#(btw not saying it’s the same subject. lol it’s not. just same energy. the songs are besties. petty scathing besties)

[an-ivy-covered-summer]

now that we don’t talk 🤝 i bet you think about me

sorry, i don’t make the rules. it is what it is.

[asexual-spongebob]

new pinned post! Cuz it’s the one year anniversary of this blog! :D

Ahoy!!! My names kitty!! But u can also call me kit!

I’m a minor, I’m not going to state my exact age but just know that I’m old enough to use this website lmao. And that I’m a teenager. I may make mistakes.

my pronouns r she/they/it/mew + neos !

Wail Of The Siren AU master post!

this playlist has my fav songs and artists!! (NOTE: I do not support the actions of every artist on this playlist!

Other Information:

I have a tendency to cuss a lot in my posts, feel free to ask me to tag it! I also block people freely.

I ship ZaDr and TaGr, and other human/irken pairings. However I am NOT pr0sh1p. I view Zim, Tak, Skoodge, Tenn etc as kids and I view them as the same age (or close in age in Gaz’s case) as Dib, Gaz, Keef etc.

If that makes you uncomfortable, please just block me and leave. I do not have the time nor energy to engage in ship discourse for a show that’s over 20 years old. Do not send me anon asks trying to debate with me, because I will just block you and delete your ask. Thank you.

Also, like I said, I view the irken invaders as kids. Please do not say suggestive things about them on my posts.

Sometimes I post art or writing with more darker subjects such as mental health issues. I just figured I’d through that out there, however I do try my best to tag those things. oh and I’m also alt (scene, emo, goth and grunge.) and have a love for alt culture and fashion! (which is something I’ve been trying to get into have been learning more about.) :) I love making my own stuff, it’s very fun :)

Tags I use

# kitty giggles - general talking tag

# kitty answers - ask tag

# kittyz scribblez - art tag

# wail of the siren au - tag for my invader zim au

# wots: next gen - tag for the next gen portion of wail of the siren. # wots irl saga - photos of my siren dib plush and other iz plushies I’ve made!! :3

# invader tak au - tag for my other iz au.

DNI (link is 2 my straw page!)

and also:

Please Dni if you hate zadr with a burning passion . (Not liking it / disliking ZaDr is fine btw. Just please be nice about it.)

but if you constantly make posts about how much you hate it, harass its shippers, talk about how you want to do violent things to zadr shippers, or if you believe that all zadr shippers are nasty people, do not follow me. I will block you on sight if you do so.

i have adhd and anxiety. I also I have trouble figuring out tone in text so sorry if I misinterpret something! tone tags are very much appreciated! please use them!

I am an artist and fanfic author, I’ve written fanfiction and drawn fanart for a variety of fandoms, mainly kids shows tho.

if someone named @/kittysboba follows u thatz me lol! that’s just my main.

I made the Blinkies in this post using Blinkies.Cafe (expect for the invader zim blinkie, which I found on gif cities!)

I also made the stamps as well :)

I’m also a multishipper (which means I ship the same character with multiple different characters). When it comes to most characters or fandoms. I tend to like most ships as long as they aren’t illegal.

Fandoms:

Currently I’m most active in the Invader Zim fandom (specifically the ZaDr and TaGr side of it) and maybe Gravity Falls as well? but I also like Strawberry Shortcake (2003) SpongeBob SquarePants, Jimmy Neutron, Fairly Odd Parents, The amazing world of Gumball, Danny Phantom, Ed, Edd, ‘n Eddy, Over The Garden Wall, Angry Beavers, and Ruby Gloom.

I used to be apart of the Octonauts fandom but I left due to lack of interest and personal reasons. This is no longer an Octonauts blog. I might come back to the fandom someday, but for now I think it’s best that I stay away from it for a while.

I used to be in the H2O: JAW fandom a while ago but I’m not in it anymore.

Im kittysboba or asexual_spongebob on pretty much everything! (I’m K1ttysb0ba on da tho).

Thanks for reading! Enjoy ur stay! :3

(ZaDr kiss gif is by MKLier on Deviant Art)

[soundsof71]

So, considering you are a passionate fan of music released in 1971, I feel justifiably obligated to ask you what you think of Buffy Sainte-Marie's 'She Used to Wanna Be a Ballerina' album. 😂 (Also, it would make me beyond happy if you could post more about Buffy, my friend! Thank you! ❣)

Buffy Sainte-Marie + Crazy Horse - what’s not to love? LOL I confess that it was the Crazy Horse connection that caught my attention first. I had a general idea who Buffy was, had seen her on TV a few times, but I was a big Crazy Horse fan. News that they were her backing band for this album was easily enough for me to scoop it up.

They weren’t doing anything much with Neil Young in 1971 (other than this album, on which Neil also appeared!), but they had released a tasty solo album in February 71, produced by Jack Nitzsche (who also produced this, and would later marry Buffy), and featuring Ry Cooder (also featured here, although did not marry Buffy). 

(btw, the first place that Buffy, Ry, and Jack worked together was on the Nic Roeg film Performance, starring Mick Jagger. People obviously remember Mick in that, but musically, Buffy was the best part!) 

She Used To Wanna... also features Jesse Ed Davis, a Native American guitarist and singer who was a frequent “usual suspect” at these sort of “sure, invite everyone!” jam albums of the era, and played a prominent role at 1971′s biggest concert (at least in the US), The Concert for Bangladesh on August 1.

(I know you know  RUMBLE: The Indians Who Rocked The World, the documentary about indigenous music’s influence on rock and roll, which has chapters on both Buffy and Jesse Ed. I just watched it again recently, and love it! A reminder of Buffy’s pivotal role in classic rock history. Not mentioned in the film: she relentlessly championed the work of her fellow Canadians Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen, helping them get their first record deals.)

I haven’t listened to She Used To Wanna Be A Ballerina for a while, so I definitely need to do that, along with posting more pictures of Buffy.  (I can’t believe I’ve only posted two!) 

But I’ll tell you what still stands out to me about that record years later. “Smack Water Jack” is an underrated track from Carole King’s Tapestry that got a ton of airplay at the time. Quincy Jones did an instrumental cover as the title track for his terrific 1971 album, too, but it has somehow faded to obscurity since then. Buffy takes a playful trifle, and turns it into a powerful fable of men of color who explode into violence in response to the violence visited upon them, and self-satisfaction of whites in authority who answer their demands for better living conditions by killing them on the spot. 

No need for a trial when you can murder them in the streets, right? “You can't talk to a man when he don't wanna understand / And he don't wanna understand” hits different when Buffy sings it, and in 2020 for that matter. 

It’s also just a terrific performance whose combination of soul and rock and roll and driving piano in a sort of Old West-sounding context would have made this sound right at home on a record like Elton John’s Tumbleweed Connection  or something by The Band. I’m limited to five video embeds per post so I can’t embed it here, so I'm linking instead: anyone who hasn’t heard this definitely needs to.

Her cover of Neil’s CSNY track “Helpless” has things I like even better than Neil’s original, including Merry Clayton standing in for CSN. Buffy’s version is more muscular (thanks again to Crazy Horse), and taps even more deeply into the isolation of the song that the star power of CSNY somewhat obscured. 

Buffy’s version also made a brief but memorable appearance in the 2018 film Hotel Artemis, starring Jodie Foster. A weird little movie that I loved maybe more than it deserved LOL but I recommend nonetheless:

I know that this album gets attention because of the unusual number of covers, including one by Leonard Cohen, and a cover of a cover that Leonard had made famous on top of that, called "Song of the French Partisan” (hers is the far superior version imo, a song of French resistance to Nazi occupation from the perspective of a woman hiding a resister), but there are a couple of standout originals too. 

I love the title of this record, and the title track is a delightful little stomper that playfully cautions against equating the intentions of grown women with the childhood fantasies they’ve grown out of. More Merry Clayton goodness here on backing vocals too. 

“Soldier Blue” is a powerful song first written for the 1970 film of the same name, billed at the time as “The most savage film in history” -- and maybe it was. It used the 1864 Sand Creek Massacre as a metaphor for Vietnam, and it's still shockingly brutal. It was the third-highest grossing movie in the UK in 1971, though, and the single became a top-10 hit for Buffy there. 

It didn’t do as well here, either the song or the movie. Perhaps not shockingly in retrospect, Soldier Blue was pulled from American theaters after a few days, the Vietnam metaphor not at all lost on the Nixon administration. 

As horrifying as it was, this is about when I was reading Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee (first published in 1970), and Soldier Blue resonated with me in a whole lot of ways. Here’s the song in the opening credits of the movie.

I was also really struck by “Moratorium”, which is the story of “Universal Soldier” (from her 1963 debut, but a bigger hit for Donovan in 1965), coming from the opposite direction. In the earlier song, she blamed war on the soldiers who think that fighting is honorable, but here, she has empathizes with the young men, boys really in many cases, who’ve been lied to by their countries, their parents, and even their friends. They’re not vainglorious. They’ve been duped by people they trusted. 

(I don't think she takes enough into account how many men sign up to fight because they want to embrace and celebrate their worst, most violent impulses, which was of course an undercurrent of “Universal Soldier”, but I appreciate her empathy here. More than one thing is true at a time.)

Buffy goes even farther, though, calling on soldiers to support and validate demands for peace as explicitly supporting them, summed up in the unforgettable cry, "Fuck the war and bring our brothers home!" 

1971 was the peak of antiwar demonstrations in the US, with the biggest crowds ever seen in this country until the 2017 Women’s March. The May 1971 demonstrations pretty much shut down Washington, culminating with Vietnam Veterans Against The War throwing back their medals on the steps of the US Capitol, incredibly powerful stuff to see on TV in my formative years, and Buffy was right there in it. Anti-war songs were a cottage industry for sure, but nobody was writing with the nuance and empathy that Buffy was.

Here’s a 1972 performance of “Moratorium”, Buffy and a piano, and more emotionally bare than that:

There’s obviously lots more to say about Buffy, far outside the realm of protest music that was actually just a small part of her musical palette -- her pioneering experiments with electronic music, her educational philanthropy starting in her 20s, Sesame Street, you name it. Her commercial peak was still in front of her, and while I can’t say that this is my favorite of her records, it does have some of my favorite songs of hers, and 1971 and She Used to Wanna Be A Ballerina is definitely where I went from knowing who Buffy Sainte-Marie was to being a fan. 

I'll also note as I do now and again that while this blog started as an offshoot of a book on 1971 that I’d started but abandoned, I mostly listen to music released now. That’s always been my policy, including in 1971. When 1972 rolled up, I was mostly listening to music from 1972, music from ‘80 in ‘80, ‘91 in ‘91, 2018 in 2018, etc., to name just a few other favorites. (Plus The Beatles, okay? LOL I still listen to The Beatles every day. No apologies.) Honestly? It took me until 2011, in my fifties, when a whole bunch of 40th anniversary editions of 1971 albums got released all at once that made me think, “Wait a minute, this was maybe THE pivotal year in classic rock history!” 

So yeah, the historian in me dug into 1971, but even though I happened to be alive and enthralled by music in that year, what I’m doing here has nothing to do with nostalgia, or any idea that that was the *best* year in music, even if for the narrow slice of music that is classic rock, yeah, it absolutely is. For soul/R&B too, and for the explosion of women artists outside the even narrower confines of pop as well. This is not subject to debate. No year like it, before or since. It's just that classic rock is a such a narrow slice, and I like my slices wide. LOL Which is also why my blog has less and less 1971 content as I go along. 

While my general policy is that my favorite year for music is THIS year, this particular year hasn’t left me as much energy as usual for listening to music. Some of it is These Trying Times™, some of it is my bipolarity and schizophrenia getting the better of me in waves, as is the way with these, uhm, things. (Keep taking those meds, kids!) I listen to music and post about the people making it as a creative act, not a passive or reflexive one, and I just haven’t felt as creative as usual.

(This is also has everything to do with why so many Asks have been piling up unanswered. I apologize if you’re one of the many kind and indulgent souls who’s gotten in touch, but I swear I’m gonna get to ‘em all!)

To get an idea of what I’m ACTUALLY passionate about right now, my “to be edited later” running list of 2020 favorites randomly added to a playlist as I encounter them, to be properly curated later, is at Spotify, cleverly entitled “2020″ -- 94% women, which is about right. LOL 

But since I do in fact listen to old stuff (by which I mean 2019 LOL), I made a list of mostly 2020 bangers from women rockers with some tasty treats from 2019 that I haven’t been able to let go of just yet, inspired by a post I saw at tumblr saying that punk music by women is just plain better (also beyond debate), called “Women Bangers: A Tumblr New Classics Jam”. I’ll be posting an essay with a YouTube playlist soon, because god forbid that I only talk briefly about anything LOL and most of these women need to be heard AND seen.

Like Buffy Sainte-Marie, whom you'll both see and hear more often on my blog soon. Thanks for the reminder! Always a pleasure to hear from you and be challenged by you. :-)

Peace, Tim 

[jeongahn]

✨ HEHE HELLO MY SUN! 95hua is my gfx and 17joshua is my gif portfolio blogs - Bea 💓

(Don’t) Creator’s send me a  ✨ + your creations tag and I’ll talk about some of your pieces I love! Bea’s creations (gfx) and her gifs and her blog @joshuahong (I still want to tag joshsua, it’s been literal YEARS)

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - How do I make this short. Bea. I truly love your work so much, that when I tried to go through your archive from 2015 and onward - all my brain did was “oh that’s a fave. no wait that’s a fave. that one too. OH but THIS ONE-”. I’m not exaggerating. Every single piece. So to keep this condensed, I’m only going to talk about the pieces that gave me the visceral “!!!” because I remember how floored I was at the piece. Just know that EVERY piece you’ve done gives me that reaction. So this ask? This ask is now my own personal hell because I don’t know how to choose 3-5 pieces that I love more than the other. But I will try. This is more of a “walk down memory lane,” - in which I recall how much the piece amazed me at the time it was posted. This might seem long but let me tell you - this is as condensed as I could possibly make it. Like I am pulling my own teeth trying to mention just a FEW of these pieces that I really love. I need a drink. GOD this is obnoxiously long I don’t know what to do.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

2015

(1) (2) (3)These graphics are so heavily ingrained in my mind that I’m now realizing how much this inspired some of my graphics I did years later. Like??? It set the tone for what I value in a piece of work LOL. And when I look back at my own work now - I can see how much of these “lessons” I incorporated.

For (1) in particular, I adored the bleeding effect on the surrounding gifs! And how each panel bled into one another through those wisps.

 In (2) the COLORS just had me squirming like a delighted little sausage. It fit Seventeen’s image at the time so well. It was youthful, colorful, fresh. Everything that Akkinda was at that time. I LOVED the sparkles and the fucking TREE. Ugh that was truly one of the best graphics I saw at the time. 

In (3) - the way you oriented the text was amazing. It was a lot of text but the way you spaced it out and added these visual breaks made it so easy to digest. Like one panel is text heavy. Then another panel is image heavy with a bit of text.Then there’s a gif panel with more text but also spaced out with more image. The balance is fucking incredible Bea. And literally - that’s how my own mind is programmed to make gfx now so it’s nuts seeing that it might have been influenced by your own methods I viewed over the years. LORD, I should call you professor?

2016

Very few things I never heal from. This manipulation of Jeonghan and Joshua from the Chocolate MV? Is one of them. The Chocolate MV in general? Is another. But okay I recall how I gasped because of how GOOD this was. It’s still hitting me. Your brain is so sexy Bea. Also, I’m bummed we never got Mint Jeonghan. But like, who cares? Bea edited a mint Jeonghan and that’s all I’ll ever need. I would literally frame this LOL. Like I’m half considering slapping it onto my corkboard just so I can look at it often.

I would literally pick every single piece from 2016 but I think JiHan was my most favorite and I can’t tell if that’s the bias in me that’s making these decisions. 

2017

This is the coolest shit I’ve ever seen lmfao. I wish I had something more flourished to say but I remember thinking how fucking genius you were for highlighting the teaser like this. Since it was so scenic. And rather than making a hardcore gfx out of it - you just enhanced the vibe with text, coloring, and a bit of texture. You also did this same concept with Jeonghan and it just...oof it was so perfect. 

And then later on, when all the teasers were released - THIS stunning piece of work was done. I was SO impressed by the way you did the gifs with that cross effect. It’s not easy showing 13 pieces of anything. But you did THAT. And ALSO used the images of the teasers, you’re a MAD MAN BEA. A GENIUS. I’m still so shocked by how well done is this.

And you know what this talented fuck did WITH THE ACTUAL MV? You’re not going to fucking believe this. You’re really not. Why am I suddenly so angry. Just look at THIS and you’ll understand full well, why I am SCREAMING. I’ve NEVER seen anything done like this at the time it was posted. Like Bea REALLY set the fucking tone with this gfx. To this day I can’t think of a single gfx that captures an MV THIS WELL. UGH it’s BRILLIANT. If I HAD to pick a favorite - like you threatened to burn my pumpkin patch - I would choose this one. But because I’m not being threatened I’m now making this LONG ASS POST on WHY I LOVE BEA’S WORK SO MUCH-

I recently watched InuYasha in all of it’s entirity because I thought of this gfx a while back lmfao. Jeonghan as Sesshomaru and Joshua as a half demon? Satiates something inside of me. Anyways. The tones used here always get me. The soft beiges and purples at so NICE. I think I mentioned it reminded of buying lavenders out of burlap bags in romantic market places LOL. But the vibe still fits. The movie poster vibe is something you didn’t do often back then so it was cool seeing you try out a different style! The way top right and bottom left are correlated is something that flew right over my head back then. But now? I’m eating this shit up. It’s delicious. 

Shout out to the “Story of the Moon” series Bea did with Meanie, in which she insp credited herself. Is that not, the biggest flex? I love all your star crossed lovers concepts. Bea loves to: yearn. OH btw, here’s the actual Story of the Moon. It’s so sweet. Probably not the original but SO pretty either way. I think this might be the original. Re: Bea loves to learn.

I swear I’m done with 2017 but I gotta mention part 2 of Demon!JiHan. I never realized how much I loved this series of gfx. Bea. This is GOOD shit.

2018

This is GREAT. One thing I loved about YMMD concept was how the gradient reflected on the concept of day to night. So I adored how Bea did this! It was a clever way to utilize 13 images since the aspect of day and night happen in 12hr cycles. 

Just know anything Bea does of JiHan is most likely going to be some GREAT work because of the way a storyline is involved in it. I remember you talking to me about this concept so seeing it come into fruition was pretty fucking cool. Again. Bea loves to yearn. The colors reminded me of the 2015 piece I adored so much.

She did it again with the flawless approach on Demon!Jihan. It’s like year by year it becomes more and more sexy. I LOVE this. The editing on this is more “today Bea”. It’s got such a nice use of shadow and saturation. I remember those images were so hard for me to edit because of the shadow so I didn’t edit them LOL. But nothing stop’s Bea’s expertise. The red tones really get me. I love how this series went from soft burlap bag of lavender to reddish hues. It feels aggressive and I LOVE that.

This is probably the best birthday graphic that ever exists. Again Bea was so clever with how she displayed a lot of images from Joshua’s ENTIRE career. Along with text. Not just eras. Not just songs. But Joshua as a person as well. Whenever I see this I feel so fond. You can smell the love radiating off of this gfx. Joshua would be SO honored.

2019

This is so pretty. Like it reminds me of salwar kameez lmfao. I remember this fondly. It’s like they’re what is inside of a string light. Not light bulbs. It’s Seventeen’s Vocal Unit.

Shout out to this graphic that is reposted literally everywhere. Bea you unlocked every Carat’s deep want: Tatted!Seventeen. Your talent with manipulations is unreal. The tattoo series and Cyber/ Humanoid series really showcase that. Another shoutout to how Bea inspired that one set of teasers with the pressed flower freckles. I want this in a resin dish. Who on Etsy will do this for me-

(1) (2). The dichotomy of these 2 graphics still get me. In (1) there’s this warm and luxurious vibe. Then in (2) it’s the same luxurious vibe, but creepier than the previous because of the icy feel. It’s so neat. Both are SO beautifully done. I love the shimmer tears on Joshua in (1) and the icy sparkles on Vernon in (2). 

2020

I REALLY love this set. The BUTTERFLIES are you KIDDING ME??? I love them. I’m so glad you incorporated them. I love how you subject edit. The way you create glow on the face is so nice. It literally reminds me of using “How Many Carats?!?!!” on the face. Which is SO fitting lmfao. On this work it’s a bit more... “soft glow” but I had to mention it. Joshua with the monarch butterflies makes my heart warm. I dunno if Monarchs are California’s butterflies. But so many places in my town are dedicated to Monarch butterflies so when I think of California, I think of Monarch butterlfies. Anyways I adore the FLUSH on these images. It’s so INNOCENT

I love the entire Cyber series but the way you did everyone’s bionic arm? INCREDIBLE. I can’t even begin to understand HOW you did this Bea. It almost makes me angry that you do this shit for FREE. I get to look at this for free? It feels illegal. I was so floored I missed several details. Like how you made the lighting work with this neon light vibe. That takes a GOOD artistic eye and you clearly have that. Jihoon’s current of energy on his face? U G H it’s so GO OD. I want to stare at it forever. WAIT the BACKGROUND as well. Listen the more I stare this. The more details I realize I miss because I’m so caught up in one detail. It’s just such an incredible series that you execute so flawlessly. 

I just really love this. I can’t describe why. It’s just so nice to look at. That panel with Joshua’s glitter tears (p2)? I love it. All of it is so satisfying to look at and I got that entire vibe from the MV in general. So this was an appropriate way to display it!

I have yet to see all of your 2020 gfx so instead I’m gonna rb them and gush lol but really Bea. All your work is so good and if I could write a book on how much I appreciate them - (clearly) I would.

[borisbubbles]

Eurovision 2010: 35 - 31

35. KEiiNO - “Spirit in the sky” Norway 2019

During the preshow I posited that "Spearwhil”  would be the Rasmussen but as it turned out-

I HEAR YOU CALLING ME AT NIGHT

No, Tom NOT NOW!!! I’m in the middle of my sentence. 🙄 Wait your turn Anyway, it turned out that ‘the Rasmussen’ really ought to be called ‘the KEiiNO’. Observe this Michal-esque rise up the scoreboard:

OutSzpak’ing Spzak. 😍 Let’s be honest though, it was-

I HEAR YOU CALLING ME AT NI-

- COMPLETELY DESERVED TOO.  Fred was especially great, who delivered EPIC yoik solo that I am sure won KEiiNO the televote on the spot. 😍

This particularly pleases me because I was worried Tom & Alexandra (who are both very good performers) would take the spotlight away from Fred, but no did the weakest link pre-show turned not only turn out to be the strongest one, but he was arguable the single strongest performer of finale night. SO PROUD OF THEM ANGELS. 😍 Let us all sing along

*cough* I said, “let us all sing along”

... 

(k Tom, now is ur cue)

I HEAR YOU CALLING ME AT NIIIIIGHT

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS ARE DANCING

HÅ LA HEI LOI LÅ

A lot of the criticism from KEiiNO comes from your typical value-seekers who can only enjoy themselves in public if their shallow trash comes coated in a thick layer of novelty gimmicks and Deep Meaning, so they don’t have to admit to others and themselves than they tune in to have fun, like everyone else. There’s nothing wrong with novelty gimmicks & the like, but applying that standard to everything is taking it a tad too far. Sometimes, simplicity is key and that’s exactly what KEiiNO were: unpretentious, highly-addictive EDM adorned with epic yoiking. 😍 

_______________________________________________________________

34. Gianluca - “Tomorrow” Malta 2013

"Tomorrow” is, to use Gianluca’s own words, a curious delight: I always, always, always forget about it. Then I rewatch 2013 as I do at least once per year, and each time it’s like a Céline Dion song IT’S ALL COMING BACK TO ME and I’m in love again. 😍 “Tomorrow” is such a clever twist of the typical love song by telling the story from the THIRD PERSON PERSPECTIVE by an all-knowing narrator. It’s world’s merriest audiobook. 😍

Naturally, this works because Gianluca has TONS of charisma. He’s one of the most magnetic humans ever on a Eurovision Stage? 

It’s hard to believe that he ages like the rest of us, I’d assume he was birthed fully formed and clothed, at age thirteen, in whatever rests at the end of a Neverlandian rainbow. 

“Tomorrow” could’ve so easily been one of those “Annoyingly Positive songs”, but because he’s so relentlessly jolly, Gianluca injects “Tomorrow” with limitless happy energy, enough to melt the polar icecaps. I am happy that I don’t revisit Gianluca between watches, as I do with others, because each time I rediscover him it’s like finding a four-leaf-clover. 🍀

________________________________________________________________

33. Elitsa Todorova & Stoyan Yankoulov - “Samo shampioni” Bulgaria 2013

IMA LI MLADI? IMA LI LYUDI? TSYALO SELO DOIDE PEITE NE SE BOITE

Let us continue with one of the most glorious trainwrecks EVER in Eurovision. 😍 Of course, this being the GOD-tier the severity of wreckage (aka the Sennek Factor) is even higher than normal. In the case of “Samo shampioni” the messiness began DURING THE PRESELECTIONS. 😍 Okay you may not remember or know this backstory, so allow me to enlighten you:

Okay, so *initially* BNT selected Elitsa & Stoyan and for some reason decided to hold an NF: They introduced: first a terrible rapbomination, second a boring ethnoballad (think Iriao + percussion) and then pulled out an experimental fusion of ethnic bagpipes, polyphonic singing and dubstep, which Elitsa openly pointed as her favourite. 😍 Obviously, the audience had to choose for the latter? NOPE The audience chose the iriao-esque ballad 😍 and in one of the most hilariously open displays of riggage, LESS THAN A DAY AFTER THE NF (and after Elitsa allegedly threw a huge backstage temper tantrum threatening to withdraw LMFAO), BNT produced a statement that was all like “well. we can’t send “Kismet”. 🤓 You see... it has come under our attention that... the songwriter from Argentina (lmao) can’t agree to the copyright terms we demanded of him 🤓but that’s fine because it means we can send “SAMO SHAMPIONI” instead 😊‘ <3333333333333333333333456789 who the fuck is Christer Björkman, fucking NOBODY that’s who. And of course, once “Samo Shampioni” finally got to Malmö it was an utter disaster. 😍 I say "disaster” in the best meaning of the word though. I LOVE when countries showcase their musical traditions, but Elitsa and Stoyan do it so aggressively, BLASTING the unassuming viewer with loud af bagpipe noises, following it up with a menuet of polyphony, a clarion of “AAAAAAAAAAAA-YUUUU” and a finale of dubstep and mayumaniacal percussion. “Samo Sampioni” was loud, abrasive, a clamour of ethnic noise but by the same token such a catchy, infectuous, delightful fucking BOP. No surprise it got jurypwned but it was well worth the effort. 😍

________________________________________________________________

32. Nadav Guedj - “Golden boy” Israel 2015

Welcome to the Dicedrome, ladies and gentlemen: Introducing the man who put Israel back on the map after four straight NQs. But Nadav is more than just a Hebrew Tom Dice. 

For starters, “Golden boy” is also the first time we were ever subjected to Doron Medalie (and also Imri Ziv but lol Imri), who is at his BEST here (apart from that moment when he brusquely shoved Cesár out of the way as if he were Krisse Salminen lmfao 😍): “Golden boy” has everything I could want in an uptempo party song: Drama, catchy rhythm, limitless fun, chanting, dancing and an absolutely ridiculous premise: sixteen year old boy gets wasted after fruitlessly flirting with all sorts of femfolk on his first night out. Yes, THIS

is sixteen years old. 😍 But what I mostly love about “Golden boy” is the humour. Intentional humour is really hard to get right and “Golden boy” NAILS it for me. From self-deprecating one-liners, to that choreography to b-roll material like the sound effect of beer being pourn as Nadav gets further into the song, to of course the epic finale of “THREE MINUTES! BYE :selfie”. 😍

A wild ride which, as serendipity demands, is topped off by Nadav kicking off a strong Israeli streak that indeed ENDS up with Israel winning the contest (with a worse Doron composition :-/) and him showing us around in Tel Aviv. Funny how life works sometimes, huh? 

OKAY GOTTA GO  THREE PARAGRAPHS BYEBYE

_______________________________________________________________

31. Jessy Matador - “Allez ola olé” France 2010

Did you know “Matador” is Eurospeak for “SLAYER”?  😉

Speaking of EPIC party songs, I was looking “Allez Ola Olé�� up for my usual ranking purposes and this song.. is one of the most successful Eurovision songs EVER? I am not surprised, because “Allez olla olé” OWNS, but at the same time random 12th placers becoming massive off-season hits <3

(yes I am aware it’s because it was the French “Waka Waka” but that’s even more hilar, actually. What on earth is it doing in Eurovision <3)

Anyway, “Allez ola olé” definitely DESERVES all praise it can get. ETERNAL THORN IN THE SIDE OF THE EUROVISION ELITISTS <3 it is of course the anti-Proud, being all rhythm and no story, literally having no purpose other than making people dance (which I LOVE doing to “Allez Ola Olé”... within the confines of my bedroom, with the curtains closed because I have the dancing skills of drunk JarJar Binks) and honestly, what a spectacle. 😍

It features, in order of ascending awesomeness, male twerking (gender equality <3)

witty references to sex (which I don’t mind here because it’s clearly consentual, and therefore, healthy, ICKOLAS)

“Je sens le truc monter/..😏 ALLEEEEZ 😱”. 

DAM BA DAM BA DAM BA DAM DAM

A fucking HAKA????? (btw, the female backing doing a salute is also lowkey great <3)

Actually, TWO HAKA’S????

This song may not have relevant meaning but my weave flew all the way to French Polynesia. “Allez, ola, olé” is nothing less than fucking AWESOME. 

In this update, we pay our final respects to Norway, Malta and France: Read more about them below:

NORWAY

I don’t feel like this chart reflects my true feelings on Norway, because I like them a LOT more than what their average implies. They’re largely just dragged down by a few bad entries in the first half of the decade. Norway in the second half of this decade has shown a lot of promise and they are on my list of countries that I expect to win in the upcoming decade. 

MALTA

Malta are a very average Eurovision country imo. As you can see, they very often select songs that are not worth giving a fuck about, but conversely the few times that they do, they’re usually excellent happy-go-lucky gems. I could see them winning if they find that rare 1-in-50 entry (by one of their jesc winners preferably), but only if they keep internally selecting their entrant because lmao MES(s)C <3

FRANCE

This is a really good chart for France and roughly what I expected. Not my favourite country but solidly upper tier. France really have reinvented themselves post 2016 and are reaping the rewards with generally higher results. I hope it gets topped off with another win soon. They deserve it. 

[itakesurveys]

Survey 277

What do you believe happens to us after death? hmmm... i guess i’ll pass and watch over my loved ones? or, maybe we all just turn into energy. if so, i’ll be a floating ball of positive energy and try and uplift as many people as possible. 

Have you ever cheated on someone? nope.

What are your plans for this weekend? just chill with the boy & pack a little. i’m moving soon! yay! 

Does the thought of growing old frighten you? yes............i turn 30 this coming year. #puke

What is the best movie you’ve ever seen? Titanic, Enough, The Danish Girl, Bridesmaids, Anastasia, Resident Evil. 

Have you ever hurt someone for your own entertainment? no. that’s dumb. 

What is your favorite song of all time? oh my..... (this is a great survey btw) hmm.. Fast Car by Tracy Chapman 

Has anyone you’ve known died on a holiday? no. that’s terrible. but i was super upset when i found out George Michael passed on Christmas few years back. 

If you could write a book, what would it be about? hmmmm... i use to work for a hair salon and it was like legit like the movie Devil Wears Prada. i could totally take that experience and make it into a great  movie/book. 

Do you think most people understand you? nah, probably not. who i am and who people think or want me to be are very different. i’m very low maintenance and chill and not competitive in the least bit. I feel like in this world of constantly trying to outshine the person next to us “more likes, more  money, happier, funnier”  i just can’t be bothered. comes off not as if i’m not interested but in reality i just want the basic things. lets hang out and just talk and chill with a cup of tea. life should be basic and easy. this dog eat dog world isn’t for me. ..... Jesus i’m such a Pisces and this rant has nothing to do with the question anymore. HA NEXT >> 

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I would love to change my lack of motivation. 

What are some lyrics that speak to your soul? hm. *thinking* 

Are you in love with anyone at the moment? yes, my boyfriend & i have been together for 10 years. 

Have you ever been in love with more than one person at the same time? nah. i don’t think that’s real. 

What is your favorite time of year? hmmm. fall . 

What is your ideal first date? ideal first date; (i’m going to pretend this is like a game show) ha, “Hi, my name is joshua and my idea of a perfect first date is... a guy picking me up at my house, he comes 5 minutes early. tells me i look pretty, takes me out to dinner, we date desert  home with us. we cuddle up, watch a movie.” 

What is the sweetest thing anyone has ever said to you? hmmm.. not sure the sweetest thing of all time but this week this stuck out to me; i was at work and this older sweet asian woman came into my work. i helped assist her like i do any other customer and before she left she told me “ i just want to tell you that you are extremely sweet and kind and i want to thank you because this is my 3rd business i have came to today and you were the first to make me feel comfortable and didn’t talk down to me and all the previous places where rude to me because of my broken english or think i don’t know what i’m talking about. more people should be like you, thank you so much, god bless *shook my hand*” ---- it made me feel so special and made me realize how little things can make such a huge impact on people. :) 

Do you have any taboo fetishes or preferences? probs.

What is the thing you are most ashamed of? hmmm. 

What is the emotion you seem to feel most strongly? not that it’s good but when i get put down by someone it makes me a while to build up. not sure what that emotion is but it’s powerful and hard to explain. 

Do you think of yourself as a unique person? extremely. i don’t think i have much in common with many guys gay or straight. i’m too sensitive and gravitate toward woman friendships. 

What is a movie from childhood that you loved? i love, the little mermiad. 

Are you afraid of death? isn’t everyone afraid of the unknown? 

What are your top three biggest fears, actually? hmmm. i guess driving is one since i don’t drive, very strong powerful men freak me out.. it’s odd i get very uncomfortable around specific type of guys, and holding hands with my boyfriend in public. 

Do you have an accent of any kind? i don’t think i have one but to other people i might have a slight accent because i’m from the boston area. 

What do you want to be remembered for? being a good person, happy. 

What is your favorite number? 3. 

Do you have a favorite television show? If so, what is it? hmmm.. soo many. i watch too much tv. but i did love game of thrones. 

Are you currently sad about anything? not currently. 

What was your first job? i babysat all through high school and first job was at sears. 

And what job do you have now? i work for  a glass contracting company. i work at front desk. 

Have you ever changed your spiritual beliefs? i feel i’m constantly changing. so yes. 

What is your favorite alcoholic drink? i’m easy, vodka & soda with ALL THE LIMES. 

Do you ever talk to yourself? in the shower. 

Have you ever cried yourself to sleep in your adult life? dah. a lot. again i’m sensitive. (after this survey i don’t seem like a fun person haha) 

What do you think is the meanest thing you’ve ever said to someone? that i hate them. 

How do you celebrate your favorite holiday? with family & friends. your average get together :) 

Do you have a favorite book? If so, how many times have you read it? hmmm.. i don’t think i have one and i don’t read as much as i should. when i do read i only read like memoirs. 

Do you have any teachers from the past who inspired you? yeah like 2. 

Do you prefer sad or happy music? depends on mood. dah. 

Speaking of which, what is your favorite genre? pop. dah x 3456

What is your best talent? i’m good with social media shittt. lol i run like 6 peoples Facebook business pages ha. 

Have you ever wished you were from another country? i use to pretend i had a twin in London like Lindsay Lohan in the movie The Parent Trap. 

What are you thinking about currently? how my back hurts. 

What is the closest red thing to your body? i’m currently wearing a maroon hoodie. if that counts. 

What is a subject that makes you uncomfortable to speak about? hmmmm. family problems. i grew up you don’t talk about family matters with people. 

What is your favorite clothing store to shop at? marshalls. 

Do you have anything you are extremely particular about? hmmm. nah. 

Have you ever seen the ocean? dah, lol. as a kid i during the summer from the age of 8-17 my nana would bring me to the beach every Wednesday. 

What is your most fond memory of your current S.O, if applicable? a lot of them. dah. mostly about family. 

Do you find yourself confused often? yes. constant. 

What is your dream career? YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS. 

What was the best time of your life? hmmm.. i miss when things were easier.  Have you ever been on a cruise? never. 

Do you miss any of your exes? no no no. 

Who would you like to say something to? no one. i’m good. 

Are you religious? meh. 

Do you think you are attractive? when i try. 

How many people have you slept with? one. 

Do you consider yourself a catch? yes. 

Do you enjoy naps? i would sleep everyday all day if i could. 

What kind of sauce do you eat your chicken nuggets with? ALLL THE SAUCES. 

Are you happy? yeah. as happy as an average person can be. 

What do you think you could do to improve your life? many many things, my self confidence, i need to learn to not run from conflict. i tend to apologize just to avoid confidence. i shouldn’t have to be the one who always feels like they are wrong when deep down i don’t feel i am. 

[yiqiie]

nine percent as people in my friendship group ♡

inspired by this post by @yanjuniverse YOU’RE POSTS ARE TOO FUNNY BABE I LOVE THEM SO MUCH 

cai xukun: 

dork and tries to act cool but i love him so much 

plays basketball, tennis and is a cross country runner; used to row as well but quit bc lol senior year 

wants to go to college in the US and has already been offered a sports scholarship even though he hasn’t actually taken the tests yet (how?? i still don’t know) 

doesn’t do his homework but manages to pass???

great conversationalist; really good at talking to people 

buys me food whenever we go see each other and little souvenirs whenever he goes somewhere cool on holiday

is actually okay with going shopping with me only because he buys more clothes than i do 

gives great hugs 

not afraid to yell at me and call me an idiot though lol 

calls me randomly to ask me how i’m going 

texts me pictures of his dog just to make me jealous 

zhu zhengting:

my best friend

a literal MOM; will 100% nag you if need be but mostly the cool mom

school captain and in like 7 committees

does basically everything; drama, music, sport, community service, debating etc.; captain of the cross country team too

straight A student in all her subjects

everyone is always asking how the hell she’s able to manage her life so well

was the one to buy me food and bring me tea when i was feeling upset one day

everyone thinks she’s quiet but lol she’s crazy and a meme

is savage too

me: ‘i feel like i’m really annoying sometimes’

her: ‘well at least you’re self-aware’

10/10 selfies no matter when

perfect, naturally born leader, basically always knows what to say

i love her to bits and will fight anyone who even thinks about hurting her

fan chengcheng:

me lol

whines 24/7

will do anything to have a bite of your food

if you can’t find me, i’ll be in the cafeteria

the resident meme pack of our friends

somehow everyone has pictures of me in their camera rolls doing a stupid face

sleepy all the time; i will literally take a nap in my free periods if i can (i have a blanket in my locker)

i will go anywhere you want me to go as long as you feed me / there is the promise of free food

actually really insecure despite people thinking i’m really confident

people think i’m naturally smart when in fact i work my ass off for my grades

chen linong: 

NEVER SEEN A DAY WHEN SHE’S NOT SMILING 

all-rounder; does a lot of sport, community service and music 

is besties with basically all her teachers 

can always talk her way out of any situation

tells the best jokes

mood-maker of our friendship group 

friends with everyone?? literally everyone knows her 

everyone is always trying to find her to ask her something 

good student who tries to keep up her grades 

has 20 extra-curricular commitments she manages to keep up 

justin: 

annoying little shit lmao but i love him 

plays pranks on me all the time but not the type for me to get angry just really irritated with him 

interactions include him going ‘your favourite person is here today you’re hair looks shit btw’ and me replying with a kick in the shins 

playful af 

how does someone have this much energy 

is my number one supporter wherever i go 

always has a speaker with him on road trips so we’re never short of a music source 

doesn’t know when to stop talking he could probably go on for a whole week without taking a break if he wanted to 

lin yanjun:

uses freaking LAME ASS JOKES AND PUNS ON ME ALL THE TIME 

has a goal to make me laugh at one of her stupid puns by the end of the year

great taste in music 

has the cutest dimples (i have poked them before; yes it was the greatest moment of my life) 

100% down to skip class with you and just lie on the floor in the year 12 common area sharing headphones 

plays guitar and writes her own songs 

a really good listener and gives really good advice 

basically a really chill person who is down to try anything with you 

wang ziyi:

chill and relaxed af

studies hard for tests and exams but the rest of the time is basically whatever 

‘go have a tea you look like you’re about to go off and murder someone but have a meltdown at the same time’ 

grabbed my textbook and wouldn’t give it back to me so i would stop stressing before an exam 

down for a study session whenever i ask; will come with coffee and baked goods

doesn’t really talk much but is happy to listen to whatever you have to say

throws the best parties though 

just a pretty laidback person in general 

xiao gui:

was intimidating af when i first met him lol 

took a while for me to actually say two sentences in front of him 

mutual friends but eventually became actual friends 

forces me to do shit i don’t want to do and laughs at me when i’m embarrassed 

wants to keep up his ‘swag’ all the time 

has the coolest shoes?? like i’m actually jealous 

is the life of the party (literally) 

i’m always his babysitter when he’s had a little too much to drink lol

always screaming? like boy stop being so loud 

if i tell him to shut up he’ll just look at me then keep shouting but louder 

caring but doesn’t want to show it 

threw a bag of chips at my face when i complained i was hungry 

love you too mate 

you zhangjing:

my foodie bestie

savagery ALL THE GODDAMN TIME 

unafraid to voice her opinions 

really good debater 

LOUD AF LITERALLY NEVER SHUTS UP 

never stops laughing; laughing till you’re crying and your stomach hurts is basically an everyday thing when she’s around 

i love her so much i always have a good time with her 

when we’re together we’re 2 of the most annoying people i’ve ever met 

a dork and clumsy af 

MEMES ALL THE TIME; basically the best at meme faces but will fite you to delete them off your phone 

terrified of horror movies; i have multiple videos of me scaring her after we’ve watched something together 

100% down to do whatever idiotic shit i want to together 

[magerymishaps]

Random things about me

I do not know why, but I decided to try to write something like this up. I hope I do not regret this. Also it seems long and disorganized. Btw I am very odd.

-I like to more efficient than fast, but I will try to balance it if I can.

-I usually forget to eat or drink if I work unless the food is near me or someone reminds me.

-I seem to work non stop if being paid or it is an interest to me, or I take my time if it hard or boring and non-beneficial.

-I consider my sin and virtue to be gluttony and charity.

-I love cats..that I started acting like one (in the darkest corners of the world) : 3

-I really like the first two digimon shows when I was younger as well as the first and second digimon world game. Pokemon, on the other hand, I only really liked the games at the time.

-I like the paranormal in the scene of  things outside the norm or from other world or dimensions. I am not the ghost and alien crazed  type either. Some may consider that it is the supernatural I like, but I prefer things happening because if dimensional rifts, the build up of a mendable energy, or the discovery or handling of the abnormal instead of a war between deities or cause a deity will it to happen.

-I am not a big fan of drawing, but I do enjoy doodling : 3 if light and subject was not a issue, then my tumblr/Instagram would be filled with photos again.

-I may try to censor my self, but I do not like censorship.

-I sometimes place myself in a show or movie which end up making me embarrass, stress, or  rarely paranoid. Thus why I some subjects I do not like to watch. Oddly most scary movies don't scare me. They may make me jump or gross out, but nothing more. I can not say to for some scary games...

-I use to flap my fingers make a humming noise when I was excited as a child. Now I just hide in behind my back and try to make no sounds.

-When I think, I tend to walk in circles. I think I walk faster the more excited I am... If no one around I may talk to myself or the animals.

-Music sometimes plays in my head. Sometimes it the full song or fragments. Worst it could be a song I heard years ago...and it just start playing out of nowhere. It seem one of Starbound themes started playing for no reason. It is relaxing though.

-I tend to think up imaginary worlds and characters, but I have trouble probably writing them in a way that suit them well. Kind of like how bad I wrote tat sentence lol.

-I like talking simply, but I do not because the internet hates it unless it is a poem. ~“This is a twig So small and pointy How I want to poke with it.” Well that kind of a bad example but I can not think of anything short. Well I guess this would work as a four liner. (I find things easier to read when it is broken down with lines)

-I have trouble with reading where words change or get replace in my head. This also happen with vocal speech and with numbers too. Once I thought the cook said to bring up penny(pasta), but it was tomatoes or something. Eh it why I tend to have people repeat so I can confirm what I heard was right.

-It seems I can not control my voice, but I am not sure. I use to get yelled at for talking too loud or too quite.

-I do not like loud and crowded places nor so I like trying to hear or speak over loud music or sounds. It is very stressful and sometimes makes me panic. I also have trouble concentrating with distracting sounds.

-I tend to have things write out for me than spoke to me so I have something solid to reference off of since I can not trust my head.

-I tend to like the colors green, purple, and red

-I have an odd interest in physics and computer science. I guess even optics, but I consider that a form of physics. Computers science are too, but currently I am more interesting in logic and flow atm. Due to me being able to learn better with experimenting, a lot of my knowledge is fragmented due to  the cost of testing things.

-I do not know how to talk to people. I tend to either talk about a current topic or an interests if I feel like risking talking. Maybe I will meow idk. If I do talk to someone a lot, it just mean we share some kind of similar communication which seem uncommon with most normal people.

-Strangers scare me if I have to talk to them. It make getting info on jobs and important stuff harder. It is worst if they refused to give up the info I need.

-I tend to ramble off on topic if I am not following a plan...and sometimes I do with a plan.

-I always had problems with speech. I just have trouble pronouncing words. Mostly ones I never or rarely heard of or used.

-People usually ask what accent I had. Truth is I do not know if it was from my issues with speaking or because I was born on Long Island and they tend to speak similar to people from nyc.

-Odd things about my non-college experience:

I dislike how special ed back in public school was supposed to help me understand subjects, but most of the time I got vague answers. Then again I found that ELA was quite fragmented after basically relearning it for college. Also why did public school(or mine) never mention how to actually do taxes or mention tax laws?

I always had “special” classes of some sort. It was odd since most people there had some kind of real disability unlike me which was just “learning disability” or something. That is very vague compare to adhd, anxiety, or such. It was odd because most classes I got great grades at unless I had to spell or write an essay (which was nice having a quite space an extended time if it was part of a test...except if the questions was being read out loud, then I could not concentrate). Another thing was that I can not remember autism or asperger being explain or even mention in school or if I had, it was only briefly and poorly described. Ironically I only head of it a few years after college. I took psychology in high school so I find it odd I can not recall that term since it seem like it would have popped up. Also when the whole treat everyone the same ideologue started to accrue, I found it to be very bad in my opinion. It lead to me being force into very loud and stressful situation. PE became a nightmare when certain events was happening. Ugh and mandatory school events...

Ironically my school was probably better than most in terms of acceptance. Things could have been worst if I was at a different school. That is mostly to the thanks to some friendly and helpful staff.

[melancholiablackbile]

A lot of questions... my my, someone's curious lol

@black-satin-dancer tagged me, cheers dude :D

Rules: answer all the questions, add one of your own and tag as many people as there are questions …pshh please, let’s keep it realistic - I don’t even know that many people irl. (also didn’t feel obligated to answer the Dragon age/Mars effect questions, because I’ve never played it)

1. coke or pepsi?

Neither. I absolutely hate fizzy sweet drinks lol. The only thing I enjoy is kombucha and I’ve had ginger ale which I can tolerate. (btw did you know there’s something called bacon soda? I just found out and I’m absolutely horrified and disgusted. pls burn this knowledge out of my brain thank)

2. disney or dreamworks?

I don’t have a preference, nor am I overly invested in any of the two, so it depends. By Disney I really like Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare before Christmas and Frankenweenie, to pick a few. As for DreamWorks, Penguins of Madagascar are THE SHIT omg 3. coffee or tea? I’m a tea person, however I enjoy coffee flavour in things

4. books or movies?

Both

5. windows or mac?

I use windows, don’t feel like I’m missing out or anything tbh

6. dc or marvel?

I’m only starting to get into comics, and I’ve probably seen more marvel films than dc ones, but I think I like dc a little more I like the older Batman films by Tim Burton.

7. xbox or playstation?

playstation. “OF COURSE we’re going to go with the ps4 - they’re blacker!” :D

8. dragon age or mass effect?

Haven’t played either, but was thinking about giving Dragon age a go

9. night owl or early riser?

aw shit dude, I don’t even know anymore. my sleeping schedule is so fucked up lately, I tend to be a night owl tho. But hey, time isn’t really anyway, so..

10. cards or chess?

both, but you can do more with cards. like chess is just one game, but there are lots of different card games. I personally identify with CAH, I think the company should hire me, because I’m a horrible person lmao

11. chocolate or vanilla?

chocolate all the way. I don’t eat it often, but when I do, I’m a snob about it - I only like the dark stuff (only vegan ofc). bonus points, if there’s dried fruit like berries in it. To sum it up (i’m taking this way too seriously and detailed lol, but I have insomnia ¯\_(ツ)_/¯) overall, chocolate flavour is better I guess, vanilla makes me vomit, it’s disgusting and I hate it. 12.vans or converse? I used to own a pair of converse, but neither are shoes I’d wear now

13. fluff or angst?

a good combination of both ehehe

14. beach or forest?

forests are awesome - they are green and smell amazing, you can spot a lot of wild animals and the atmosphere is very serene and calming. I’ll always pick forests over beaches, unless the beach is all sand or small round marble stones, the water is clear without the detached, rotting algae stuff that floats around and ew, the sun has fucked off so I don’t get sunburnt (my skin always skips the tan stage right to red and I prefer pale skin anyway) and all sweaty and shit, there are NO people beside those I’m there with and I do NOT spot any animal while in the water that’s bigger than like 5cm. Because even though I love and respect it deeply, I’m genuinely afraid of sea life, I don’t care that there are lots of totally harmless creatures. …lmao, I feel like a rich asshole saying all that - way too many demands. (sorry sea/ocean, I love you, but you freak me the fuck out)

15. dogs or cats?

I have dogs, but I love both. With dogs, the love is more likely to be returned though :D

16. clear skies or rain?

clear night skies for star gazing, rain during the day

17. cooking or eating out?

I eat mostly raw vegan nowadays, because it’s healthy I don’t have the energy to cook and can’t be arsed and I’m not too fond of eating in public so… preparing/eating food at home?

18. spicy food or mild food?

all the spices lol

19. halloween/samhain or solstice/yule/christmas?

How is this a question, have you met me? My whole existence basically revolves around celebrating Halloween like every day

20. would you rather forever be a little too cold or a little too hot?

The first one is way better imho, I’m usually a little too cold anyway (no pun intended omg) and I’m fine with that.

21. if you could have a superpower, what would it be?

Hydrokinesis (so basically I’d be a water bender ehehe) or Telepathy

22. animation or live action?

both are great (with the exception of some anime adaptations lol)

23. baths or showers?

showers don’t take too long, but baths are very nice from time to time

24. team cap or team ironman?

Team Loki, duh! No, but honestly, I’m not really invested in the whole civil war thing, but if cap is a nazi, then I’m team ironman

25. fantasy or sci-fi?

both are amazing and bring happiness into my life

26. do you have three or four favourite quotes, if so, what are they?

I guess I have a lot of favourite ones, but these two came to my mind right now: “I do desire we may be strangers” (Shakespeare) it’s such a classy and eloquent way to tell someone you hate them :D “And so being young and dipped in folly, I fell in love with melancholy” (E.A. Poe) because ME tbh

27. youtube or netflix? 

Youtube, no netflix here

28. harry potter or percy jackson?

Harry Potter all the way. I’ve read the first Percy jackson pentalogy and don’t get me wrong, Greek mythology is awesome, but wizards over demigods

29. when do you feel accomplished?

Idk, when I’m able to do more than the bare minimum and when I totally Tony Stark the whole subject/study material the night before the exam. and probably smug/petty rather than accomplished - when I prove horrible people/people I don’t like wrong or do things they don’t approve of lol

30. star wars or star trek?

I have to say Star Trek but I love both

31. paperback or hardback books?

Hardback. HARDBACK!

32. horror or rom-com?

I’ve always gravitated towards horror - psychological, gothic, really bad b/c movie style, etc. - I get bored by rom-coms

33. tv shows or movies?

depends, but both. as an aspiring actor, beside theatre, I think I’d like to work on films over tv shows - if I ever get the chance to do so that is

34. favourite animal?

penguins, rats, corvids.. but like, birds in general and all animals are awesome anyway and precious and worth of life 35. favourite genre of music? alternative rock - which is a broad spectrum tho, so I guess rock sub-genres in general.. art rock, goth rock, punk rock my favourite (purely because of the name) is krautrock (aka kosmische Musik) which is the German term for space rock, but the literal translation is either herb or cabbage rock lmao :D throw in some psychedelic stuff, ambient music, experimental and classical and I’m good to go

36. least favourite book?

Madame Bovary. I think The Great Gatsby was boring too. I don’t usually read books without researching it a bit before so I can somewhat predict whether I’ll like it or not. (btw, if you’re into fantasy at all, 10/10 recommend reading the series A Raven’s Shadow by Anthony Ryan, he’s such an eloquent writer and the plot and characters are incredible! 37. favourite season? The season of Halloween - autumn all the way

38. song that’s currently stuck in your head?

Cinnamon Bone by Eliza Rickman. She has a really nice voice and combined with the melody it sounds very unique. Actually didn’t know who the singer was until a few days ago. She also performed in the weather section in a Welcome to Night Vale episode. Oh and I rewatched CATS the musical on Sunday, so like.. the whole libretto is playing in my head on loop :D I’ve pretty much known the entire thing by heart since I was like 8 lol

39. what kind of pyjamas do you wear?

Either boxer shorts or Levi Ackerman’s running titan pyjamas lmao

40. how many existential crises do you have on an average day?

I’m having an ongoing one since the age of 16 tbh

41. if you can only choose one song to be played at your funeral, what would it be?

Space Oddity by David Bowie

42. favourite theme song to a TV show?

I’ve know this song before I started watching the show, but Far from Any Road from True Detective is amazing. And the opening to snk season 2 lol, it gets me all fired up and ready to salivate every time Levi appears cry probably idk :D

43. harry potter movies or books?

even though, they are problematic in some aspects, both have their charm (pun absolutely intended this time)

44. you can make your OTP become canon but you’ll forget that tumblr exists. will you do it? 

Bitch, my otp is canon. and I doubt anyone can really forget about tumblr - you can try and leave, but it will never leave you

45. do you play an instrument and if so, what is it? 

Not like professionally or since early childhood and all that, but I taught myself how to play the violin and I think I’m pretty decent. Same goes for drums. My dad and I low-key collect musical instruments, I think we have around 20+ pieces ^^

46. what is the worst way to die?

alone and helpless and in excruciating pain from whatever the cause was that didn’t kill you immediately though, so you have to suffer

47. if you could be entirely invisible for a day, what would you do? 

Be sneaky ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) lol idk, I’d do stuff anxiety and self-consciousness prevent me from in normal life. Okay, that is so pathetic, but my first thought was “I’d go swimming” … *wipes away a tear*

48. If you could have personally witnessed anything in history what would it be?

I feel like it’s kinda selfish and considering I’d choose this out of any moment in history maybe a wasted opportunity? but I would have loved to see David Bowie perform. Idk, I’m sure there’s more, but it’s 3am here..

49. If you could understand animals but you could never understand humans again, would you?

I find I often don’t understand humans anyway..

50. What is your most favourite album currently?

The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars by David Bowie is my go to favourite album, haven’t really listened to whole albums lately, just a few songs here and there 51. (my question) What is your favourite word/phrase/colloquiallism? Name one (or more) per language you speak c:

tbh, Jeremy tagged most of the people I’d tag too, so I’m just adding @the-river-dream-shore and @slecnaztemnot to this if they or anyone else feel like it ;) I’m going to sleep now hopefully~

Note: Wow, that’s a lot of reading material lol. Why did I sound so angry?? I was tired, so that took a toll on my answers, I promise I’m not that much of an asshole :D

[riffrelevant]

BRIAN ‘BUTCH’ BALICH

(By Pat ‘Riot’ Whitaker, Lead Journalist/Writer, RiffRelevant.com)

I don’t even know where to begin. That is something you will rarely ever hear me utter let alone admit but yet, here I have. The reason I have is the subject of the following exchange that shall ensue below, singer Brian ‘Butch’ Balich. The man is the powerful voice of at least four current projects that I have immensely enjoyed and submersed myself in both recently and in the past.

See, Butch is the venerable vocalist and lyrical lamenter for Argus, Penance, Molasses Barge and Arduini-Balich. Now, if you are even just an amateur newbie in the world of power metal or doom music then surely you know at least one or two of those acts. If you are like me, a maniacal metalhead that’s neglected other aspects of normal life so you could obsess over underground music for nearly four decades…well then, suffice to say, you know Butch is “The Man” so to speak. As The Man, Butch is currently on an oh-so glorious ride upon the topside of this world as he participates in creating some of the most amazing music known to man.

Sure, you can say I am a fan, and have been since discovering his work with U.S. doom icons Penance in the late Nineties. Just his work on 3 of their official releases, “Proving Ground” (1999), “Alpha & Omega” (2001) and “Spiritualnatural” (2003), gives the guy some major street cred. By the way, it’s that middle album that will be the focal point of some discussion in a minute but allow me to finish this hype first, please.

From there, Butch’s involvement with the much-revered Argus is well documented on a string of official albums. The latest of which, “From Fields Of Fire“, was just released this week from Cruz Del Sur Music. You can expect to hear a lot more about it as it ignites in the journalism realm and then lands on the annual year-end Best Of…lists. It won’t end there for Butch though as I am convinced, and have said on the record, that I fully expect him to score a triple crown win when all is said and done. I say that because of the other 2017 releases that he’s involved with, the recently released, superb Molasses Barge self-titled album for Blackseed Records (review here) and the phenomenal collab with Fates Warning founder, Victor Arduini. The latter came under the moniker of Arduini-Balich and their “Dawn Of Ages” debut also via Cruz Del Sur Music earlier this year.

Did I tell you that I didn’t know where to begin? Now you have a little inkling as to why I said it, huh? Anyway, the crazy things is, I have never seen Butch Balich live in ANY of these projects but if all goes according to plan, that shall soon be remedied! On Saturday, September 29th, Butch will once again front Penance as the legends headline the inaugural Descendants Of Crom Festival in Pittsburgh, PA. But he and I will expound further upon that event as I now segue us into this thing we’re all gathered here for…

It is my great pleasure, and with my own personal, enthusiastic enjoyment to invite you to delve further inward (downward?) upon this page for The Riff Relevant Interview With Brian “Butch” Balich!

Pat Riot – Butch, you currently have quite a bit going on but let’s start with current events: This month, at the end of September, Penance will headline the Descendants Of Crom festival in Pittsburgh..what is the current status of Penance (active, inactive, semi-retired) as I know there has been a few festival appearances here and there? Are there any kind of “long-term” plans concerning the band (i.e. reactivate full time, record new material, tour, etc.)?

Who will comprise the roster of Penance live for the DOC appearance? I have “heard” this may be the Alpha & Omega era line up, possibly their first show as such in roughly 15 years or so?

PENANCE (Then)

Butch – Right now it’s 5 friends who missed jamming with each other and thought this gig would be a lot of fun. The last time Penance played was around 2013 – that was Mike, Terry, Rich Freund, Brian Goodbread and I.  We’ve been talking about maybe doing a new album. I know Terry has material ready to go. Everyone seems to be up for it but we’ll play it by ear once this show is under our belts. It is Mike Smail, Terry Weston, Mary Bielich, Matt Tuite and me.  The Alpha & Omega era line-up.  It is the first time we’ll gig together since around 2002-2003.  

Pat Riot – Is there a / any (particular) band set to play DOC that you yourself are personally excited about seeing..and why?

Butch – Valkyrie is the band I’m most looking forward to. They have been one of my favorite bands since I first heard them. GREAT live band – one of the best. And those guitar harmonies are godly !!!  Plus they are really good dudes and it’ll be good to see them again.

Pat Riot – I only recently discovered Molasses Barge (the new LP is phenomenal by the way), what are the origins of that band? How has the overall reception of the new album been and what prompted the decision to release it through Blackseed?

This new Molasses Barge S/T CD comes with a bonus disc of cover tracks, ‘Covered In Molasses’..how did you all as a band select what songs to cover and what was the criteria (if any) for making the cut? (BTW – The BTO ‘Not Fragile” is so kickass!)

Butch – Molasses Barge was put together by Justin Gizzi and Wayne Massey to write and play doom and I was asked to join as vocalist. We went through a number of bassists until we solidified the line-up with Amy Bianco on bass and Kenny Houser on guitar, along with Justin.  Kenny later left the band and we were joined by Dave Fresch and that’s where we sit now. Thank you so much for your compliments on the album – we’d been threatening to release one for years and I still have to pinch myself that it is out and that it turned out as well as it did. So far lots of good feedback on the album and on the covers disc we included with it.

We released through Blackseed because we trust Shy Kennedy and because of her devotion and tireless energy being involved in the scene here with her own projects (Horehound is awesome!) and her support for bands in town here.  It’s a fun band – I really think we just enjoy playing with each other and even though this is sort of a side band for most of us it really does feel like home as well. I feel very lucky to play with these folks – I love them as musicians and as people.

Justin came in with a list of songs he thought would be cool, as well as songs we’d discussed over the years. It was a pretty pain-free decision making process. We just wanted to have some fun and so we were all game for whatever songs were decided on. I think the only one I hesitated on was “Love Child” by Deep Purple because it is just at the edge of my range and I was worried I’d shit the bed singing it. The whole disc came out great – I love the way “Hiding Mask” and “Sinister Purpose” came out.  I know Justin says it his favorite recording of anything he’s ever done. I’m really happy we did it and that it made him happy too.

Pat Riot – People seem automatically inclined to label you a “Doom vocalist” time and time again. Personally, I believe you expand into places far beyond such a limiting scope…how would YOU describe your vocal abilities? Do you play any instruments besides, or outside of, singing?

And depending on how you answered that last query, how involved are you personally in the songwriting for these varied projects? Is there ever a point where you may have come up with a melody or vocal part originally intended for a certain band but then you’ve perhaps thought it would suit one of the other projects better?

Butch – As far as my voice I think my strengths lie in my power, sense of melody, and ability to take what limited range I have and utilize it to its fullest. I don’t consider myself just a doom vocalist because doom is just part of what I have done over the years. It’s nice to be respected in doom circles, believe me, and I love doom but I don’t see myself as limited to just that one niche.  But, ultimately, I honestly don’t get too bogged down in wondering how I’m perceived. Yeah, I want people to like what I do but I learned a long time ago, from those who I look up to, to not to put so much stock in either criticism OR praise. Just do what you do…for yourself and if others dig it that’s a bonus.

I don’t play any instruments unfortunately. I tinkered with bass and guitar but never beyond that. I can do some powerchords and really simple bass lines but not even a garage band would want me LOL! I do have a guitar though and my goal for the next year is to start learning so I can get to the point where I can write songs or just play for my own enjoyment. It’s not something I could see myself doing live but I do want to try to learn and see where it goes. Some day my voice will conk out and when it does it’d be nice to have something to fall back on.

In Argus, I do all the vocal melodies and lyrics but I’m also involved in arrangements along with the rest of the band. Dave and Jay are the main writers but we all contribute ideas at rehearsal. It’s all very group-oriented at that point.

Justin pretty much writes everything for Molasses Barge including the lyrics and melodies, which is cool by me. He has a certain vision when he writes and it is nice to interpret his ideas rather than be as intricately involved in the writing. I will make tweaks based on my  voice but generally he teaches me the melody, gives me the words and we’re off!

With Arduini-Balich…Victor wrote all the music and sent it to me. I did all the lyrics and he and I collaborated on melodies, or I did the melodies on my own. It was a different way of working as he’s in Connecticut and I’m in Pittsburgh and so a great deal of trust was involved on his part. He’d send finished music tracks and I’d write and record and often he was hearing the melodies for the first time when he received the final tracks. But Vic and I are on the same page with a lot of things so it worked very well.

Pat Riot – Assuming you write (most or all) the lyrics you sing….where do you cull lyrical inspiration from?

Butch – Personal life, the world around me, history, literature…. Sometimes just an emotion…. There are a lot of guys I look up to but whom I could never hope to come close to – Phil Lynott’s storytelling, Dio’s realms of fantasy washed through reality – Steve Harris’ historical lyrics always fascinated me. I like clever writers like Ian Gillan and Steven Tyler and then a guy like Dave Wyndorf who paints vivid paintings with his words. But for my writing, I kind of feel for the moods in the music first and then join that to words that fit that mood.

ARDUINI-BALICH

Pat Riot – You mentioned Arduini-Balich. How was the overall experience of working with Victor Arduini and did you have any inkling that Dawn Of Ages would be so well received ultimately? What are the chances of a sophomore album manifesting from that team-up?

Butch – I loved working with Victor. He inspired and pushed me to be a better singer.  He was really easy to work with – very creative, open, and enthusiastic. It was one of the most positive experiences I’ve ever had. We worked hard but it was very gratifying. We knew we had something special with “Dawn Of Ages” and we’re both really happy that it reached people and spoke to them and that those who have taken the time to tackle the record seem to love it. It’s gotten great reviews and word of mouth from people is really positive.  We’re very proud of the album.  There WILL be a sophomore album. I think we’ll start talking seriously about it next year.  And we’re still hoping to play a few select shows at some point.

Pat Riot – As far as your singing goes, who are / were some of your own biggest musical influences at any point and why do you believe that they impacted you in such a way?

Butch – Ronnie James Dio is my all time favorite – his range, power…. he had a masculinity to his voice that even when he sang high he never sounded thin or wimpy. His voice was deceptively high because he sang so powerfully – you’d think “I can sing that” and then realize “holy shit that’s up there”.  “Rising” and “Heaven And Hell” being chapter and verse of amazing singing. Of course Halford, Dickinson, but also guys like a Paul Stanley who, with KISS, really made me want to do this. Steve Marriot, Paul Rodgers, Brad Delp, Robin Zander, John Arch, Frank DiMino of Angel…. Pete Steele was the first singer who made me want to hit LOWER notes. He was unbelievably underrated as a singer. Tom Jones. Marvin Gaye. James Brown. I am all over the map and find a lot to love and be inspired by in all kinds of vocalists for different reasons- range, power, rhythmic sense, melody, soulfulness…..

Pat Riot – You mention inspiration from Paul Stanley…during your youth, what was the catalyst event that set you upon the musical path i.e. a certain band, specific album, life event, etc.? (For me it was buying Kiss’ “Hotter Than Hell” in ’74 at age 5, ha!).

Butch – KISS was THE band that made me want to play music. As a kid of 5 in ’76, I revered the “Destroyer” 8-track I’d gotten from my Grandmother… and then “Rock And Roll Over“. I can remember listening to “I Want You” and my buddy and I howling with laughter over the stuttered “buh buh buh buh babe….”.  Of course it was the image at first but I fell in love with their music and that was it for me. It launched me into music.

Pat Riot – Another band you’re part of, Argus, will release their 4th full-length studio album ‘From Fields Of Fire’ less than a month from now (Sept. 8). What can fans expect from this new album? (Interviewer Note: This interview was obviously done prior to the Argus record..which is out NOW! – Pat)

I know Argus played on the Aug. 16th date of the ‘Tour Of The Doomed’..how excited were you about that opportunity / line up and might there be any lengthier Argus touring plans in the future?

Butch – We are very proud of “From Fields Of Fire”. I think it’s the best overall album we’ve done. Heavy, melodic, moody, dark, but catchy too. It’s Argus through and through but we did try some new things to try to expand upon that sound. Songs like “Devils Of Your Time” and “No Right To Grieve” especially. We don’t want to repeat ourselves or tread water so we’re always going to see how we can change yet be true to the Argus that our friends know and love. Move forward but always remember and respect where you come from.  So – it’s 7 full new songs and an intro and outro piece. Lyrically more personal and dark than we’ve ever been. We tried to do more vocal harmonies and of course the guitar harmonies weave throughout the album. I think if folks give it a few spins they will discover it grabs them more with each listen.

The show went well and it was great to see our friends in Beelzefuzz and Spillage and also to see Sheavy live (my first time) – they were really good and tried to cover most of their discography’s eras.

Pat Riot – As an outsider (me) looking in so to speak, Pittsburgh appears to have a tightly knit, self-supportive scene, very community-oriented or where things appear to be like one big family. If I’m not off-base with this perception and you agree, what would you attribute this to?

Butch – It is a pretty cool scene and I wish I could get out more because there are some really talented people here and there’s a lot of color to the scene…. it’s not just a homogenous heap. From metal to punk to experimental stuff….Pittsburgh is kind of a “big” small town really so you’ll run into each other a lot and a lot of us are in multiple bands. So it makes for a cool community!

Pat Riot – Juggling 4 bands (or 3 and a collaborative project?) as you do or are at this time, what non-musical, if any, things do you enjoy or like doing in your private life i.e. hobbies, travels, etc.?

Butch – Time with my kids is very important to me. Any time I get with them is important. I like to read a lot – I’ll read fantasy, musician bios are big with me… anything that seems interesting. I also love comic books but that’s an expensive hobby. I dig movies and some tv – Walking Dead, Better Call Saul …. big Steelers fan. Split season tickets with my ex-wife.

Pat Riot – Speaking of collaborations and such, if you could work with one person from the world of music history, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Butch – I would love to work with Tony Iommi. He’s THE riff master and his work has been so important to me. I would give my left nut just to do one song with him. (Now THAT is a powerful desire and ever more powerful commitment to making it happen! 🙂  – Pat)

Pat Riot – I’m going to kind of put you on the spot here, Butch so I apologize in advance, ha…If I am an average John Q. music fan and run across this interview and have never heard of Brian ‘Butch Balich, where or what would be your suggestion for me as a starting point? Not disrespecting any band over another of course, but which of your musical endeavors would you suggest that person begin with? What specific release and why so?

Butch – I’d start with ARGUS “From Fields Of Fire” and work backwards. This album and “Dawn Of Ages” has me at the best I’ve ever been and at my most diverse. I really love most of the work I’ve done over the years and am ashamed of nothing but I think where I am now is pretty damn good.

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Pat Riot –  Hypothetically speaking and depending on the Argus release, you stand a chance to theoretically place on 2017’s annual year-end round ups aka ‘Best Albums Of…’ lists anywhere from 1 to 3 times (all at once) due to the remarkability of the albums and output you have been part of this year…any thoughts on that either way?

Butch – I honestly try not to get too wrapped up in that but it’s a pretty cool thought that I am on 3 albums this year and they are all really good. And that’s a testament to the musicians I am honored to be in bands with. I am very, very lucky that musicians of their caliber chose me to work with them.

Pat Riot – Butch, I have a tradition of closing my interviews with allowing the subject to have the last word so anything you would like to say, state, share, rant about or whatever, this is your shot, sir…have at it:

Butch – Thanks so much for taking the time to put this interview together, Patrick. I really appreciate being able to talk to you for Riff Relevant.  I look forward to meeting you at the Descendants Of Crom fest. I hope anyone reading this will check out the fest – it promises to be a great event. See you all soon!

Indeed it does! Now, that’s powerful stuff, my friends and I hope you made it to this ending point. Like I said, I’m a big fan of Butch’s so I was damn sure determined to touch all the bases that I myself was curious of and interested in. I hope you were also and I can’t wait to see him perform live and meet too.

I want to thank singer supreme, my guest Brian “Butch” Balich, for taking the time, energy and effort to answer my myriad queries. I want to thank Descendants Of Crom organizer, Horehound vocalist and wearer of a dozen other hats, one of which is my friend, Shy Kennedy for facilitating this exchange and with that…make sure to get to Descendants Of Crom!

You can see a host of kick-ass bands including Butch’s own, Penance as well hob-knob with myself and Riff Relevant‘s own Leanne Ridgeway and David Lamay, among many others and we will hopefully see you there!

Descendants of Crom Festival – Poster by Blackseed Design

    Sonic Fire For The Ages: The Riff Relevant Interview With Brian ‘Butch’ Balich Of Argus, Penance, Etc. Fame (By Pat 'Riot' Whitaker, Lead Journalist/Writer, RiffRelevant.com) I don't even know where to begin. That is something you will rarely ever hear me utter let alone admit but yet, here I have.