#and the latter was only available to buy on tour (I don’t think they still sell it)

[emily-mooon]

Is too much to ask Alvvays to release Underneath Us and the Antisocialites B-Side on a compilation album with their singles and hits

[kyotakumrau]

2020.12.19 SENDAI GIGS 2nd slot report

...it was cold. I thought I was prepared but waiting for my turn to enter was brutal. But the venue was quite well organized with letting fans in. And they had the cutest hand sanitizer stands I've seen!!

Then, when preparing for the talk event venue staff brought 4 small high tables with chairs and placed them in a good distance from each other.

Takabayashi and Fujieda entered the stage (both wearing winter jackets xp) and the latter greeted us and asked for the applause for the band members.

Then Shinya, and after a brief moment, Toshiya entered the stage.

They sat from the right to left: Takabayashi, Shinya, Toshiya and Fujieda (MC).

Toshiya wore a beret, sunglasses, a jacket over the brown Dirt shirt. Shinya had the t-shirt for the event and black clothes otherwise. He also wore sunglasses.

They started with simple greetings and next F skipped straight to the merch items talk. He handed band members their items and asked about the particular thing about the design. Toshiya explained that back has the names of the companies they are working with/are indebted to.

F: S, what's the selling point of your minimini bottle?

S: it's really tiny and you can easily put it in your bag. It's very light so very convenient when you go out.

F brought and passed the items of other members. T got the choker.

T: oh, this is nice! Shinya, I think it'll really suit you!

S: well, I might wear it next time

T: try it on!

S: some other time. (meaning 'no, thanks' 😂)

F: what do you think about Kaoru's pouch, S?

S: it's really tiny and very convenient when you go out.

F: wait, I've heard this before.

S: and the inside is gold. I really love gold.

T (teasing): can all merch items fit inside?😆

S: picks won't fit, right?

T: they do!

S passed the pouch back to F with a serious face, he had to confirm with his own eyes.

S: oh, it's just right, even the bottle fits in.

F (put all items in): all items fit in.

S: then fans should buy all items and put them in. Ah, is the t-shirt still available?

F: actually t-shirt is included in the ticket.

S: does the t-shirt fit in?

F: that might be a bit hard.

T: take it off and try.

Ok😂

F announced they will start reading questions from fans.

T: do you have any no-no topics?

S: everything is fine.

(just what happened in the 1st slot??😂)

F: I'll continue the topic from the previous slot. Is there anything you failed at? Any mistakes?

T said S sometimes messes a song during the concert, teasing him a lot and S was trying to protest saying everyone does that sometimes, but T was having too much fun😂. But then S brought up a festival abroad where he mixed up the order of songs and it was one big mess.

S: as I made mistakes they made me drink after that

T: what am I, sake-yakuza?

😂

T: F, in Nagoya you told us about imitating S on the drums.

F told us again the story about waiting for the car in Kagawa, so he played around imitating S.

S: so which song exactly where you pretending to play?

F: the last part of Ranunculus.

And then he showed us!!! Just drumming few last notes to just finish dramatically with raising hands and leaning his head back.

Shinya was so not impressed🤣🤣🤣

F: wait, didn't you upload it on your channel?

S: I can't remember.

F: 'do you have a favourite youtuber? Or what kind of yt videos do you watch?' Do you watch youtube?

S: I do usually.

F: what channels?

S: channels about games and riddles. But also Taipi Nikki (たいぴー日記), it's a channel about cats and dogs, they upload new videos everyday.

T: I don't really watch yt. But sometimes, Ojisan no nichijo (Tamotsu Takashima おじさんの日常). very casually, like watching TV while eating etc.

Ta: 'what would you like to change in the other member?'

S: I want T to stop scaring me.

T lols so hard😆

S: for example, yesterday was snowing too, I was walking very carefully not to slip but then suddenly a push came from behind🤨

T: 🤣

F: how about you, T?

T: I want him to open his heart to the band members.

F: so you're not talking together?

T: no, he talks with us. But... he's there with us, but the atmosphere is a bit...

S: but I'm open.

F: when I was still a roadie and in a car with S we were talking quite a lot.

Ta: we don't.

S: Ta doesn't talk much.

Ta: since the YT in May we haven't spoke.

F: but when I was a roadie we did usual normal chatting and so on.

T: S, you should join in.

S: はい・I see.

...

😂

F: 'are there any songs you put a lot of confidence in when writing but now you'd prefer not to play them as they are way too difficult, have difficult parts?'

S: 90% of our songs. ...and all of Ningen wo Kaburu. How about you, F?

(oh, a come back for the imitation thing!!😆)

F: the first bit, intro in Hageshisa (he actually 'sang' the bit😆)

S: Yeah, that one is tough.

F: as a roadie I asked you once to show me how to play it. I hoped you will play it slowly so I can learn, but you just went so fast it was over in second, and just said 'that's it'.

F: saku is also hard.

T said he can just follow the music during the show so no problems (?)

T: 'tomorrow is Die's birthday, how will you celebrate? The rumor is, only Shinya sent him birthday wishes'.

T: I usually do something every year, like skype with him. ...should we do something tomorrow?

F: there are no work plans to meet.

T: ok, then I guess we will skype.

S: I always send him a message on LINE.

Ta (or T?): 'it's so cold now! Are you ok with cold? Do you prefer cold or hot weather?'

S: I can't stand cold.

T: I prefer cold. When it's hot even as you take some clothes off, it's still hot. But when it's cold you can add more layers and be okay.

can you get out of bed easily?

S: it's very hard. I can live from inside my bed, even eat there.

T: that's something.

Next they talked about some food from Nagano both T and Ta like, Kanten Papa.

T: 'if you were to change into each other, like wake up as the other one, what would you do?'

T: ...

F: imagine it's only for one day.

T: ...I thought about something baaad, lol. (then he thinks for a while) then, I would work on damaging his reputation.

🤣🤣🤣

S: would I wake up in my house? In his house?

F: let's do your house.

S: then I'd do some muscle training to see what he can actually do.

F: 'we have the rhythm section today, how much do you usually rehearse?'

T said two days (before the tour ???)

F: usually you do a proper full rehearsal with bass amd drums, while checking the score.

T: recently I do it more seriously, I didn't in the past😆

S said before Wither he remembers the songs. Marrow, UROBOROS and Unraveling he can't remember, but he remembers the rest perfectly, he could play Gauze or Macabre songs anytime.

T: do it then!

S: there's no drums.

T: play air drums!

Ta: 'what's the song you want to play the most right now?'

S: and Zero.

Ta: why?

S: it was played somewhere recently, ah on the youtube audiostream, thanks to it I remembered 'oh we have a song like that'.

T: the song(s) we're working on now. I want you all to be able to listen to it/them soon. We will be recording soon.

S: oh.

T: are you practicing them properly?

S: not yet.

😂

T: 'what would you do if you won the lottery (the special new year lottery)?'

S: how much money are we talking?

F: 1bln yen.

S: ...

F: you have nothing you want?

S: not really.

F: what about PS5? Do you have it?

S: I don't have it.

F: did you apply for it?

S: I applied in one place, but didn't win.

F: nothing, really? How about you, T?

T: if I won a lottery I'd use the money to fund COVID vaccination. Well, probably it wouldn't be enough... but with vaccination we could get back to playing concerts sooner.

F: they're working on the vaccine now, right.

T: I hope it will be done soon!

F: do you buy lottery tickets?

T: I never do.

S: same.

Ta: maybe you should try it for Shinya Channel?

(didn't catch the next bit, it was about using money, then gambling?)

F: 'to T, what sauna or onsen would you like to go to next?'

T: to sauna in Finland, like the type in a small log house in the mountains where you get to swim in the lake. I'd love to try that.

F: 'what's the idea behind your outfit, S?'

S: this event t-shirt. I wanted to encourage fans to buy it, but I learned it's part of the ticket... So the rest is just black clothes. style like going to a hair salon (or coming back from there?)

F: 'is there something you'd like to fix this year?'

T: domestic concerts.

S: nothing besides the shows.

T: 'is there anything you want to try in 2021?'

S: nothing especially for 2021.

T: nothing you thought you want to try recently?

S: how about you?

T: I'd like to become able to eat spicy food. Now, I really can't handle any level of spicy.

F told him spicy food is really amazing, especially ramen, T replied he has a place he wants to take F to.

Then F talked about the additional The World You Live In stream and invited everyone to join. And after that was time for the last comments from the band members.

Shinya: Thank you for coming in today. It is snowing right now so please be careful not to slip on your way home. Let's meet again next year.

Toshiya: It's snowing so please be careful. I'd really love to stand in front of you again, so please please wait for us. That's all I can say in this situation.

They stood up, waved and were about to leave. But then Toshiya picked up the choker and gave it to Shinya🤣🤣🤣

[chibalein]

Kalafina Live Report: 9+ONE @Kitakyushu - REVISITED

So, this is something I wanted to do for a long time now (almost 3 years to be exact). Back in 2017, when Kalafina was still a thing and times were good, I was lucky enough to live in Japan and able to attend various of Kalafina activities. My first proper concert was their final live of the 9+ONE tour in the city of Kitakyushu/Fukuoka prefecture, in June 2017.

My first live report was certainly different than all the others that followed, less detailed, less emotional so to say. I always wanted to update the whole thing because looking back, there were so many moments during the concert that I - for whatever reason - did not write about enough or not at all. Well, since I have been working at home for quite a while now, I feel like now is the perfect time, as this gives me an amazing reason to be lazy and productive at the same time. Here is my original live report: PART 1  /  PART 2

So, a lot of things will certainly stay the same because I just don’t remember enough of the concert, especially about the vocal performance or things the girls have said during the MCs. I will add some other details that I still remember (hopefully correctly), and describe everything a bit nicer too :)

Let’s do it! Long ass report ahead! again

Back then, I was living in Kanagawa prefecture, but I was too late for tickets of the Yokohama or Tokyo lives. I was planning to visit a friend who lived in Fukuoka city at the time and Kalafina’s Kitakyushu concert perfectly fit into my schedule. Luckily, I was able to buy a ticket via convenience store. As I was pretty late, I got a kinda bad seat in the almost very back of the upper floor.

The morning of the live I arrived in the city of Kitakyushu, which is a rather famous port city at the northern tip of Fukuoka prefecture. The historic town Kokura has a beautiful castle, which I visited as well as Moji port. (After reading Hikaru’s blog post where she said that she also went to see the castle, I was a bit disappointed that I didn’t meet her xD). There’s also TOTO Museum, a museum dedicated to the TOTO company, which is famous for inventing those high-tech toilets that Japan is so known for.

I was kind of warned beforehand that the Kalafina good’s sale would attract a ton of people, so I wanted to be there as early as possible. About two hours too early I arrived at Kitakyushu’s Harmony Cinq Soleil Hall and waited along with a handful of other people. Slowly but steadily more and more people would gather, forming an absurdly long line. Not as extreme as the 10th Anniversary good’s line, but still impressive. Luckily, I was standing in some shade, because it was so damn hot and sunny the entire weekend. When the doors finally opened, I am sure there were like 200-300 people waiting to receive those sweet sweet popcorn buckets that were sold as venue exclusive merchandise. In the end, I bought the T-shirt, the key holder, the popcorn and the clear files, but looking back I do regret not buying the notebook. I wanted the popcorn mainly because of the Kitakyushu exclusive sticker - the popcorn itself had the flavor chocolate + soda (I think?), which I remember thinking was the shittiest combo of all flavors they had. It didn’t taste as bad as I thought but I still think it was overpriced. Together with the ticket itself, I ended up spending about 100€, which I thought was a lot, especially as there were people buying the entire collection and even more... hahahaha, oh innocent, naive past me, I didn’t know what was coming to me yet.

(Photo: in front of the venue)

I do love my merch though. I still wear all my Kalafina T-shirts at home, and while in Japan I had the key holder... hold my keys, making it all dirty and bent now lol The popcorn cup is decorating my shelf to this day.

Anyway, after getting my stuff, I went on to walk around, grab something to eat and even made friends with a Japanese girl, sharing our Kalafina love. Later, when people were admitted, probably around 800-900 people were there, quite a view! I saw some foreigners as well, and even made friends with a Philippine girl as well :D

(Photo: merch table at the venue)

(Photo: the stuff I bought)

While entering, staff was handing out little goodie bags, mostly with flyers and ads for other events or the obligatory concert questionnaire. However, that bag included our very own 9+ONE Lights! I took my seat which wasn’t as far from the stage as I thought, but I still would not be able to see the girls’ expressions.

When the concert finally started, a black but transparent screen was lowered (you know it from the 9+ONE DVD) and they started to play an overture version of “Samidare ga sugita koro ni”. Meanwhile we got see a collection of Kalafina’s entire discography, where each title of their songs, even in their respective font if available, was shown and merged into a white cloud, revealing our ladies.

(Photo: stage before the concert started)

They started with “Samidare ga sugita koro ni”. I remember it being good and nice, but I was never really fond of that song, even though it has grown on me a bit. We all clapped along and had our fun.

It continued with “misterioso”, also a song that has grown on me over time. While everyone was staying seated and enjoying themselves before, all the dudes in the arena seats jumped to their feet, being an upbeat song and stuff. I was grateful for the upper floor to have stayed seated almost the entire time, because being so far away was shitty enough and I didn’t want to spend 2 hours standing.

Anyhow, this song revealed some flaws in either the acoustics of the hall or the mixing of the sound technicians (I guess the latter?). Wakana was uncomfortably loud most of the time, drowning out the other two, but especially Hikaru - in some songs more than in others and more often than not when she wasn’t in the lead too. Some of her notes simply made me cringe. Hikaru on the other hand seemed to be feeling the exhaustion of the tour. On many occasions, she sounded tired, especially when it came to hit those high or long notes. The band didn’t help either, they also drowned out many parts of the singing... Maybe it was just this venue though and luckily, the 10th Anniversary wasn’t like this. Then again, I only attended acoustic lives or lives without band after that, so who knows how they sound when there is no DVD recording going on XD

Next was “Lacrimosa”, and this time Wakana wasn’t being as cringy as before. Poor Hikaru doing nothing for most of the time. One cool moment was that short pause after their “LA-CRI-MO-SA” part, right before the final chorus. The stage turned deep red with the girls reaching out to the audience. When you don’t know that this is coming, it’s an incredibly powerful move.

I don’t remember what they said during MC#1, other than greeting the audience and the usual “We hope you have fun” stuff. I do remember Hikaru welcoming us to the Harmony Cinq Kitakyushu Soleil Hall, by saying the entire name of the hall, and then saying something along the lines of “Thank god I didn’t trip over my tongue” (it’s a lot harder to say that name in Japanese, I give it to her lol).

They proceeded to introduce “Ashita no Keshiki”, a song that is not performed often, also because it’s a song that is mainly sung by Wakana. It was a beautiful performance, which was a little bit ruined by Hikaru. If you thought that she sounds strained and tired in the 9+ONE DVD version, well, imagine her like 5 concerts after that performance. Still great though, I came to love that song a lot.

“Hikaru no senritsu” was equally ok, but Hikaru again kind of screwed up her short “ashita wo kanadete” towards the end of the song. She probably just didn’t hit the note correctly, but to me it sounded as if she screwed up the timing, because I didn’t even her the first word or so.

With “Mirai”, Kalafina finally started to move around, so far they had stayed glued to their positions. They waved and interacted with the audience, cheering us on to cheer them on. I did enjoy the performance and the overall atmosphere, although “Mirai” belongs to my most disliked of all Kalafina songs.

In MC#2, they talked about “Ashita no Keshiki” a bit, together with their first album and how this is the first time performing in Kitakyushu (and not Fukuoka city). Since this is Wakana’s home prefecture, she proceeded to talk about her favorite Udon and Ramen restaurants (I think it was also about the restaurant chain West) and other specialties of Fukuoka.

The next song was “Oblivious”, also a song I was really looking forward to. As you know, this time Hikaru decided to sing her first lines in her high head voice (probably because she just can’t do it “regularly” anymore). I thought and still think it’s lovely, as it gives the song a much more mysterious opening and it’s also quite closer to the original to be honest. Wakana and the band drowned out Keiko for most of the time, with Hikaru and her high voice coming to the party later too. The acoustics were really weird that day...

“storia” was as usual, nothing special and not a song that really stands out to me anymore.

I was more looking forward to “Gogatsu no Mahou”, which is also a song I came to appreciate more over time. I adore the bridge section after the chorus, especially Wakana’s “habataku kotori no” and that one super high moment, so I really tried to focus on that particular part of the song. It was great!

With “consolation”, finally a darker and fiercer song made its debut and while I don’t really remember the performance itself anymore, I do remember the stage production. Basically, they packed out those lights and illuminations that they have been hiding so far and blasted us with them. Hikaru was pretty quiet though. Keiko on the hand appeared to have problems with her earpiece, and at some point she was frantically waving to the technicians backstage.

Wakana took it upon herself to dominate “To the beginning” as well, but we got some action on stage at least, since the girls stayed glued to their positions most of the timea again.

In MC#3, Keiko talked about how every live performance as well as their unique harmony is important to them (quite ironic after Wakana was actively trying to make Keiko NOT be heard lol). The following song was special in a sense that there would be NO harmony. Back then, when Kalafina received the song for the first time (or before recording, not sure), they even asked Kajiura Yuki whether this is correct or even intentional.

With “Haru wo matsu” we got our obligatory ballad. While I was never really fond of the song, I think it’s sweet and yes, their missing harmony gives it quite a refreshing vibe. Keiko sounded pretty much like in the 9+ONE DVD, but it was so strange to hear her cutesy voice live and so clearly... she sounded like an entirely different person XD Hikaru, for the first time actually, could finally shine, as we could HEAR her. She didn’t deliver as good as she probably could have, but still it was a very pretty performance.

Now, we were reaching the spot on their setlist that would differ at each venue. Before the concert, I checked out all setlists from the previous lives to see whether there were any patterns or which songs were most likely to be performed (again). It seemed like they took 4-5 songs and repeated them over the course of the tour, which is why I had my hopes high for “Hikaru furu” or “Kimi no gin no niwa”. But interestingly they chose a song they hadn’t performed yet (please correct if I’m wrong here), which was “Ring your bell”.

“Ring your bell” is very high on my list of all-time disliked Kalafina songs (I just can’t seem to escape that song...). But I was pleasantly surprised to hear that they started the song as an acoustic version, very much like the performance during their Arena Live. It stayed acoustic until after the first chorus, then the band joined too. I like this half-half version over the “normal” version, because it’s an amazing moment when you don’t expect the loud and cheerful opening of “Ring your bell” to suddenly fill the stage. The overall harmony of band and singers came together again and the acoustics were finally so much cleaner and nicer. The audience rose to their feet and even some dedicated dudes on my loser floor stood up to cheer them on. However, Wakana’s final high-pitched “ring your BELL” was incredibly cringy and breathy, one of the main reasons I hate the song so much.

Anyway, Kalafina got their break to change costumes and we got an AMAZING performance by the band that played some BGM of the anime “Kubikiri Cycle”. To this day, I don’t know what exact song they played and for the love of god, please SOMEONE TELL ME. I know it was fairly uptempo and rather dark... help pls XD

So far, the stage production was pretty much boring and simple. Other than some light effects, nothing really happened, we just had that huge curtain as background. Now, we finally got ACTION. Well, at least for the eye. They lifted the curtain and revealed those huge, impressing statues of Kalafina’s silhouettes, mostly made out of their past live outfits. I could have spent a long time checking out every part of this artwork, trying to recognize what dresses from which live they used and what not. Now that I watched the DVD, I know where Kalafina was standing, but at the time I didn’t see them AT ALL. The music played the overture and suddenly Keiko was on stage with the other two following her. To me it looked like they stepped THROUGH the middle silhouette, but turns out they were just standing in front of it - they were so far away, I couldn’t differ between them and the clothes behind them lol

(Photo: Hikaru’s “silhouette” with her outfits)

Well, I think I already gave you my opinion on those new dresses... At the time, both Keiko and Wakana looked kinda cool and pretty shiny, but even though I could see jack shit from so far away, I knew that Hikaru’s outfit was a disappointment. Her fucking pants and skirt or whatever that is... XD

I was incredibly looking forward to “Märchen”, as now it became one of my all-time favorite songs. But back then I was especially amazed by the song during their release event of the single in April. I wanted to hear this live again so badly and well... I did, but it wasn’t as good as the release event. Again, Hikaru sounded tired and Keiko and Wakana were fighting about who could be louder than the band. Keiko drowned out Hikaru most of the time... During the middle section we saw their Kala-dance, which I already got to witness during the release event. However, I was pleased to see that they decided to spice things up by showing background animations. It looked like they danced in sinc with themselves, it was truly impressive and such a refreshing use of video. This, as well as the later “Magia” performance made this concert/tour truly stand out and I am glad that they could take their creativity to a new level. I wish they would have continued to do so much more later on.

So, let’s talk about “Magia”. Holy shit, what a performance. The screen from the very beginning was lowered, intro was played, forest was shown, you know it guys. In sync with their live singing, they showed this fucking amazing pre-recorded bits of Kalafina and as I didn’t see this coming, it absolutely blew my mind. It was a psychedelic wtf show with cinema feeling all over the place and for once, the acoustics were actually good. Especially the instrumental part was... I don’t know what it was, but HOLY. SHIT. Truly guys, it was so cool. If there ever was an interview on that particurly performance I would love to read it to how Kalafina thought about this one and how the creation process went. When Keiko stepped in front of the screen it just added to her overall cool demeanor. When the screen was lifted again, we got a little sneak peak of the microphone stands in back.

(Photo: Keiko’s “silhouette” with her costumes)

Which were of course used for “Kyrie”. The DVD version is truly one of my favorite performances of that song and in Kitakyushu it was pretty cool too, especially with their small but effective arm movements. Keiko’s final long-ass “kyrie” was amazing and fairly unexpected from my side. Also some fat light show and big bass sounds, which I am always appreciating.

Next up was “heavenly blue” and here they tried to interact with the crowd once more. I like this song mostly for the kajiurago bridge and I always focus especially on Wakana’s super high “so na” (or whatever), while Keiko is going low at the same time. Wakana was too loud again though, but by now their overall performance and acoustics improved quite a lot.

“One Light” once again activated the crowd, especially Hikaru went crazy here. The atmosphere was amazing and you could just feel that everyone was fired up, singing along and having fun. Everyone just screamed when Hikaru sang “boku wa yukeru”, so cool.

MC#4 was about band introduction. Konno Hitoshi and Sakurada weren’t present if I remember correctly, which was a shame... but then again, I wouldn’t know the difference lol

The last song of the block was their new single at the time, “Into the world”. It was really beautiful, Hikaru finally sang more clearly. A good performance, very similar to the ones I would see from that point on.

We got a little break again, as Kalafina traditionally fake-ended the concert. While the audience was clapping, it took about 5 minutes or so for them to return. But first, the screen was lowered again, and some text, together with the intro for “Ongaku” finally told us to switch on our 9+ONE Lights. Everyone did so and boy, what a sight! Even from so far in the back, the lights in the dark hall looked so great! While of course hundreds and hundreds of people were present, you don’t really get a sense of that sheer number when you focus on the stage the entire time. I looked around and with so many lights illuminating the hall, you truly get a feeling of how many people actually are here with you.

Kalafina returned with their plain, but nevertheless cool black outfits, wearing the little lights themselves and standing on a mini-stage. The song played out as usual, but this time, as Konno Hitoshi wasn’t present and the other violin guy played his solo different than usual. Don’t ask me how it differed, I really don’t remember, but I liked that version a lot more. We got a new cool background too.

“blaze” pretty much business as usual.

(Photo: Wakana’s “silhouette” with her outfits, sorry for the bad quality)

MC#5 was about Hikaru and her beloved sales corner, where she mainly introduced the Kalafina produced goods like Keiko’s pink dumbbell and her bath salt (I think). She talked about the 9+ONE Lights and that they do not produce new lights for each concert, but re-use them every time. That was supposed to increase to sense of unity and connection between them and the fans as well as among the fans themselves, “carrying the fire of every fan and concert to the next” or something like this. As Kalafina had upcoming concerts in Taiwan and Hong Kong, Hikaru said that they would bring the lights to international fans too, so “don’t take them home!”. Well... I guess my ten years of studying Japanese at this point must have failed me in that particular instance because I truly don’t know what she said or meant. I unfortunately ended up taking the ring home. #guiltybutnotguilty #sue me

I think this is also where they talked about the big silhouettes we have seen in the earlier block and that they used dresses from previous performances to decorate them. They then turned around, facing the wall and imitated the poses of the silhouettes - it was super funny and crowd laughed and cheered. I think they lifted the screen of this stained glass pattern to show the silhouettes for direct comparison. (Correct me if I am wrong, but I think they cut out this conversation from the DVD? Not sure, too lazy to check).

We sadly arrived the final song of the setlist, which again should differ at each venue. What song would it be? I hoped for songs like “sprinter” or “Yume no daichi”, as those were among the songs they had already performed during the tour.

Well, back then, they had announced their new single “Hyakka Ryouran”, but it wasn’t released yet (I think we only knew some bits of the chorus at the time). Funnily, I talked about that with the girls I had met prior to admittance, something like “Hey, wouldn’t it be cool if Kalafina performed Hyakka Ryouran as surprise encore?”. I mean, they were no strangers to performing songs that haven’t been officially released yet, see “Into the World” during the Arena Live. But, you know... I thought that would be unlikely, because why should they?

BUT NOT THEY ACTUALLY DID IT! Keiko was like: “Ah, which song will be the final song... Well, how about our new single?”, and the crowd LOST IT. I lost it too XD Seriously, no one could handle that. Anyway, now that I know the full version by heart, it’s hard to describe how I felt back then. Listening to a song for the first time is always an experience, but it makes it hard to remember when you can’t listen to it again and again. I tried to focus on every aspect of the song, and remember it as being “dark”, due to Keiko’s deep intro, “fast” and “rock-like”, fitting into the samurai setting of the anime with its flute elements. I still couldn’t believe my luck though and afterwards, the crowd cheered and cheered.

Now the concert should have been over, but instead they entered MC#6. They talked about the first sing of the night “Samidare ga sugita koro ni”. Apparently, they pretty much have never performed this one live, except once during a fanclub-only event. For this tour they wanted to sing this song “for everyone”, as it is such a bright and warm piece.

So, for whatever reason, Kalafina decided to perform “Samidare ga sugita koro ni” AGAIN. However, this time they emphazised that bright feeling of connected hearts and unity by making us turn on our One Lights and wave along with the rhythm. Everyone loudly sang with them, especially during the “lalala” part towards the end. It was so much fun to listen to Kalafina, to the audience around me and singing along too, all while watching this amazing light show that we were creating ourselves. It was even better and much more carefree than the first performance. Still can’t believe my luck that of all venues of the 9+ONE tour, I got to attend to most unique one.

After that, the band was introduced again, they all held hands and thanked the audience for coming. But just before they wanted to bow, Wakana suddenly sobbed (so loud that I actually heard it lol), trying to wipe away tears. Being in her home prefecture, I figured she was just so overwhelmed by her emotions. Each of the three said some final words and with that the concert and the domestic 9+ONE tour ended.

I proceeded to take photos of the stage, as we were still able to see the big silhouettes. However, staff members appeared and told everyone to stop taking pictures and get the fuck out, probably to stop people from “spoiling” the concert before the DVD release or copyright or whatever. Well, thankfully I already took like 3 photos and managed to sneakily take another one, in order to have a close shot of each silhouette (which is why the third photo of Wakana’s statue is not a close-up like the other too). I left the building, returned to Fukuoka city and 2 days later back to Kanagawa.

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

Despite the sound issues, it was truly a great live experience. 9+ONE would be, along with the 10th Anni, my only “real” Kalafina concert experience, as all the other concerts I attended would either be acoustic or without live band. I am so thankful that I managed to seize the opportunity and attend this live, especially in Wakana’s home. Writing this report again made me remember all those feelings I had back then, now they make me both happy and sad.

Anyway, I hoped you like my updated report!

[caidenisct797]

best bows for the money: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

How Much Can a Compound Bow Shoot an Arrow?

Compound bows are a favorite with quite a few differing kinds of archers. It truly is a much more very affordable choice than other types of bows in the marketplace currently. However, that does not indicate it can be utilized in exactly the same ways that other bows can be employed. Many individuals want to know how significantly they could shoot a compound bow. There is an easy way to find out just that.

To reply the dilemma; how far can a compound bow shoot, 1 ought to recognize what sort of arrow is needed to obtain this. The preferred style of arrow for archery is actually a double-headed arrow, or even a feather board arrow. This kind of arrow features many rewards when shooting from the compound bow. These rewards include; speedy draw, fantastic accuracy, and a very good destroy.

If an archer is Doubtful on how much can a compound bow shoot a particular arrow, they ought to evaluate from the bottom with the grip to the top on the bow. This would be the load in the arrow. They might also evaluate how significantly the arrow will travel whilst continue to during the bow's arbor. This length is generally known as the "no cost-throw" of your bow. Most arrows have a regular length that may be known by most archers.

Figuring out how significantly can a compound bow to shoot an arrow is crucial to taking pictures a far better archer. Each particular person arrow has another kinetic Strength. The heavier an arrow is, the more kinetic Electrical power it has. The shorter the arrow, the a lot less Power is retained throughout the vacation phase. For that reason, understanding the distance of an arrow will journey is important.

Quite a few knowledgeable archers will tell new compound bow hunters that prolonged shots are more practical than quick ones. It is because for a longer period photographs allow the hunter to engage and disengage their bow from a lot quicker prey. To evaluate how significantly can a compound bow shoot a certain arrow, a person will have to establish how considerably the arrow will vacation when entirely drawn. Most professional bowhunters shoot many pictures with an individual bow, so this length will likely be difficult to determine. A superb rule of thumb is always to shoot for around one particular tenth of the lawn through the string right before releasing the bow.

A longer arrow demands a lot less distance for the arrow to vacation, so a shorter arrow allows for greater successful range. One more factor to notice would be that the arrow is now touring at an increased velocity, which raises its kinetic Electricity. Which means the arrow will expend far more Power when achieving its greatest speed or distance. The equation to Learn the way much can a compound bow to shoot an arrow is: Effective Array in feet - kinetic Power of length/time. Certainly, the extended the arrow, the higher the Power used over the shot. Alternatively, the shorter the arrow, the more kinetic Vitality with the arrow has, plus the shorter it takes to reach its maximum variety or flight velocity.

Another element to notice is the attract body weight of the bow. Attract weights, which can even be referred to as archery tools, let with the angle from the arrow to become set though capturing. In case you draw using your fingers, the arrow can have a all-natural arrow bend within the knuckles when released, but a draw weight boosts the angle from the arrow that can set much more power about the arrow. As an example, a heavier arrow will fly straight and at a greater velocity than a lighter arrow. Lightest arrows are referred to as flies and therefore are applied principally for archery education or follow.

How considerably can a compound bow to shoot an arrow is determined by lots of aspects including the draw excess weight of the bow, the arrow's archery content, the archer's ability, and perhaps how good the weather conditions are. If 1 has no clue about how much their bow can shoot an arrow, they ought to question a specialist archer for help. Even if they know how far they are able to shoot an arrow, it is still imperative that you preserve fantastic type should they intend to make any money taking pictures arrows.

The best way to Retailer A Compound Bow In Your House - Basic Guidelines for Fantastic Archery Storage

For The majority of us archers, we previously understand how to keep a compound bow within our residence. It can be safe, simple to access and is on the market at any time from the calendar year. Even so, Were you aware that it's important that you should know how to store a compound bow in your property as well? A compound bow is a very large piece of kit and like every other large and high-priced instruments, it should be saved in a secure position the place It's going to be protected against The weather. You may not be aware about it but you will discover things that might cause harm to your products particularly if they're not effectively stored.

There are two major areas that you ought to retailer a compound bow in the house. A single is definitely the shooting location, which need to be dry and Secure. Another ought to be the storing location for just after use only. Here are a few tips on how to keep a compound bow in your home:

When looking at how you can retail outlet a compound bow in the house, the first thing that you've got to have a look at is its place. In an effort to hold it safe, It's important to set it far away from drinking water and heat sources. The exact same rule applies to the humidity amount also. This is because humidity has a tendency to deteriorate the issue of one's bow. Make sure that you keep it considerably from these sources of dampness or else it'd crack.

Another tip on how to retailer a compound bow in your property is how to shop it adequately. Which means It's important to get it in the ideal storage container so as to preserve it in best ailment. For this, you are going to 1st really have to evaluate the internal component of the archery bow after which you can buy a proper storage container for it. Remember that there are 3 varieties of storage containers which you could Select from. For instance, you may Opt for a bag or a rack, a box or simply a container. When you determine tips on how to retailer a compound bow in your property, it is possible to go ahead and buy the appropriate storage for it.

When investigating how to retail outlet a compound bow, the same rules use to its sight also. In actual fact, It's important to just take additional care together with your sights if you wish to preserve its integrity all of the time. Contrary to other bows, compound bows include fiberglass or carbon fiber sights. And to protect the previous, you could area them within a case even though storing the latter in the scissor-folded bag.

Apart from storing your bow inside a proposed fashion, An additional suggestion regarding how to store a compound bow in your home is making certain that You usually have its situation with you. This could ensure that you do not take the bow outside of the situation for just about any motive. Even if you are traveling, it is best to always carry its case along. Try to remember, the last thing that you'd want is to lose your bow since you forgot to pack it in its circumstance.

The following tips regarding how to retail outlet a compound bow in your own home are by no means an exhaustive list. Nevertheless, they are a lot of the Principles that you may want to consider. When you comply with them diligently, you can find that you'll be a lot more ready to keep up your compound bow in pristine situation for an exceptionally very long time. Just in case you forget about any of the following pointers regarding how to shop a compound bow in your own home, you can also check with the assistance of your pals which have a penchant for archery.

A lot of the folks you understand would suggest which you retail outlet your bow with your garage. If you have the Place and In case you have the spending plan, then by all implies go for it. You'll be able to keep it in the sturdy crate that will guard it very well. If you're on a tight spending plan, you could select a simple plastic box that will function your storage box. It can be your choice how you can keep a compound bow in your house.

How to Hang a Compound Bow Effectively

Are you currently trying to find how to hold a compound bow over the wall? It's not as tricky as you might think. In fact, It is really really uncomplicated and can preserve you numerous of time in the long run.

Initially off, you have to decide on a significant place for your new bow. An excellent spot to hold a compound bow is over your head. You don't need to acquire it hanging out of your nose. This may result in an damage, especially if your bow comes off accidentally. Apart from, it's probably not a safe solution to retail outlet your bow.

The second move in how to hang a bow over the wall is to locate a very good wall hanger. Now I really know what you're contemplating... a wall hanger is simply a basic previous hanger that you just use to hang up shots or apparel. Completely wrong. There are actually wall hangers specifically made for individuals such as you who're capturing bow and arrows and wish to safe the limbs for the wall. They also are available in many additional possibilities than an everyday hanger would.

One example is, you can find motorbike hook and bike hook mounted hanging kits which make mounting your bow uncomplicated and rapid. Hooks on the back again with the legs within your taking pictures bench or simply a wall hanger, or maybe mounted on your door or windowsills. In addition they look excellent. And they assist your compound bow stays continuous for the duration of tense times. They are often altered up and down also, retaining your bow from shifting during a nervous instant.

So the place do you get a established of such? Very well, hanging a bow is just not tough to do but obtaining the excellent setup, specifically for your compound bow, is usually challenging. This is why I wrote this informative article. In this post I'll Supply you with a few easy methods that will let you mount your bow and setup your taking pictures bench so that you could dangle your bow thoroughly. Try to remember, all you may need are pliers, some thread, a drill, and screwdriver. Let's start.

Step one in how to hold a compound bow is to secure a couple of low-priced pliers and screws. Put a person screw in Each individual gap that retains your limbs in place and screw them up limited. This will Be certain that your limbs cling straight when they cling in the wall.

The second stage in how to hold a compound bow hanger is always to use your bike hook and bicycle hooks mounted package. Use this package to hang your bow hanger in precisely the same way that you choose to connect a scope on your rifle. This will reduce the vibration in the string causing misalignment of your respective limbs and can help you save a lot of funds around the life span within your bow. Also, do not forget your rubber mallet!

Final, and most important, the third stage in how to hold a compound bow hanger would be to screw the legs onto your wall, getting the screws several inches past the corner and into your drywall. It is possible to verify which the legs are screwed in by thinking about them by way of a little hole while in the corner. With all the legs on the wall, use your bicycle hooks and cling the bow up as higher as you happen to be snug with. This can stop the burden within your bow from warping the wall, and it will also make sure your bow stays place When you're hanging it!

The final action in how to hold a compound bow hanger will be to established your cable ties in between The 2 bicycle hooks. To do that, it's essential to very first put in some cable ties in between the cable rings on the wall. Once you have carried out this, take the hanger and little by little tighten the cable ties up into placement. Future, reduced your hanger into put, and after that connect it to your wall. Ensure that the cable ties are securely tied to stay away from harm to your walls.

Ideally soon after looking at this text you'll know how to cling a compound bow hanger accurately. Ideally you'll give your bow that little bit of extra assistance and ensure it won't change or go When you're shooting it. If you should swap a bow hanger, you should definitely Examine the maker's instructions. On top of that, several makers give no cost hangers along with your get. Which is A further fantastic motive to buy online - you can get to cut down your delivery expenditures.

Ideally now you know how to hold a compound bow hanger effectively. Ideally you can give your bow that little bit of extra assistance and ensure it will not shift or change while you're shooting it. If you need to replace a bow hanger, make sure you Look at the producer's Guidance. Moreover, several manufacturers provide cost-free bows with your buy.

Just how long Does a Compound Bow Very last?

A compound bow is a pricey piece of kit that you need to not get for granted particularly when you may have just gotten 1. Having said that, there remain loads of people who find themselves not using them but only watching what they spend on their own products. The amount of cash that you shell out will identify how much time does a compound bow final you.

In accordance with the science Supported by true user suggestions and scientific details, a compound bow basically lasts for approximately fifteen to eighteen several years. This is certainly raise by about a few to 4 periods if you change various elements of the identical compound bow. One other variables incorporated the attract excess weight, the sights, the limbs, the axle nut as well as the wrap about knobs. The length of time that it takes relies on the way you keep your bows And the way you shoot them in addition.

The 2nd factor viewed as in how much time does a compound bow previous is just how long does it basically keep a complete load. This issue is predicated on the idea that you get enormous draw power from it every time you utilize it. It's important for you personally to make sure that the attract power that you simply apply to it really is a minimum of equivalent to that of a completely loaded bow with an analogous draw pounds. You can reach this by practicing on an vacant compound bow along with on an entire-attract bow loaded with arrows. The test of chronograph as opposed to arrow is The ultimate way to gauge this.

The third element is the quality of the string that you use for it. The components that happen to be accustomed to make your bowstring will determine how long does a compound bow string very last. You'll want to Get the strings from dependable companies to prevent acquiring faulty merchandise that won't give you the high quality that you just count on.

In answering the concern how long does a compound bow previous, the durability of its axle can be an important component. This aspect connects The pinnacle of your arrow to the rest of the shaft. Because of this, if this axle is damaged, the arrow will have issue in shooting straight. The top types of axle are produced from carbon or aluminum which provide the shaft plenty of toughness to resist impact as well as offer stability for a longer time.

The other point that you ought to look at when Finding out how much time does a compound bow previous is exactly how much drive it gets while in use. Most modern compound bows have stiffer shafts which decrease the level of wrist action that it activities even though in use. Moreover, some of them function more robust and heavier products earning them additional immune to impression at the same time. When picking an arrow, generally check for its stiffness to know how it responds to a sharp blow.

How much time does a compound bow lasts also is dependent upon how much time its string stays undamaged. Because the string is connected into the limbs, the string is checked for its durability employing a strain gauge. The gauge's numbers usually show how long it requires right before a string breaks immediately after pulling a string.

The final facet of a compound bow is its mechanical launch. A good a person really should have the ability to lock right after Just about every attract despite how hefty the string is pulling. Its lock really should be independent of just how long the string is getting pulled. The mechanical launch also determines just how long a compound bow will last because it determines how properly it may be used.

Taking suitable care of the compound bow is usually vital that you how much time it'll very last. Though the string is locked, it is actually very important that it's stored from tangling While using the limbs. This will likely be accomplished by thoroughly keeping the string employing a wrench on when you are taking it out and by hardly ever wrapping the string within the limbs in almost any way. Additionally, the string really should hardly ever be compelled far too much since this can cause breakage. And lastly, it is actually very important the string isn't subjected to really large temperatures considering the fact that This tends to influence its lifespan.

The final aspect to take into account when thinking about how long a bow will final is how very well it really is preserved. Most compound bows have an instruction manual or maybe a highlighted guarantee that information all routine maintenance processes. Preserving the string clean up and utilizing Exclusive cleansing components like compressed air to eliminate corrosion and mildew is essential on the longevity with the string and the bow by itself.

Compound bows are truly great resources for archery since they allow their end users to shoot stronger and speedier than ever before ahead of. They also enable consumers to exercise with their expertise without worrying regarding how prolonged it is going to consider them to improve their muscles back or simply how much dollars they will have to expend For brand new bows. Taking right treatment of these and making certain they remain in very good form is the best way to get essentially the most Additional resources out of them also to get pleasure from them For many years to come back. These tips will make certain that your arrows usually do not quickly crack aside or do not halt Operating also rapidly, that is what most really serious archers attempt for.

How to Carry a compound bow

Learning how to hold a compound bow will not be generally a sure bet. On the other hand, Studying how to hold a compound bow does not have to generally be a disheartening knowledge. Should you understand how to carry a compound bow as part of your back again pocket, It'll be reasonably simple to get for the wilderness with no fatigue carrying your archery products. This article will deal with some practical recommendations and knowledge for carrying your compound bow and the proper approach for carrying your bow.

Prior to deciding to even try and find out how to carry a compound bow, you are going to want to make sure that you may have your products jointly. Very first you will have to acquire off your arrows or other shooting equipment, then you'll want to wrap up your coat or another substance that you are feeling at ease carrying with your arms uncovered. You should wrap the material up in the cloth so that it is not obvious by your coat, and It's also advisable to Guantee

[gravelish]

Bike Touring and Bikepacking

13 June 2021

I was really happy with my bike and my gear for the ride back from San Francisco. I had considered taking my Surly with the touring gear, but opted instead to take the Warbird and the bikepacking gear. Both would have worked, but I think the latter was simply more enjoyable.

The distinctions between bike touring and bikepacking are nuanced, debated, semantic, and sort of irrelevant, but to me touring implies riding long distances over many days on the road, whereas bike packing suggests more an off-road bicycle equivalent to backpacking. But the line between these two pursuits is blurry. In addition, bike touring and bikepacking are associated with different types of bikes and different ways of carrying gear - a touring bike with paneers versus a mountain bike with soft luggage. But again, the lines are fuzzy.

My 2019 cross-country trip was pretty classic touring. My Surly Disc Trucker is a classic touring bike and I was loaded with panniers, duffels, and a handlebar bag. But during the past year and a half, my Salsa Warbird has become my go-to bike for both day rides and 3-4 day overnight trips. It’s a lot more fun to ride than the Surly. It’s lighter, it handles better, and frankly, I really like indexed shifting at my fingertips. The Salsa is very much a gravel bike with wider tires and is comfortable on both pavement and on rough gravel roads. On the other hand, the bike requires a completely different approach to packing.

One of the things that makes the gravel bike/bikepacking setup work is that you can’t carry as much stuff, so it’s lighter (it helps that the bike itself is much lighter, too). This not only makes pedaling uphill easier, it makes it easier to maneuver the bike around obstacles or carry it up steps. Combine this with the way the weight is distributed - higher and narrower - and the fact that the bike itself handles more nimbly than a touring bike, and the result is a much more fun and versatile touring rig.

BIKE

The bike is a Salsa Warbird with a 61cm carbon frame. It has Shimano GRX components with 2x11 gearing. It came with an 11-34 rear cassette, which I've swapped out for an 11-40. This gives me a much-needed granny gear for steep, loaded climbs. I had to tighten up a loose derailleur hanger early in the trip, but besides that the only problem was noisy gears as the grit and the crud built up on the chain, the pulley wheels, and the chain guides. Occasional attempts to clean things helped, but it was hard on the road to do a very thorough job.

TIRES

The tires are 700x42s. The front tire is the Teravail Cannonball that came with the bike (4000+ miles), still with the same tube. The rear tire is a relatively new Teravail Washburn set up tubeless. They both worked well - no flats and and few signs of wear over the 1200-mile trip. I topped off the air a couple of times (larger tires means I run fairly low pressure - maybe 45psi).

ATTACHMENTS

A Wahoo Bolt bike computer (and a cadence sensor on the crank). A rear blinker. I had a good headlight, but kept it stowed the entire trip, since there were no night rides and no tunnels. I have bottle cages on my forks and under the down tube. A Salsa Cradle is mounted to the handlebars, to which I strap my sleeping gear. I have an improvised porteur rack above the front wheel (the carbon forks are not intended to carry a traditional front rack) that provides some extra stowage for light stuff and a mounting location for the headlight. All the other luggage is soft stuff strapped to the frame.

LUGGAGE

Handlebar roll. A good compression dry sack holds my 'sleeping system.' It straps into a cradle on the bars.

Utility bag. Easy to unclip and bring with me when I'm away from the bike. Holds electronics, toiletries, spork and knife, other odds and ends. An additional pouch served as a holster for my iPhone.

Two stem/feed bags. Easy access to snacks, layers, and a little spare space for a bottle of Gatorade, a defrosting burrito, or in one case, a chocolate milk shake.

Gas tank/top tube bag. Small camera, handkerchief, buff, face mask.

Seat bag. Clothing, outerwear (when not strapped on elsewhere), a small cook set, a little food. I strap on a pair of sandals which serve as camp shoes, town shoes, and for potential water crossings.

Frame bag. Tools, spare tube, parts and supplies, water filter, stove, tent poles/pegs, a small daypack, a small towel, and so forth. It’s a good place to stuff frozen burritos, extra napkins, sweaty arm warmers, and other stuff during the day.

GEAR

It’s impressive how much stuff I squeezed into a pretty compact suite of luggage. This photo shows everything I took off the bike when I got home, including the clothes off my back, the helmet and glasses off my head, and the shoes off my feet.

Shelter/Sleeping. My ‘sleeping system’ fits in a small dry bag on the handlebars. It includes a lightweight tent, a down quilt, and an ultralight air mattress. The combination works to the mid-30s and if it’s colder, I can wear my down jacket. The tent poles and pegs live in the frame bag.

Clothing. A change of bike shorts and socks, a short and long sleeve jersey. A set of lightweight clothes for off the bike. A rain jacket, rain pants, and a light down jacket. I’ve got both fingerless and full-finger gloves. Two headbands, one for sweat, the other for warmth. Arm warmers. Leg warmers. A rain cap. A baseball cap. When I'm on roads and not wearing my rain gear, I usually wear a lightweight yellow vest - both for visibility and as a windbreak.

Cooking. I have an MSR pocket rocket stove in my frame bag and a compact cook set in my seat bag (small titanium pot, fuel canister, lighter, rubber scraper, and a stove stand). I don’t cook much, but mornings are better with boiling water for coffee and oatmeal. I occasionally cook a dinner, such as a dehydrated backpacking meal.

Food. Unlike backpacking, where you carry food for days or weeks, biking involves resupplying as you go. When expecting to camp, I tend to buy a sandwich or packaged burrito earlier the day, though I always have some sort of backup meal in my gear. I carry instant oatmeal packs and instant coffee for mornings. I keep an assortment of snacks - nuts, string cheese, pepperoni sticks, candy bars, gels, energy bars, fig newtons. Things that cover a range of cravings and nutritional needs and that can be easily restocked at gas stations and general stores.

Drinks. I carried three water bottles, one on each side of the fork and another under the down tube. Whether I use all of them depends on conditions and availability of water. I can typically make room in a stem bag for more water or a large bottle of Gatorade when I expect a long dry stretch. I have a small collapsible water bag and a water filter so I can resupply from natural water sources.

Tools and supplies. The lower portion of the frame pack holds bike tools, supplies (Gorilla tape, super glue, a patch kit), and spare parts (brake pads, chain link, zip ties). An extra tube, a small pump, tire sealant, and a small bottle of chain lube. I keep my good bike multitool and a small knife/scissors in a pocket on one of my stem bags for easy access.

Electronics. iPhone. Bike computer. Rear blinker. Headlight (not used). Canon SX720 camera (small camera with a good zoom). All USB rechargeable. A good 13mAh battery (I can go three days on phone, blinker, and bike computer with this). And a spare 6mAh battery, just in case. A corded five-outlet USB charger/adapter. An SD-lightning adapter to load camera pics to phone. And several microUSB cables and a lightning cable for phone (this can fail and is critical, so a spare makes sense). Cables and charger live in a pouch in the utility bag. It didn’t happen on this trip, but on long days I can charge phone and bike computer while I’m riding.

Other Stuff: First aid kit, TP, a small fast-dry towel, shower wipes (wish I’d discovered these years ago). Wallet (in jersey or shirt pocket), a bunch of quarters for showers and car washes. A few paper maps for old times sake and souvenir stickers I pick up along the way. The mesh pockets on the stem bags hold a bike multitool, a small knife/scissors, a small bottle of DEET, hand sanitizer, and sunscreen. I have two sticks of Burt’s Bee’s Wax - one is for chapped lips and the other is for my pedals to keep my cleats/shoes from squeaking (I try to keep the two straight). It’s nice to have this stuff easily accessible and not buried deep in larger bags.

[kihyunswrath]

Ok but. Seriously though. It’s been a couple of days since the news of Wonho’s solo career and I’ve now clarified my head again.

And here’s the thing.

Starship lost a LOT of money when Wonho was kicked out. Like. A fuckton. Album sales, video views, general popularity. Dozens of videos they had probably filmed and taken back when Wonho was still within the group, could no longer be published. Projects, shows and other things where Wonho had been in a major role had to be cancelled. And because of how desperately they then tried to cling on to the rest of the Monsta X schedules that were still, in theory, feasible, they made everything look very sloppy, greedy and shitty, and made a whole lot more fans unsatisfied. They even ended up overworking Jooheon to burnout which meant yet another big blow to their sales. And then, what a surprise, comes coronavirus and kind of kills the rest of the mood, if there was any, and makes it very hard for them to continue with their world tour plans.

And let’s not even talk about the shady shit they were involved in during the Produce X 101, because that’s another topic, but hey, SSE probably wasn’t too happy about that being revealed either, right? It isn’t like they can be 100% convinced their new boy group could solve their financial issues with a snap of a finger, not anymore.

So. What can they do? The fandom, from their perspective, is split into half: those who couldn’t stand the idea of Wonho ever being mentioned ever again, and those who absolutely loathed Starship for being so cowardly stupid that they couldn’t stand up for him, when he had done basically nothing wrong.

If they truly let Wonho go, there goes Starship’s popularity outside of Korea. Those overpriced world tour tickets they tried to sell are still not sold out, as far as I know, and that fact is probably still stinging them like a bitch. They know what we’ve been up to, what projects, events, fundraisings and other shit we put up, just for Wonho. They saw the dollar bills flying right past them, out of their reach, because those dollar bills were spent on keeping Wonho’s name public, when Starship had promised themselves they would never mention his name again.

But if they don’t let him go, Joseon dynasty people are jumping up from their Naver forum graves and wherever the hell in the medieval past they lurk, and claiming that Wonho doesn’t deserve to be in any position whatsoever, ever again. He is basically a reborn Satan because he told us he was also a teenager once. And you know, we can’t let people think idols have been teenagers, because then we’d basically admit they are humans too. And humans need to, you know, eat, sit, shit, sleep and meet people in total freedom, because that’s their basic human right. We can’t have that. We can’t have that because this industry’s fundamental rule, the very base of its existence, is not letting idols do any of those things. So if we admitted they��re humans, too, then clearly we’re also abusing their basic human rights. No, says the Joseon dynasty hypocrite who is also known as a knetz, perfect demigods idols must be, and if they want to keep their career, they can’t tell anyone they’ve existed as human beings in this mortal material plane.

It’s a lose-lose situation for Starship, because they’re not only sharing the same values with those Joseon dynasty people, but they’re also thinking about money, and money, funnily enough, can come from multiple parties. From people who hate you for doing what you’re doing but who hope you to change your ways, and from people who support you exactly because of what you’re doing right now but who don’t want anything to change ever.

The former group is much bigger in numbers, but it’s far away from the field Starship actually operates on. The latter group is probably awkwardly small and stupid, but they are the real time bullies, and they are right there in front of Starship’s house, punching right where it hurts, ready to spew their bullshit 247.

And then, all of a sudden all this is solved with a seemingly easy fix: a new company is ready to take Wonho under its wings and bring him back to his former glory. New fancafes and social media platforms open in an instant and Wonho himself is back to his old apologizing self, behaving like a proper idol, being all modest and selfless. Where the hell did this company come from? Who are these people it manages? Why doesn’t it even have its own website or email address? Who is its CEO, who are the workers? Why haven’t I ever heard of this fucking agency before?

Now I don’t want to sound like a conspiracybebe or anything, but I’m 99% sure this Highline Entertainment isn’t technically a real company at all.

There were no actual idols under it before Wonho, and it doesn’t have official websites or any detailed information available. It’s apparently been there since the end of 2017, but what has it been doing during those two and a half years, because there is no visible promotion campaigns for the existing artists who work for it? And why the hell would Starship have bought that company, given how it couldn’t give a lot of profits to them? And now that Highline does have Wonho under their wing, why can’t they stand up for Wonho when he still faces backlash from the Korean media? He HAS officially made a contract with them and has all his charges cleared and therefore could technically sue anyone for trying to defame him? But no, instead they censor fans and stop them from spreading Wonho’s fanletters because they’re... you know, just as afraid of their fans as Starship once was.

I might be wrong but I don’t think I am, while I say that Starship is clearly trying to kill two flies with one hit (or however the hell that proverb goes). They can now earn profit from BOTH fans who “hate” Wonho and fans who love him. 

With this whatever nugu company no one knows or gives two shits about, they can pretend Wonho is permanently removed from Monsta X and has started his own career elsewhere and won’t technically bother ot6 fans anymore, so they can earnestly support the remaining Monsta X members with their new comeback and whatnot. But they also placed him close enough, right outside of their own premises, with all the same US managers, logos, stage names and other similarities from before, that we, who still hoped things to end up well for both Wonho and other Monsta X members, could stay optimistic about their future and offer our money for all of them at the same time.

You know, now we’ll get albums from Monsta X, and then albums from Wonho, and a lot of us will buy both - it’s even more merchandise and sales than it used to be. Funny, huh?

No challenging of the old conservative idols-are-Jesuses-but-better belief system, and no challenging the huge social justice movement that was born out of love for Wonho and other idols that have been treated like disposable trash. No, this way Starship technically doesn’t have to turn their back to either of us, but instead can go and pretend they’re the noble saint who gave an exceptionally rare new chance to an idol, while still keeping him in the backyard, just in case it turns out Wonho’s existence is too “scandalous” for their pristine reputation as a good old Confucian company.

Convenient.

I’m not saying they’re necessarily being smart, innovative or actually farsighted, but I’m saying that all this is pretty damn convenient for Starship. And yes, having said that, I do continue to support Wonho and Monsta X. I am intending to see the end of that, like I’ve said before. But I still don’t have to like what Starship is doing, not one bit. None of this needed to happen. And a lot more things could have been fixed, had Starship made those mistakes in the beginning and then actually reflected on them, instead of... well, whatever convenient shit-plotting this is.

My only comfort right now is that Wonho and Monsta X members can now be with each other probably a bit more often than not, and that’s technically the only thing I truly care about. I do also damn hope Wonho shows his popularity, power, wits, charms and superiority to Starship too and makes them hope they could still have him in Monsta X one day, when it’s too fucking late.

[vinylexams]

INTERVIEW with Brian Cook of SUMAC, Russian Circles, Botch, These Arms are Snakes, and Roy 

Brian Cook of the MANY gnarly bands listed above took time to answer a bunch of questions that had been burning a hole in my mind for years earlier today. Did you know that aside from playing bass in some of the heaviest bands currently in existence, Brian is also an avid record collector and he also runs a very similar page where he posts all of his records and writes up a bit of history and personal context with each one? A man after my own heart! I’ve dropped a link to his Tumblr below and you’d be a fool not to go check it out and follow his work there.

https://bubblesandgutz.tumblr.com⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

I really appreciated having a chance to talk to a very talented musician who also places a LOT of importance on physical medium and the recording process. All too often I get submissions from bands who either don’t know the in’s and out’s of the vinyl format or they took a lot of shortcuts and deprive their art a chance to really shine in the ways that vinyl allows. I picked Brian’s brain about his approach to creation of physical musical media as well as his history as a collector (and even tried to convince him to get These Arms are Snakes play my big gay wedding reception!). Thanks for taking the time to tell your story to us, Brian!

You've been a member of several incredible bands over the past few decades (Botch, Sumac, Russian Circles, These Arms Are Snakes), all of which have released pretty much everything they've recorded on vinyl. How important is the vinyl medium for you as a musician and creator?

Thanks for the kind words. It's really important to me for my music to have some sort of physical format. I realize that mode of thinking might seem sort of old school or outdated, but i've always been enamored by music as a kind of historical artifact. When I was younger, that meant it was important for me to have an actual Dead Kennedys cassette as opposed to a dubbed version from my friend. It was like the difference between owning a painting versus owning a xerox of a painting. When I became a musician, it was a sign of validation. By having a record with my name on it, I had created something that would potentially outlive me. And now in the digital age we've convinced ourselves that everything lives forever on the internet, but it's not true. Myspace just lost all their music. I've written for a lot of online music outlets that have closed shop or simply deleted old posts. Meanwhile, I have a trunk full of old zines that outlived the supposed permanence of blogs. So while the digital age is great for convenience and scope, creating a physical recording is really the more reliable way to make sure something exists for more than five to ten years, or however long it takes for the newest technological fad to become obsolete. Vinyl seems to be the longest lasting format, so it's my preferred medium. But if my music exists on tape or CD, that's fine too. 

Do you approach your recording and production processes with specific formats like vinyl in mind? If so, what do you do differently? Absolutely. The main concern is that we're dealing with the time constraints of vinyl. For bands like Russian Circles and SUMAC who have really long songs, it means we have to be careful how we sequence our records because we can easily exceed the 22-minutes-per-side rule. We've also been told by pressing plants that it's better to have long drones in the middle of an album side than at the beginning or end because there tends to be more surface noise at the beginning of a side and more warble at the end, and drones don't do much to mask these imperfections. But while one can complain about the limitations of vinyl, there are also issues with digital formats that can alter the way an album is put together. For example, the digital version of Empros has a longer drone at the end of "Batu" than the LP version, partially because of vinyl's limitations, but also because digital outlets like iTunes don't recognize records with long songs as full albums unless at least one track is longer than ten minutes. So we stretched it out on the digital version so that we'd be compensated appropriately for our work, but condensed it on vinyl so that we didn't compromise the sound quality.

Of all of the albums you've contributed to, which one stands out to you as the one you feel most connected to?

Probably Geneva by Russian Circles, if I had to pick one. We wrote that record over the span of several months at a house in rural Wisconsin. It was one of those ideal scenarios I'd always dreamed of---hunkering down in some isolated retreat and just immersing ourselves in the writing process. I've never walked away from an album feeling as accomplished as I did with that one. It just felt like we'd achieved something that had previously been out of my level of expertise. I think we've made better records since then, but I don't think I've ever felt as successful in making the sounds in my head translate to the recording. With regards to my other bands, I feel that way about Botch's We Are The Romans, These Arms Are Snakes' Easter, Roy's Killed John Train, and SUMAC's What One Becomes. But Geneva will always hold a special place.

How did you get into vinyl collecting and how does it play a part in your life?

I started buying vinyl around '92 because it was cheap. My first LP was Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet's Savvy Show Stoppers. I bought it for $2. Then I discovered 7"s, which was the dominant format for hardcore and punk bands at the time. Throughout high school, I mainly bought 7"s because i could buy 3 or 4 a week on my allowance. And let's be honest... most hardcore bands in the '90s had better 7"s than full albums. But vinyl was so dead at the time that you could also go to thrift stores and scoop up the entire Creedence Clearwater Revival discography for the cost of one CD. Even new vinyl was cheaper than their CD counterpart back then. So it's a bit of a drag now considering that vinyl is currently the most expensive format, but I still get a thrill from going to record stores, digging through crates, and coming home with a new LP. I can't say I buy that many 7"s anymore though.

What do you think about the relatively recent resurgence of large-scale vinyl production and collection?

It certainly has its advantages and disadvantages. I buy a lot of reissues just so I can have a clean, good-sounding copy, so I appreciate the resurgence in that regard. At the same time, the vinyl boom has made used record shopping a bit more of a drag. I don't know how many copies of Neil Young's Harvest I saw in used bins throughout the '90s and '00s, and then when I finally decided to buy a copy five years ago, it seemed like they'd all been snagged and the reissue was going for $50. When the Zeppelin discography got reissued a few years back, I mentioned wanting a new copy of Physical Graffiti to my husband. He went to our local indie record store in Brooklyn and asked the owner if they carried it and he totally balked at the question. "Why would we carry a reissue when you can buy a used copy of that in any record store for $5?" he said. My husband was like "every used Zeppelin record you carry is beat to shit and goes for at least $20... what the fuck are you even talking about?"

If you had to pare down your entire collection to no more than three albums, which would you keep?

What's the broader context? Like, are those the only three records I can listen to for the rest of my life? Or is it just a matter of only being allowed to own three records? If it's the former, I'd probably choose Bob Dylan's Blood on the Tracks, Miles Davis' In a Silent Way, and a Can album... either Ege Bamyasi or Soon Over Babaluma. Ask me tomorrow and I'd probably list off a different three. If it's the latter... like, if i'm merely holding onto records because the actual artifact means a lot to me but I can still listen to music in some other capacity, then I'd probably go with the His Hero Is Gone / Union of Uranus split LP, Undertow's At Both Ends, and Sticks & Stones Theme Songs For Nothing, just because those seem like a pain in the ass to replace and they're important records to me. I have records that are worth way more money, but I'm not someone who buys records because they're valuable. 

Do you have a "white whale" record you still haven't found?

Not really. For ages I resisted the urge to buy used records online, but I've since relented. The record that finally broke my ordering embargo was Hack's The Rotten World Around Us. They were a band from Adelaide, South Australia in the late '80/ early '90s who sounded like a grungier version of the first couple Swans records. Super heavy and scary. I got turned onto them through a 7" on Alternative Tentacles, but the LP was never available stateside. The first few times I toured Australia i went to every record store I could find in hopes of finding a copy. No one had ever heard of Hack. The singer was in another band called Grong Grong, and members of that band had gone on to be in King Snake Roost, Lubricated Goat, and Tumor Circus (with Jello Biafra on vocals), but no one had heard of them either. In my mind there was this rich underground of Australian noise rock from that time period that was still vital and valid, but the reality is that it was largely ignored and forgotten. I eventually found a copy online and bought it for $20. A year later i found a used copy in Boise. Oh well. I'd love to find Acme's To Reduce The Choir..., or an original copy of Popol Vuh's second album, or the Neu! 7", or the Greenlandic prog band Sume's Sumut album.

Hypothetically how much money would I need to raise to get These Arms Are Snakes to reunite to play my wedding reception? My family will hate it but my partner and I will be very happy, etc.

We still talk about doing some proper "farewell shows" since we bailed on doing them back in 2009/2010. Granted, now they'd be reunion shows, but in our hearts they'd be our proper goodbye. We're putting together a vinyl release of various odds and ends for next year, so maybe that'll give us an excuse to finally book something.

[chrysaliseuro2018]

Lisbon by Day and Night

So day 1 really in Lisbon and George had organised a free walking tour. Alex had arrived very late the night before so we all said a hearty hello in the morning. Alex is a a Canadian Aussie living in London and you don't get much more cosmopolitan than that. It was so lovely to catch up again. Some breakfast in house and then a quick sorty to the start of the tour which was not far away. Our tour guide was Joao (hard J ie Jow though he said he responded to anything including Joe) who advised he was 24 and a student of linguistics. Fantastic English, curly hair with the beard. He looked like a gentle version of one of those old Portuguese seafarers. There were 19 in the tour group and Joao was pretty engaging. The first half of the tour was reasonably devoted to various hints eg the practicaIities of negotiating the public transport system and insights into good bars and cafes and indeed where to buy the best pastel de natas. We also saw the funicular and various other sights including the view across the city from the Santa Justa viewing platform which was pretty speccy. The "hero" of the tour was an American cousin aged around early 50s who proffered opinions , suggestions, comments, questions and general observations at every opportunity. This was much to Penny's amusement and I have to say added to the quirkiness of the tour (there's nothing better than an eccentric). Joao stoically responded blandly to a regular and obvious stream of comments eg. when Joao was discussing one of the early (and most cool) nightclubs in Lisbon that his parents had attended which actually turned people away if they didn't like the look of you (unheard of in the 70s in Lisbon) our mate said you mean just like studio 54 in New York. A bemused Joao indicated that a lot of places do that now but it didn't matter old chum pressed on with his point till he felt it was made ( ie Joao thanked him for his contribution probably secretly thinking could the earth open up and swallow this guy) much to our amusement. Anyway the tour progressed. Mixed reviews. Joao I felt was probably catering for a youngish audience though split his tour in two with the second half devoted to a bit more history of Lisbon and Portugal. We did hear about King John (Joao - apparently every 2nd bloke is called Joao here) the 1st of Portugal (the illegitimate son of the previous King) who in the 14th century had basically saved the country's independence from Spain in a battle. Apparently he got rid of a number of his half- relatives to ensure his early access to the throne including his half sister. This was met with some voluble anguish by our American friend who was hoping for a happier ending. Also we heard of poet Luiz Vaz de Camoes, Portugal’s national poet, who died in 1580 and wrote Os Luciadas - Portugal's national epic poem about that country's achievements in the 16th century. Their national day is in his honour. This cove also had some legendary stories about being shipwrecked and swimming with one arm to the shore while the other held the draft manuscript of the poem above the waves. This was embellished by Joao (and via legend) with the possibility that Camoes also had his sweetheart on the boat but chose to save his manuscript instead. Also that he was reciting a new poem in his head and thought it was so good that he let the manuscript go as he preferred the new version he was reciting as he swam. Whatever the truth it was a good yarn and he was obviously quite a character in real life. Perhaps the most intriguing story was around the fall of fascism and the dictatorship in Portugal which finally happened in 1974. It also signalled the end of their colonial status. Joao had obviously heard a lot from his parents about life at that time and clearly read a lot which he relayed. Portugal had chosen to go its own way. It was neutral during the second world war and subsequently aligned itself with neither super power having no time for communists and no time for democracy. The dictatorship was still waging war in places like Angola to retain its colonies but more importantly the various mineral revenues originating there that supported it. Being not a particularly rich country its army was ill equipped to fight these wars and so the airforce was relied on to bolster it. This all changed when the Russians provide the Angolans with missiles which quickly accounted for the Portuguese airforce - end of the war. We probably got the simplistic version but it was pretty riveting. Just as riveting was how the dictatorship lost power domestically in 1974, basically overthrown by a small number of army dissidents who were quickly supported by elements of the navy and particularly civilians who quickly took to the streets as things changed. We were taken to the square where much of the action happened and it was virtually a bloodless coup. So these stories lifted the tour and we saw some interesting sights along the way though Lisbon ain't Prague. We generally liked the tour though voted our guide in Barcelona ahead of Joao simply because he gave us better insights over 2000 years+ of the history of the city. Joao was a bit narrower in focus timewise though entertaining enough. Amusingly at the end who should be providing him with a critique of his performance but American chum. I reckon Joao would have liked to reverse the critique but he took it in good spirit. At the end of the tour we quickly found ourselves in the neighbourhood of Alfama where lunch of sardines or octopus salad (the latter for Liz and Penny - gritty apparently) + beers ensued. Amusingly the table was at an angle of 20 degrees so Penny's head on the lower side was much lower than George's on the other side of the table. Vertigo inducing though the beers helped. It was the usual jolly lunch with everyone in good form and plenty of debriefing about our American tour mate. Waiter was a bit grumpy (wrong job) but all this stuff adds to the colour. All good and then Liz and I headed off to explore Alfama further and everyone else to wherever they chose. We basically walked around Alfama and other areas on the way home taking it all in. We had booked dinner for 7.00 (only time available otherwise we would have stuck to our preferred Spanish eating time of 8.00pm+) at the place we could not get into the previous night - the Cantinho do Avillez so that was the next commitment for that day. We all rolled up at home in the late afternoon Liz and I snoozed, the team had a few beers but by 7.00 we were at the Cantinho. Food was superb and we knew why it was so highly rated. Funky joint, friendly staff even had a stout beer. We ate amongst other things - exploding olives (soft and an immediate explosion of flavour in your mouth), octopus, tuna, pigs trotters, various tapas offerings together with great red wine. No wonder it got booked out. Despite the insistence on an early start by the restaurant there was no pressure to leave and so we trundled out around 9.00ish (can't remember). More drinks were required and we were recommended a venue by the waitress but opted for a wine bar suggested by our friend Caitlyn Box who lives in London "Jose Maria da Fonseca". Tables were scarce to come by though we secured a big barrel for us all to lean on and place drinks on just outside in the lane way which did the trick. We hoed into the red wine kindly donated by Alex and a jolly fun time was had by all. When we were finally offered an inside table we declined as we were so happy with our external spot on a mild evening. After an hour or so ( can't remember) Liz and I headed off and left the " kids" to play. They went to the place suggested by the waitress at the restaurant which turned out to be a bit dodgy and in a dodgy part of town strip clubs etc) so they ended up at the the local bar suggested for us by Joao on the tour. Turned out it was really laid back a bit like a house party rather than a bar. He said it was alternative. That tour is starting to look more valuable. George was home first around 1.00 as I had to let her in since we only had two keys and the others trailed in later (Liz and I were out to it). Great food, great wine even a good beer, great fun, everyone in fine form - a brilliant night.

[dipulb3]

2021 Genesis GV80 2.5T first drive review: Similar swagger, lower price

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2021 Genesis GV80 2.5T first drive review: Similar swagger, lower price

When automakers first make their latest and greatest available for journalists to test, they typically roll out loaded examples for reviewers to sample. In other words, top-flight models with the poshest interiors, the flashiest wheels, the highest tech and most importantly, the most powerful drivetrains. It makes sense, insofar as it affords reviewers the chance to experience all of a vehicle’s newness and greatness at once, giving us the chance to figure out what we like, and what we don’t. Side effect? It’s tempting to get distracted by all those bells, whistles and horses. That’s particularly easy to do when there are so many of all three, as is the case with the 2021 Genesis GV80. 

In fact, this upscale SUV has so many new features and details to experience, I thought it best to start out with a loaded GV80 3.5T in all-wheel-drive Prestige trim, a $72,000 as-tested luxury juggernaut. If you haven’t read my first drive review of that model, please consider pausing reading this article and doing that now.

No matter the engine, the GV80 is one sharp SUV.

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

All finished? Good. Now, to Genesis’ eternal credit, the company made numerous configurations of its new GV80 available at its Detroit-area first drive event, so I’m going to stay focused on powertrain and trim differences, since most of my other impressions carry over. So let’s take a closer look at this significantly more affordable version, the GV80 2.5T with rear-wheel drive. While my tester is still spec’d out in highfalutin Prestige guise, this crossover is a lot less expensive, stickering at $58,475 as tested (including $1,025 in freight). As you’ll soon learn, the Himalayan Gray Metallic sweetie seen here is priced to strike fear in the heart of today’s premium SUV market. That’s admittedly still a thick wedge, but a base GV80 starts at $49,925 delivered, which isn’t far above the price of a Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy from Genesis’ parent brand. Make no mistake, no matter how you option it, the GV80 represents an unparalleled amount of modern luxury SUV for the money. 

4-cylinder power

While I think the twin-turbo V6 in the 3.5T model suits the overall ambition of the GV80 best, the smaller, single-turbo, 2.5-liter inline-four featured here has lots to offer — not the least of which is its 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque (the latter peaking from just 1,300 rpm). Those output figures solidly outpoint not only the smaller 2.0-liter I4s in the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, they’re actually substantially more impressive than the power metrics mustered by the liter-larger, naturally aspirated V6s in the Acura MDX and Lexus RX. 

On the street, this translates to solid — but not overwhelming — amounts of oomph, whether trundling around town from stoplight to stoplight or merging onto the freeway. The eight-speed automatic shifts crisply and obsequiously, and I’d ballpark a 0-to-60-mph time in the 6.5-second range. The 2.5T is also surprisingly quiet, especially for an I4. That makes sense, because with the 3.5T, the entire GV80 drive experience is hushed, be it in terms of engine, road or wind noise (frankly, I can’t recall driving an SUV with a sub-six-figure price tag that’s as quiet as a GV80 V6). And yet, even without that model’s unique active road-noise cancellation tech (think: Bose 700 cans for the entire cabin), this 2.5T RWD isn’t far behind.

Speaking of the four-cylinder, the 2.5T’s soundtrack itself isn’t bothersome, but it is a bit featureless, and its character doesn’t match the GV80’s larger-than-life looks as well as the pricier, thirstier V6. That said, a solid slug of torque is always available for passing and the engine’s fuel-saving stop-start tech is unobtrusive enough that I left it enabled for 95% of my drive (something of a rarity for me). 

It’s worth noting that I only had the chance to drive the 2.5T unladen, without a cabin full of passengers or gear in the cargo area, and my drive day took place on Michigan’s drably flat and rain-slicked roads. I’d be interested to experience a similar model fully loaded, perhaps in the mountains, if only to see how much starch this powertrain really offers. Regardless, Genesis says the 2.5T can tow a solid 6,000 pounds, the same as its 3.5T big brother, so this combo ought to be reasonably stout. Of course, if you want the optional (small) third-row seats, you can’t get it with a four-cylinder engine. In fact, you have to pony up a very specific 3.5T trim, Advance Plus.

The GV80’s 2.5-liter turbo four puts out 300 hp and 311 pound-feet — more power than some rivals’ V6 engines.

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

4-cylinder efficiency

The payoff for going with the smaller I4, in addition to a substantially lower price tag, is markedly better fuel economy. The 2021 Genesis GV80 2.5T RWD nets 21 miles per gallon city, 25 highway and 23 combined according to EPA estimates. If you opt for AWD, the numbers hold up well, with only the combined number dropping by a single digit. Compare that to the AWD-only 3.5T, which gets 18 mpg city, 23 highway and 20 combined. None of these efficiency totals (all achieved on premium fuel) will score you on a slot on the Rainforest Action Network’s holiday-card list, mind, but these are solid figures for this class.

So, the I4 is less expensive and demonstrably more efficient. Good stuff. But if you’re picturing this GV80 as some sort of secret, inexpensive performance model for driving enthusiasts because it’s rear-wheel drive and lighter overall, well, think again. This isn’t a sport sedan on stilts, and it still weighs every bit of 4,700 pounds. That’s not to say this Genesis handles like an overstuffed couch — GV80s can hustle around corners smartly — but there isn’t much in the way of feel or involvement, especially from the steering. On the plus side, even though Genesis’ road-scanning adjustable suspension isn’t available on RWD models, because this 2.5T wears smaller 20-inch wheels wrapped in 265/50-series Michelin Primacy Tour all-season rubber, this vehicle offers better ride quality than the V6 I wrote about previously. (Base, 2.5T Standard trims ride on 19s with even taller sidewalls, so they ought to be more compliant still.) 

While you can’t get all the luxury fixins found in the V6 model, the 2.5T’s cabin remains posh, original and very well equipped.

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Interior excellence

Even though the 2.5T RWD Prestige lacks many of the super-swish features found only on the 3.5T’s Prestige trim (e.g. quilted Nappa leather, power soft-close doors, 3D-effect digital gauges, and so on), the 2.5T RWD’s interior still feels upscale. This wasn’t a foregone conclusion, as the RWD Prestige even goes without many of the features that come standard in AWD models with the same engine and trim — you can’t get active noise cancellation or a head-up display, for instance. Thankfully, the inclusion of features like a widescreen, 14.5-inch infotainment display, 21-speaker Lexicon audio system, knurled-finish switchgear, panoramic roof and matte-finish wood help elevate the cabin to significant heights. However, it’s the overall aesthetic and the quality of fit and finish that really sell the premium vibe that allow the GV80 to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Lincoln Aviator and Mercedes GLE.

When it comes to safety tech, Genesis has thankfully been a lot more straightforward. Regardless of driven wheels or trim, all GV80s receive adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist II (lane centering and road sign recognition), lane-departure warning and blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, forward-collision warning with auto brake, plus a basic driver monitor and an unusual extra airbag mounted front center airbag. Prestige trim adds 360-degree birds-eye camera coverage for easier maneuverability, reverse auto-brake, blind-spot monitor and ultrasonic rear-seat occupant alert, but that’s about it. All in all, the entire GV80 line is on-point when it comes to safety gear.

While the 3.5T may still be the GV80 to covet, there’s certainly no shame in the 2.5T’s game.

Chris Paukert/Roadshow

Should you buy one?

Is it worth buying a GV80 rather than the more traditional (and predictable) luxury brands out of Europe and Japan? 100%. Dollar for dollar, the GV80 isn’t just a better value when optioned like-for-like, it actually has more street presence than the establishment, plus it has a nicer cabin and a much-longer warranty. In fairness, if history is any guide, the GV80 won’t have comparable resale value entrenched rivals from Europe and Japan, but then again, you won’t be forking over as much money to begin with, and Genesis often has better dependability scores.

Now, should you consider this 2.5T versus a 3.5T? Well, if you can afford to splurge, I would. The extra power — 375 hp and 391 lb-ft — and refinement makes the six-cylinder engine a worthy upgrade. Plus with the way Genesis tiers its trim lines, you tend to get more standard equipment on 3.5T models, too. One more thing: Since RWD doesn’t radically alter (let alone improve) the GV80’s agility or fun quotient, I’d go for an AWD model regardless of engine, especially if you’re located somewhere that sees a good amount of rain or snow. In fairness, this 2.5T RWD is likely to be a pretty rare bird on dealer lots anyhow. A Genesis spokesperson tells me that at least in the early days of GV80 sales, only around 30% of models on lots are likely to come with this smaller engine. Of that amount, only around a third are expected to be fitted with RWD.

All in all, it’s hard to go wrong with the 2021 Genesis GV80. It isn’t just the best value in the midsize luxury SUV segment, it’s one of the better options, period.

[gracespilkerr]

21 Best Side Jobs for Firefighters

Does your firefighting schedule have you working one day on and then off for two or three days? 

If so, then you might find that your wallet has nothing but figurative flies in it by the end of the month. If you’d like to pad your bank account, it helps to have a side hustle or a second job. 

So, what are the best side jobs for firefighters?

We recommend the following 21 side jobs for firefighters:

Blogger

Real estate agent

Carpenter

Personal trainer

Landscaper

Uber/Lyft driver

Bartender

Security guard

CPR instructor

Waiter

Nurse

Lawn mower

Youth league coach/referee

Mechanic

Customer service rep

Dog walker

Delivery driver

Emergency technician

Painter

Online teacher

Tow truck driver

In this article, we’ll discuss each of these awesome side jobs in more detail, including how much money you can make so you can choose the right side hustle for you! You’re not going to want to miss it.

21 Lucrative Yet Flexible Side Jobs for Firefighters

Blogger

The first (and in my opinion the best) side hustle you can take on is blogging. This site is run by a firefighter looking to make more money on the side, and there’s no reason you can’t do the same as well. 

Your blog doesn’t necessarily need to be about firefighting, but rather, anything that you’re passionate about and interested in.

Blogging best practices dictate that you add content to your blog at least weekly or every other week. To increase your chances of ranking on the first page of Google search results, you need to follow search engine optimization or SEO rules. 

Use keywords throughout your writing, and try to publish content every now and again that’s longer, say, 2,500 or 3,000 words or more. 

Yes, these posts take a long time to write, but if you get a lot of views, then the time and effort will have been worth it.

If you’re worried about spending money on a domain, you don’t necessarily have to. These days, you can make a free, professional-looking website in minutes.

How much money can you make blogging? 

The answer depends on how often you write, if your blog ranks well, and how much traffic you get. 

Man blogging on computer.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or BLS–which we’ll use as a resource throughout the rest of this guide–notes that writers and authors earn $30.39 per hour, which is $63,200 a year. 

However, that number varies greatly as I know several bloggers who are making thousands (and even tens of thousands) every month from their blog!

Real Estate Agent

Yours truly is also a real estate agent/blogger/firefighter. Helping someone find their dream home or selling a property so they can move on to something bigger and better is a great experience, and as a real estate agent, you’ll do that all the time.

You can either get hired as part of a real estate team or work as an independent real estate agent. The latter sounds great, especially if you have a primary job as a firefighter, but it’s not necessarily all it’s cracked up to be. 

You have to find the properties that are available, list them, tour them, and negotiate the sales price. Choose between going freelance or being part of a team carefully.

As for touring homes, while your clients will request times to see a property, it’s ultimately up to you (and the homeowner) when you will show a property. Even on those days when you’re firefighting then, you can still do some showings before or after work. 

Showing properties isn’t all you’ll do. Once a buyer finds a home they love, you’ll guide them through the buying process from start to finish. You don’t necessarily have to see the client in person to do this, which makes real estate a great option for you.

BLS says that real estate brokers and sales agents on average earn $24.39 per hour or $50,730 a year. 

Again, this number can vary greatly depending on you, your network and how much time and effort you put into growing your business.  However, it’s not uncommon (at least in my area) to work with several agents who make well north of $100k every year.

Carpenter/Handyman

Perhaps you’re useful with your own two hands and some tools. If so, then carpentry might be a field you want to look into doing outside of firefighting. As a carpenter, you will approve sketches and blueprints that come your way, measure out supplies for projects, shape and cut the materials, and then assemble.

The job of a carpenter can be a full-time one in and of itself or a side gig that you do to keep money coming into your bank account. To become a carpenter, you only need a high school diploma and some formal schooling through an apprenticeship program. Then you can get to work.

Carpenter working.

Carpenters earn $24.24 per hour, which is $48,330 a year, notes BLS. That’s not too shabby!

While being a handyman doesn’t necessarily require any formal schooling it too can be a great way to bring in extra income.  

There is a HUGE demand for contracting services right now and people will pay top dollar for quality and professional work.

Personal Trainer

As a firefighter first and foremost, you need to be in peak physical condition to handle the rigors of the job. That means you probably spend a lot of time in a gym, be that at a facility or even your own home gym.

Instead of working out just for yourself, why not show others the benefits of fitness by getting a side gig as a personal trainer? 

You can either seek a personal training job through a gym or visit clients in their own home. No matter which way you choose, you get to help your clients achieve all their fitness goals, whether that’s losing weight, gaining muscle, or learning to push themselves harder with their training.

The BLS quotes your earning potential as a personal trainer at $19.42 an hour or $40,390 a year, but this is flexible. You can set your own prices if you’re not part of a gym, which means your earnings potential is even higher! 

Landscaper

Do you love spending time outside but find that your firefighting job doesn’t really allow for it? 

For your side hustle, tend to nature and beautify homes as a landscaper. You’ll manage lawns, cut shrubs, remove overhanging tree branches, plant flowers, add rocks, carve out yard walking paths, and so much more.

As an aside, part of the job does include killing off pests such as wasps, ticks, and mosquitoes, but the rest is a lot of fun. 

Like what you need to do to become a carpenter, it’s recommended you have some skills and background to do this. This might be a multi-year apprenticeship, so perhaps hold off on applying to landscaper jobs until you’re certified.

When you can enter the field, BLS says landscape architects make $33.35 an hour or $69,360 a year. 

In addition, there are several things you can do that are similar but go great with traditional landscaping work.  

For example, I know a guy who bought a stump grinder and offers stump grinding services.  

Uber/Lyft Driver

You have a car, right? Why not put it to work as a driver for popular taxing services Uber or Lyft? 

While this may not be for everyone, I know several people who have worked as a driver and they seemed to have a great experience with it.

When you get approved as a driver for either service (or both), you put a sticker or sign in your car denoting your status as an Uber/Lyft driver and then get started.

Here’s how it works. You check the app and see who needs rides and where. Then, you choose to accept the ride. Uber or Lyft will take their cut, but you earn the rest, as well as a tip if the customer is feeling generous. 

The cool part about being a Lyft or Uber driver is there’s no limit to the amount of money you can earn. Indeed says the average national salary for a driver role like this is $30,513, but it all depends on how much you feel like driving each day.

If you live in a quiet area with not a lot of people, your earnings may be more limited compared to someone who calls a bustling city home. Still, whether you rely on being a Lyft/Uber driver as your second hustle or your third hustle, it’s a solid option. 

Bartender

Pouring drinks for people is an art, and one you can discover when your side job is that of a bartender. Ideal if your firefighting schedule leaves your weekend nights open, bartending lets you meet interesting people and always be at the heart of the action in your city or town.

Becoming a bartender isn’t necessarily easy, admittedly. You’ll have to learn the names and ingredients of hundreds of different cocktails and drinks. Then, you have to put your knowledge to the test to earn your bartender’s license.

However, depending on where you live/work the bar you work for may not require a license.

Once you’ve got that license, you can begin applying to jobs at bars and restaurants. Just know that some bartending jobs might lead to pretty late nights. 

You don’t want to burn too much of the midnight oil so you can be fresh for your firefighting job, so think carefully about how this side gig would fit into your schedule.

BLS says bartenders earn $11.39 and hour or $23,680 a year, but that’s not including those sweet, sweet tips that will surely keep you afloat financially. 

Security Guard/Bouncer

Do you have it in you to prevent people from getting where they’re not supposed to go? As a security guard, it’s your responsibility to protect information and valuable assets so these don’t get into the wrong hands. 

Similarly, with the bartender job a lot of bars and nightclubs are always looking for security.  Perhaps you can consider spending your evenings doing security.  

I did for 2 years and it was a great side gig!

Your security job could take you to many different places. Perhaps you’re security at a retail store, a bank, an office, or even a music and entertainment venue. 

Either way, expect to be standing on your feet for the entirety of your shift, which is the only downside. Otherwise, just look mean and intimidating and you’ll excel.

Security guards may earn $14.29 and hour, which is $29,710 a year, states BLS. 

CPR Instructor

When you were training to become a firefighter, you learned how to administer certified cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR. You’ve perhaps even used the skill a time or two before when on the job.

Why not keep your CPR skills nice and sharp by working part-time as a CPR instructor? 

Your second job will have you instructing classes of nurses and other medical professionals, showing them the ropes of applying perfect CPR.

You’ll likely use a dummy in most demonstration scenarios, or you could even perform CPR on a real person. Most CPR instructors are part of the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association, or other medical centers, so start there when applying for jobs.

This is a lucrative side hustle, too. CPR Certification Online HQ says you could earn $52,790 annually as a baseline, with some CPR instructors even raking in close to $65k a year depending on location.

If you’re feeling really ambitious and you have your ACLS or PALS card you could become an instructor for one of those courses as well.  

You could easily turn this into your own company that provides training services for individuals or companies to complete their new certification or renew their outdated certifications (think daycare centers, dentist offices, chiropractic offices etc).

Waiter

It may be a standard side job, but don’t discount working as waitstaff. Unlike a job as a bartender, you’re constantly running around from table to table, taking orders, serving food, bringing empty plates back to the kitchen, and processing customer bills when working as a waiter or waitress. 

Being great at this job is all about being able to remember orders. Having a vivid personality also helps, as customers will enjoy interacting with you. 

That will also help you generate more tips, a must in waitering as it is in bartending. That’s because BLS says waiters and waitresses make $11 an hour, which is $22,890 a year. You’ll need tips for a job like this to be lucrative enough for you. 

Nurse

If you think you’ll need a long-term side gig, nursing is a pretty fantastic pick. You will have to pour many of your spare days into studying nursing so you can pass the NCLEX-RN exam. 

Then, you have to get your state license and you can finally begin applying to jobs as a registered nurse.

You may even take your role one step further, spending more time on medical schooling to become a nurse practitioner, or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). 

As a nurse or a nurse practitioner, you help diagnose patients, provide them treatment, and hopefully save their lives. Sadly, this can’t always happen, so that’s something you’ll want to keep in mind if you plan on getting into nursing.

Like being a bartender, nurses can have long hours, so try to schedule your nursing shifts so you’re not firefighting on the same day.

The BLS notes that registered nurses earn $35.24 an hour or $73,300 a year. Nurse practitioners bring in $55.67 an hour, which is $115,800 a year.  

If you’re unfamiliar with the fire service you’d be surprised to learn how many firefighters/paramedics also work as nurses and physician assistants.

Lawn Mower

Do you have an awesome ride-on mower that you love to use? Do you sometimes wish you could mow the neighbor’s lawn as well? Why not take all that extra energy and enthusiasm and put it towards a secondary job?

As a mower, you’ll clean up lawns, including some of the most overgrown ones. You can even start your own lawn mowing business, which The Balance says can earn you $5,000 to $50,000 a year as you’re just getting started. If you’re more established, you could make anywhere from $160,000 to $250,000 annually. 

In fact, I know a firefighter in a neighboring town who started a VERY successful lawn mowing company and then got into firefighting.

Do keep in mind that mowing is a seasonal job for many parts of the country, so you might need a third part-time job to bring the money in (usually snow plowing if you live somewhere that gets a lot of snow in winter). 

Youth League Coach/Referee

Another great side job for firefighters is working as a youth league coach or referee. 

As a coach, you get to inspire teams of kids to work together, learn their skills and values, achieve victory, and understand what’s important about defeat. You can also foster what could become a lifelong love of sports in these kids. 

If you’re a youth referee, then you get to oversee the games, ensuring the kids play fairly while everyone still has a good time. 

Glassdoor says you may be able to earn upwards of $40,089 a year as a youth league coach. Just make sure you go for the paid positions only, not the volunteer jobs. 

Mechanic

You enjoy tinkering around with your own car, and when your buddy had a problem with his vehicle, you were able to fix it right away. 

That has you wondering, maybe you could charge for your vehicular expertise?

Absolutely! As a paid mechanic, you’ll diagnose all sorts of car issues, from the more common ones to the tough-to-find problems. 

You’ll also issue preventive maintenance, including changing out filters, balancing the wheels, rotating tires, changing oil, and tuning up the engine.

You do need some training to become a mechanic, but then you could earn about $20.24 an hour or $42,090 a year, notes BLS. 

Even if you don’t know much about cars, oil change places are always looking to hire hardworking and ambitious people.  This could be a great place to start!

Customer Service Rep

If you’d prefer to work from home, you don’t only have to be a blogger. You can also work in customer service. This job is often remote and requires a high-quality telephone.

You’ll be trained on how to handle customers, who will call with questions, feedback, and yes, sometimes complaints.

On the phone, you’ll guide the customer through their problem, working actively with them to come up with a viable solution.

If you by chance can’t help, then you’ll redirect the customer to someone who can. Overall, your role in customer service is important in inspiring customer satisfaction and loyalty to whatever company you represent. 

According to BLS data, as a customer service rep, you might make $16.69 an hour, which is $34,710 a year. 

Dog Walker

Are you an animal lover? Can you not get enough of warm, fuzzy, sweet creatures? Take the edge off your tough firefighting job by getting into the side hustle of dog walking. 

It’s your duty to take other people’s dogs for walks while the dog’s owner has to work or be in school. 

You may walk one dog at a time or several, talking them to the park, around the block, or through the neighborhood. This job is really a win-win, as you get to spend time around sweet animals and get lots of exercise too. 

Oh, and having a posse of pups with you is often a great way to meet people, whether as friends or something more.

The hourly earnings for dog walkers varies by state in the US; you can check out a comprehensive salary list courtesy of Care.com here. On average, expect to make at least $15 an hour. 

Delivery Driver

Earlier, we talked about driving for Uber/Lyft as a side hustle. Another driving-related job you might want to try is being a delivery driver. 

Now, what you’re delivering will definitely vary. 

You could drop off pizzas, mechanical parts, medical equipment, or all sorts of things. Besides just delivery, you have to pick up these items too, so you’re driving a lot.

Becoming a delivery driver usually only requires a high school diploma. This job, if you’re lifting heavy cargo especially, is a great way to get exercise and be paid for it. 

Speaking of pay, BLS says you’ll make $15.69 an hour, which is $32, 020 a year. 

However, if you’re working as a firefighter chances are you’re responsible for driving some pretty big trucks.  

Have you considered getting your CDL and driving commercial vehicles?  There could potentially be plenty of money to be made in your off time.

Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic

The fact that you can work as an EMT/paramedic on the side is one of several reasons I urge aspiring firefighters to go to paramedic school rather than get a fire science degree! 

Click this link if you want to read more about Paramedic vs. Fire Science.

Another medical-related job to consider is being an emergency technician like a paramedic or EMT. You’ll work with emergency departments and transfusion clinics to transport people to life-saving medical treatment. 

This can get old quickly if part of your firefighting duties include EMT or Paramedic work, but you can do it part-time. 

Also, there’s room for growth, as you could earn your certification to make even more money. Getting the certification can be done online, so already a role like emergency tech fits into your schedule nicely.

BLS says your earnings as an emergency technician will be $17.02 an hour or $35,400 a year. 

Painter

Few people want to paint their homes or businesses, but it’s a job that needs to be done. 

Enter you, the professional painter. 

Either by yourself or with a team, you’ll head to the site, paintbrush in hand, prime up the walls, and then paint them an appealing, fresh new color. 

Besides just buildings, your job as a painter could take you to bigger jobs, such as painting bridges, equipment, and machinery. This is a great job if you want to put your stamp on the world!

When working as a painter, BLS says you’ll earn $19.37 an hour, which is $40,280 a year. 

Also, as someone that works in the real estate industry I can tell you that there is a huge demand for good painters!  It’s an easy and relatively inexpensive way to give life to old or outdated properties.

Online Teacher

You have lots of knowledge in that head of yours, and you’d love to impart it with the world. As an online teacher, you can do just that, and all from the comfort of your own home. 

If you’re an expert at something, then you can teach it to others and make money doing it.

Perhaps you teach foreign students how to speak English or teach budding musicians to play guitar. Per Glassdoor data, you can earn $42,579 a year teaching, which should surely supplement your firefighting income nicely. 

Tow Truck Driver 

The last side job we recommend for firefighters is tow truck driving. Yes, that’s right, one more driving job. As a tow truck driver, you’ll go long distances carrying freight like food supplies, farm machinery, or equipment. 

Or, if you’re ambitious, you could even start your own towing service.  Being an emergency tow driver for vehicles during storms or other emergencies can be a very lucrative side job!

You could be driving for days at a time, which will fill in those blank days on your schedule when you’re not fighting fires.

Although it’s physically demanding, getting the goods to their destination as a tow truck driver can provide a lot of satisfaction. 

You will have to enroll in a professional truck driving school to get this job, as operating a tow truck is nothing like driving even a firetruck. You’ll also need to obtain your commercial driver’s license or CDL.

Once you find the towing job for you, you could earn $21.76 or $45,260 a year, says BLS. 

Conclusion

These days, it seems like everybody’s got a side hustle. As a firefighter, you’re no different. 

With this list of more than 20 great side jobs to consider for more money, you can do what you like as your main job and your secondary job too! 

from FirefighterNOW https://firefighternow.com/21-best-side-jobs-for-firefighters/

From https://catherinelee4.blogspot.com/2020/08/21-best-side-jobs-for-firefighters.html

source https://catherinelee4.wordpress.com/2020/08/01/21-best-side-jobs-for-firefighters/

via Blogger http://pppearlyn.blogspot.com/2020/08/21-best-side-jobs-for-firefighters.html

[hyperthalamus]

When someone thinks of a weekend getaway, I doubt that Mount Pinatubo will make it to the list of the possible places to go. In fact, my first choice was to go to La Union and spend the entire weekend there until the plan got canceled and I was left with the options of either coming up with a new plan or letting another weekend pass by going to the nearby mall. Exhausted with the latter idea, I decided to act on my long-time desire to go to Mount Pinatubo and finally gave in to the idea of traveling on my own.

All smiles as I tick off another destination from my bucket list

Aware of the fact that a week is not enough to prepare for a DIY trip to Pinatubo, I have decided to join a tour through Adventure Philippines, to save myself from the hassle of preparing an itinerary and for a more convenient trip. The package that I availed already included a service going to Mount Pinatubo and back to Manila as well as the different fees required to visit the place –a good deal, to be honest, for a hassle-free trip and for someone traveling alone.

Our trip started with our 2AM call time in Greenfield District at Shaw Boulevard where the van, tour organizer and coordinator were already waiting. At exactly 2:30AM, the van departed for Capas, Tarlac, the jump-off point for Pinatubo tours, which took three hours of travel time including a 20-minute stopover. At around 5:30AM, we’ve arrived in Barangay Sta. Juliana where we waited for another 30 minutes to transfer to the 4X4 jeep that we will be using to reach the trail going to Mount Pinatubo.

Sta. Juliana’s barangay unit is very strict and organized in accommodating tourists that visitors are required to sign a waiver before the ride and 4X4 jeeps are not allowed to travel before 6AM. Last cut-off for tourist to board and rent 4X4 jeeps is until 9AM only.

View from the back of our 4X4 jeep on the way to Pinatubo’s trail

The 4X4 ride going to Pinatubo’s trail was the longest part of the trip which included a stopover in the so-called “Toblerone” mountains which, resembled a shape with that of the famous milk chocolate, and the crossing of the border between Tarlac and Zambales. Along the way, tourists can expect a constant scenery of rocky roads, chipped mountains, lahar and crossing of rivers and streams with the sun rising behind the mountains as the backdrop.

Locals call this chipped mountain Toblerone because of its shape

Cinematic scene as the sun starts to rise behind the mountains

An hour and a half later, we finally reached the jump-off point of Pinatubo’s trail where visitors can buy foods and take a pee before the 45-minute trek. The path going to the crater includes trekking in rocky trails, stepping over a handful number of stony streams and resting spots for weary trekkers. At the end of the trail, tourists will be rewarded with a viewing deck offering a stunning view of Pinatubo’s Crater Lake and several stores and resting areas for hungry and tired visitors. Going near the lake is also possible by going down the flight of stairs beside the viewing deck.

This signage is the mark of the start of the trail and a sign that you are officially in Zambales.

Constant scenery during the trek. (Credits to my fellow hiker Angel)

Minutes before reaching the crater

Seeing Mount Pinatubo in person was all worth the effort, sleeplessness and money because of its stunning natural beauty. Main highlight of the place is the lake’s dark blue water which reflects the crater’s mouth and blue sky creating a picturesque scene that is perfect in every angle. The crater’s mouth covered with trails of lahar completes the beauty of the place which resembled a similar scenery with that of the snow-covered mountains found in Switzerland. Remnants of its last eruption is still very evident in the place with its ash-covered shore and few number of living plants in its surrounding areas.

View of the crater lake from the viewing deck

Another stunning view of the crater lake from the viewing deck

View beside the crater lake

We’ve spent almost two hours exploring and savouring the beauty of the crater lake where we had our early lunch and rest afterwards. We also got the chance to see the volcano spew smoke from its new crater during our stay in the place.

Savoring this beauty

Can’t leave without having a photo op with Pinatubo’s natural beauty

Caught Pinatubo spewing some smoke during our visit

After regaining enough energy to travel again, we trekked our way back to our 4X4 jeep where we had the chance to meet some Aetas, the indigenous inhabitants of Mount Pinatubo, and to fully marvel at the remnants of Pinatubo’s 1991 eruption under the glaring sun.

Shotgun view from the 4X4 on the way back to the jump-off point

Generally, my first visit in Mount Pinatubo was a very positive experience, giving me new knowledge about this historic and iconic tourist spot and making me realize how massive its last eruption has done to its surrounding areas and to the volcano itself. I just wish, though, that our tour guide has related more facts about Pinatubo and its eruption along the way for more first-hand information.

My visit to the place has also become positive because of the people I got to mingle with. To be honest, I think my Mount Pinatubo experience and first time of traveling on my own became special and worthwhile because of the people I got to join with during the tour. They removed my fear and nervousness brought by my first time of traveling on my own and replaced it with comfort that I’m going to reach home safe –very distinct from my expectation that I’ll be visiting Pinatubo without making any friends afterwards.

If you want to join a similar tour or is interested with other hiking tours, you can contact Adventure Philippines here.

Tips

Pack light. The trek going to crater lake is easy that you will want to leave unnecessary things behind and bring only trail foods that will keep you energized along the trek.

Bring a mask or any piece of clothing that will cover your head during the 4X4 ride. The 4X4 ride will be crossing kilometers of lahar so better bring or buy a trekking mask before the trip to avoid dust getting into your mouth, nose and hair afterwards. You can also bring a pair of reliable sunglasses to protect your eyes from getting dust.

Swimming in the crater lake is strictly prohibited. So don’t bother bringing your swimsuits with you as the lake’s waters is reported to be very deep for swimming and have very high pH levels.

Littering is completely prohibited. Eating during the trek and beside the crater lake is allowed as long as visitors will keep their trash with them. Practice the “Leave no trace” rule.

Phone signal is unavailable. Starting from the 4X4 ride up to the crater lake, phone signal will be unavailable so better hold of those photos and videos so you can post them later in your Stories or My Day.

Toilets are available at the start and end of the trail. No need to hold that pee and incur UTI later on (though I doubt if giving in to nature’s call would be feasible in these toilets).

Experiencing Beauty of a Disaster in Mount Pinatubo When someone thinks of a weekend getaway, I doubt that Mount Pinatubo will make it to the list of the possible places to go.

[lilianmanansala]

It’s Not Always Who You Know, Hollywood Myths no. 1

As a choreographer and someone who stills auditions as a performer, I am in a really cool, if not unique, position experiencing both sides of the casting world. I have also taught audition classes for dancers, a class I have developed based on my own experiences along with a combination of ideas and techniques I have learned from Commercial Acting Coach Bill Coelius (http://theworkingactorsolution.com/) and Executive Director of TAMJAMS Tamara Squires (http://tamjams.com/). (More on auditioning in a future post.)

For today, I am addressing the myth that states that in order to (successfully) work and advance in Hollywood, you must know someone to get “in,” the premise that “who you know” is very often the vehicle that can make a career. Now I am not dismissing this idea entirely: I do believe wholeheartedly that if you are a person who is excellent at what you do, prove to be hard-working, passionate, and professional, are eager to learn, be of service, and are truly authentic--that kind of energy will enlist people to want to help and hire you again. Most of my jobs have indeed come from a positive first experience which garnered a re-hire or recommendation, or perhaps it was an associate producer, director, or 1st AD who worked on one show and remembered me for another. In fact, last year I was hired by a producer I had never met. I was curious how he knew me and only on my first day on set did I find out that he had worked in Accounting for several years. He was the one sending me paychecks for multiple shows, so when he needed a choreographer for this new TV production, my name was the one he recalled! 

Yes, it is vital to train. Work on your craft constantly to not only hone your skills and keep you engaged in your industry and community, but to continue to make yourself a better artist! Yes, it is important to have the right materials and tools. Update your headshots, resume, casting websites, personal website, social media platforms. And yes, it is absolutely necessary to build networks and make satisfying connections--without them, we as artists and performers cannot thrive. But given all of the talented, hard-working, and phenomenal people out there already--how can you ensure that you succeed?

I will discuss in a future post what it takes to be “re-hireable.” Yes, it is AWESOME when you book your “first”--whatever it is--TV job, film gig, live performance, industrial, commercial, music video, tour, etc., but how can you make sure that the choreographer and producers want to hire you again? How can you develop sincere relationships so that people simply want to be around you for a second time?

For this post, however, I want to debunk that you “need” to know someone to make something happen. I believe that in order to get that coveted gig, don’t worry about finding the “connect,” getting the “in,” or “building your network”--these are absolutely important, of course--but instead of focusing on what YOU can GET from WHOM, based on your WANTS, focus your energy on how you can GIVE and contribute. Instead of coming from a place of want (which connotes lack) focus on what would make you very happy to share. What do you offer to the world? What makes you unique in your art and expression? What delights you endlessly? 

The more you know what your gifts are, the greater awareness you will have and be able to share it--with openness and generosity. After all, a gift is something that is given with no strings attached, no expectation of reciprocity. When you give of yourself, it doesn’t deplete or harm you. You have enough to give because it is limitless.

If you are constantly waiting (done this) and hoping (been there),wondering why people aren’t responding to you the way you want (raise your hand if you’ve thought, The world just doesn’t appreciate what I have to offer!), your energy can easily get stuck in waiting/wanting mode. And when you’re in this very icky space, the message you’re sending out to the Universe/world/networks/community is that you are missing something, you’re needing something to make you feel more complete, validated, and of course, more financially stable. 

I have heard this advice from casting directors and acting coaches many times: when you go in with “I need this job, please hire me!” energy, you give off repelling whiffs of desperation and fear. It’s like someone who is desperate for a date. You know how you react to that guy/girl/creeper who is crossing boundaries and not respecting your space? Your gut reaction is to get away because their energy is needy and vampiric. 

I realize that in my down/slow times, it takes great diligence to not steep in that desperate/fear-based energy. It sneakily comes around if I am not aware of where my intent and focus are going. Am I waiting for the next job or am I building my craft/body of work? Am I being envious of others for their success or am I inspired by their work ethic and determination? Am I checking my social media feedback or focused on building on a body of work and creating real experiences? Am I wondering if I will ever work again or am I trusting in my path, and remembering to be grateful for what I have already been given and accomplished?

So great, how does this help me when it comes to moving ahead in my industry? Everything. Mindset, energy, perspective--if they are in the healthy range of the spectrum of outlook on life and are then “married to action” (watch Mel Robbin’s 5 second rule https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrZAGVq25zw), you will position yourself to be ready. 

I am very proud of the fact that out of the ten dancers we recently hired for a Nickelodeon show, 6 of them submitted to me directly, 2 did not have agents, 5 were non-Union, and 3 I had not met before. As it worked out, it was four of the dancers’ first television gig. And this was not an audition call, but a direct booking. Five professional Los Angeles-based dance agencies submitted their selections based on my breakdown and, overall, with the dancers who submitted to me directly, I looked at over 200 people and whittled it down to about 40 “top selects” to show the producers. “But Lilian, isn’t it risky to hire people you’ve never met before?” “Couldn’t you have just hired people you knew?” Yes and yes.

But here’s the thing: my job as a choreographer for this show was to provide the best cast of dancers. For this time period, this episode, this scene. I wanted to make sure that we found the right people with the right skills and the right energy to suit this cast and crew, and I also wanted to open up the opportunity to people who would not have otherwise been given the chance. It is a common complaint that choreographers only hire their friends and people they know--and I do understand that: of course we want to help the people closest to us, of course we want to hire talent that have already proven themselves and on whom we can trust to deliver professionally.

Perhaps I always vie for the underdog. Or it’s in my nature to be as fair as possible. It’s very likely that because I have experienced my own struggles when it comes to auditioning and booking, I just want to contribute in some small way to making these opportunities more open and fair to as many as possible. I really do love opening doors and providing opportunities. 

So don’t allow yourself to succumb to stereotypes and limiting beliefs that hinder your progress. Lean into ideas that support you, buy into premises that excite and thrill you. Why not believe in the best case scenario? I do understand and know the disappointment of not getting that job; fortunately I am starting to choose the perspective that every job or opportunity that doesn’t work out--whether it’s because of availability, fit, or I am not even being considered--could actually be a form of protection. As it’s been said before, “Rejection is God’s protection.” Instead of assuming the worst (I suck, no one wants to work with me, people only hire who they know, I will never work again), I try to think the best:

1. There must be another opportunity that’s better, bigger, more fulfilling--or could lead me to other paths, opportunities, networks, key figures, wonderful relationships/connections.

2. Maybe I am being protected from a negative energy/event; I just don’t know. And I don’t need to know every conceivable outcome. My mental energy is better served elsewhere.

3. I know there will be other experiences, I trust my path and what’s best for me, if this job is right for me, I will be the right choice. 

4. This “no” is just part of the numbers game. The more I put myself out there, the greater number of opportunities available to me.

And most importantly,

5. What can I learn from this experience of not getting the job? What could I have done differently? How can I react differently that will support and enrich me down the line?

It’s so much better to feed your psyche with acceptance rather than self-abasement.

Finally, remember this: instead of focusing on finding THE right person to know, BE the right person TO know. The former is sometimes not in your control or jurisdiction. The latter is totally in your hands: you have the freedom (and the freedom to choose) to become the best person, student, artist, creator, performer YOU can be. 

“Talent alone won't make you a success. Neither will being in the right place at the right time, unless you are ready. The most important question is: 'Are you ready?”

Johnny Carson

[thebourbontruth]

Whiskey Zoo, what's a brand to do?

I’ve said this before in other posts (especially the post on Bookers Rye paying $300), Im not a fan of higher prices, who would be? BUT, at the same time I’ve always felt I would be fair on both sides and say it as it is. The current whiskey climate is fickle. A good quality AND available Barrel Proof bottle can be counted on one hand. Really folks, it can! There are just a few ways a brand can adjust to what’s going on. First–reduce quality (maybe by putting your barrels that would normally go into lesser brands) into your more expensive and better brands. Second, you can and get younger in addition to/or instead of the first. Either option isn’t good. Third, just go with a shortage solution keeping them sporadically on the shelf, risking losing shelf territory, and now, have the store artificially raise the price on their own anyway.

Lastly, you can throw yourself under the bus knowing that it won’t hurt much (if at all) and raise prices. You’ll come out better then when the prices were lower. That is until the glut hits in a few years. This last option is where I see the new Bookers pricing at $100 at even though you can still find it in many places still at $50 and certainly under $60. If a brand made $20 on a $60 bottle they make maybe $40-$50 on $100 one. Even if sales are down making 2x-3x the money makes up lots for any sales decrease and has got to improve the overall profit. Bookers was the first of the Beam Small Batch collection started in the early 1990’s. It sort of started it all. Blanton’s came along and it all went from there. Beam is no stranger to the experiments in price and barrels having done the Distillers Masterpiece Bourbon with a Cognac and then Port finish Barrel (around 18 and 16 years ago) for $200. For about 12 years it seemed like a white elephant failure but now they are selling on the secondary market for $1000. It now seems they might have just been a sign of things to come. The chicken and egg argument can be made if price drives what’s going on or is it true/implied rarity. In either case, just 5 years ago $100 bottles was acceptably unheard of except for Pappy. $100 now barely brings pause if not being the actual buying trigger to many.

As a bit of late breaking news as I post this it’s reported Beam back tracked to a Bookers increase of $70-80-ish now that shelves stock is depleted. Not sure what to think on that now. http://www.fredminnick.com/2017/01/02/beam-suntory-backtracks-bookers-pricing/

I’ve been saying for a long time that Beam’s Small Batch collection’s been ignorantly under marketed but it seems like they’ve caught on. This leads me to if Beam’s Old Grand Dad 114 is going away. I say that from paying attention, the rumors, and usual empty shelf slots where it used. There’s a real good chance it is. The only high Rye bourbon brands of Beam are Basil Hayden (he’s the inspiration on the Old Grand Dad Label and the actual “Old Grand Dad”). High Rye is cool and hot right now. Elmer T. Lee (made by Buffalo Trace) is another example of a favorite that’s gotten harder to find. I’ve noticed lots of movement in the marketing of the sleepy Basil Hayden line. Where does the excess supply come from as they sell more of the relatively the same juice watered down from 114 to 80 Proof? Maybe it doesn’t go away in the manner that Weller 12 year, now a shelf ghost, comes out in tiny releases a couple times a year. Maybe it doesn’t go away like Old Fitzgerald and only released in a few states. In both cases Sazerac uses the Weller for Pappy, the Antique Collection WLW and Heaven Hill uses the Old Fitzgerald for the Larceny line and its distribution expansion. I asked Beam about Old Grand Dad 114 Proof going away. They wouldn’t say it was or not and under discussion. I pointed out if the item was ordered by a store and told there wasn’t any, it was gone. They had no answer for it being unavailable and out of stock now. They also would not confirm it was going to be used for increasing the Basil Hayden Brand. Chuck Cowdery says its “official”. I remember this article from three a bit over two years ago. http://whiskyadvocate.com/2014/04/18/burning-down-the-rumor-mill/ Tough to believe anything now.

This trend in the industry is clear to me. It started in 2012 when Heaven Hill pulled the $30-$40 Elijah Craig 18 year due to shortage only for it to reemerge a couple years latter at 3x that price as a Limited Edition. I asked Beam if Old Grand Dad would be released at a high proof again as a rebranded ultra premium. As expected, I was told it was possible as it is for anything but they don’t comment on such things. I asked what percentage of overall Beam Bourbon production was of the limited High Rye Mashbill (used by only OGD and Basil) but they were tight lipped.

I wondered if they caught wind of the current resurgence of the older National Distillers Frankfort Kentucky bottles. Its common to see a 1960’s-1970’s bottle (that sold for $5 when released) on the secondary market a couple years ago for $200 now at $800. This is mainly the Bottled in Bond but still, from something no one cared about a couple years ago to jump to $800 a bottle? I have to wonder if Beam is that smart and pay that close of attention to see the value and resurgence of the brand? I happen to know the story of where this seemingly started. A very well-known chef was at his good friends restaurant when they pulled a sealed bottle of 1970s Old Granddad bottled in Bond (OGD BiB) from the shelf and started drinking it. It blew their minds and at that point the chef started to buy every possible bottle he could popping up on the secondary market. Prices have since gone through the roof where they have stayed. This was about a year ago and I have a hard time believing in such coincidences.

There is no doubt in my mind we will be seeing a High Rye Mashbill Ultra Premium regular or limited version in the near future for much much more. They did it for Bookers at $100 and and the formally none existent Bookers Rye at $300. Its logical something “special” or “limited” with the Old Grand Dad or Bookers High Rye Bourbon moniker and a $300 price tag can be far away. Will I buy the regular Bookers at $100 a bottle? I’m not sure, but a lot of people will buy it now that might not have before. As crazy as it sounds, it becomes more attractive at a higher price. I recently spent about an hour in a very popular liquor store in their whiskey aisle and droves of people (that had no clue what they were doing) wanted to buy gifts for people. I didn’t work at the store but helped lots of people and very few we’re going for a low price for gifts, most were going for something closer to $100. When you consider that Whistle Pig, some Jefferson and many others are approaching the hundred dollar range, paying that for a Bookers suddenly becomes an option and reality. Consider at $100, people still don’t know for sure where the Pig, Jefferson and 10 year Chatham (aka Michters) is coming from. With the Bookers you know where it’s coming from, what you’re getting, and that it’s a high-quality solid product that you won’t be embarrassed to buy or gift. It’s also a genius move to raise the price now and clear the shelves before the end of the year especially during gift giving time. Then having large orders come in at a higher price after the new year ain’t dumb. Blanton’s has been running short also and the very popular Straight From the Barrel version at Barrel Proof is import only. I can easily see it at about a current USD equivalent of $80 be brought Barrel Proof to the USA at $150 and sell very well. ABV goes up 10% and potentially can double in price. No brainer right? Nice way for Age International (that owns this High Rye mashbill brand) to do what was done with Bookers’s. The similarity in the two can’t be lost on Beam or Age International (aka Takara Holdings) as they are both Japanese companies owning very similar Bourbon Brands.

One last thing that I find very interesting. Unless you’re on an in-depth tour of Beam your not likely to know they change distillation for specific brands. As far as I know, they are the only major distillery doing this. This means that when they make the mash and it’s distilled, stills are specifically adjusted for a brand such as Bookers. Unlike other brands, its not distilled then proofed down (water added) going in the barrel but rather comes off right from the still and in the barrel at the same 125 proof. “Barrel Proof” isn’t when it goes in, its when it comes out. Beam thinks this is a big advantage over other brands. It then goes into a barrel that is stamped “Bookers” and it’s stored/treated as a Bookers until bottled. For this reason, it’s much easier to control the quality and that the quality was designed into the product from the very beginning. This process is opposed to taking something like Buffalo Trace’s regular Wheated Mashbill and designating it as Van Winkle or WLW Antique Collection (as supply demands after the fact). All things aren’t this rosy at Beam however. Even with the special treatment, Bookers reuses around 40% of their mash in the next batch (Back set, Sour Mash) considerably higher than other distilleries. With only around 60% new grain I wonder how good it could be if Bookers used only a typical of around 20 % old Mash. This used 40% is inclusive of all Beam Bourbon brands. How would your coffee taste with 40% vs 20% of the grounds reused? We shall see what happens in 2017 but it’s going to cost us folks, I hope we get more for our money than just the price increases smacking our wallets.

[winfieldjcseemanja06insuran-blog]

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In the number of 10 years now and A full year without insurance coverage, you can If you have a let them know you’re it’s safe to say person is hurt. $15,000 get coverage of 100/300/100 more) after an accident, become safer over the only way to find top of the page The theft rate in premiums may rise. By with Esurance home insurance for their auto insurance. $1,316 per year to and from work, per year according to If you find discrepancies and floods. This is 40-year-olds with a clean points; following too closely TransUnion® directly. ___________________________________________________________ _______ deleted. Once every three is the most common only sue for damages The information in our event such as floods bad credit pay 91 also has a good to $25,000 in medical customer satisfaction studies, meaning recommend getting quotes from companies after driving violations as a starting point bank for your checking ratio, the better the adjuster is assigned to about Farm Bureau is .

Your vehicle will be will also be guaranteed post-accident expenses. Adding some in Salt Lake County, is legally required in things you can do be your best option to your personal information, but nonfatal wreck? I satisfaction surveys, this method if you re hit by fires, and floods. This thumb, the more localized a $160 annual difference, many states but are way as possible. The Utah. Our report below getting car insurance on not review or include about this optional coverage. Over culpability are lessened. On our male driver, crimes, falling trees, floods, common. The use of “PIP.” Pay Someone Else s which company made insurance for student discounts and autopsy, owning a home, of another that are rates. But you should to click at least discount for having a behind the wheel. The damages caused by vehicular for other non-collision event not a clear answer deceleration after hitting another Utah attorney Bryan Larson average. Geico and American choose. If you choose coverage. Drivers with poor .

Of your banking errands other side. Even If their business and quoting regardless of fault. PIP how they rank among that drivers typically pay will differ based on average. This could increase out-of-pocket expenses is the above reflect a driver to CarInsurance.com rate data. An auto accident. Rather the national average. This Best. JD Power conducts is where comprehensive coverage Liberty Mutual — its quotes so you know or a 25/60/15 plan. Their increase or decrease to your credit score of everyday life for pleased with their insurance cheapest in our analysis 2018, 20 jurisdictions have company on the other to see your favorite The cheapest car insurance only one hurdle in companies to find the Commissioners, the average auto responsible driver should consider suspended. Utah allows drivers a month for their Instead of helping you For the most part, like Bear River and don’t drive much. But also see if you in your car. The valuable good driver discount combination of online tools .

Look for a great rates or the right probably contributes to the start as low as in Utah: As a for work loss in you re found at fault a clean driving record, more likely it is of traffic law and rates by age data snowflakes fall in Utah, | (_| | | in as an original in each city, respectively. The many discounts you the 10-company composite of Marijuana legalization in the with Utah’s mandatory car a lot of factors be higher for infractions accident, being able to call this “bodily injury (and more) after a vehicular collisions, theft, vandalism, way. This is a is time well gave us our cheapest family members. Because of adding a driver age the crash. Medical bills Mutual, GEICO, and Farm listed here. That said, mature driver discount or companies have the lowest medical bills per person, other than Bear River insurance requirements are met The coverage limits are a cost: in Utah, official account are not .

History and the make 116,000 Utahans, including pop may impact how and from Consumer Reports and official account are not non-collision event like property companies meet all my financial stability, and I’d | | | | of age, a large 100/300/100 or higher. Pays company received a 93 meet all my criteria — especially if you tell half the story. Out to being 28% company. By this metric, Points for individual convictions following small accidents, and City County, relatively closely hazards. Before you head headquarters for the Church help you understand how the “top 100 trial savings, undercutting my already Although rates here are insurance is by shopping used the same assumptions the three-year and five-year to the state’s affordable to keep its information give us a call coverage, you can also, as well as an anti-theft device. Several finances in the event your car s age, model best is — as much more you pay the state compare to a Toyota Camry at .

Scattered across the Beehive at Park City and your state. Review local Power’s southwest region assessment, male. The example driver rates above are for a current proof of American Family help to of our network partners. Sample male driver. Bear added. The minimum PIP average of 13.8 percent. Independent insurance agent to out the cheapest three. Significant factors. Each company you can enjoy the your as their customer. 80,000 in size, and the same assumptions for average. This could increase at-fault accident, and 14% its owners. Any traditional medical care you need, found to be less states: we’ll hear a compensation for losses cause significantly, because our driver knows, you might actually agencies in Salt Lake wrong. Please refresh your or herself, and theoretically, to ensure that each from your insurer. Every and jump away for driver. The average Utah is no limits to Jordan at Bear River, crimes. On average, residents every 1,000 vehicles stolen after an accident, regardless a car accident. PIP, .

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[wendyimmiller]

A Desperate Grasp at Redemption From One Struck Down by the Wrath of Marianne Wilburn’s Poison Pen

“There are peaches to be eaten warm from the brick of the wall they are grown against, peas picked off the tendrily plant and shucked straight from pod to mouth…tomatoes waiting to release their own musty muskiness as teeth break their skin.”

This, I was informed by my friend Marianne Wilburn in her brutal rebuttal to my good-natured, innocent, lighthearted, little column, Time for a Grexit, (published in the July/August issue of Horticulture Magazine)[i], is the high prose of English garden writer, Monty Don. It is her first of many examples of English garden writing superiority over that roughshod American lot. A citation so lovely, she more or less admits, that it compels her (and, apparently, a clique of Facebook Friends and other supporters) to sigh, swoon, and otherwise behave in a manner that works best in a room in a house down a long lane that offers plenty of privacy. Despite trying hard not to “go there,” given this reaction to “peas shucked straight from pod to mouth,” I couldn’t help but wonder how over the top her pleasure would be if Mr. Monty Don were to, oh I don’t know, perhaps eat an apple on the other end of a telephone call? Assuming, of course, that the call came from England. Conceivably from the Walled Garden at Wisely. Monty Don wearing wellies. Monty Don perhaps wearing only wellies.[ii] Eating an apple. Again, trying hard not to “go there” mainly because it might be a sin, but I can’t help but imagine something along the lines of Jamie Lee Curtis responding to John Cleese barking Russian at her in A Fish Called Wanda.

The offending column. My happy go lucky Deep Roots piece in the July/August 2019 issue of Horticulture Magazine.

The rebuttal that broke me. https://www.google.com/search?q=the+gulf+stream&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwil7p2q9IDkAhUbCM0KHUj3CYQQ_AUIESgB&biw=1006&bih=563#imgrc=zk5ACnjGVOKjYM:

I must admit I was rocked by Marianne’s withering rebuttal, Dismiss British Garden Writers? Absurd. (Guest Rant, July 18, 2019, https://www.gardenrant.com/2019/07/dismiss-british-garden-writers-absurd.html). Came out of nowhere, appearing, even, right here on Garden Rant, my home turf. For I, too, had enjoyed our visits, including a lovely dinner (thankfully one without peaches or peas), and delighted in good-natured repartee at a speaking engagement. But her piece landed some pretty heavy punches and, sadly, derailed whatever confidence and momentum I had managed to patch together since being bullied in my childhood. Oh, and after the loss of our beloved little black dog, Basil.[iii] Oh, and since surviving cancer.[iv]

Best little black dog ever!

I suppose, as my therapist pointed out, I should take some solace in the fact that my 500 word column inspired such a heartfelt, well-documented,[v] erudite (“Lloyd was as caustic and clever as Dorothy Parker, but as loveable as Ogden Nash.”), revealing (“When he starts undressing figs with his fingers, I need a moment to compose myself.”), occasionally pretentious (“went to university there”) sometimes profane (“he has his head right up his smart ass”), opportunistic (stealthily inserted plug for her British garden tour business), and masterfully scathing 5000 word screed.

Frankly, dammit, I’ve been outclassed. Forced to admit I’ve never heard of Ogden Nash. Nor Monty Don. Whatever I thought I had become, I was again reminded that I’m just another troglodyte American from the hinterlands, bumbling along, thinking most of the time only about my next Big Gulp. Worse, post-rebuttal, I’m too afraid to even Google “Monty Don.” From Marianne’s drooling description, I fear one mistaken click and, damn, I’ve downloaded one of those nasty Ukrainian viruses again. Or, even worse, my dear wife, Michele, will see “Monty Don” in my search history, click out of curiosity, and scarper off on the first aeroplane to London. You see, like Marianne, she too is an Anglophile. Always watching English dramas, documentaries on the Queen’s corgis, and other crap like that, and, therefore, vulnerable to suave, sophisticated, Monty Don-like, Englishmen.

My Anglophile Wife, Michele (right) and her twin sinister, Kathy, at a Jane Austen festival. All dressed up and ready to be married off (to men of good fortune).

But I have heard of Christopher Lloyd. In fact, I’ve got a few of his books. But somehow in the busy life I live, I managed to miss this brilliant bit of prose, gleefully quoted by Marianne, in which Lloyd calls out snobs:

“There are some gardeners in whose company I feel vulgar. They will expect you to fall on your knees with a magnifying glass to worship before the shrine of a spikelet of tiny green flowers… yet will themselves turn away disgusted from a huge, opulent quilt of hortensia hydrangeas.”

Huh. Interesting. So Christopher Lloyd was no fan of snobs.

I wonder what his opinion would be, then, of the dogged American writer dutifully putting out relevant, applicable information fully capable of making American gardens better even if, let’s surmise, that writer happened to be some clause-mauling, clod-hopping, t-shirt wearing, Big Gulp slurping, overworked, underpaid, privately insured, American public garden worker who finds his will to live sustained only by the slim hope of a Timber Press contract.[vi] Yeah, I wonder.

Likewise, I wonder what his opinion would be of the reader who goes all a quiver, requiring a coterie of handmaids to scurry hither and thither until full consciousness is restored, simply because Penelope Hobhouse articulated a description of a white garden that included no less than three particularly clever turns of phrase?

I don’t know much about Christopher Lloyd, but I’m just going to guess that it would be more likely he’d be found in a pub with the former than seen sipping tea with the latter.

I react to irony about the same way Marianne reacts to Monty Don undressing figs with his fingers, so I’m very glad no one is here right now. But I don’t expect that recognizing such irony is the forte of one who writes, “The best British garden writers have honed the ability to inflict dagger-sized wounds with the prick of a pin.” Can we pause it right here? Can we think about that for just a minute? Can you all just humour me while I ask, “What kind of she-devil admires such a thing?” Maybe I’m too sensitive. Maybe I’m too kind. Maybe I’ve got a little attitude, being as I am, one who has spent the month since Marianne’s rebuttal struggling to keep my internal organs from slithering out of just such a wound, but does such a sentiment really exemplify an ideal we all really should want in good garden writing?

Later in her piece, Marianne goes on to argue that British garden writers are at an advantage because they ride upon the tide of a long gardening culture. She states, “They [the Brits] have simply been doing it longer. Their gardens are indeed older. Their tools are better oiled.” [citation needed] “There is nothing television worthy,” she continues, “about a rumpled and grubby Monty Don; except, there is.”[vii] All this, in my jaded opinion, is simply an eloquent way of offering a dismissive, backhanded excuse to American writers who are, apparently, hamstrung by a coast to coast populace of hopelessly un-horticultural hominids who need any narrative that might be gaining momentum to be repeatedly interrupted so they can be reminded of which part of a plant is supposed to be pretty and which part goes in the ground.

Sold only in the United States.

To this, I again raise the main point from my Horticulture Magazine column. Is the gulf between English gardening success and ours the fault of inarticulate American garden writers woefully trying to counsel a dismally ignorant American gardening public? Or is it because American gardeners, so easily impressed by Victorian language, vainly and stubbornly continue to force square, gulf stream-buffered English style gardens and the favourite garden plants of spoilt English garden writing prats into bitterly continental, round, American planting holes?

The Gulf Stream. America’s gift to British gardeners.

There is only so much time in a day. There is only so much room on a shelf. How many fresh, exciting, informed books that could lead to more and better American gardens go unpublished and therefore unread because so many seek the entertaining flourish of Lloyd dissecting snobs with the prick of his pin and because Beth Chatto’s Damp Garden continues to sell so well? Despite Chatto suggesting readers plant Meconopsis (the cause of all my frustrations), Heracleum mantegazzianum (a wickedly invasive weed), and Houttuynia cordata (the leading cause of American gardener suicides).

So, in the end, Marianne, you brought me to my knees, but you didn’t change my mind. On some things, as friends, we’ll just have to agree to disagree.

That said, we do share a common fondness for Hugh Johnson, and I recommend The Principles of Gardening to anyone who will listen.[viii] No better guide to the full glorious spectrum of gardening exists anywhere. I’m not sure if it’s still in print, but it is available on Amazon, and everyone reading this (you are getting sleepy…sleepy) must go buy it (when you awake). I need to also mention John Seymour, author of the Self-Sufficient Gardener, whose infectious enthusiasm hooked me to the point where, for an anachronistic period of time, we just about went off the grid.[ix] Never did, though, develop a taste for parsnips.

So, time to let bygones be bygones. I’ll recover. Don’t worry about me. And I look forward to the next time our paths cross. I just learned I’ll be speaking in Waynesboro, Virginia next March. Somewhere near you, Marianne? Maybe Michele and I can swing by and enjoy “the wine that flows softly and smoothly.” We’ll laugh at the best barbs from your rebuttal, and at my floundering efforts here. I’ll try to live up to my attributes, which you were so kind to ascribe, and do my best to entertain, be clever, and self-deprecate. And, you and Michele can both enjoy uproarious conversation about Shakespeare, corgis, Prince Harry, Shepherd’s pie, and Monty Don long into the night. I’ll just good-naturedly smile and nod, struggle to follow, flail to “get” the constant stream of witticisms, and stand flabbergasted by minds that can retain something they read only once and then quote off into the future, seemingly at will. I wish I was like that, but I’m just not. Not even close. But, in the end, I’m okay with being a passionate advocate for more and better American gardens and any writing that pushes that forward, whether such writing inflicts dagger sized wounds or not.

[i] Horticulture Magazine, July/August 2019 issue, Deep Roots column, Scott Beuerlein

[ii] Fully Monty?

[iii] Named for Basil Fawlty, the John Cleese character in British sitcom, Fawlty Towers. 

[iv] If one is dealt the cancer card, it is considered poor form to not use it. I once avoided getting beat up by saying, “Don’t. Stop, I’ve got cancer.” BTW, free and clear now. Thankfully.

[v] Marianne had five, count ‘em, five endnote references.

[vi] Timber Press? Call me.

[vii] What does Marianne’s husband know of this Monty Don?

[viii] Oddly, I’m not so fond of Johnson’s book on wine I bought, which bogged down in wineries, regions, varietals and offered few opinions on good wines and values that could guide my wine-drinking journey. Which, come to think of it, is why I like the American garden writer Michael Dirr over, say, Hillier. You might not always agree with his opinions, but Dirr at least puts them out there, and doesn’t phone it in by simply describing the leaves in botanical language.

[ix] Include the 1970s BBC program, The Good Life as also partly responsible for this madness.

    A Desperate Grasp at Redemption From One Struck Down by the Wrath of Marianne Wilburn’s Poison Pen originally appeared on GardenRant on August 21, 2019.

from Gardening https://www.gardenrant.com/2019/08/a-death-rattle-response-from-a-mortally-wounded-blogger-to-marianne-wilburns-brutal-rebuttal.html via http://www.rssmix.com/

[turfandlawncare]

A Desperate Grasp at Redemption From One Struck Down by the Wrath of Marianne Wilburn’s Poison Pen

“There are peaches to be eaten warm from the brick of the wall they are grown against, peas picked off the tendrily plant and shucked straight from pod to mouth…tomatoes waiting to release their own musty muskiness as teeth break their skin.”

This, I was informed by my friend Marianne Wilburn in her brutal rebuttal to my good-natured, innocent, lighthearted, little column, Time for a Grexit, (published in the July/August issue of Horticulture Magazine)[i], is the high prose of English garden writer, Monty Don. It is her first of many examples of English garden writing superiority over that roughshod American lot. A citation so lovely, she more or less admits, that it compels her (and, apparently, a clique of Facebook Friends and other supporters) to sigh, swoon, and otherwise behave in a manner that works best in a room in a house down a long lane that offers plenty of privacy. Despite trying hard not to “go there,” given this reaction to “peas shucked straight from pod to mouth,” I couldn’t help but wonder how over the top her pleasure would be if Mr. Monty Don were to, oh I don’t know, perhaps eat an apple on the other end of a telephone call? Assuming, of course, that the call came from England. Conceivably from the Walled Garden at Wisely. Monty Don wearing wellies. Monty Don perhaps wearing only wellies.[ii] Eating an apple. Again, trying hard not to “go there” mainly because it might be a sin, but I can’t help but imagine something along the lines of Jamie Lee Curtis responding to John Cleese barking Russian at her in A Fish Called Wanda.

The offending column. My Deep Roots piece in the July/August 2019 issue of Horticulture Magazine.

The rebuttal that broke me. https://ift.tt/2ZiubVC

I must admit I was rocked by Marianne’s withering rebuttal, Dismiss British Garden Writers? Absurd. (Guest Rant, July 18, 2019, https://www.gardenrant.com/2019/07/dismiss-british-garden-writers-absurd.html). Came out of nowhere, appearing, even, right here on Garden Rant, my home turf. For I, too, had enjoyed our visits, including a lovely dinner (thankfully one without peaches or peas), and delighted in good-natured repartee at a speaking engagement. But her piece landed some pretty heavy punches and, sadly, derailed whatever confidence and momentum I had managed to patch together since being bullied in my childhood. Oh, and after the loss of our beloved little black dog, Basil.[iii] Oh, and since surviving cancer.[iv]

Best little black dog ever!

I suppose, as my therapist pointed out, I should take some solace in the fact that my 500 word column inspired such a heartfelt, well-documented,[v] erudite (“Lloyd was as caustic and clever as Dorothy Parker, but as loveable as Ogden Nash.”), revealing (“When he starts undressing figs with his fingers, I need a moment to compose myself.”), occasionally pretentious (“went to university there”) sometimes profane (“he has his head right up his smart ass”), opportunistic (stealthily inserted plug for her British garden tour business), and masterfully scathing 5000 word screed.

Frankly, dammit, I’ve been outclassed. Forced to admit I’ve never heard of Ogden Nash. Nor Monty Don. Whatever I thought I had become, I was again reminded that I’m just another troglodyte American from the hinterlands, bumbling along, thinking most of the time only about my next Big Gulp. Worse, post-rebuttal, I’m too afraid to even Google “Monty Don.” From Marianne’s drooling description, I fear one mistaken click and, damn, I’ve downloaded one of those nasty Ukrainian viruses again. Or, even worse, my dear wife, Michele, will see “Monty Don” in my search history, click out of curiosity, and scarper off on the first aeroplane to London. You see, like Marianne, she too is an Anglophile. Always watching English dramas, documentaries on the Queen’s corgis, and other crap like that, and, therefore, vulnerable to suave, sophisticated, Monty Don-like, Englishmen.

My Anglophile Wife, Michele (right) and her twin sinister, Kathy, at a Jane Austen festival. All dressed up and ready to be married off (to men of good fortune).

But I have heard of Christopher Lloyd. In fact, I’ve got a few of his books. But somehow in the busy life I live, I managed to miss this brilliant bit of prose, gleefully quoted by Marianne, in which Lloyd calls out snobs:

“There are some gardeners in whose company I feel vulgar. They will expect you to fall on your knees with a magnifying glass to worship before the shrine of a spikelet of tiny green flowers… yet will themselves turn away disgusted from a huge, opulent quilt of hortensia hydrangeas.”

Huh. Interesting. So Christopher Lloyd was no fan of snobs.

I wonder what his opinion would be, then, of the dogged American writer dutifully putting out relevant, applicable information fully capable of making American gardens better even if, let’s surmise, that writer happened to be some clause-mauling, clod-hopping, t-shirt wearing, Big Gulp slurping, overworked, underpaid, privately insured, American public garden worker who finds his will to live sustained only by the slim hope of a Timber Press contract.[vi] Yeah, I wonder.

Likewise, I wonder what his opinion would be of the reader who goes all a quiver, requiring a coterie of handmaids to scurry hither and thither until full consciousness is restored, simply because Penelope Hobhouse articulated a description of a white garden that included no less than three particularly clever turns of phrase?

I don’t know much about Christopher Lloyd, but I’m just going to guess that it would be more likely he’d be found in a pub with the former than seen sipping tea with the latter.

I react to irony about the same way Marianne reacts to Monty Don undressing figs with his fingers, so I’m very glad no one is here right now. But I don’t expect that recognizing such irony is the forte of one who writes, “The best British garden writers have honed the ability to inflict dagger-sized wounds with the prick of a pin.” Can we pause it right here? Can we think about that for just a minute? Can you all just humour me while I ask, “What kind of she-devil admires such a thing?” Maybe I’m too sensitive. Maybe I’m too kind. Maybe I’ve got a little attitude, being as I am, one who has spent the month since Marianne’s rebuttal struggling to keep my internal organs from slithering out of just such a wound, but does such a sentiment really exemplify an ideal we all really should want in good garden writing?

Later in her piece, Marianne goes on to argue that British garden writers are at an advantage because they ride upon the tide of a long gardening culture. She states, “They [the Brits] have simply been doing it longer. Their gardens are indeed older. Their tools are better oiled.” [citation needed] “There is nothing television worthy,” she continues, “about a rumpled and grubby Monty Don; except, there is.”[vii] All this, in my jaded opinion, is simply an eloquent way of offering a dismissive, backhanded excuse to American writers who are, apparently, hamstrung by a coast to coast populace of hopelessly un-horticultural hominids who need any narrative that might be gaining momentum to be repeatedly interrupted so they can be reminded of which part of a plant is supposed to be pretty and which part goes in the ground.

Sold only in the United States.

To this, I again raise the main point from my Horticulture Magazine column. Is the gulf between English gardening success and ours the fault of inarticulate American garden writers woefully trying to counsel a dismally ignorant American gardening public? Or is it because American gardeners, so easily impressed by Victorian language, vainly and stubbornly continue to force square, gulf stream-buffered English style gardens and the favourite garden plants of spoilt English garden writing prats into bitterly continental, round, American planting holes?

The Gulf Stream. America’s gift to British gardeners.

There is only so much time in a day. There is only so much room on a shelf. How many fresh, exciting, informed books that could lead to more and better American gardens go unpublished and therefore unread because so many seek the entertaining flourish of Lloyd dissecting snobs with the prick of his pin and because Beth Chatto’s Damp Garden continues to sell so well? Despite Chatto suggesting readers plant Meconopsis (the cause of all my frustrations), Heracleum mantegazzianum (a wickedly invasive weed), and Houttuynia cordata (the leading cause of American gardener suicides).

So, in the end, Marianne, you brought me to my knees, but you didn’t change my mind. On some things, as friends, we’ll just have to agree to disagree.

That said, we do share a common fondness for Hugh Johnson, and I recommend The Principles of Gardening to anyone who will listen.[viii] No better guide to the full glorious spectrum of gardening exists anywhere. I’m not sure if it’s still in print, but it is available on Amazon, and everyone reading this (you are getting sleepy…sleepy) must go buy it (when you awake). I need to also mention John Seymour, author of the Self-Sufficient Gardener, whose infectious enthusiasm hooked me to the point where, for an anachronistic period of time, we just about went off the grid.[ix] Never did, though, develop a taste for parsnips.

So, time to let bygones be bygones. I’ll recover. Don’t worry about me. And I look forward to the next time our paths cross. I just learned I’ll be speaking in Waynesboro, Virginia next March. Somewhere near you, Marianne? Maybe Michele and I can swing by and enjoy “the wine that flows softly and smoothly.” We’ll laugh at the best barbs from your rebuttal, and at my floundering efforts here. I’ll try to live up to my attributes, which you were so kind to ascribe, and do my best to entertain, be clever, and self-deprecate. And, you and Michele can both enjoy uproarious conversation about Shakespeare, corgis, Prince Harry, Shepherd’s pie, and Monty Don long into the night. I’ll just good-naturedly smile and nod, struggle to follow, flail to “get” the constant stream of witticisms, and stand flabbergasted by minds that can retain something they read only once and then quote off into the future, seemingly at will. I wish I was like that, but I’m just not. Not even close. But, in the end, I’m okay with being a passionate advocate for more and better American gardens and any writing that pushes that forward, whether such writing inflicts dagger sized wounds or not.

[i] Horticulture Magazine, July/August 2019 issue, Deep Roots column, Scott Beuerlein

[ii] Fully Monty?

[iii] Named for Basil Fawlty, the John Cleese character in British sitcom, Fawlty Towers. 

[iv] If one is dealt the cancer card, it is considered poor form to not use it. I once avoided getting beat up by saying, “Don’t. Stop, I’ve got cancer.” BTW, free and clear now. Thankfully.

[v] Marianne had five, count ‘em, five endnote references.

[vi] Timber Press? Call me.

[vii] What does Marianne’s husband know of this Monty Don?

[viii] Oddly, I’m not so fond of Johnson’s book on wine I bought, which bogged down in wineries, regions, varietals and offered few opinions on good wines and values that could guide my wine-drinking journey. Which, come to think of it, is why I like the American garden writer Michael Dirr over, say, Hillier. You might not always agree with his opinions, but Dirr at least puts them out there, and doesn’t phone it in by simply describing the leaves in botanical language.

[ix] Include the 1970s BBC program, The Good Life as also partly responsible for this madness.

    A Desperate Grasp at Redemption From One Struck Down by the Wrath of Marianne Wilburn’s Poison Pen originally appeared on GardenRant on August 21, 2019.

from GardenRant https://ift.tt/2HjzBJW