Graphic Novel Review: American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang - Page 2 - Books - Blogcritics

Graphic Novel Review: American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang - Page 2 - Books - Blogcritics

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I post this review because this is one of the best books (graphic novel or not) I've read recently in a long time. Unfortunately, I'm still processing what this book says and means so I have attached this review link because the author echoes many of the same sentiments I share. It goes without saying everyone should pick it up but I'll say it anyways: READ IT. And after you're done, tell me what you thought of it. I'm such a dork and would love to have a discussion about this!!

GET UP, GET INSPIRED, GET INSPIRACY!!

Inspiracy Arts is one of the newer arts organization making a name for itself in the Central Valley. Based in Modesto, Inspiracy is dedicated to promoting, producing, and showcasing new theatre works by local playwrights. The wonderful thing about this organization is that many of its founders and board members are young people of all stripes and colors. However, don't be fooled; the myriad of actors, directors, and writers are not new to the craft by any means. Born out of former groups like Drama Ink and The Performaholics (both established at Modesto Junior College), Inspiracy Arts is the fully realized effort of precocious youngsters trying to do what they love real and, in the process, make the Central Valley a much cooler place to live.


Staging periodical events such as 24 Playfest, Inspiracy Arts is embarking upon their first theatre tour entitled: The Central Valley Playwrights Festival Caution: Hi-Jinx Ensues! This production will span three cities across the CV throughout a month's time. Previewing various pieces of the five comedies featured at local events and fundraisers, the tour officially kicks off this week at Modesto Junior College Recital Hall in Modesto. The show starts at 7pm and tickets are $12 at the door ($10 pre-sale/students/seniors). Below are a few links you can find out more about them:

Insipracy Arts' website, Facebook, and Myspace.

I finally found a reason....

Hello all! I can't believe it's been almost three months since my last entry. And I was doing so good keeping consistent, but alas, I fell off the wagon and deprived everyone of any great recommendations that only my unique perspective could offer. (Please, hold all outbursts of laughter until after you've finished reading.) A big reason for the lack of posts is due to the fact I've been so unsure as to exactly what I want to do with this blog. To be honest, I thought it would be me giving witty, insightful commentary on the world around me. However, I stumbled upon a big problem with that: I realized quickly I'm not one to share the trivialities of my life. Much of life can be so personal to me and I'm unable to nonchalantly post the stuff that both angers and makes me happy without going into too much detail and/or getting righteous. (It seems I have communication issues and this is something that surprises me--Mr. Just Won't Shut The Fuck UP--even as I'm typing these words.) Then, my second attempt was at something based on all things artistic that I like. But here again I ran into a problem: I lose focus so easily when I harp only on my pretentious, too-good-for-you taste. (But don't be deceived: my taste is superior, and this is something that I will steadfastly uphold even if I am wrong in so many ways--which I'm not usually.) So with some ample time and distance from the blog, I have finally decided what the hell I'm going to do with it. (Again, refrain from laughing until I'm finished.) I have been immersing myself heavily into the local arts scene here in the CV and I've realized quickly there's not much attention being paid to it. This is a shame! The reason most people feel the CV is an uncultured abyss full of farms and hicks is that most local events/organizations/artists are not given an ounce of attention outside the local newspaper. Ur, I think not!! So I'm looking to correct this slight conflagration by doing my part and using my blog for spotlighting the vast amount of arts' activity in the CV. (It's here everyone. And it's exciting stuff!!) I def won't abstain from interesting and awesome stuff from pop culture that I want to talk about, but def more focused on the local arts scene. Thanks everyone still reading this blog occasionally. I hope that you'll find it worth the visit next time you click on!

RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS: Empire of the Sun "Walking On A Dream" (Jimmy2sox remix)

The week is here upon us again, and by now, we are well on our way into the thick of it. So I figure why not some great music to enjoy along the way. I've heard this song by Empire of the Sun for a couple of months now and I, frankly, did not think much of it at first. They look like characters out of a cheesy 80s' flick and remind me of another joke-band, like The Darkness. But that's always not a bad thing. Slowly this song has won me over and I've become a fan. Then comes along Jimmy2sox and I'm in love, playing this song non-stop for the last five days. Both the band and the remixer are from the land down under and I'm beginning to believe Australia has more going for it than kangaroos and Hugh Jackman. Don't believe me? The horn loop alone is worth the listen.

RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS: Miami Horror "Don't Be On With Her"

Miami Horror is an Australian dance outfit intent on keeping the 80s revival going. And with songs as deliciously catchy as "Don't Be On With Her," fuck yeah!! This song aims to bring out only the best elements of 80s dance/synth music. Indeed many of the vocal effects remind me of the great freestyle classics of Lisa Lisa and Debbie Deb. However, what's remarkable about this track is that even amongst the many nods to era of big synths and obnoxious guitar solos (and this song has plenty of them) this song feels current and so appopriate at any real dance party happening today. Solid gold! And to prove it, check out the vid below. It's 80's fabulous. Enjoy!!

Popcorn Talk: Who's up for some good films???

So I've seen what all the hub-bub is about and I'm not disappointed. I finally saw The Wrestler today and I was left chocked up and emotionally stirred. Really, the last ten minutes of the movie is the shit. I know most of you have heard about what the film is about so I won't bore you, but talk about tragic. And Mickey Rourke's performance is every bit as powerful as you would expect with stakes this incredibly high. I'm impressed and I definitely recommend it to all who are still hesitant to watch it. GO SEE IT!!!!





Now Milk. This was the movie that I have been dying to see all winter. I can not tell you how much I have been wanting to it. Srsly. Like for real. For some reason, this movie has come to represent so much more to me than just a film. It's become a symbol of equality and hope. Real powerful stuff, like the man himself: Harvey Milk. Every group has their leaders and Harvey is ours. And the film has attained a higher significance because of the passage of Prop 8. I have never felt so indifferent and hurt aboud politics as I did the day after last November's historic elections. Every gay person I know was numb, angry, and disgusted that we can still live in a society that will openly legislate such discrimination. It was hurtful.

What I love the most about Milk is how the film is more than just Harvey Milk. It's about the difficult struggle for equality that gay men and women have been fighting for several decades in the face of fear and blind hatred. The story of Harvey's rise in San Francisco's political landscape is not about the ambition of one man, but the ambition of a whole group of people determined to have their voices heard. There's a unity behind that and I'm lucky to know what that unity means. It's no surprise that the first openly gay supervisor was elected in San Francisco. There's something special about the City, and I can attest to that magic. Anybody who really loves San Francisco understands what that magic is. And Milk does a great job capturing that which makes Harvey (and San Francisco) unique.

I'm Back!!!

Yes, everyone. I'm announcing officially my return to the blogosphere. WTF? you may be saying to yourself because a month and a half is not really a long time to be away, but it is. I started this whole blog business because I felt like I had SOOO much to say. And I do. But I'm not posting any of it anywhere. What is that about? I plan to renew my commitment to the Boomerang and indulge my readers (all two of you) with my insightful ruminations and witty banter. (Please agree with that!) So thanks for reading this (again, all two, maybe one, of you).

Eating in Eden Poster!

So Towela Sichinga has finally finished editing the short film I wrote last fall and here's the poster for it. Eating in Eden is the name of it and Towie directed and produced it. Actually, she did so much more, which is why I'm so proud of her and cannot wait for the film's official screening this Friday in the Lower Mission in San Francisco. There was a lot of hard work put into the making of this film and I'm already proud to say I was a part of this project. And to kick off the love fest for myself notice the bottom of the poster aknowledging me as the writer of the film (CAN YOU SEE IT????). Awesome!!! As for the future plans of the film, Towie is hoping to put the movie into the film festival circuit sometime this year. I will keep you guys updated about that. Until then, tell me what you guys think of the poster--I do believe it is still in the revision stages. Thanks y'all!!

TOP SONGS OF THE YEAR: 40-31

40. Pink "Who Knew"

If you haven't already figured out by looking at this list, I like pop music. And this year, I mean POP music. Personally, I blame Movement 97--a relatively new Bay Area station that plays a variety of songs mostly of the pop and dance persuasion--and that's ok. I happily turned on that dial day in and day out over the course of the year because the music was fun and lighthearted, and considering the pressure and stress I was under from school, my three jobs, an internship, and those pesky things called BILLS I eagerly indulged. Enter this Pink track. It's a perfect over the top, tear-falling-down-the-cheek song without being OMFG. Lyrically, the song is effective because it's unassuming, and I heart that earworm of a guitar line opening the track, instantly establishing the gravity of what's to come. However, in the end it's all about Pink's vocal chops leading the sing-along chorus with the conflicted fervor of a shell-shocked lover who has both a broken heart and a unrealistic tinge of hope. Awe...tear.

Video: Pink "Who Knew"


39. Roisin Murphy "Overpowered"

Someone needs to tell Roisin Murphy that her combination of funky electro, retro 80's synths, clever wordplay, and distinct voice fucking rock! (I guess I will: Srsly, Roisin. You do.) Most people will know her from her percussive-heavy, tribal days with Moloko, however, I personally became a fan of Roisin because of her first album, Ruby Blue. She has the ability to take genuinely interesting rhythms and musically layer them with electronic hiccups and groovy horns to become odd pop songs (check out 2005's extraordinary "If We're In Love"). "Overpowered" carries on in that same vein but this time there is no hesitation about its desire to shake your arse. And shake it does. For that let me say it again: Roisin, you fucking rock, girl! Srsly. I mean it.


Video: Roisin Murphy "Overpowered"


38. Ida Corr vs. Fedde Le Grand "Let Me Think About It"

If the beat from this delicious disco gem doesn't have you moving after the second listen then you are devoid of all rhythmic pleasure as we know it. Say it's too frenetic: you're right. Say it's too dance-y: right again. Say it's too gay: um, well...duh! But say it's not awesome: then you're absolutely, positively, most embarrassingly WRONG. "Let Me Think About It" revs up both the queens at Badlands and the hip-hop junkies at 98.3 KWIN. This song knows no boundaries. And nor should it. So make like my girls both in the Stro and in the impressive video and shimmy on down to the dance floor (or your living room carpet) and RRAAAHHHH!



Video: Ida Corr vs Fedde Le Grand "Let Me Think About It"



37. Friend "Secret"

I thank Pitchfork for this one. Their Forklist always has some interesting cuts that are either questionable or on point. Fortunately, they were right on with this one. Opening with a sample from one of my favorite songs of the year (Air France's "Collapsing On Your Doorstep"--a song whose most memorable moments are, ironically, snippets from birds, TV shows and little kids' voices) the track builds on a myriad of manipulated vocal excerpts before erupting into a hot Saturday night at Paradise Garage: blaring horns, writhing bass lines and all. Yeah, this song is that awesome. And it won't be before long that we'll all be grooving to the funky insanity that is Friend. Trust.

Myspace: Friend



36. Sean Kingston "Take You There"

Let me preface this blurb by saying I was not a fan at all of "Beautiful Girls"--that song is weak sauce, but it's catchy as hell. And so is this song. Although this track tows the line between juvenile hyperbole and faux-Miami Vice danger, it's youthful exuberance and manic enthusiasm is instantly endearing and addictive. Dare I say gay, too? Lets just say the infectious chorus has the ability to make some boys skip arm in arm all the way to the bars in the Stro from Doloros Park on Easter with tote bags and tight cardigans. Yep, I wish everyone can spend the holy day with a little Sean Kingston on their minds.



Video: Sean Kingston "Take You There"



35. Santogold "Shove It" (Switch Remix)

I have mixed opinions about Santogold. By now I've heard her obligatory backstory as a long-time industry vet finally coming into her own, hence, two albums chocked with either indie-leaning guitars akin to those worshiped and adored at Spin, or beat mash-ups with producer/DJ wunderkin Diplo. Hmm...sounds like the artistic beginnings of another beloved female extraordinaire.... In fact, I can't help but feel that Santi is just a second-hand MIA, but that would be unfair. And to be honest, some of her music warrants more than one listen, including this song remixed by MIA collaborator and pal, Switch. The reggae-like beat is hypnotic and the flow is potent and defiant. Santogold may not be MIA, but if this song is any indication, she might live up to the talent the press seems to believe she has.



Video: Santogold "Shove It" (Switch Remix)



34. Vega "All Too Vivid"

Dude, I've died and gone to 80s heaven. For real. But this song is way more than an 80s throwback I can assure you. I don't know who or what Vega is all about but this song fucking rocks! Like srsly. Built on a synth-heavy structure--not to mention a super rad lead guitar solo--the track takes one immediately through a flashback of all things 80s and cheesy (including the awesome video that feels like Xanadu for BMX owners). However, this song has more lasting merit than say an episode of Charles in Charge. Like the best house anthems today, "All Too Vivid" is big and bombastic, setting ablaze the dance floor with a beat that yearns to crush you while making you dance your ass off at the same time. Love it! Especially when that lead guitar screams its way onto the track. 80s heaven, man, I'm telling ya.



Video: Vega "All Too Vivid"



33. Arthur Russell "Habit Of You"

There's something special about Arthur Russell's music that I can not articulate very well. Heck, I might not even really know what it is exactly but I feel it so I know it's there. My first introduction to Russell was two years ago on Almostcool.org. The words for Russell were beyond kind--they exalted the man, and rightly so. Russell reminds me of the same genius that's slow to grasp as Nick Drake. Like Drake's work, his music may not sound much at first listen, but that's really our inability as the listener to fully appreciate the simple beauty these talented individuals are creating. "Habit Of You" is a simple song about the complexities of falling in love, and Russell nails it exactly. The exuberant 70s AM piano feels like rays of sun splashing down one at a time until the unhealthy obsession develops and that person becomes just as vital to one's survival as air. Sick maybe, but Russell understands it's part of the territory concerning the heart, and as frustrating as that is sometimes the best thing to do is to just give in and roll with the insanity that ensues.



Myspace: Arthur Russell



32. Mary J. Blige "Just Fine"

Finally, Mary--you done gone made a classic dance joint! And this shit bounces! For real. No sadness. No whining. No anger. Just pure and shameless fun. Every time this song came on in the clubs everybody recognized and shook a little, if only to pay respect to Miss Mary and her utter fabulousness at staying in the game this long and producing this stunner of a dance song. Much love and respect, Mary--I'm still shaking my little booty!




Video: Mary J. Blige "Just Fine"


31. Patrick Wolf "The Magic Position"

Mr. Wolf is an unusual man who makes unusual music. (I just wanna put that out there now.) But Mr. Wolf is also very talented and this song proves it. The track reminds me of another song on this countdown by Of Montreal, but that's not to say these two tracks are by any means reproductions of each other. That is simply not the case. "The Magic Position" has all the ingredients of an awesome song: exuberant children yelling, sweeping violins, dizzying keyboards climbing the walls, and, of course, a chorus everyone can sing along to. Jubilant tracks like these are not created everyday and it's unbelievable to me now how much I did not like this track when I first heard it. (Crazy, I know.) But after a few more listens it becomes undeniable and I am swept in Wolf's desire to put me in 'the magic position.' Brilliant stuff!!!



Video: Patrick Wolf "The Magic Position"