On more than one occasion, every fan of both treble music and nice rocking vibes has probably heard about the Russian group Robinzon.
Β
The group’s official website is in Russian only, but a visit there is well worth your while, even if you have to use a translation mechanism like Google Translate.Β There is now also a western fan website that provides abundant information in both French and English.Β Β It’s definitely a must-visit for the amount of information that can be found there.
Robinzon -A group with a tradition
The group itself has quite a history since it was established more than 20 years ago (in 1986) in Ishim, Siberia. The group has had several generations by now, as members leave and are replaced by new, younger members. Today, the group is composed of talented members who are 8-18 and who write and compose their own songs and then perform them in such a manner that usually it does not take more than one listen to convert people, who have never heard of them before, to devoted fans. Robinzon‘s music repertoire is quite rich and includes pop, rock, jazz, children’s songs, uplifting vibes, touching ballads, and even classical music. They sometimes adopt classical music composed by Mozart and Beethoven. Nowadays, the band is innovative and progressive – they’ve had concerts that were streamed live on the Internet as they were happening. In addition to that, their newest compositions include modern dance beats ( for example, their song ΠΠΎΠ»ΡΠ±ΠΈ pigeons ).Β At the time of the writing of this post, the group’s discography includes 27 albums.
Robinzon -Wave
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lFY_BgzmvQ
The purpose of this article is to introduce the group to the audience of theskykid.com. I hope that what you’ve read so far will make you want to look for more information about them, which you will find on the websites linked at the bottom of this post. Any feedback, comments and suggestions are welcome, regardless if you were familiar with the group before reading about them here or this is the first time you’ve stumbled upon their music (lucky you = so many things to explore from now on, so many good vibes to listen to).
Note: Picking only a few video clips to showcase in this post, out of the immense collection of Robinzon music, turned out to be an arduous task. The main issue was that I liked too many clips, and as soon I picked a few, I saw another one that made me want to include it. So, in the end, I picked the first couple I found – leaving it for you to check their YouTube channel and the related videos.
Jordan Jansen – One of the things about mentoring and supporting young talent is that you get to see them grow and emerge into lives that hold untold dreams. After a while you are able to spot the winners and the ones that will likely breech the barrier of voice change and go on to continue on stage or in film. They have a certain charisma. A certain attitude about how they approach life. One of the most noticeable qualities about those kids is their ability to embrace change. Unlike the rest of the world that seeks complacency, these special youngsters thrive on the excitement of the next change, the next thrill, the next hurtle to jump. They actually thrive on the possibility of the unexpected and the achievement of milestones.
And that description describes Jordan Jansen perfectly. Just when you think you have seen his best, he shows you a new level of talent, a new level of quality, a new persona to present to the world. Like some morphed out human version of an onion, Jordan peels off layer upon layer. Each producing a greater, more refined version of human stardom.
From the very beginning to the current layer of professionalism, Jordan has treated his performances with the same determined professionalism. Another quality found only in the successful. And Jordan began keeping his books in crayon and his first savings account was in a Sponge Bob Square Pants lunch box. Today, he stands proudly before a bank teller, depositing his seed money for the future. All of the equipment he has in his home studio was purchased from his own resources. He has earned his money by working hard to get better, to be better. And then performing at markets, clubs and charity events. Some paid, some just a sharpening stone for his cutting edge talent.
Jordan accepts input and suggestions for the songs he chooses but generally listens to what is popular and then makes it his own. He sees what works and then incorporates that quality in his own stage persona. He also is able to separate the chaff from the wheat. Negative comments roll off his back like water off a duck. He listens to the quality or constructive criticism and is able to discern, which is which.
But heβs not all business. He budgetβs time for his school work as well as time just to be a kid. He enjoys all the things a twelve-year-old kid enjoys. The beach, soccer, video games and of course music.
My predictions for the newly twelve-year-old Jordan Jansen have not changed since day one. He will exceed all expectations and traverse the voice break when it comes in a few years and go on to redefine the term superstar. I will be very surprised if he is not signed to a label or other long term project within the next six months or so.
All I have to say is this; Iβm buying front row seats when he tours my section of the U.S.
Meet the youngest German rappers I’ve ever encountered: Β J1&J2. I just stumbled on their MySpace account when doing my research for the review of the new Apollo 3 album. I bookmarked their site and 30 minutes later went back to it to see if the kidsΒ could really rap. And can they – oh yeah. They are brilliant. Listening to their songs makes me wanna rap with them even if, with my limited German, the end result wouldΒ beΒ more funny than cool. The best way to introduce them is to show you clip of them singing:
Heute mochte ich Ihnen die wohl jungsten deutschen Rapper vorstellen, denen ich je begegnet bin: “J1 & J2”. Ich entdeckte gerade zufallig ihre MySpace-Seite, als ich Nachforschungen zum neuen “Apollo 3”-Album anstellte. Ich fugte Ihre Seite sogleich zu meinen Lesezeichen hinzu, und 30 Minuten spater wollte ich dann wirklich wissen ob diese Jungs rappen konnen. Und das konnen sie – oh ja. SieΒ sind brillant ! Wenn ich ihre Songs so hore, mochte ich am liebsten mitrappen – obwohl mein deutsch dafur nicht ausreichen wurde. Das wurde sich dann wohl eher lustig als “cool” anhoren… aber der beste Weg sie hier ausfuhrlich vorzustellen, ist wohl ein Clip der beiden:
J1&J2 Feat.King Striker wir sind so weit
Finding information about them, especially in English, is a really harsh task.Β Currently they maintain their online presence mainly on their MySpace channel and are working on their official web site (now under construction). From there, I found out that they have already released a debut album titled “Wir sind Soweit” on 01.12.2009 and that they are quickly gaining popularity in Germany (and they will abroad as soon as someone presents them properly in English).Β They also have a Vimeo account where most of their videos are available :http://vimeo.com/j1j2
Nun, das Suchen und Finden von Informationen ΓΌber die beiden (vor allem auf englisch !), ist wirklich nicht einfach. Im Moment haben sie ihre Anlaufstellen im Internet vor allem auf ihrer Myspace-Seite, sowie ihrer offiziellen Page (derzeit noch im Aufbau). Dort habe ich auch herausgefunden, dass sie bereits ein DebΓΌtalbum verΓΆffentlicht haben. Es trΓ€gt den Titel “Wir sind soweit” und wurde am 01.12.2009 herausgebracht. Es scheint, als wΓΌrden sie immer bekannter werden, vor allem in Deutschland – und das kΓΆnnten sie auch international – wenn sie mal jemand vernΓΌnftig auf englisch vorstellt. Desweiteren haben sie auch einen Vimeo Account, wo viele ihrer Videos verfΓΌgbar sind: http://vimeo.com/j1j2
Thankfully, their twitter account has links to some sites that provide more information about them (especiallyΒ keeping in mind that the text on their MySpace site is inΒ a format that makes automatic translation harder). I watched an interview with them on YouTube, but did not understand much from it other than J2 like the phrase “Ya Man” which, after watching the interview is totally stuck into my mind. If my German isn’t that rusty, in that interview J1 said that he is 11 years old, while J2 said he was 7. Those are really young ages to start singing Rap – but it’s not so weird for Germany.Β Just remember Lil’O (later known as Othenic O) and even Apollo 3 rap in some of their songs.Β From another video I found out that their father is a big supportΒ for them, helping with their online presence and fully supporting his talented sons. In fact, it wasΒ the fatherΒ who introduced them to rap musicΒ in the first place.
GlΓΌcklicherweise sind auf ihrem Twitter-Account einige Links zu Seiten, die mehr Informationen ΓΌber die beiden bieten (besonders wenn ich daran denke, dass die MySpace-Seiten ein bestimmtes Format haben welches die automatische Γbersetzung schwieriger macht). Ich habe mir daraufhin ein Interview mit den beiden angesehen – allerdings konnte ich nicht viel mehr als den Ausdruck “Ja Mann” von J2 verstehen. Dieser Ausdruck ist mir auch sehr im GedΓ€chtnis hΓ€ngengeblieben. Wenn mein deutsch nicht vΓΆllig miserabel ist, sagte J1 in diesem Interview dass er 11 Jahre alt ist, und J2 7. Das ist mal ein wirklich junges Alter, um mit dem rappen zu beginnen ! Aber es ist wohl gar nicht mal so ungewΓΆhnlich fΓΌr Deutschland. Ich denke da z.B. an Lil’O (spΓ€ter als Othentic O bekannt), und sogar die Jungs von Apollo 3 rappen in einigen ihrer Songs. Aus einem anderen Video konnte ich heraushΓΆren, dass der Vater der beiden sie unterstΓΌtzt, zum Beispiel in Sachen Online-PrΓ€senz und FΓΆrderung ihrer Talente. TatsΓ€chlich war es wohl auch der Vater der die beiden, der sie ΓΌberhaupt zur Rapmusik brachte.
Besides singing Rap, J1 and J2, like all boys, are involved in various activities. J1 goes to swimming classes, football practices and likes to hang out with friends. And J2 loves the play football as well.
Neben dem Rappen haben J1 und J2 natΓΌrlich noch andere Hobbies, wie alle Jungen ihres Alters. J1 besucht den Schwimmunterricht, spielt Fussball und mag es, mit seinen Freunden abzuhΓ€ngen. J2 liebt es ebenfalls, Fussball zu spielen.
I am really fond of their music and will end up having their album in the near future. In the meantime, if any of you speaks German better than me (and I’mΒ sure many of you do) do not hestitateΒ to leave comments with things about J1 and J2 and their music which I have missed.
Ich bin wirklich beeindruckt von der Musik der beiden, und es wird wohl darauf hinauslaufen dass ich mir ihr Album kaufen werde. In der Zwischenzeit, falls jemand hier besser als ich deutsch spricht (da bin ich mir sicher) –Β zΓΆgern Sie bitte nicht Kommentare zu hinterlassen ! Sei es mit weiteren Informationen, Meinungen… GrΓΌΓe, Skykid
“YAAA MAN”
Heute mochte ich Ihnen die wohl jungsten deutschen Rapper vorstellen, denen ich je begegnet bin: “J1 & J2”. Ich entdeckte gerade zufallig ihre MySpace-Seite, als ich Nachforschungen zum neuen “Apollo 3”-Album anstellte. Ich fugte Ihre Seite sogleich zu meinen Lesezeichen hinzu, und 30 Minuten spater wollte ich dann wirklich wissen ob diese Jungs rappen konnen. Und das konnen sie – oh ja. SieΒ sind brillant ! Wenn ich ihre Songs so hore, mochte ich am liebsten mitrappen – obwohl mein deutsch dafur nicht ausreichen wurde. Das wurde sich dann wohl eher lustig als “cool” anhoren… aber der beste Weg sie hier ausfuhrlich vorzustellen, ist wohl ein Clip der beiden:
About a year ago, when I first found out about Apollo 3, I wrote a post about them in which I assured you that their music “will rock your world”.Β The article (which also came with aΒ Russian translationΒ thanks to their Russian fan club) was wildly successful and received more than 70 comments from their fans from all over the world. Β Back then, I wrote that I am addicted to their music and things haven’t changed much today.Β I prefer their musicΒ for bike stunts on the city streets or hanging out at the skateΒ park (I am just a novice there – so keep to my bike mostly). I could not resist reviewing their first album, nor can I resist announcing and reviewing their newest album “2010” ( Thanks to theΒ Bill Milner fan who left me a comment on my first review letting me know that the second album is out there).
The boys seem quite confident in themselves as one can clearly note from the promo statement included in the release notes of their second album :
“”No power on earth can stop us now! We are here to rock this world! With this “battle” of our energetic first hit “Diabolisch” from our second album titled “2010”, we ring inΒ the new decade. “Diabolik” is the title of the song. On 11.03.2010, in all cinemas,aΒ film will be released calld Β “TEUFELSKICKER” in which we will play the lead roles “
The album whichΒ hit the stores onΒ Mar-12-2010 is on the Sony label (Sony Music was the label of their first album as well) includes 15 tracks with a total playing time of 52:21. As some of the songs included are the sameΒ as on their first album (9 of them) I will keep the scope of this mini review to the new six songs.
TRACK 1. “2010”Β – one can clearly note that the boys voices changed during the year, but the re-verbs, the electronic sound at times, and the supporting backing vocal resulted in a real cool sound, even if not as good as in their second track of the album:
TRACK 2. “Chaos”Β I loved the intro of the song and the way they sing “Chaos” . Of course, the hit single of the album as they emphasize in the release notes is:
TRACK 3.” Diabolisch” –Β its really the most energetic song from the album and their voices blend wonderfully together. Can’t wait it to do some stunts with my bike while listening to it.
Skipping to TRACK 13. “Vamoir ” I consider this to be the ballad song of their new album. It starts with some nice bass and then the songΒ getsΒ rhythmic – a rocky ballad as they say.
TRACK 14. “Unverwundbar” is quite melodic as well. I know that Apollo 3Β is a rock band, but I really got to like theirΒ slower songs as well as the wild ones.Β It gives you a different feel of the spirit of the band.
TRACK 15. “Adrenalin” – a remix from the song that was included in their first album. It really rocks. But to describe it, I would just remind you what I said about it one year ago —Β my favorite songΒ on the album. It’s so fullΒ of energy that I can’t believe that someone could listen to it calmly – perfectΒ to accompanyΒ all kinds of extreme sports”
It’s a pity that the majority of information about Apollo 3 is still only available in German. However, various fan clubsΒ have beenΒ formed around the world and, thanks to them, the music of this incredible German band is spreading across the globe. Β I hope that Sony will recognize the need for more information about Apollo 3 and will invest more in promotional activities (including, but not limited to, translating their official site into English)
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWFDSo65kNA
[amazon-product text=”Get the new album of Apollo 3 from Amazon.com” type=”text”]B00366HHLU[/amazon-product]
Juancito (played by the eleven year old Federico Olivera) is the main protagonist of the story. He is a regular boy who does his lessons under his mother’s supervision while awaitingΒ impatiently for six o’clock so he can hear the story of his favorite hero on the radio – Tarzan.Β A lot of political turmoil is happening in Argentina at that time and it causes the young boy to wonder why his mother is referring to his uncle as “A Quixote” instead of ” A revolutionary”, as he sees him. In the later scenes, it becomes clear that the boy compares his uncle with his father – admiring his uncle for his courage and disapproving of his father who “never speaks up” and always follows the demands of his wife.Β And Juancito is not afraid to say thatΒ to his father’s face, using the words “everyone bosses youΒ Β around”. At the same time, he relates moreΒ to his uncle who sometimes joined the boys in their football games “We loved it when my uncle Migel got the ball. He’d forget politics and play like a child. We all envied him”
Juansito is in love with a girl and the scene in which he gives her a present made my him is one of Β the most heart warming scenes I have seen in a film. Yet, he soon finds out how unfair life can be….Β Generally speaking, the film has some quite touching scenes which alternately broughtΒ tears to my eyes or a smile to my face.
The cast did an incredible job in the film. Throughout the story, told through the eyes of Juancito,Β the viewer can appreciate the similarities, differences and beliefs of people from various social classes in Argentina during 1950. The abundance of documentary cadres contributes to theΒ educational value of the film.Β It accurately portrays theΒ history and the epoch in which the action is set. I believe that everyone who sees this film once will have gained a knowledge and a wisdom –Β because evenΒ as the years change, weΒ today still share the same joys and fears as did the people in 1950.
“looking back on those days, the affection of these people, their faces and smiles, I feel the weight of these 30 years. When I left Tarzan, defender of the meek andΒ justice, a wound opened up, for me and for many others and it hasn’t healed yet. The many things that happened buried the enthusiasm …. I am 41Β years old. With time, I discovered why Tarzan wasn’t enough ….and I lost my childhood innocence “
WhenΒ released in 1983, in the last few months of the military rule in Argentina,Β Esperame Mucho was subject to severe censorship by the regime. After the regime ended, the film was delivered without cuts in its various television displays.
I would not hesitate to recommend this film –Β not only to the fans of the coming of age genre, but toΒ anyone who is interested in watching a high quality cinema production. Despite being produced in 1983, Esperame mucho is a film from which many of today’sΒ filmmakers may learn.
Sinopsis en EspaΓ±olΒ :
Sensible documento sobre los recuerdos de infancia ambientado en la epoca del primer gobierno peronista. Un hombre de mediana edad recuerda con nostalgia su vida pasada en un barrio de Argentina. A su mente vienen las imagenes de un mundo muy diferente en el que su inocencia le permitia sonar con un futuro diferente al que vive. Intercaladas en la historia se muestran escenas reales de personajes legendarios de la historia argentina como Eva Peron, Juan Manuel Fangio y Mirtha Legrand
But everyone calls him Vince! To make it a bit easier to remember. He is born on March 10th, 1997 and lives in Landen, Belgium. Vince participated in the Junior Euro Song Contest with the song βAl Fluitend Door Het Levenβ in 2008. He is now attending the 6th year before heading to college. Vince doesnβt have any brothers or sisters, but he really likes dogs, fish, birds and goats. Now that isnβt heard often. He is a jolly boy.
His nicest memory of the JESC is Disneyland Resort Paris, with MC Louis in the Space Mountain.
Vince has got a love for animals and old(er) people. And hates people who pick their nose and jealousy. He also gets the nerves of waiting. But his heart begins beating faster when he sees a beautiful girl.
Together with his mum, Vince goes jogging six kilometres every week. Such a good workout comes out in handy because he sometimes blows his entire lung capacity on the trumpet, which is great to hear. Vince is part of a youth choir for two years now and does some solos as well.
Vince wants to become a singer, actor or musician. And so his dream is to go far in the entertainment business.
Song: βHoe Mooi De Wereld Isβ
If you ask Vince who his best friend is, he doesnβt have to think long. Fhara, his dog. She knows all of his secrets and is always with him when heβs driving his quad at grandpaβs pear plantation. And yes, from time to time, he will pick a pear from the trees.
To finish this little bio, some favourites of Vince:
Book: De Spoken van McHaggis (The Ghosts of McHaggis)
Song: Lollipop, by Mika
Artists: Mika (obviously), Dean and Natalia (2 Belgian singers)
Movie: 10 000 BC
Colour: Purple
Food: Chinese (chicken curry with rice)
In his early 20βs Vince, who is now called by his full name Vincent, opened up a diner together with his family and team, which goes by the name βSikivie.β They like to welcome you to their renovated home in the heart of Landen, Belgium.
Sikivie is to be found at the Stationsstraat, in a building full of memories. After years of emptiness and an extensive metamorphosis, the diner is now standing as a dynamic meeting place for everyone.
βWith us, you can find a fresh beer at the bar, a tasteful coffee or cocktail, nice food products, unique decoration, original gift boxes, gift certificates and much more.
We also keep your small or great hunger quiet. Our social bites are fresh and homemade. These delicious dishes call for dialogue and bring people closer together. What is the point of eating if you can’t share it with your lover(s)? After All, (food) sharing is caring!β
On Monday, February 8th, 2021, Vincent appeared in a Belgian television show called βStukken van Mensen.β That show presents 4 buyers who argue with each other to buy the presented item from the seller. Things are sold: vintage, art, furniture, decorative stuff, cars and so on…
Vincent came to sell 6 framed chronographs from Salvador Dali. He sold to one of the buyers for the amount of 1.500 euros and 2 days together with the seller to learn some more insights into the trading business.
The show’s video can be found here, but it is only available in Belgium
Alex Jr. is an amazing young artist, Β to whomΒ I very much enjoy listening. He never misses — always right on the money.
His voice is clean and clear with no wavering.Β I never get tired of listening to his wonderful voice.
Alex is from Santa Caterina, Brazil. He entered aΒ competition in 2006 on a show called Jovens Talentos (previously known as Show da CrianΓ§a) – for the age group under eleven.Β After his first performance of “Nascemos Pra Cantar” Β people loved him (including me). He ended up performing three songs while winningΒ the competition.Β Β The video, above, Β is of him in his well deserved win.Β Shortly after that competition, Β the age group ‘under eleven’ was canceled. But that wasn’t the end of Alex —Β by far.Β Raul Gil hired him as a regular on his show programa Raul Gil na Band . HereΒ he paid homage to other composers and musicians and has done a fabulous job of this. The people to whom he paid homage were all honored by this young man’s performances of theirΒ music. Β Below is one of his performances, in February 2008, in which he pays homage to AtaΓde e Alexandre singingΒ “Agenda Rabiscada”.Β Β Β Alex paid homage to many people on that TV show.
Now Alex hasΒ a partner, Willian. They are now known as Alex & Willian and the sound is as good as ever.Β Β Still doing performances for Rual Gil, Β Alex and Willian now also perform on other shows and at many places around the country. To find scheduled show information, visitΒ theirΒ website at: Β http://www.alexewillian.com.br/
Alex’s voice and music has been progressing quite well over the past few years and I believeΒ Alex and WillianΒ make a great duo. Their voices fit together very well. I enjoy listening to him as much nowΒ as when he was younger.Β Below, isΒ a video of the duoΒ singing “Te esquecer nΓ£o consigo”.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6-IX8GYNnY
Alex has certainly come a long way since that competition in 2006 and has accumulated many videos. Β I wish I could bring them all to you, Β I know you would enjoy them.Β However,Β he does have plenty to chose from on his channelΒ Alex&Willian so please do stop by there and give them your support. ItΒ is a fairly new site Β and, as yet, has very few supporters.Β I hope you enjoy listening to Alex as much as I do……
Since first discovering Sam Verlinden on You Tube he has captivated my interest in a number of ways. Not only can this boy sing but he continues to maintain a sensational public profile through his acting, busking, contest entries, and high profile national concerts. This combination of achievements alone speaks more than loudly, why it’s easy to pronounce young Verlinden as “Super Sam.”
Sam first appeared on this website in an article submitted by Bestpi on Tuesday, 6 May 2008.
Since the time of Bestpi’s article much has transpired and this young troubadour who captured 6 Gold and 3 Silver medals along with the prestigious “Industry Award” and 5 plaques for “OVERALL JUNIOR CHAMPION OF THE WORLD”, continues to show himself as a winner and national pride of New Zealand!
Sam who just turned 12 on October 1st of last year, has won 4 Golden Ribby Awards for his entries of songs at Wonderworld TV and a fifth entry is in 1st place at the time of this writing.
In October and November Sam brought professionalism to the βThe University of Aucklandβs Stageβ performing in the lead role of young Tommy in the production of “Tommy the Musical”.Β A review submitted by The New Zealand Performing Arts Review & Directory exclaimed, “Young Tommy is played beautifully by Sam Verlinden, and required to be completely unresponsive even when a balloon is popped in his face”.
I don’t know about you but it takes some acting concentration not to allow a distraction like this to break character.
Concentration and Character are two things that Sam Verlinden has an abundance of.Β Concentrating on his singing career while at the same time holding on to reality and just enjoying life, family, and friends.
As soon as Tommy sang his last Pinball Wizard he was singing another tune by performing in one of the best all-time musicals that ever hit Auckland.Β Lionel Bart’s Magical Musical “Oliver” was staged in The SkyCity Theatre in Auckland. Sam was magical in his performance as one of the boys in Fagin’s gang of thieves. And when the final curtain call was given a few of the boys from the group including Sam continued to perform around the city for special events billing themselves as ‘The Oliver Boys”.
Sam’s biggest highlight of the year was being chosen to perform in the Annual Coca Cola Christmas in the Park event, which was held in Auckland on December 12th.Β Sam was the youngest to perform in that star-studded line up of the best of New Zealandβs Talent.
It’s simply amazing how this young man can step up out on the stage and perform in front national television cameras and thousands in the assembled crowd yet remain truly humbled by the experience.Β Sam is a true showman and gentlemen in every sense of the word!
Once the New Year was rung in, Sam got busy in the recording studio producing several new recordings and updated versions of his favorite songs as well.Β Some of his songs can be heard at Rivenmaster.com and here on Radio TheSkyKid.com.Β In fact Skykidβs radio station is already playing all of Samβs new song entries.Β Thanks Skykid!
The last week of Summer Vacation before going back to school, Sam attended the Mystery Creek, Hamilton Parachute Festival 2010.
Sam entered the Parachute’s Got Talent competition singing “Who’s Lovin You”.
Like many other performances, Sam had the audience screaming for him and captured the runner-up position, which for a 12 year old is more than a monumental achievement!
Β Break these Walls
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zw6eJWfcpE
I believe this to be the best song that Sam has ever done! I love his ability to reach his upper register with the soft tones. Very different than what we are normally hearing from him. I really enjoy the diversity that Sam affords us and this new ballad I believe really showcases his strengths of voice control and deliverance! Sam is a true champion and I’m sure we have only begun to see what he will accomplish in his singing career!
Sam Verlinden is one amazing young talent! I have had the privilege to follow him closely this year with all his activities and his voice just keeps getting better and better. I really believe that we haven’t seen anything yet! Sam is getting ready to explode on the scene and we are all in for a great ride! Buckle your seat belts!
To learn more details about Sam please visit his official website .
All of this and more make Sam Verlinden more than a super singer; he can truly be defined as a Superlative Virtuoso!
According to director Guillermo del Toro, the stress and strain of making his 2006 film Panβs Labyrinth (El Laberinto del Fauno) nearly killed him. Given how well the film turned out, one could argue it was worth the risk.
The story of 10-year-old Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) is set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil Warβs bloody aftermath, as defiant, elusive rebels wage potent guerilla warfare against Francoβs army. Ofelia finds herself in the unfortunate position of being the stepdaughter of Captain Vidal (Sergei Lopez i Ayats), a particularly violent adversary of the rebels. When she and her pregnant mother must relocate to the Captainβs country house/headquarters, Ofelia resorts to fantasy in order to escape the harsh Captain and his pathetically brutal world.
βThe Captain is not my father!β exclaims Ofelia to Mercedes (Maribel Verdu),Β the housekeeper, when they first meet. βYouβve made that clear enough,β Mercedes replies. Itβs no wonder Ofelia wants to firmly establish that thereβs no hint of kinship between herself and the Captain:Β he is one of the most frightfully repellent villains in recent cinema, made all the more despicable by his moments of self-righteousness, wherein del Toro is wise enough to allow the brute the opportunity to make a valid point or two β even villains can be right about one thing or another, after all.
Her head always in books of fantasy or fairy tales, Ofelia naturally conjures such a fantastic surreality for her own escapes from the Captainβs unpleasant circle. Intrigued at first by a flying stick insect, she requires that her would-be fairies look like fairies, going so far as to show the insect a proper example in a book of such extravagant things. The insect promptly obliges and transforms itself into a fairy. Ofeliaβs inner world demands such magic, wonder, and merriment, because her own real life falls woefully short on all fronts.
The fairy leads her out into the night, to an old stone labyrinth beneath which a cunning Faun has long awaited her reappearance, or so he tells her. She is not the human girl Ofelia but, rather, Princess Moanna, from the Underground Realm. To return to that wondrous kingdom from which she long ago fled, however, the princess must perform a series of tasks before the moon is full, to prove that she has not βbecome a mortal.β And so, Ofeliaβs adventure begins in earnest.
To get caught up in the stuff of fairy tales is the rush of childhood; the fear is that one day, the door at the end of the labyrinthine path opens up, and the way forward β the coming of age β is made all too clear, whether we want to exit the maze or not. The greatest trick is finding ways to stay behind, if only in your mind, no matter what β to find a way to get away, back where you think you belong. Tricky, that β to never be βtoo old to fill your head with such nonsense.β But, in a world that seldom makes sense anyway, why shouldnβt a little nonsense be oneβs logical goal?
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbffV5LZfZI
Ofelia cannot help but explore that which she is forbidden β in essence, doing the hard work of growing up: breaking rules, getting dirty when necessary, taking one risk after the other β being herself. You can have your Harry Potters or Narnia warriors, but Ofelia is the bravest child to have stepped into the land of enchantment and wonder in these recent times. She answers the call, meets the demands, does what needs to be done; and she does so despite the greatest toll that must be exacted from her, and with only the least hesitation.
Through the brilliant work of composer Javier Navarrete, the film contains one of the most effectively heart-breaking pieces of music Iβve ever heard: the haunting lullaby, that replays in your head long after last seeing the film. Throughout, each note of music falls on each frame of film with just the right weight of resonance, first light as a feather, then heavy as your heart, from one moment to the next.
Del Toro has said that Panβs Labyrinth is a sequel of sorts to The Devilβs Backbone, and that a third film is someday envisioned, although the possibility is remote, given how much of his heart and soul were expended on Ofeliaβs sad tale. Still, one can hope that he will eventually finish the trilogy, at some point in his near film future.
[One note of warning: as with some of del Toro’s other films, the violence depicted is intense and may be disturbing to some.]
The Norwegian film, Gutta Boys (also known as Boys Will Be Boys and Poikien jutut), was released in 2006 in the form ofΒ a TV mini series. The DVD on which this review is based was released in the same year and features two disksΒ that include seven episodes with a total running time of 175 minutes.
The series become popularΒ after itsΒ nomination for the Emmy award and has since achieved popularity all over the world as one of the best coming of age series ever made for TV. Regular readers of this blog know of my affinity towards Scandinavian films – full features such as Da jeg traff Jesusβ¦ med sprettert, Nachttocht and En som Hodderand short films such as Min far er bokser , Iver , Verdeandmy personal favoriteBennyβs Gym. In fact, the storyline of Gutta Boys is similar to the one in Benny’s Gym – as the issues such as action, friendship, confusion, loyalty and betrayal are common for both films.
The main protagonists of Gutta Boys are four twelve year old boys: Arne, BΓΈnna (BjΓΈrn Tore), Petter and Eivind, who are exploring their own boundaries and the ones of the world, being in that period of life which is often associated with the transition between childhood and adolescence. They are friends – and share similar interests – Β but naturally each of them has a unique personality and character which develops throughout the story.
Arne is a gentle boy who is back in school, and is getting reacquainted with friends, after a prolonged illness. He is tired of being sick and of making his parents concerned about him.Β HisΒ big goal is toΒ catch up withΒ what he believes he has missed.Β His best friend, BΓΈnna, is determined to help him fulfill the three challenges that Arne sets for himself in a list titled “When I Get Better “. Those tasks include 1)Β archery – firing a real arrow with a bow into the sky and then testing their courage by not moving, risking that the arrowΒ might hit them when it begins its descent to theΒ ground; 2)Β –Β jumping from a huge rock into the frigid water of a lake and 3) – playing strip-poker .
Admittedly, most of the tasks Arne set for himselfΒ are similar to the ones my friends and I had when we were twelve ourselves.Β Only our tests of bravery involved swimming towards an island in the lake (well aware that some of us barely managed to keep ourselves on the surface),Β jumping from high rocks into the sea (on those occasions sometimes we jumped all together determined that if something happened it would happen to all, and if not we would all be heroes), crossing a frozen lake …etc. I am sure that many of you recall similar moments from your own childhood as that is one of the virtues of the coming of age stories in books and cinema – that theyΒ serve toΒ make those memories return. And if the film is good – as good as Gutta Boys is – we are ready to re-live our own adventures as we watch the scenes on the screen.
Back to the film…
While the friendship betweenΒ Arne and BΓΈnna is the focus of the film, the other members of their gang, Petter and Eivind, play an important role as well. They all hang around, but Eivind’s parents are overprotective and Peter’sΒ father is a policeman.Β These facts often exclude them from the wildest activities of the gang, especially the ones resulting from the plans of BΓΈnna – who has problems with authorityΒ ( it reminds me of a friend of mine who is a look-alike of BΓΈnna who even got in trouble once ,and me, every time I went along with him).
I won’t go into much moreΒ detail of the film’s plot so you can fully enjoy its twists andΒ the mischief and adventures of the boys. However, I would mention that the direction was done exceptionally well and the performance of the cast was good on all levels. The cinematography of Gutta Boys is similar to the one in the modern Scandinavian films, featuring bright colours and frequent use of camera closeups on the characters’ faces to better convey their emotions to the viewer. I am also fond of the soundtrack of the series recorded by Fatter’n – who is a Norwegian film composer, rapper, hip hop-artist and producer. His hip hop vibes really fit well with the Gutta Boys series.
By the end of the film, you will inevitably associate with one of the main actors – ArneΒ or BΓΈnna. I associated with Arne (even if he seems a bit spoiled by his parents – despite his rebellion against that) as sometimes it seems that I need an extra push or encouragement to go ahead and do something crazy or wild. Some of you may dislike the character of BΓΈnnaΒ because of his selfishness at times. ButΒ if you keep in mind all he has had to go through, with his mother absent and his feelingΒ the need to projectΒ the image of being a tough and wild guy (even though he is no less sensitive than Arne), then IΒ think you would better understand the motivation behind his ideas and actions. The film is bound to make you think about the different methods of parenting and the impact they have on children: the ever busy dad, the overprotective one, the intrusive one –one never knows what’s better. As for myself, I have very liberal parents and they have always allowed me to do what I wanted, even if IΒ made the wrong decisions at times (as they allowed meΒ to learn from my mistakes). Overall, this mini series can give you more food for thought than youΒ might, at first, imagine.
I am sure that fans of the coming of age genreΒ will greatly enjoy Gutta Boys and I have no hesitationΒ in highlyΒ recommending it.
This review would not have been possible without the valuable support of CVMC who provided the the DVD of Gutta Boys
It’s about time I introduced you to another talented musician – Grant Austin Taylor.
Most of you are probably familiar with his music – yet I hope that this article serves as a reminder to check his recent songs. It has been several years since I heard of Grant Austin Taylor forΒ the very first time – yet I am thankful that a visitorΒ to my blog sent me a message about him and naturally I could not resist doing an article on him. I almost feel guilty that I had to be reminded of this incredible performerΒ — keeping in mind that he plays my favorite style of music (rock). I am repeating myself a bit here as I wroteΒ something similarΒ about Zach Raizman, but this only confirms how much one could miss while trying toΒ stay updated with the scene out there.
Grant Austin Taylor may be only fourteen (soon to be fifteen – he was born on May 9, 1995) but he already has some really impressive achievements – such as theΒ special award for Outstanding Young Original Blues-Rock Artist at the 28th annual Young Artist Awards (2007) and the “Patriot Award”, awarded by the United Service Organizations. Also worth mentioning is thatΒ his band has opened concerts for such titans of the rock music world as Motley CrueΒ andΒ Aerosmith.
In 2007, Grant Austin Taylor released his first album which consisted ofΒ five remastered songs recordedΒ at his live performances in the same year. The band for the live gigs included Harvey Kojan on keyboards,Β Jimmy Wiseman on bass and keyboards and Judas Priest drummer Scott Travis. Along with Grant’s amazing guitar skills, which really show in the second track of the album We Walk Alone (my favorite from the album), we get to hear the talentedΒ Jimmy Wiseman on bass and keyboards and Judas Priest drummer Scott Travis who helped Grant for his first EP. The fifth song of the album is an instrumental called Rockin P-Town which combines great bass guitar, solos and drums in a vibe guaranteed to make you wanna dance. For those more sentimental, there is the ballad Make This Love Last which isΒ one of the songs he performed at the 28thΒ award ceremony of the Young Artist Awards- it is the 3rd song from his album. The fourth song in the album called When Life Turns Gray has a lot of soul in it – and some great lyrics /
The 1st song, which I left for the end, is called That’s The Way Life Goes. It has quite a unique soundΒ – an uplifting mixture of pop and rock with a notable vocal performance by Grand Austin Taylor.
I was most impressed, not only by the guitar skills of Grant, but also the fact that all songsΒ in the album are his original compositions (both the music and the lyrics).
I am holding the first single CD of Vlad Krutskikh. It’s entitled “Hello Hello Dance Mix” and hasΒ five energetic songs which can be playedΒ at every party.
The lyrics of the English version of the song “Allo”Β are written by American poets James Koch and Jason A. Phelps for the original music by Vitaliy Ososhnik. Vlad has achieved worldwide popularity as aΒ lead singer/dancer with the Russian pop group Street Magic (also known as Volshebniki Dvora). Street MagicΒ wasΒ formed in 1989 by its artistic director, Vitaly Ososhnik, andΒ has since become well known on the music scene. In 2007, they received an award for Outstanding Young International Variety Group at the 28th Annual Young Artist Awards in Hollywood, California.
I am glad to present to you an exclusive interview which Vlad gave for theskykid.com only a few weeks after the release of his new album and the big concert of Street Magic at Novosibirsk, Russia.
theskykid.com:
[EN] What do you find most exciting and/or difficult about being an internationally recognized star?
[EN] I am pleased when people recognize me, but I do not have a star complex, I respect the fans because they are people just like me. As to your question about the life of a star- some people think that is is simple , but its gets much more complicated with all the tasks that have to be done in a day. I go to school six days a week, I have daily music and singing lessons (solfège), dance rehearsals, I announce on radio and tv. Time for fun is therefore short, so I make the most of my fun-time.
[EN] Russia is famous for its festivities.Β The Russian people have always celebrated these holidays with great fun.Β I like to celebrate holidays with my family and friends.Β For me, being on holiday is when I feel an explosion of positive emotions.Β My favorite holiday is New Year’s Day.Β It has almost been two weeks since this New Year’s, but great memories still remain. . .Β I love to go to the dog exhibitions, together with my dog Cleopatra (Kleopa).Β In the summer I also love to roller skate.Β On weekends, I am most happy.
[EN] There are a variety of resourcesΒ on the Internet where one can read about Street Magic and you in particular? Do you stumble on these blogs and have you ever left a comment in any one of them ?
[EN] Yes, you know, in the Russian language the Internet has several resources – sites that have information about the group “Street Magic”, and about me.Β Our fans have made them. There are only two official sites – volshebnikidvora.ru and vladkrutskikh.com.Β On the Russian site, we make on-line conferences.Β They are held regularly, we will respond to visitors’ questions.Β By the way, if you think that it is always delight and praise – then you are wrong … have to read about the criticism sometimes … as for Twitter – this is probably the only site where I often find myself.Β Many thanks to all who wrote on my page.
[EN]Β To sing in all the world languages is impossible.Β When I recorded songs in Japanese, a Japanese producer helped me with the speech.Β When I work in the studio with the English text, there is always the producer who helps me.Β I received very much help from producer Simon Barron and musical director Vitaly Ososhnik.Β When I sing in any language – Russian, Japanese or English, I try to convey to all audiences all my warmth and my feelings, my love.Β I live with those songs that I sing on stage.
[EN]Β I really wish my lifeΒ will be always connected with entertainment.Β I love to sing.Β In the world there are many interesting things and I want to try myself yet, maybe the role of radio and television presenter.Β Perhaps it would be correct to say that I want to connect my life with creativity.Β I will do everything possible.
[EN] I was interested in music since early childhood.Β When I heard music on the TV, I immediately stopped playing and ran to look. I sang the TV songs that I knew. Fortunately, my parents noticed this and took me to the casting session for the group Street Magic.Β I have been singing there for 9 years.Β I am now 14 and most of my life has been in Street Magic.Β All the guys from our group – are my friends.Β We are always together.Β We have common interests.
[EN] I am not a fan of any group.Β I believe in making good songs that inspire your life and personal behavior.Β My goal is not to create myself as an idol, but to be a good musician.
[EN] I love to listen to music of different artists and different genres of music. But to identify anyone specifically, I cannot.Β I listen to what is playing in the car when I go to school or music lessons.
[EN] What did you think of Hollywood and America? Any plans to tour Europe? US?
How has your association with the Young Artist Awards benefited Street Magic in their quest for recognition?
Would you like to make another journey to the United States and what would you look forward to seeing again?
[EN] I have been in America more than once, to receive awards given to Street Magic, and you know, I still have great memories of that wonderful country.Β It is a very beautiful country.Β I especially liked the extreme amusement park “Six Flags”.Β I even was upset the day when we had to leave.Β Because I was very fond of America and I want to return, not for a few days, but longer.Β I want to walk in Los Angeles at night … the Young Artists Awards may bestow more awards upon us, I hope that happens, it will realize my dream of coming back.Β But of course the most vivid and unforgettable experience, which probably I will remember all my life – this is the red carpet, which – when I was on it – sent shivers through my body.Β I privately threw a Russian coin on it, which would make me come back again.Β And you know, actually I have always been lucky.Β I think this superstition will not prove to be simply just words –Β that coin will make me go back to that wonderful country.
I would likeΒ to thank Vlad for agreeing to be interviewed and everyone who made this the interview possible – helping on the various stages of its preparation (the formulation of the questions, the translations , media selection…etc) . Thank you !
Feedback and comments are appreciated . In any language (-: