insane. But if it would happen it'd be simply incredible and prove once again that Harmonix are the undisputed masters of their craft. Of course it may not be so far-fetched after all: if I recall rumors from long ago, there were rumblings of patching harmonies into existing Rock Band songs and, combined with the fact that RB3 has been in development for at least two years now, anything could happen.
One thing's for sure though- either way, I can't wait 'til this Fall.
on 04.04.2010
I Got A Gamer-Related Tattoo Today. (Shortblog)
Tattoos. Lots of people get 'em. Sometimes, they wind up awesome, like the millions of rockstars you see out there. Other times, they're a damn disaster, like that one chick a while back that got drunk and had 42 stars tattoo'd on her face, or the guy that fucked up the Shoryuken command and has to live with that forever.
Well, I'd like to think that mine came out well. This was my first ever tattoo so I figured I'd start out small and get the infamous Red Ring Of Death, on my forearm. I figured that, not only would it signify my status as a gamer, it would also be a vaguely unique and pretty cool way of saying that, as a human, I myself am pretty flawed and defective (Not in an emo way...assholes). So, in the interest of having the entire internet ridicule me for my idiocy, I figured I'd tell the world and show them what I have to live with now. Forgive the crappy quality, as the only working camera I own is my phone, but hopefully you can make it out.
And before you ask, yes. That's a Monopoly: Transformers Edition sitting next to a Blanka Edition Street Fighter IV Fightpad in the background. Nerd status is pretty much in full effect for me.
So yeah, viola and such! I can definitely say that it's an addicting experience, and I'll definitely be getting more. I might even attempt to give R3y Gutierrez a run for his money when it comes to nerdy tattoos. I already have my next ones planned- one of the Worms from the Worms series, the Rock Band instrument logos, the "Grenade with a smiley face pin" from Battlefield: Bad Company, and a few more...but for now, this one shall do. Anyone else got any gamer tattoos they want to share? Aside from you amazingly sexy people with the Mr. Destructoid tattoos. Oh how I envy you.
on 03.16.2010
Obligatory Birthday Well-wishings!
Okay, let me get one thing straight- I'm terrible at this. I never wish anyone other then my girlfriend happy birthday. Mainly because it just feels so awkward for me. So, that being said, I'ma give this a shot.
First off, HAPPY FRIGGIN BIRTHDAY, YOU SEXY ROBOT PIMPDEVIL YOU. I may not have been around that long compared to most, and I may not be as recognizable as some of the 'bigger names' in the community, but dammit I am a part of this community and I'm proud to say that. From the Kraids, Xzyliacs, Megastrykes, Tubatics, and other classy and intelligent individuals I've been lucky to find myself getting to know (Well...if by getting to know you mean reading their c-blogs and wishing I could be as cool as them while simultaneously building a shrine to them in my totally-doesn't-exist closet), to the actual editors and people that keep the site running, I can safely say this is the best online community I've ever met. So, for that, I'd like to extend the birthday well-wishings to you guys too, since the site wouldn't be the same without you guys. Keep being awesome.
And of course, there's the editors. Oh dear God, the editors. I don't even know where to start with you guys...
Thank you Nick Chester, for showing me that there may be one other person in the world out there that can rival my love of rhythm games. You stay classy there.
Thank you Hamza, for your love of the sauce and even bigger love of sharks. It's not often that I can say I (superficially at least) know a binge-drinking shark lover. Also, we do appreciate the daily recaps. Just thought I'd throw that out there.
Thank you Anthony Burch, for having a love for the little guy. Sure, I may not be as big on the indie titles as you, but there's no denying that you have a taste and desire for games that are more than just games, and I respect that.
Thank you Dale North, for your unrequited love of the RPG. I probably would have never jumped aboard the Atlus train if not for you. Also, you've got awesome music taste.
Thank you Geraldo Beedog, for JOURNALISM.
Thank you Jim Sterling, for simply being Jim Sterling. Yeah, a lot of people seem to hate you, but I'm not one of 'em. It takes a lot of guts (That's not a fat joke by the way) to stand up in the face of hatred and stand firmly in the belief of your own opinion, and hopefully ya never stop doing that.
Thank you Chad Concelmo, for A) Being awesome, B) Turning me on to the joys of unashamedly punching an old lady in the face (Well, I didn't really do that, but still), and C) Giving me a bigger respect for the classics. I don't think I would have ever turned around and beat half the classic games I have if not for you and the other Retroforce guys.
Thank you Brad Nicholson, for being the scariest gamer I've ever seen. I used to think the Regginator was huge...then I saw that your arms were roughly 2.8x bigger then Reggie's torso. You're awesome.
Thank you Sports Sarkar, for bringin' the game and putting up with everybody's ridicule on Podtoid. Sure, you may be a punching bag sometimes, but every good group has to have the lovable underdog that gets bullied on. Plus, it's hard to find a person that writes about sports games and actually knows what the hell they're talking about.
Thank you Jonathan Holmes, for loving the Wii like you do. Nintendo gets a really bad rap and, sure, they may deserve it a lot of the time, but you're there to show what they do right. And when they do right, they do amazingly, emphatically right. You're also really funny on video, just throwin' that out there.
Thank you R3Y, for being hands down the best video content editor in the business. There really isn't any better way to put that. Just keep doin' what you do. You also have amazing tattoos and I am envious.
Thank you Josh Tolentino and Andrew Kauz, for showing that hard work and amazing c-blogs WILL get you somewhere eventually. You guys deserved what you got and I'm glad to see you made it. I know a lot of the editors started out as mere c-bloggers, but when I got to this site, you guys were still just regular members, and seeing the promotion was certainly inspiring. Same with you Megastryke, even if you only got one article out so far.
Thank you Matthew Razak and Grim, for being around to pick up the articles others don't. We may not see a lot of you (Or maybe I just miss a lot of your articles, I'm not too sure), but you're just as appreciated as the other guys.
Last but not least, thank you Niero. You fucking made the site. You are the driving force behind this. If not for your (brilliant) little scam to get into E3 many moons ago, I wouldn't even be here writing this. Keep it up, you give robots everywhere a hero to look up to.
So yeah...four years. Four long, awesome years. I think I've only been around for a little under two of those years, but they've been some awesome years. Cheers mates, I'll see you on number five.
on 03.14.2010
That Plastic Beach Review That Was Supposed To Be Posted Friday.
Okay...so, for the people that didn't die in Memetoid mania, you may have caught the grand debut of Stereotoid, the amazing new feature brought about the Cblog world, orchestrated by Xzyliac. You may have noticed that a certain person, that person being myself, was supposed to have had a review of the long-awaited Gorillaz album "Plastic Beach" up there and it never really happened. That would be due to the fact that somebody got in a car accident via running into a power supply in our neighborhood, making us lose all cable services in the area for almost the entire weekend. That includes internet. Thanks to that shining example of human stupidity, I was not able to forward my review to Xzyliac, or even tell him (Yeah, mystery solved guys, Xzyliac's a GUY) what the hell had happened since, ya know, no internet.
However, I am glad that the crew trekked on without me and am pleased to see that Stereotoid's grand opening went very well, even despite all the behind-the-scenes worrying. Of course, there is one question that still remains- I have a review written. What do I do with it? Well, the simple answer would be to post it. So, without further ado, the 'lost' review of Plastic Beach. Because better late then never, correct?
Plastic Beach
Parlophone, Virgin Records
March 3, 2010
Trip-hop, Experimental, a little Electronica here and there
Sounds like:
A bizarre love affair with the 80's brought into the modern era. With 100% more rappers.
The Gorillaz are, for lack of a better term, very hard to pin down. Their music can span anything from mainstream trip-hop for the masses, to upbeat dance tracks, to spoken word from Dennis Hopper (No,
). For the most part though, despite the genre hopping that comes from the brainchild of Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett (And whichever artists they pull out of their phone book to put on the album this time), the quality has been consistently top-notch. This album, while having a couple sour spots here and there, is no exception.
First things first- they've really stepped it up when it comes to collaborations this time. With big names like Snoop Dogg, De La Soul, Lou Reed, and even Mick Jones and Paul Simonon attached to this album, you know that at the very least you'll see some star-studded performances present. Of course, that's not even half of the names attached to the album (It's a Gorillaz album, would you expect any less?), but they're definitely the A-list of the album's massive roll call.
The album begins with a vaguely dark, somber orchestral intro (Cleverly titled...wait for it...�Orchestral Intro�) before seguing perfectly into �Welcome To The World Of The Plastic Beach�, a track that Snoop Dogg pretty much makes his own, be that for better or for worse. It manages to both sound like a Snoop song and a Gorillaz song at the same time, which is no small feat. Next comes �White Flag�, which is your standard Gorillaz song, more or less- catchy, infectious beat with some biting verses, though it still retains the orchestral backings of the past two tracks underneath the electronic grooviness. Following that we have �Rhinestone Eyes�, which is purely Damon-only, and may be one of the strongest tracks on the album because of it. Next is the amazing �Stylo� which, if you haven't heard it by now you probably don't have internet and aren't even reading this anyways. The album continues to impress with �Superfast Jellyfish�, a track featuring the return of De La Soul which, if you've ever heard Feel Good Inc. (And who hasn't), you know that to be a good thing.
Around here we have the first real low point of the album, a track called �Empire Ants� which was just a bit too slow and plodding for my tastes. Thankfully, track 8 wakes everybody up again with �Glitter Freeze�, a fun track with a simple beat that'll be stuck in your head for days. Next we have the Lou Reed-led track �Some Kind Of Nature� which is surprisingly upbeat for what I'm accustomed to hearing from Lou Reed. Afterwards we have two more collab-free 'Gorillaz' tracks- �On Melancholy Hill�, which could best be described as the album's love song, and �Broken�, a track that, while not really bad, isn't necessarily amazing either, just...servicable.
Track 12, �Sweepstakes�, may be the most fun song on the whole album. Featuring Mos Def and the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, it starts out subdued, with a fluid backing beat and some excellent lyrical flow from Mos, though the track really shines once the drums kick in. Definitely my favorite track on the album. �Sweepstakes� may be a tough act to follow, but the album's title track, �Plastic Beach� does an admirable job. Featuring Mick Jones and Paul Simonon, it's probably the closest you'll ever come to hearing a new song from The Clash. Around this time the album pretty much runs out of steam, with tracks like �To Binge� and �Cloud Of Unknowing� being largely throwaway tracks in my opinion, though I will say that �Pirate Jet� is kinda catchy, if lacking in substance. The final track, �Pirate's Progress� is best described as an extended version of the intro track, ending the album off on the same foot it started, or at least initially. It starts off as dark and moody as it did at first, but picks up towards the middle and gradually gets happier before getting just a little bit too broadway-esque for it's own good.
In the long run, I'd definitely recommend this album to anyone who calls themselves a fan of the Gorillaz, or a fan of hip-hop in general. It may not be an amazing album, but the good outweighs the bad and then some.
Personal favorite tracks:
Rhinestone Eyes
Summary for lazy people:
More pop-tinted trip-hop goodness from the Gorillaz is never a bad thing.
on 03.05.2010
So who wants a Blur beta code?
By now, I'm sure everybody has noticed that Dtoid's been giving away a bunch of codes to access the Blur beta. I know many of you have gotten your hands on one. I also know that many of you haven't. Well, I happen to be one of the lucky blokes that did win a code...BUT. In a bizarre twist of fate, Hamza accidentally gave me two. So, in the spirit of giving, I'd like to offer it to you guys in the form of a good 'ole fashioned contest. The rules will be simple- Leave a comment referencing a lyric from a Blur song. I don't care what the song is, so long as it's an actual Blur song, and you don't fuck up the lyric. When this hits 25 comments, I'll randomly select one of them, and the beta code will be yours. Sound simple? That's because it is. Get to commenting!
(Also, keep in mind, these beta codes only work for the 360. Sorry PS3 owners.)
on 12.30.2009
How A Gamer Plans To Ring In The New Year.
So, as pretty much everybody knows, as of Friday, it'll be 2010. And, like most people do, I have a set of resolutions I'd like to accomplish before the end of the new year. However, UNLIKE most people (Well, if you don't include you guys), I have two seperate lists- My general life resolutions (Typical, boring things that need not be listed), and gaming resolutions. So, inspired both in part by Kraid's blog post, and the bonus question Fronz asked, I figured I'd share them with you.
(Also, just in case the title was misleadingesque- I'm "ringing in the New Year" via friends, A LOT of booze, and Rock Band. Because nothing says "Happy New Year" like getting drunk and singing Gay Bar at the top of your lungs, am I right? Aaaaanywho...)
1) Start giving more love to non-rhythm games.
Okay...so, you may not have noticed yet, but I am a HUUUUUUGE fan of rhythm gaming. Honestly, aside from Xzyliac and (possibly) Nick Chester, I may be the biggest rhythm gaming whore on Dtoid. For me, nothing is better than being able to play along to awesome music and get the illusion of being a rockstar. However, that comes at the cost of me ignoring other games most of the time just so I can see if I can turn that five stars on drums into golden ones. I aim to change that. Sure, I'm not gonna STOP playing rhythm games...I could never do that. Hell, I might not even play them less. My goal, is to play OTHER games MORE. Put down the guitar, and pick up an actual controller. I can honestly say that I'm using a peripheral more often then a traditional controller during most of my gaming time. Hopefully by the end of the new year, that'll be different. Because it's the only way I'll ever be able to accomplish the next one...
2) Get some more classics under my belt.
I've been playing video games for sixteen years. You'd think that would mean I've played a lot of the greats, the truly classic games that go down in history, right? Well, you'd be kinda wrong on that. Yeah, I've played a lot of great games, but there's still sooooo many more out there I've yet to beat, or in some cases, even played at all. Games like Earthbound, Super Metroid, Contra, Super Mario RPG, Chrono Trigger, Goldeneye, Perfect Dark...the embarassing list goes on...and on...and on. Honestly, I find it hard to call myself a gamer when I've missed out on so many of the greatest games out there. So, starting with Earthbound, I plan to play and beat as many of these classics as I possibly can so I can finally join in on looking back and reminiscing happily about all these great games. Oh, and if this resolution wasn't a gigantic blow to my gamer cred, this one'll put me down for the count.
3) Actually beat a Final Fantasy game.
Yeah, you read that right. I have never beat a main-line Final Fantasy game. I'm not counting spinoffs in this because I HAVE beaten Mystic Quest (Unfortunately...) and Crisis Core (Which was fun, but still a spinoff). I -have- tried to, mind you. I've had many an experience with this franchise...
FF1- *Five minutes into the game, I run into a goblin thingy* "Well, might as well kill it." *One goblin successfully takes out my entire party easily* "...Wat." (Never plays it again)
FF7- *Gets to the train tunnel section, gets lost and confused as to what to do next* "...Fuck this, I'm gonna go play Guitar Hero." (Gives the game away as a birthday present, never plays it again)
FF8- *Plays on someone else's record and gets out of the first city* "Wow, this is fun! I can't wait to play this next time I come over!" *Friend moves away ".... T_T" (Never got to play it again)
FF9- *Started to play it on my PSP* "Woah, I might have actually found a Final Fantasy game I'll see through to the end." *PSP gets stolen while I'm in Baltimore for Otakon* "....FUCK MY LIFE!!!!" (Never got a chance to play it again)
FF10- *Rented it way back when it first came out, but had no memory card to save and decided to trudge as far as possible, not knowing about the whole 'die and you start where you last saved' thing* "This game's fun! I'm so glad I rented this instead of Crash Bandicoot!" *Gets to some plant boss at the top of a giant flight of stairs, dies, has to start over* "....Whaaaaaat ;.;" (Never played again)
FF12- *Got to some mines before ultimately giving up due to boredom* "Yeeeeeah...to hell with this. I'ma play MGS3." (Trades it in, never played again)
So yeah, I've TRIED to play Final Fantasy, it just never worked out. Hence why I'm going to make damn sure I beat one sometime soonish. I'm still not sure which though- do I go for FFIV? FFVI? Try one of the above again? Who knows? Maybe you guys could help me out on that.
4) Give my Dreamcast some more love.
I have a Dreamcast. I love it. Though, you could never tell. You know why? Because I haven't played it in four months. Hell, it's not even at the house I live in right now. It's sitting in my mom's garage. Why the hell is that? I need to stop ignoring one of the best consoles ever made and give it the love and attention it truly deserves. The first step, is to get some games that aren't fighters. As it stands, the only games I have for my Dreamcast are an import copy of 3rd Strike, an import copy of SNK Vs. Capcom 2, a burned copy of Project Justice, and a burned copy of MvC2. Now, aside from Garou, Power Stone, and (Arguably) Soul Calibur, I pretty much have every good fighter on the system...so my next step is obviously to get some other games right? Right. So, there's another question you guys might be able to help me out on- what great Dreamcast games should I get now? I know there's gotta be a ton of great games buried beneath the rubble of Sega's missteps. And I need to play them.
5) Beat Okami.
Yes, you read that right Shiranui, I've never beaten Okami. I tried to, I really did. I was enjoying every minute of it, and it was truly on par with all the praise it had gotten. But unfortunately it was one of the many victims of a house fire that broke out and ruined a vast majority of my gaming collection many years ago. I simply haven't touched it since. Therefore, if I can get a copy and borrow/purchase/steal a PS2 from somewhere, I will sit down and beat that game. And probably Shadow of The Colossus too, now that I think about it.
6) FINALLY play the Shin Megami Tensei series.
I've always loved the idea of the SMT games. The overarching plot, the unique style behind it, and the generally dark tone of it all has always intrigued me. But, aside from beta-testing the SMT MMO, I have zero experience with the series, and that's a damn shame. Whether it's Persona 3, Persona 4, Nocturne, Digital Devil Saga, I don't care what, I want to play an SMT game sometime before the end of the new year. All that's stopping me currently is that I don't have a PS2. And as cheap as they are now, I'd say a PS2 is worth buying for this series, from what I've seen/heard.
So, there you have it, my gaming goals for the new year. What say you Dtoiders? Are my goals dumb? Am I completely retarded for not having already completed these things? What Final Fantasy game should I go for? What Dreamcast games should I look into? Help me out! And also, have a safe and happy new year's everyone! NO DRINKING AND DRIVING. You're no good to us dead/maimed/paralyzed, remember that.
on 12.08.2009
15 Artists Rock Band Needs MORE Of (Part 2)
So...not many people noticed part one. That's fine, not to mention understandable. The meme that was born Sunday seemed to just devour everything else anywho. Plus, Rock Band's not the most enthralling subject for some people. Either way, I don't like leaving things unfinished so dammit, I'm finishing this! So, without further ado...
6: Kasabian
Already Featured With:
Club Foot and Shoot The Runner as DLC
Why We Need To See More Of Them:
Because, in a word, they're groovy. Groovy as hell. There aren't many smoother combinations of dance aesthetics and alternative sleaze out there. That, and there aren't too many songs in Rock Band that you could get up and dance to. Plus, have you listened to the bass on Club Foot? Of the 1000+ songs in Rock Band, there's still a noticable lack of bass-centric bands out there, which is something these guys can most certainly be called.
Song I'd Recommend: Vlad The Impaler
The quintessential Kasabian song. Infectious beats, thumping bass, catchy, singalong-friendly lyrics, and the kind of stuff you can just get up and dance about to.
Also Good Choices:
Underdog, Empire, Where Did All The Love Go?
7: David Bowie
Already Featured With:
Suffragette City on RB1, Let's Dance on Lego Rock Band, Heroes (Cover), Queen Bitch (Cover), and Moonage Daydream as DLC
Why We Need To See More Of Him:
David Bowie. David. Fucking. Bowie. One of the biggest names in music, and probably the greatest British person to ever breathe our air. There can never be too much of this man anywhere, he's earned his faaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAYme and then some. Not to mention that his appeal is so wide-reaching, it's hard to find a band who isn't in some way inspired by him. So how about we get some more songs from The Thin White Duke into Rock Band?
Song I'd Recommend: Rebel Rebel (2004 Re-record version)
You're probably asking, "Why this version? Why not the original?" There's a couple of reasons I choose this one, but mainly it's for the fact that, even in 2004 he's STILL got it, and the little intro he spun into this version. Of course, the original's a great choice as well.
Also Good Choices:
Ziggy Stardust, Starman, Jean Genie
8: That Handsome Devil
Already Featured With:
Rob The Prez-O-Dent in Rock Band 2
Why We Need To See More Of Them:
Because of all the Harmonix bands that've been featured in Rock Band since it's release, these guys are probably the most unique of them all (and my favorites, personally), which is pretty high praise considering one of those bands has like, what, 37-40 members? The band that was once described as 'post-apocalyptic drinking music' is practically begging to have some more songs in the game. Plus...they're a Harmonix band. Which'll most likely mean discounted and/or free tracks. Think about it!
Song I'd Recommend: Dating Tips
Quite simply, the lyrics in this song are hilarious. The instrumentation may not be too intricate, but this is one of those songs that pretty much everyone would want to sing along to. Plus, they're self-edited, so less work for HMX!
Also Good Choices:
Wintergreen, Damn Door, Viva Discordia/Eristocrats (Discordia Pt. II)
9:Dream Theater
Already Featured With:
Panic Attack in Rock Band 2, Constant Motion as DLC
Why We Need To See More Of Them:
They're one of the highest praised bands out there, both for the sheer technicality present throughout each and every one of their songs, to the meanings behind the lyrics, or just for the greatness that is Mike Portnoy. Plus, they're one of the only bands that can really challenge Rush for the title of "Best Prog Band Ever". And we all know Rock Band could use some more Prog.
Song I'd Recommend: Never Enough
The song's beautiful while still maintaining a heavy edge, which is just something most bands either can't do or simply don't care to do these days, and that's a shame. And before anyone says anything, yes. You're not the only one that thinks it sounds really similar to Muse's Stockholme Syndrome.
Also Good Choices:
Pull Me Under, Octavarium, These Walls
10: Iggy Pop
Already Featured With:
The Passenger in Lego Rock Band
Why We Need To See More Of Him:
Come on, you think I'd drop Bowie onto this list without giving a nod to Iggy? They're easily my two favorite "classic" musicians of all time, with the slight nod going to Iggy. He's the "Godfather Of Punk" for a reason- he had it all. The swagger. The alarming, sometimes self-damaging stage presence. The raw energy that could only be birthed from the punk genre. And we need more of that in Rock Band. A LOT more.
Song I'd Recommend: I Got A Right
Both The Stooges and punk rock at it's best. This brings all of the Iggy bravado- raucous energy, a memorable guitar riff, and a whole lot of fun. Maybe we could hope for a Bowie/Iggy combo pack soon?
Also Good Choices:
Search And Destroy, Raw Power, I Wanna Be Your Dog
Aaaaaand that's all for this round. So sound off! Tell me what ya think, who I missed, who I'm an idiot for including. Go on people, the comments are there for a reason. 'Til next time!
on 12.06.2009
15 Artists Rock Band Needs MORE Of (Part 1 Due To Laziness)
Yeah...boy oh boy, a list. Hey, at least it's not a review of a review that you're reviewing, right? Anywho...
So, I'm sure a few of you have noticed that Xzyliac's got a pseudo-series going on concerning artists Rock Band has, at least for now, ignored that (he, she, it...it's the internet, I don't fucking know what Xzyliac is) feels deserves a place in the game. And while that's all well an' good (Actually, it's introduced me to a couple new bands and allowed me to actually discuss music, a pleasure I don't often have), the list has a rule- if they're already in Rock Band, they can't be on the list. So, I intend to do the opposite- I'm going to instead highlight bands and artists that are already in Rock Band that are sorely under-represented. Bands we need to see a couple more songs from. So, without further ado, in no particular order...
(This probably comes as common sense when dealing with musical talk such as this, but what you are about to read is pure OPINION. Your musical tastes might not go well with mine, so take my choices with a grain of salt. If you disagree, by all means don't hesitate to mention so in the comments, but for the love of God, don't attack me over it. It's not like I'm giving your favorite band a 4.5 or something.)
1: The Strokes
Already Featured With:
Reptilia, in Rock Band 1
Why We Need To See More Of Them:
For starters, fans have been clamoring to see more of them for ages. Of the hundreds of different artists in the game, The Strokes are one of the few artists that's been on-disc since day one and have yet to receive any DLC...and that's a damn shame, as they're one of the best alt-rock groups out there today, not to mention so many of their songs sound so perfect for rhythm gaming. Plus, who DOESN'T like singing along to Julian Casablanca's wonderfully understated vocals?
Song I'd Recommend: Juicebox
Tell me that bassline doesn't sound epic. Or that guitar solo. Or the way the vocals rise up from subtle to demanding and in-your-face. Hell, the whole song's great.
Also Good Choices:
12:51, Heart In A Cage, Hard To Explain
2: Muse
Already Featured With:
Hysteria, as DLC
Why We Need To See More Of Them:
Remember how I said The Strokes are one of the best alt-rock groups out there? Well, to me, Muse is THE BEST alt-rock group, period. The only band I can think of that rivals them would be Radiohead, and we'll talk about them later...anyways, Muse is one of those few bands out there that's hard to hate. They've been around for a while, constantly staying fresh amongst the changing trends in music. It probably helps that amongst the three, there's a vast wealth of talent. Between Matt Bellamy's inimitable vocals and unique guitar riffs, Dominic Howard's standout drum beats, and Chris Wolstenholme's backing bass rhythms, it just doesn't get much better. But I could gush about them all day long...let's get to the music.
Song I'd Recommend: Uno
I really wanted to pick Stockholme Syndrome as an example of them at what most would call 'their best', but I let personal bias get in the way and went with this instead. My favorite song by them.
Also Good Choices:
Stockholme Syndrome, Muscle Museum, Cave...anything they've done, really
3: Radiohead
Already Featured With:
Creep on Rock Band 1, My Iron Lung as DLC
Why We Need To See More Of Them:
Why the fuck not? They're one of the biggest bands out there, they're always changing up their sound, and a quick breeze through the Rock Band forums will show you that Radiohead's one of the most requested bands out there. So why haven't we seen more from them yet? There's probably a number of reasons but all that matters is it needs to happen. Hell, most people would even settle for Thom Yorke's solo stuff. Doesn't matter how, just get it done!
Song I'd Recommend: Paranoid Android
I may be paranoid...but not an android. The haunting sound of it at the beginning. The slight climb in pace before blowing up in grand fashion and dissolving into a chaotic guitar solo that practically screams for your attention, just to fall down into a solemn moodiness the type of which can only be brought about by Thom Yorke and company...only to blow back up again just in time for the ending. This has always been what I would call the "Perfect Rock Band Song".
Also Good Choices:
The Bends, Bodysnatchers, Anyone Can Play Guitar
4: Lamb Of God
Already Featured With:
Laid To Rest as DLC
Why We Need To See More Of Them:
What, you thought this was all gonna be alt-rock bands? Riiiiiiight. Now, Lamb of God is a very...divisive band in the metal world, to say the least. The common consensus seems to be either you love 'em or you hate 'em. I for one think they're great, but I'm not here to defend them. What I am here to say though, is that a lot of their music would be really fun to play. Laid To Rest was a blast to play on every instrument (Well, almost every instrument, unless you like barking into your mic as much as I do), so why wouldn't the rest of their stuff be? Also, I can't lie- one of the reasons they're up here is due to hometown love. They're from the same state as me, so uh...Virginians represent, or something.
Song I'd Recommend: Set To Fail
Live video, just to switch things up a bit. Also from their new album, which seems to be impressing even the haters from what I hear. The drums would probably kick a lot of people's asses, but then again who's to say that's a bad thing?
Also Good Choices:
Ruin, Redneck, Again We Rise
5: Mastodon
Already Featured With:
Colony Of Birchmen in Rock Band 2
Why We Need To See More Of Them:
Because they're easily one of the best metal bands in existence right now. They're practically unrivaled when it comes to melodic metal, not to mention they have, in my opinion, one of the best drummers to ever hit the metal scene to date...and yet we only have one song by them. Travesty I say! They've already proven to be a fun and worthy addition to the game (I think they're one of the few bands I've seen be near-unanimously praised in the game), so let's see more!
...Plus, ya know, if they ever throw in Dethklok like Xzyliac's list suggested should happen, they could totally make it a Dethklok/Mastodon pack in light of the tour they've been doing.
Song I'd Recommend: Megalodon
I really don't know what to say, other then I love everything about this song. Especially the sudden shift a minute and a half in. This would be a bass pedal nightmare yes, but shredfests like these are usually just too much fun to pass up for most people.
Also Good Choices:
Oblivion, The Wolf Is Loose, Sleeping Giant
So yeah, that's it for now. For Part 2 I'll try to mix it up a bit and feature a little bit of everything, so keep an eye out...hopefully I'll be un-lazy enough to work on that by the end of the week. Until then though, what bands do you think we need more of? What bands of mine do you disagree with? Will Goku defeat Frieza before Planet Namek explodes? Find out on the next episode!
on 10.16.2009
So, Who Wants To Help Name My Car? (Shortblog/Slightly NVGR)
Alright, before this blog gets endlessly flamed for something so stupid, hear me out- I just got my first car today and, after working my ass off, have finally managed to title it, register it, get it insured, and replace everything that was wrong with it (Which was a LOT). I know I could be using my blog space for something far better and, trust me, I will. But for now, I'm just really freaking excited. Moving right along...
So, I now have a Black 2001 Kia Sephia, and I'm trying to figure out what I want to 'name' it. Being the massive nerd/gamer that I am, I was thinking of giving it a gaming-themed name. I myself thought of Eddie, seeing as how I've been playing a lot of Brutal Legend lately. However, I wanted to ask a bunch of other people, namely the awesome Destructoid community, for suggestions. So, what would YOU name my car?
...Seriously, please don't hate me for this. I'm in the midst of attempting a write-up on Brutal Legend, so expect something meaningful soon, provided school and Borderlands doesn't fuck all that up.
on 09.18.2009
'Ello, 'Ello. (A Brief, Yet Triumphant Introduction)
So, I realized that I've been a member of this fine site for at least a year now and I haven't wrote a single blog, much less introduced myself. So, on this day, I've decided to, well, remedy that situation. Let's see...my name is Rob, but you can call me by whatever name you desire, just don't call me late for dinner (HEY-OH). I've been playing videogames for almost sixteen years. It all started when, for my fourth birthday, my parents decided to get me an SNES and Super Mario World...the rest is history.
Now, since I'm really terrible at introductions, and even worse at describing myself, not to mention the fact that this IS a gaming website, I figured it'd be both easier AAAAAND ironic (don't ya think) if I present a couple things about myself...VIA LIST FORMAT!!!! (Yay)
So, without further ado...
Five Things You Don't Know About Me, But Probably Never Cared To Know Anyways!!!
1: I'm An Apsiring Journalist
Yes, yes, I know. Practically everyone says that nowadays. However I'm quite serious in my aspirations, currently going to college to get a major in Journalism. I've always had a love for writing, and (for some unexplained reason) people have always told me I have a certain 'flow' with words, so after a while I started thinking "Hey, maybe it could happen", which led to me finally getting off my ass and getting into college. So, maybe in the next five or six years I'll be doing some spotted somewhere doing freelance work dropping a review on Guitar Hero 11, or bringing news of the latest Perk additions to Call of Duty 9, or what-have-you. Who's to say?
2: Videogames Aren't My True Love
Okay, let me clarify- I love videogames. A lot. They're pretty much ingrained into my reality to the point of abject alienation to anyone that doesn't play videogames. However, there is another, and that would be music. Growing up with a DJ for a father, a choir singer for a mother, and a bassist for an uncle, it was bound to happen. Nowadays, I follow in my dad's footsteps as a DJ, while also devoting time to getting better at the drums and occasionally even getting behind the microphone to do really bad acoustic covers of songs that have no reason to be acoustic...and no, you'll never hear them. Also, I guess it would go without saying that, as big a role music plays in my life, my favorite games tend to be of the rhythm variety, mainly the Rock Band series, though I do have a soft spot for DJ Max Portable 2 (The import version, not the one that made it's way to America), and will divulge a helluva lot of time into DJ Hero when it lands in stores.
3: There Was A Time When I Had A Giant Collection Of Games
Yeah, it's true. Almost three years ago, at the ripe age of seventeen, I had a collection that most people would dream of. SNES, Genesis, N64, PS1, PS2, Dreamcast, Xbox, Gamecube, Game Gear, and every iteration of Game Boy to have come out then, with maybe 350 games between them. About 75% of which I had bought myself, with the rest being various gifts I got while growing up. However, a house fire sweeped through and destroyed all of it, save for my GBA SP and a copy of Golden Sun: The Lost Age. So a lot of money is spent trying to recover my old collection, though I've put that project on hold to focus on college expenses. So far I've managed to re-purchase an SNES, Dreamcast, and PS1, while picking up a PSP and 360 as well just to keep me entertained. I'm sure one of these days I'll get back to having a great collection, but for now I have more important things to devote my time to. And, in a way, the fire wasn't that bad. I may have lost damn near everything, but I gained a respect for living, which is worth so much more. (Yaaaaaaay sentimentalism)
4: I Met Freezepop Once
Why is this important you ask? BECAUSE IT'S FUCKING FREEZEPOP DAMMIT. But yeah, they're all incredibly approachable, which is probably the same case for all Harmonix employees. We all basically talked about the one time they got arrested at the Canadian border for not having valid work Visa's. Great stuff.
5: I Can't Think Of Anything Interesting Enough To Make Number Five
'Tis sad but true. I'm kinda boring.
So yeah, that's it. Next time, expect something useful. I'm hoping to review the new Rock Band peripherals if I can saddle up the cash for them, though I hope to do far more then that. So, basically, keep an eye on this, hopefully now that I've broken by Cblog cherry I'll be using this much more often.
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About vApathyv
One of us
since 2:33 AM on 12.07.2008
What is there to say about me? I'm 25, I've worked at both Gamestop and Game Crazy, and I obviously have an obsession with video games. I'll play pretty much anything, but I have a not-so-secret obsession with rhythm games so you've been warned. I'm also a proud member of what used to be Stereotoid, home of the best damn album reviews this side of the interweb.
Still, I'm always up for a good multiplayer romp, so if you ever wanna play a couple games send me a request on Xbox Live, PSN or Steam. I'm a bit of a shy little introvert, but once you get to know me I'm not that bad.
Also, for some stupid reason I have a
. You should follow it, or something.
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text: We're sorry, Home Sweet Home Cushion Cover is no longer available Why not try one of these instead? Biscuit Cushion by lisa angel homeware and gifts £22$47.67€32.55$36.19 'Today Has Been Cancelled' Pillowcase by Minna's room £21$45.50€31.07$34.54 made to order ' Highland Stag ' Cushion by Rustic Country Crafts £29.95$64.90€44.32$49.27 'Let It Be' Cushion Cover by Vintage Designs Reborn £29.50$63.92€43.65$48.53 can be personalised Home Sweet Home Cushion Cover by Flaming Imp £29$62.84€42.91$47.71 This item is no longer available £6.95$15.06€10.28$11.43 delivery to United States Receive this item 5-10 working days from dispatch International delivery available cushion cover(s)cushion cover(s) (required)One red design onlyOne orange design onlyOne yellow design only3 covers, one red, one orange, one yellow (+ £41)3 covers, all red (+ £41)3 covers, all orange (+ £41)3 covers, all yellow (+ £41)cushion cover(s) (required)One red design onlyOne orange design onlyOne yellow design only3 covers, one red, one orange, one yellow (+ $88.84)3 covers, all red (+ $88.84)3 covers, all orange (+ $88.84)3 covers, all yellow (+ $88.84)cushion cover(s) (required)One red design onlyOne orange design onlyOne yellow design only3 covers, one red, one orange, one yellow (+ €60.67)3 covers, all red (+ €60.67)3 covers, all orange (+ €60.67)3 covers, all yellow (+ €60.67)cushion cover(s) (required)One red design onlyOne orange design onlyOne yellow design only3 covers, one red, one orange, one yellow (+ $67.45)3 covers, all red (+ $67.45)3 covers, all orange (+ $67.45)3 covers, all yellow (+ $67.45) deliverydelivery (required)in Januarydelivery (required)in Januarydelivery (required)in Januarydelivery (required)in January we're sorry we're sorry, This item is no longer available buy a gift voucher related categories home > bedroom > decorative accessories > cushions > patterned cushions by Flaming Imp Location: Greater Manchester, GB read seller's profile see seller's complete range more items from this seller Personalised Teacher Staff Ceramic Mug £16$34.67€23.67$26.32 Personalised 'Dad' T Shirt £28$60.67€41.43$46.06 Personalised Waterproof Swimming Bag £20$43.34€29.59$32.90 Personalised 'British Lion' T Shirt £23$49.84€34.03$37.83 Personalised 'Got Rhythm' Music T Shirt £24$52€35.51$39.48 Stars Greeting Card £2$4.33€2.95$3.29 view all you may also like PRODUCT DETAILS DELIVERY RETURNS Made in Britain exclusive ask seller a question save for later A handmade 'Home Sweet Home' cushion cover, featuring the shapes of different types of home - perfect for a moving present! It is available in yellow, orange and red. Printed onto natural coloured fabric. The cushion is hand printed using eco-friendly inks onto 100% cotton fabric. The fabric is screen printed by hand and then cut and sewn into shape and stuffed. It fits a 16 inch square cushion and is an envelope/pocket style cover. From Manchester based designer Rebecca Gillott. made from: 100% cotton fabric and eco-friendly inks. dimensions: 16 inch square. product code: 277021 This product is dispatched to you by Flaming Imp. MAINLAND UK order now and receive this item on or before price Free Delivery Monday 12 October FREEFREEFREEFREE NON-MAINLAND UK estimated delivery price Highlands & Islands of Scotland 2-5 working daysfrom dispatch £1.75$3.79€2.58$2.87 Northern Ireland 2-5 working daysfrom dispatch £1.75$3.79€2.58$2.87 Other UK Islands 2-5 working daysfrom dispatch £3.95$8.55€5.84$6.49 INTERNATIONAL DELIVERY estimated delivery price Western Europe 2-5 working daysfrom dispatch £5.00$10.83€7.39$8.22 Rest of Europe 5-10 working daysfrom dispatch £5.00$10.83€7.39$8.22 USA & Canada 5-10 working daysfrom dispatch £6.95$15.06€10.28$11.43 Asia & Australasia 5-10 working daysfrom dispatch £7.25$15.71€10.72$11.92 Rest of the world 5-14 working daysfrom dispatch £7.25$15.71€10.72$11.92 You have 28 days, from receipt of cancellable goods, to notify the seller if you wish to cancel your order or exchange an item. Please note: goods that are personalised, bespoke or made-to-order to your specific requirements, perishable products and personal items sold with a hygiene seal (cosmetics, underwear) in instances where the seal is broken are non-refundable, unless faulty. Read more about our returns policy.Should you choose to return or exchange your order you will need to deliver the item(s) to the UK, where this seller is based. Flaming Imp's return policy

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Inclusive Green Growth
As the global population heads toward 9 billion by 2050, decisions made today will lock countries into growth patterns that may or may not be sustainable in the future. Care must be taken to ensure that cities and roads, factories and farms are designed, managed, and regulated as efficiently as possible to wisely use natural resources while supporting the robust growth developing countries still need. Economic development during the next two decades cannot mirror the previous two: poverty reduction remains urgent but growth and equity can be pursued without relying on policies and practices that foul the air, water, and land.


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The nose knows: Allergy season here with vengeance
(AP) -- There may be a whiff of truth to claims by allergy sufferers who sniffle that this season is, well, a bigger headache than years past.
(AP) -- There may be a whiff of truth to claims by allergy sufferers who sniffle that this season is, well, a bigger headache than years past.
Budding trees and greening grass may bring a sigh of relief to some Chicagoans, but for 40 million other Americans the signs of spring leave them gasping for breath.
A record 7 inches of rain combined with the spat of 100-plus degree Fahrenheit days has spawned the highest mold count recorded for the year, just short of an air pollution warning.
(HealthDay) -- While unseasonably warm weather delights many people, those with allergies may not be as thrilled with the early arrival of spring.
(AP) -- Allergy season has come early and hit with a wheezing vengeance in parts of the South and Midwest this year, thanks largely to an unusually warm winter. Abundant pollen is causing watery eyes, sniffles and sneezing.
Queenslanders can expect to endure a longer hay fever season than the rest of Australia thanks to flowering subtropical grasses.
(HealthDay)—Many children suffer allergies at this time of year as trees and other plants start releasing pollens into the air. So parents need to monitor their youngsters for symptoms, an expert says.
(HealthDay)—The spring allergy season is off to an early start and allergy sufferers need to take action to prevent symptoms, an expert says.
The Midwest is under an air quality alert for dangerous levels of mold. The Midwest mold count today is 60,000 – well over the 50,000 threshold that signals a dangerous air quality warning.
(HealthDay) -- It can be difficult during the spring months for parents to determine whether their children have a cold or seasonal allergies, but an expert outlines how to tell the difference.
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Submit your calendar items and notices to mlopez@ lasvegasoptic.com
• The Justin J. Roper Memorial Scholarship applications are available. The scholarship is open to West Las Vegas seniors. Applications are now available at the West Las Vegas High School counselor's office. Application deadline is April 29.
Imagine a bovine alien in your garden. His eyes don't mimic almonds, his body doesn't don the silver suit of a galactic wanderer.
Rather, he stands on vertical hooves, his exposed trunk an expanse of weathered coil and spring.
He is the nightmare of a thousand childhood sci-fi movies. He is the height of a gnome, the monster under your bed. His head carries the ragged antennae of a sideshow bull's horns. He looks cute, terrifying, an oil-pitch sentry. He is the somehow living recycled hothouse buffalo man of Las Vegas sculptor Debbie Morse.
Jim Terr loves Las Vegas and what makes Las Vegas unique: our local independent merchants.
He produced a video, "Mama Don't Send Me to the Big-Box Store," which is receiving lots of notice: more than 5,900 references on Google, when you enter the title in quotes.
Submitted to the Optic
The Miss Las Vegas' Outstanding Teen Pageant was held on Sunday March 27 at the West Las Vegas High School Cafeteria.
Kayla Gonzales was crowned Miss Las Vegas' Outstanding Teen 2011 and Daniela Montoya was named first runner-up. After the pageant it was revealed that Gonzales would be ineligible to compete at the Miss New Mexico's Outstanding Teen Pageant because she is a high school graduate.
From The Associated Press
Petition seeks judge's suspension
LAS CRUCES — The New Mexico Judicial Standards Commission is asking the state Supreme Court to suspend a Las Cruces judge while he's being investigated on allegations of bribery.
Commission executive director Randall Roybal says the petition to temporarily suspend state District Judge Mike Murphy was filed Tuesday.
Roybal declined to comment further because of confidentiality rules.
By Sue Major Holmes
The Associated Press
ALBUQUERQUE — Despite strong winds, firefighters are making progress in battling a wildfire that has charred thousands of acres and forced evacuations.
"It's still an active fire, it's still moving along, but it's not getting outside containment lines," state Forestry spokesman Dan Ware said.
The 10,341-acre fire that broke out Sunday was 50 percent contained by Wednesday night even though winds had been gusting to 40 mph during the day.
Health Net, Inc. and the New Mexico Veterans Affairs Health Care System opened the Las Vegas VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic located at 624 University Ave., in Las Vegas, on April 1.
THUMBS DOWN! COMMUNITY TRAGEDIES. Two homicides in as many days can really shake up a small town. Joseph H. Hernandez, 45, and Sherry Anne Clancy, 61, were killed in separate incidents only a few days ago. Two men, Richard Vigil, 47, and John Brito, 44, also of Las Vegas, face charges related to Hernandez's death, while Clancy's housemate, 52-year-old Tamara Smith, is charged in her death.
All of these people — the victims as well as the suspects — resided in Las Vegas.
Copyright © 2015
The Las Vegas Optic is your source for local news, sports, events, and information in San Miguel County and Las Vegas, NM, and the surrounding area.


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- 34Promote
Stationery Cards
Vintage Numbersby Happeemonkee
Set of folded stationery cards printed on bright white, smooth card stock to bring your personal artistic style to everyday correspondence. Each card is blank on the inside and includes a soft white, European fold envelope for mailing.
What a cool image! I love seeing antique things like this. Nice shot!
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Very pretty!
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Thanks Julia!
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Hotels in Florida
There's more than just the appealingly retro name: the basic but clean rooms have kitchens, and the parking spaces are big enough to accommodate both a car and a boat.
South Florida hotel spas trembled at the arrival of Canyon Ranch in Miami in 2007, when they annexed and renovated the old Carillion Hotel.
Miami has been a city of big, brash hotels since the 1950's. Although the landscape is always changing, a few properties rise above the rest, including South Beach's Tides.
This luxury resort sits on 300 acres in Aventura, a suburb of Miami. The hotel's terracotta roof and lush landscaping lend the feel of a Mediterranean villa, and the guest rooms and suites are decorated in a soothing neutral palette with red-orange and pale green accents.
The oceanfront property newly reopened with its stellar snorkeling program intact. Stay in one of 212 tropical-chic rooms then dine at the Atlantic's Edge restaurant, where the chef will prepare your own catch.
The most sophisticated digs in this part of the Gulf Coast, with citrus-hued rooms and apartment-like suites.
Situated on nearly 500 acres of powdery, white-sand beaches and secluded pine forests, the David Rockwell-designed WaterColor Inn & Resort contains 60, cheerfully appointed beachfront rooms with walk-in showers and balconies.
Spanish-colonial-style hotel on a barrier island with an intimate feel, thanks to a high staff-to-guest ratio.
This grand South Florida resort, set on 26 palm-shrouded acres along the quiet Estero Bay in the Gulf Coast, is known for family-friendly features and activities galore.
The 44-unit motel has brightly colored rooms, an on-site heated pool, and free cooked-to-order breakfasts for guests at one of two local diners.
Surrounded by tropical gardens, the Grove Isle Hotel & Spa is located on a 20-acre private island in Biscayne Bay.
This 109-suite hotel at the southern tip of Ocean Drive (the quieter end of South Beach) couldn't be closer to the ocean. The sumptuous suites, only 10 per floor, come with kitchens or kitchenettes, marble bathrooms, and gilt- and-upholstered headboards.


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Free implementation of Heroes of the Might and Magic II engine. SDL is used.202 weekly downloads
XMTuner allows you to access the Sirius|XM Satelite Radio streams on your UPnP media player. It supports a variety of devices, such as the Xbox 360, PS3, Nintendo Wii, D-Link DSM-320 (and similar), smartphones, internet-capable receivers and TVs.1 weekly downloads
yaSSL, or yet another SSL, is an embedded ssl library for programmers building security functionality into their applications and devices. yaSSL is highly portable, and runs on standard as well as embedded platforms(QNX, ThreadX, VxWorks, Tron) yaSSL is still available but no longer being developed. Current development on the same project continues under wolfSSL. Visit yaSSL Home above for the latest stable release.1 weekly downloads
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Mimicware is a high-level cross-platform, multimedia engine. It has been used in multiple commercial video game releases, and has been in active development at Funavision, Inc., since 2008. Mimicware is available under the Apache 2.0 license.0 weekly downloads
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Select Local Merchants
Starplex Normal Stadium 14Read MoreCraving movie theater popcorn? Come to Starplex Normal Stadium 14 in Normal for the tasty popcorn and stay for a great film. Starplex Normal Stadium 14's drive-in theater offers a new and exciting movie-watching experience. Parking is plentiful, so visitors can feel free to bring their vehicles.201 McKnight StreetNormal, IL US
Normal TheaterRead MoreFor the theatrically inclined, The Normal Theater offers engaging plays for your enjoyment in Normal. Drive in and watch a movie of your choice at The Normal Theater. The Normal Theater's guests can take advantage of the easy street and lot parking options.209 West North StreetNormal, IL US
The Castle TheatreRead MoreWant something more than just a weekend out at the bars? Bloomington's The Castle Theatre offers the perfect theater to shake your weekend up. What's a fine club without fine dining to accompany it? Be sure to pick up a tasty meal when you visit their great restaurant. If dancing is on the menu, the club also features live bands and an open floor. At The Castle Theatre, you can park your car in seconds with the nearby street and lot parking options. If cycling is more your speed, you'll find plenty of space to stash your bike outside the club.209 East Washington StreetBloomington, IL US
Community PlayersRead MoreCostumes and actors and plays, oh my! Community Players offers engaging theater for you and everyone you know in Bloomington. Pick up a tasty meal at their restaurant, located conveniently within the theater. Both the young and the young-at-heart will dig the family-oriented activities and atmosphere at this theater. As these facilities are becoming rarer and rarer, make sure you try Community Players' great drive-in movie theater. Patrons can park in a lot near Community Players or take advantage of the generous street parking.201 Robinhood LaneBloomington, IL US
Bloomington Galaxy 14 CineRead MoreCraving movie theater popcorn? Come to Bloomington Galaxy 14 Cinema in Bloomington for the tasty popcorn and stay for a great film. The doors are open for you at this theater with their people friendly restaurant and great, home-cooked food. This theater welcomes kids, too, so you can feel good about bringing the whole family. Bloomington Galaxy 14 Cinema values fresh air and fantastic feature films--come visit their location today! Parking is plentiful, so visitors can feel free to bring their vehicles.1111 Wylie DriveBloomington, IL US
Carmike Palace Cinema 10Read MoreHave a movie that you have been dying to see? Check it out at Carmike Palace Cinema 10 in Bloomington. It's certainly time you stopped reading about this theater with its amazing restaurant and finally came in for a bite. This theater is more than willing to accommodate families, so kids are welcome to tag along. Watch a movie come to life at the highly rated outdoor theater. Parking is plentiful, so visitors can feel free to bring their vehicles.415 Detroit DriveBloomington, IL US


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NPR Newscast
4min 45sec
Ahmed Rashid writes for The Washington Post, El Mundo and other international newspapers.
Courtesy of Ahmed Rashid
hide caption
March 20, 2012 In his latest book, Pakistan on the Brink, journalist Ahmed Rashid writes that he fears Pakistan is on the verge of a "meltdown." Rashid explains some of the challenges facing the country, as well as the complicated relationship both Pakistan and Afghanistan have with the United States.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/148605645/148985585" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
September 5, 2008 Pervez Musharraf's resignation introduced uncertainty, and U.S. officials say al-Qaida is seeking to strengthen its presence in the country. Meanwhile, Pakistan looks likely to pick Asif Ali Zardari, the widower of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, as its next president.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/94332511/94332487" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
September 3, 2008 Asif Ali Zardari spent more than a decade in Pakistani prisons on charges ranging from corruption to murder. Now, the widower of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto is running for president.
August 25, 2008 Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday pulled his party out of the ruling coalition. The main party in the coalition, the Pakistan People's Party, will have to scramble to hold the government together.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93942522/93938032" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
August 23, 2008 Asif Ali Zardari succeeded his late wife Benazir Bhutto as the head of the Pakistan Peoples Party. Now, he's in the running to become Pakistan's president, following the resignation of Pervez Musharraf.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93906348/93906325" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
August 19, 2008 Pakistan's outgoing President Pervez Musharraf was a close U.S. ally in the fight against al-Qaida. But critics say the Bush administration relied on him too much, and that he didn't do enough to rein in the Taliban. With Musharraf out, Pakistan is expected to concentrate on preventing extremism inside Pakistan rather than across the border.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93728793/93728774" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
August 19, 2008 Political leaders in Pakistan are looking for a new president. Pervez Musharraf stepped down Monday to avoid being impeached. The Bush administration — which saw Musharraf as an important ally — is watching the search for a replacement closely. On the streets of Pakistan's cities, though, reaction to his departure is mixed.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93728788/93728773" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
August 18, 2008 Pervez Musharraf's departure leaves the Bush administration without the man it once praised as an "indispensable" partner in the war against terrorism. Many analysts say it's time for the U.S. to adopt a Pakistan policy that's geared to the country and not to a single leader.
August 18, 2008 The Bush administration loses an ally in its war on terrorism. Musharraf's own future is unclear; after surviving repeated assassination attempts as president, he may now have to go into exile for his own safety.
August 18, 2008 Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, a close ally of the U.S. in a volatile region, resigned Monday in a televised address amid impeachment charges he had vowed to fight. His allies at home were fast fading away, and he was under pressure at home and abroad to quit.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93687326/93687288" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
August 18, 2008 Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf announced Monday that he is resigning rather than face impeachment. Musharraf dominated Pakistan for years after seizing power in a 1999 military coup. Pakistani journalist Fasi Zaka says Musharraf's allies had been largely mum on whether they'd support him in fighting impeachment.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93687298/93687278" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
August 14, 2008 Not long ago, visitors from far and wide flocked to the sumptuous Swat Valley in northwest Pakistan. But these days, Swat — once seen as the 'Switzerland of Asia' — stands on the front line of a conflict between the Taliban and the Pakistani government's security forces.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93591323/93606922" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
August 8, 2008 Pakistan's governing coalition says it is beginning proceedings to impeach President Pervez Musharraf. The move adds to pressure on Musharraf to resign, but there is no guarantee that the coalition can muster the votes needed for the impeachment to proceed.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93408959/93408934" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
July 28, 2008 President Bush has met with Pakistani Prime Minister Yusaf Raza Gilani. The two leaders' brief public remarks were cordial, but analysts say the private conversations most likely centered on the need for Pakistan to intensify the fight against extremists.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/93004035/93007651" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
June 18, 2008 Two months after the Pakistani government was installed, the euphoria has vanished. The political elite are still arguing and the people on the streets have seen little improvement in their lives or the departure of President Pervez Musharraf.
<iframe src="http://www.npr.org/player/embed/91658110/91661776" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no">
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Rainbow Day Care Centre is looking to expand our team. We are a friendly, professional centre who strive to always offer the very best of care for our children. We have a lovely homely atmosphere where all our children aged 6months to 12 years love spending time. We have expanded our 0-2 years section and are looking for another caring, read more
Childcare Practitioner


text: Lovely Selma and her two just as lovely female staff is worth a stay in this beautiful, little, cosy, friendly and well situated hotel! Very good service! We just stayed for three nights, and got a big suite, with two balconies. Nice to sit before going out for dinner. Also when we got back in the afternoons the ladies were... More


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Sunray Guest House - Backpackers
No prices found through our partners. Please contact the business directly or check some of our recommended alternatives.
TripAdvisor Reviews Sunray Guest House - Backpackers Cairns
Travel Blogs from Cairns
It has been a restful experience here in Mareeba with Bruce and Jeanette Marshall, friends from our days in Cairns in the 2000-2003 period. Jeanette works with MAF in parts and Bruce drives cane trucks to the mill. We were to get the two replacement tyres here on Thursday. They had to be ordered from Brisbane. I wasn't overly confident that it would work as stated so called Wednesday to find out if they were en route. The tyre person was quite terse when ...
Visiting the reef
... We then dropped the Irish girl at the bus station as she was leaving, did a food shop, grabbed some lunch then headed back to do a walk called the blue arrow walk. It was about 3 hours return with a nice view of cairns and the airport at the top. I obviously wasn't used to all the sun because I was exhausted again by the time we got back and got another early night.
On my third day I walked the length of the esplanade and round town a little more. I'd looked on gumtree and seen a ...
What do you call a sheep with no legs? A cloud..
... we had to move forward until the nice man in front decided to do it for me! I think he felt sorry for me with the crutches! They really are useful at airports!! He began to ask why I had them.. And normally I just give the "I had an operation" story, but today he got the real one. Usually people don't know what to say when you tell them but he was ultra interested! Every time he moved my bag forward (which was a lot.. It was a long queue!) I wanted to thank him but he politely asked me ...
Favourites & Travel Tips
... can power your way out of a tricky situation when you need to. And there will a few of those! The car that we found the most appropriate was the 3 cylinder petrol turbo Ford Fiesta we hired in Corsica.
Flights - On several occasions this trip our flights were delayed which caused us to miss or almost miss our connecting flights. Nobody likes the stress of thinking you are going to miss a flight and over the years we have gotten into the ...
Cairns to Meena Creek
... the rainforest and castle ruins told the story of a Spanish pastry chef, Jose Paronella, who dreamed of building a castle similar to what he had seen in his homeland. He built his fortune trading in sugar plantations and purchased the 13 acre site. Initially he built a cottage for his family and then started work on the castle which included a ballroom/theatre, a grand staircase down to refreshment rooms, tennis court and fountain. It had its ...
Other places to stay in Cairns
Gilligans Backpackers Hotel & Resort57-89 Grafton Street, Cairns | 4 star hostelfrom $40
Nomads Esplanade93 Esplanade, Cairns | 2 star hostelfrom $34
Calypso Inn Backpackers Resort5 - 9 Digger St, Cairns | Hostelfrom $37
Cairns City Backpackers274 Draper St, Cairns | Hostelfrom $31
Dreamtime Travellers Rest189 Bunda Street, Cairns | Hostelfrom $38
Caravella Backpackers149 Esplanade, Cairns | Hostelfrom $31
Castaway's Backpackers207 Sheridan St, Cairns | Hostelfrom $42
Njoy! Travellers Resort141 Sheridan St, Cairns | Hostelfrom $37
Bohemia Resort231 McLeod St, Cairns | 3 star hostelfrom $34
The Jack Backpackers48 Spence Street, Cairns | Hostelfrom $27
Asylum Cairns Backpacker Hostel149 Grafton St, Cairns | Hostelfrom $53
Cairns Girls Hostel147 Lake St , Cairns | Hostelfrom $39
Bohemia Central100 Sheridan St, Cairns | Hostelfrom $23
Cairns Central YHA Backpackers Hostel20 - 26 McLeod St, Cairns | Hostelfrom $22
Putahracsa Hua Hin22 / 65 Nahb Kaehat Road, Hua Hin | 5 star hotelfrom $28
Esplanade Beach Hostel89 The Esplanade, Cairns | Hostelfrom $30
Tropic Days Backpackers26 - 28 Bunting St, Cairns | Hostelfrom $20
The Northern Greenhouse117 Grafton Street, Cairns | Hostelfrom $47
JJ's Backpackers Hostel11 - 13 Charles Street, Cairns | Hostelfrom $35
Global Backpackers Central9b Shields Street, Cairns | Hostelfrom $26
Global Backpackers Waterfront67 The Esplanade, Cairns | Hostelfrom $28
Lazy Duck Hostel136 Grafton Street, Cairns | Hostelfrom $23
Gecko's Backpackers187 Bunda St., Cairns | Hostelfrom $37
Nomads Cairns Backpackers And Serpent Bar341 Lake St, Cairns | 2 star hostelfrom $35
Ryan's Rest18 Terminus St , Cairns | Hostelfrom $54


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La Quinta Inn & Suites Kingwood
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How has this hotel rated in the past?
- Continental Breakfast
- Swimming pool
- Free High-Speed Internet
- Business Services
- Fitness/Health center
- Wheelchair accessibility
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TripAdvisor Reviews La Quinta Inn & Suites Kingwood
Travel Blogs from Kingwood
The Countdown is On! 3 days!
... capital, Reykjavik, on Thursday. Goodness! These Northern European words are going to be the death of me! We start our journey home at midnight (GMT) on Thursday (8/13) via Berlin and Newark arriving Houston IAH on Friday at 4:50pm CDT. Unfortunately, the weather is not looking too rosy over there. Copenhagen will be the warmest with highs in the mid 70s and lows around ...
Chabelo is freed
... sentenced to a lengthy term in prison. That trial and sentence was annulled by the Supreme Court that highlighted gross irregularities in the trial process. But Chabelo was not released from jail, instead he was held illegally and in early 2014 was tried for a second time where the same main witnesses for the state changed their testimony from the first trial and without due process for the defense Chabelo was again sentenced to a lengthy term in ...
To Blog or Not To Blog?
After reading some friends' travel blog of their honeymoon trip and dining experiences on an app called TravelPod, I think I'm gonna give it a try. Why not? Electronic or paper? Why not both! I recently received a lovely Travel Journal from a friend that I just love, so my plans for this upcoming trip are to document ...
Our Thursday
... it's bring a bear day. While I was packing up her backpack I noticed that dani had packed her underwear in it. Luckily I caught it before she pulled underwear out infront of the whole class, that poor child is never going to be cool with Dani as a sister lol. Ok tomorrows another day and we are heading down town with papa dud, adventures to be had! Lots of love ...
Happenings in Houston
... on picture day. Hopfully it won't show in the picture. She did great at gymnastics this week, she sucks alot less every time lol! Today I found her doing pushups in the living room, she loves it and wants to get better. Josh's boss want's to do an annual meeting to discuss his job, he has been getting a lot of notice for his hard work and we are hoping he will be getting a raise. I hope that happens! I made maddies jello and put it in little ...