Hi everybody! As we speak, or type, my laptop is processing my little home-made movie about my cemetery visit two weeks ago. I'm not a pro photographer nor a big-shot movie maker so it is low quality and there is no need for you guys to point that out to me. I put it all in a mini-movie so that I could compile all my photos and videos into one presentation. It's up to you to figure out whether you actually want to see it or not. Whatever floats your boat.

While we wait: Steven Victor Tallerino, aka, Steven Tyler will not be leaving Aerosmith, however Joe Perry let us know they are looking for a new lead singer. How does that work, I ask you. On Tyler's Wikipedia it says that Perry and the other Aerosmithsonians are afraid Tyler is doing drugs again. I'm inclined not to believe that. I used to kind of like Joe Perry, now I don't. It's not just the recent happenings, I just think he has too big of a head. Aerosmith will be nothing without Tyler just as much as it would be nothing without Perry, Kramer, Whitford or Hamilton. However, Tyler's vocal sounds can not be replaced, while the others are a little more replaceable imo. So, dear Joe, leave Tyler be, before Aerosmith implodes. Oh yeah, and the gray streak in your hair, is so 1998.

I also wanted to get something straight, while I'm at it. Before you start sending me your condolences, Fall Out Boy is not breaking up. So dear tabloids, before you start making asses of yourselves, you should look up the definition of hiatus or break, get your facts straigh and get back to us later. Yes, they are taking a break, and yes it is indefinite but yes, they are coming back. So be warned, the first one to ask me if I'm ok about them breaking up is getting a lecture, mark my words.

I see that my little movie is published so I will put it right here for you to see, or avoid, again, whatever floats your boat.

There you have it folks, the first of many cemetery visits. Mind you that this tour wasn't finished. My battery was very drained but there was also this woman crying over her dead relative's (or friend's) grave, so I felt kind of weird being there. That's why I left before finishing the last couple of galleries.

Actually this leaves me with nothing more to say but, so long, adieu and see you next time!

Listen very carefully, I shall say this only once...

XO-reos

Monco

Ahoy, Mateys!

Holy time warp, Robin! I fell asleep a month ago and I woke up today. How on earth is that possible? Either way: due to heavy rainfall on the planned day of my cemetery trip and the lack of time afterwards, I haven't been able, bla bla bla (you guys know the drill). So far I haven't been able to fulfill half of the plans I make on this blog, so I have decided to not do that anymore. Someday this month I will visit the cemetery of Saint-Josse-Ten-Noode (not sure what the English spelling is) and Molenbeek. I don't know when, I do know where. My plan is tomorrow, but if the big guy above hears about it, my trip might rain out.
During the time that I haven't updated, I've seen two shows, and two movies.
Two shows:

• The All American Rejects: I can honestly say I've never seen that much energy on stage, ever. Plus Tyson Ritter has this insane way of looking at you that makes you fear for your life for a bit. The crowd was not in control, which forced me to plow my way through the crowd and towards the back of the venue. The verdict is that the Rejects are great live, however it's not really the best show I've ever seen, regardless of the crowd. I had fun though, but that was mostly because of the company I kept. Thanks again, Astrid. Oh yeah, the opening band, totally bored me. They were not good live, but they might surprise me on cd. Who knows...
  
• The show I had been looking forward to and that surprised me, was The Sounds. I'm not a lesbian, but if I were I'd totally crush on Maja Ivarsson. Anyway, the pre-show was pretty good, although they might have wanted to check that the drums, bass and guitar didn't overpower the sound of the mic, I have no idea what the guy was singing and I didn't get any of what was said, that's a bit of a shame. It's one of the few opening bands that didn't suck live. (The Sounds, Nailpin, You Me At Six and Boys Like Girls were the only other ones) I was so excited for The Sounds because I knew they are awesome live and I remember being a bit disappointed to see their sets end before respectively Panic! At The Disco and Fall Out Boy. I was surprised, to say the least, to see that the had a rather big fan base. I thought nobody here knew them, obviously I was wrong. They came through and amazed me by putting on a full length show that didn't suck one bit. It was awesome and for such a 'small' band to overpower what I felt for the Rejects is pretty amazing. I'm sure that the Backstreet Boys were good that same night, but I wouldn't want to have traded. I think I had more fun there, that night than I could ever have had with Nick Carter. Maja's pinky alone has more charisma than BSB all together. Verdict, definitely one of the best shows I've ever seen.

Two movies:

• I finally got to see 'Let The Right One In'. I have to say that this is, at the moment, one of the best vampire movies I've ever seen. It's based on a book 'Låt den rätte komma in' by John Ajvide. The movie tells the exceptional story of Oskar a small-town boy that is constantly bullied at school. Eli moves in next door and the two establish a remarkable friendship. I won't say more, except that it beats the hell out of the Twilight fairies and it is a must-see, really, trust me.
• Finally two nights ago I saw 'New Moon' the second of a long list of Twilight-saga movies. My opinion? I didn't like it. I read the book, which was semi-okay, but the movie, I don't know. I already got a bad case of the 'mockings' when I saw Edward Cullen sparkle for the first time. The second time I kinda laughed at the so-called werewolves, although I must say that the CGI was very well done. But those weren't werewolves, my Great Dane looks more ferocious than Jacob Black. I laughed my way through 'An American Werewolf In Paris' but at least that wolf was kind of scary. I still believe Kristen Stewart's acting is off and sometimes plain bad (notably the scene in the Volturi palace, where the one dude hurts Edward), it did get better when it was just her and Taylor Lautner. The highlight of the movie was very much Michael Sheen, who was cast for the role of Aro, the vampire king, so to speak. I adored him with the red eyes and the maniacal smile. Now he made me cringe a bit, I don't care what way you take that. Verdict: I was bored and I'm sure I'll refrain from spending any more cash on movies I know I won't like. Shame on them if they fool me once (although Twilight didn't completely suck in retrospect), shame on me if they fool me twice. Sorry friends but Eclipse is a no-go. (I'm selling the latter three parts of the Twilight-saga, leave a comment if interested AND living in Belgium)
• Bonus movie: This Is It. I've seen it, and it was what I expected. A video montage of what was supposed to be Michael Jackson's big comeback, and some bits and pieces to illustrate Michael's perfectionism. I loved it, but I also knew beforehand not to expect a huge show. Michael looked good, and even resembled his 'Jam'-self a bit. Kenny Ortega is a bit of an ass-kisser ("Yes, Michael, that was what I was thinking." "Yes, Michael, I agree." "Yes, Michael, you're right.") and the guitar-playing girl, Orianthi Panagaris, is pretty awesome. As is Judith Hill, who has amazing vocal skills.

I should go to bed so, this is it for today (see what I did there?). I probably forgot to say some stuff, but seen as I can't remember what, it's probably not important. Tata for now!

Watch us until we blur...
XO-reos
Monco

Concert Schedule:

No update, just a concert schedule for the next 12 months:

• All American Rejects: October 20th 2009
• The Sounds: November 20th 2009
• Mika: March 12th 2010

I heard Blink 182 might be going on a European tour in 2010, and we wouldn't want to miss that now, would we?
Taphophilia news: I will be re-visiting the cemetery in Laeken on October 13th. When the crypt re-opens I will return for a third and probably final documented visit.
Book news: First idea has been dismissed due to similarities between my idea and an old tv show with the same theme. My new idea however, is unique (to my knowledge).

Sayonara my friends and stay golden!
XO-reos
Monco

P.S.: Anybody who feels like joining me on one of the two final shows, let me know and we can make plans.

Taphophilia

I have no time for updates right now, BUT: I looked stuff up and it appears I am a taphophile. It's nothing dirty, it's just a name for people who have a passion for and enjoy cemeteries. That's me, a taphophile, nice to meet you.


Xo-reos
Monco

VMA update 4

For those of you who are wondering why I haven't said anything about Janet Jackson's performance, the Michael Jackson tribute or the 'This Is It' trailer. I need the time to enjoy these things for myself and to watch them again. Those moments made the award show for me personally. I would not do it justice by talking about it right now, the Michael Jackson portion of the show needs it's own entry and review. That's why I left it out of the VMA-hassle.

XO-reos
Monco

VMA update 3

Beyonce, you damn near made me cry. That was the most gracious act ever.
For those who have no clue what's happening:
Taylor Swift could not finish her thank yous because Mr. Kanye decided to interrupt her, having to put his two cents in for Beyonce not winning. Swift was left on stage not knowing what to do and her moment was kind of cut short and ruined.
Beyonce remembered how important it was for her to win her fist ever award and offered her moment to Taylor. Grace.

XO-reos
Monco

VMA update 2

So I'm not saying that:

1. VMAs are unimportant.
2. Kanye's a douche
3. Taylor Swift's video is the best one I ever saw

Again, perspective people. This award show IS about the videos and NOT about performances and/or singing abilities. It's about who makes the video that appeals to people most. To me, this award show is less important than the Grammies or the Music awards. Not to say that it isn't fun though.
What happened? Taylor Swift won the award for 'Best Female Video'. Beyonce was also nominated and Kanye West felt that she should have won, because she is the best artist at the moment. Kanye would not be Kanye if he didn't climb on stage to tell people that. He interrupted Taylor Swift to do his thing, while poor Taylor stood there not being able to finish her thank yous and not knowing what to do. This was her very first MTV award and obviously that was very important to her. I felt very bad for her. (For the record I do think that Taylor Swift is a good singer. I quite like her.)
Kanye's action during Taylor Swift's thank-yous was uncalled for. As I said, this said nothing about her performances or her abilities as a singer. Of course she shouldn't have won if this was a music award show, bacause 'Single Ladies' is a better song than her song 'You Belong With Me'. But it's not a music award show. This time, it IS about entertaining people visually. I'm sorry Kanye, but this time, you're wrong. (But in any other award show, he would have been right)

XO-reos
Monco

VMA update

Good morning. At this very moment I am watching the MTV Video Music Awards. I'll probably go back to sleep after and analyze things in the morning. I can already say that Kany West has spoken up about his personal favorites already. Expect an update soon!


XO-reos
Monco

I had a crappy guidance-counselor...

Hello there, loyal reader. Sunday again, is it? Why thank you for tuning in. Last week I discovered something fun to do: visiting graveyards. I'm not sure if there's a specific name for people who do it for fun, but if there is, I am one. I've been hobbyless for years and now I finally found one. Yay for me. Anyway, the very first cemetery I visited was the cemetery in Laeken, Brussels. It's a 19th century graveyard with loads of cool graves and it was the first graveyard in Brussels to use catacombs for burrying people. I have seen some pictures, but I couldn't get in further than a few feet since they are busy doing some maintenance work and the catacombs are locked for the time being. I'm thinking the ceiling is beginning to cave in, since above ground parts of the graves are off limits, and those graves run right above some halls of the catacombs. Anyway I forgot my camera and I didn't get to see half of the graves, so I will go back to take some pictures and spend more time there. By then I will also have done some research so I won't return unprepared. In the wake of the experience I have come up with an idea for a children's story, so who knows...
Other news is that in between staying up late and pulling all nighters for major exams I have failed to watch another version of 'Come Together'. I know, I know, so punish me. I will make up for it next week by reviewing this week's version and a bonus one. Heck I'll even throw in a movie if you wish... Does 1408 sound good?
News:

• Michael Jackson will probably be taken to his final resting place September 3d. I hope that he may finally rest in peace.
• Cash Colligan has decided last week to leave The Cab to pursue his other interests. I hope all goes wel, good luck Cash.
• Mika is coming to Belgium for an exclusive showcase. Jim Mobile is hosting the gig and I'm with TMF (a rival music tv-station), die-hard. I'll not fold. Unless somebody offers me a ticket of course.
• There has been some speculation that Lady Gaga, might be a Mr. Gaga, or even both. Katy Perry on the other hand lets us know that la Gaga put something in her panties to make it look like she has a penis. Lady Gaga however tells us that she is in fact part woman part man. Who is telling the truth? We might never know.
• I still have one ticket left for The All American Rejects, it's up for grabs people, come and get it!

To wrap this all up I have to mention 'Supernatural'. Dean and Sam Winchester, two brothers on the lookout for evil bastards to kill. Two super-cutie-heroes, cool cars and awesome opponants. What could one want more? I think I already mentioned the series a couple of months back, and if you like Buffy, this is a must watch. Granted, it's not AS good AS Buffy, but it's something to fill up the void that she left behind. Again, I made the mistake of watching some episodes before dark, don't... It'll satisfy you more when it's pitch-black outside.
And on that note, I bid you farewell and I will see you next week.

Give me a couple of severed heads and a pile of dead cows and I'm Ms. Sunshine…
XO-reos
Monco

I wear no shoe-shine...

Hello all!
I took a break from studying to bring you a new entry. Am I not nice? I just finished listening to Soundgarden's version of 'Come Together' and I must say that I could not find any good parts in that. Oh wait, except for the fact that there are guitars in it. The whole song sounded so monotonous and it made me fall asleep regardless of the noise they were making. You might think: "That's all fine and dandy, but the original version is a tad monotonous too..." Then I'll tell you that that is indeed true but all three previous artists succeeded in making the song easy to listen to in spite of the monotony of the guitar and bass lines.
Somewhere between philosophy, Dutch and Italian grammar I did find the time to watch a little movie. This weekend it was Calista Flockhart's turn with 'Fragile'. In this unknown movie she plays a 'young' nurse that has to fill in for another nurse at an almost abandoned hospital. The hospital is closing down and all patients have already been moved to other hospitals, all patients but the children. The children's ward is still open for business and that's where the chaos is happening. A young girl named Maggie supposedly talks to a ghost named Charlotte. Now who Charlotte is, we do not know. I won't tell you either because that would make me, indeed, a spoilsport and a party pooper. What we do know is that the second floor of the hospital is abandoned since 1959, so that's where the activity must be coming from. With a little help from other people Amy Nicholls uncovers the mystery of the 'mechanical girl' and we learn what really happened to one of the patients in that hospital.
Being a die-hard, hardcore horror fan, I was kind of weary. I usually find unknown horror movies to be... quite lame. This one actually was not too bad. It was actually good. It had a good build up and even I could not see through this plot. What I thought I understood, I definitely didn't.
Other news:

• Cobra Starship's new album 'Hot Mess' came out August 11th, you should check it out. So far I haven't really had the opportunity to hear more than two songs from the album, mainly because I haven't purchased it and refuse to download anything from it. 'Good Girls Go Bad' is the first single off the album and in my humble opinion it is one of the catchiest songs this summer.
• Fall Out Boy released a new video for 'What A Catch, Donnie'. It's serene and if you like seagulls or Patrick Stump, you should definitely watch it.
• I recently heard Panic! at the Disco's new single 'New Perspective'. I think it's a great song. Definitely a huge step back in the right direction, according to me. I'm not saying that the whole second album was bad, it had a couple of good songs on it but even though I like the Beatles a lot, I just couldn't finish the whole album. I adored 'A fever...' but this was not my cup of tea.
• Definitely check out 'Open Happiness'. It is also a very happyfying tune.
• Mika is coming back with a sequel to 'Life In Cartoon Motion'. 'We Are Golden' is already a favourite of mine. Way to go.
• I am going to an All American Rejects show in Brussels. (I'm still looking for a person to join me, or buy my extra ticket...)
• Fall Out Boy's 'I Don't Care' is nominated for a VMA for Best Rock Video. Go vote for your favourite videos over here.
• I almost forgot that my friend Moon-Lie Fong has a new blog about China that you should check out here.
  
• I have no more extra news that I can think of.

There, I think that may well be all for the day. Put on your slippers and do something relaxing tonight. If you do... would you mind thinking of me studying, and perhaps raise a toast to the person who started this philosophy thing. I would kill him if he were not already very much dead.
Thank you and good night!

We are not what you think we are...
XO-reos
Monco

Half-mast guitars...

Lester William Polsfuss, great electric guitar pioneer, also known and respected as Les Paul died in New York yesterday. My thoughts go out to his family, may he rest in peace.

Here come old flattop...

So I've finally decided to get this blog started again, to whomever reading this: Thank You.
In the wake of MJ's death I had decided to order in some DVDs. I used to have them on tape, but, you know, technology blah, blah, blah... Anyway, I am now the proud owner of 'The Wiz' and 'Moonwalker' on DVD. I always had a bit of a robo-transformer-phobia, now I know where it came from. Michael Jackson transforming into a robot, car, spaceship, etc... scared the living daylight out of me. Either way, I have a new obsession that comes in the form of a son: 'Come Together'. The first version I ever heard was MJ's. I stumbled upon the Beatles version (which is the original version, I know) by accident while listening to my iPod. I'm now in the process of listening to every version ever made/recorded. I have now heard The Beatles's version, MJ's and Aerosmith's.These are the main, or best known versions of 'Come Together', according to Wikipedia anyway. If you have the time, listen to all three and let me know your opinion in the poll that I will put together after this little shindig. Let's take a look at all three versions and my opinion. It's just my opinion, you might think it's bullcrap. So, sue me.

• Come Together - The Beatles: In my opinion this is the best version, since it is the original one. I also think that in this version both bass and guitar come out best. It's very minimal, unlike the Michael Jackson version, which (musically) is very bombastic and has a very anthematic feel to it. The Beatles's version is very elaborate, in- and outtro-wise. This is the version I would listen to, just chilling with some people. It feels like the song has all the time in the world to be played and in all fairness the song should be played when you have all the time in the world. Don't skip over parts. Enjoy the whole song and take the time to 'taste' it.
• Come Together - Aerosmith: This version stays closer to the Beatles's version although there is a little less bass and a little more guitar. I'd say that this version is also very chill. A lot less intro though, so also a little less 'all-the-time-in-the-world' feeling to it. I also think that this version is a bit more intense than the original version. Aerosmith itself is already very intense, so there we go.
• Come Together - Michael Jackson: The first version of this song I ever heard and it made me fall in love with the song. This song is nothing like the original. Musically it became a lot thicker with the various instruments used. The guitar is still the main component in this version but the vocals are upgraded to 'Michael Jackson'-esque. As I said before, to me, this version has a very anthematic feel to it. I also love the way MJ pronounces things, not that there is a big difference, but he has an unclearer way of singing this song. It's more staccato, shorter. To me this version is the one I would listen to when I want to get pumped up. Or if I want to scream my lungs out.

There are a lot more versions and I will try to include a review of one version every time I update.
Last week I also took a trip to a local media market and I've loaded up on horror DVDs. 3 to be exact, which isn't a lot, I know but I am on a tight budget. Reviews of those movies will follow. I also became re-addicted to 'Full House'. Not for Stamos's pretty face, but I do adore Jodie Sweetin and Dave Coulier.
There you go: update of the week.
Plans for next week: Short review of a horror movie, dissection of the difference between horror and thriller and a shorter review of 'Come Together' by some band.

I know you, you know me...
XO-reos
Monco

Gone Too Soon...

First of all, I was at a Michael Jackson commemoration gathering yesterday, therefore I could not update.

Last Thursday I was devastated by the sudden death of Michael Jackson. Still, I feel this sadness lingering. I have a hard time believing he is gone because, to me, it feels surreal. Michael was the kind of man I believed would live forever. I thought that one day I would tell my kids about him, and he would still be alive. I hate that my kids will have to feel about Michael what I feel about the Beatles, that they were born in the wrong generation.

Whenever I watch his videos now, I have this strange feeling. Like it's not the person in them that has passed away. He feels immortal in those videos. When I think about a deceased MJ, I think about a 90-year-old little man. Not a lively person with an amazing voice and, still, extraordinary dance moves. It's just a strange concept, that he is no longer there. After the burial I think that it will feel more permanent, that he is really gone. Until then I'm always going to expect him to resurface someday and tell us it's all a mistake.

Music has lost one of its most important people. He will be missed. I will always miss him. He was a great man. He altered my life on so many levels and I can't begin to describe what he meant to me. He is the reason for so many things I do and like in my life. He is also partially the reason I am who I am today. But his death is not only a tragedy for me, personally. I feel like, with him, a whole era has come to an end. He will never be here to see music evolve and to, maybe, steer it back in the right direction.

For a while I felt the urge to make it clear how much he meant to me and how big a fan I was. I know now that there is no point in doing that. I know how much he meant to me, that is enough. It's not about the amount of merchandising you buy or how many songs you know by heart. It's about how much of your heart is committed to the music. That is, in the end, what counts.

Michael, you were an amazing person, musician, lyricist, dancer, ... I will forever remember you and make sure the next generation won't forget you either. You will be missed, but you are invincible and will remain forever among us, in our hearts, thoughts and memories. Thank you for every day I had the opportunity to enjoy your music. Rest in peace, Michael.

In 2009 I already lost my grandmother, who was very dear to me. I would like this opportunity to honor her as it is five months since she has passed away. I still miss her every day and I can only aspire to be half as good as she was. She was truly the most selfless and kind person I have ever known and probably will ever know. It was an honor to have known you. Thank you for touching my life the way you did.

I am aware that this particular post is very heavy hearted. Under the circumstances there is no other way, I'm sorry.

Born to amuse, to inspire, to delight. Here one day, gone one night. Gone too soon.
XO-reos
Monco

The words of a class-A asswipe...

"We knew something like this would happen!!
Michael Jackson was taken by ambulance from his Holmby Hills home to a nearby Los Angeles hospital on Thursday afternoon!!
Supposedly, the singer went into cardiac arrest and the paramedics had to administer CPR!!!
His mother is even on the way to visit him!!!
We are dubious!!
Jacko pulled a similar stunt when he was getting ready for his big HBO special in '95 when he "collapsed" at rehearsal!
He was dragging his heels on that just like his upcoming 50 date London residency at the 02 Arena, of which he already postponed the first few dates!!!
Either he's lying or making himself sick, but we're curious to see if he's able to go on!!!
Get your money back, ticket holders!!!! "
-Perez Hilton

Don't bother looking for it, he took it down. Perez Hilton, you have been gushing over Jackson for ever, and now you act all grief-struck? Shame on you, Mario. Screw karma for just this once: Mario Lavendeira, you are one hypocrite, faking crapcunt. As for the punch? You had it coming, big time. At this point I wish I had done it... Your mother must be very proud of you.

As for MJ. I don't have the time nor the energy to go into this, but he was a huge part of my life. Who I am, is partially because of him. He was the only constant thing in my life and is now gone. I have been thinking about a Thriller tattoo near my heart for about a year now. To symbolize my love for him. I think, to comemmorate him, I will get it done soon.

Gone too soon - Michael Jackson
XO
Monco

Goodbye...

My day couldn't get crappier. May you rest in peace Michael.

An American werewolf in Perez

1. This is getting blown (Mikey) Way out of proportion...
2. Stop blogging about it already, we know about your booboo. People get hit for no reason, suck it up and never mention it again. You get hit for talking crap about people (which, to me, starts to look like kind of a 'duh' thing), and keep going on and on and ooooon about it. You started, got what was coming to you (although it sucks) so stop being a twirp and suck.it.up.already. I thought you didn't want any drama in your own life: way of dealing with it Mario.
   

I'm now going to roll my eyes at the computer screen, go out to buy a DVD recorder and shut the fuck up already.

Ladies: goodmorning
XO-reos
Monco

P.S.: Oh, yeah, lol at this for a while.

What a treateable treat.

Late night update. Just saw Perez Hilton was assaulted by some dude in the Black Eyed Peas' entourage.

1. Violence is indeed NEVER the answer, but verbal violence is just as crappy.
2. You shouldn't have called him a f*****, but you know that by now.
3. You should have been the bigger person in this and not have answered him when he was bullying you.
4. Karma...

So, I've rewritten this entry about 5 times, so nobody gets the wrong idea. I don't hate or love Perez Hilton. I tolerate him, sometimes I don't. Fact is that he writes some crappy things about good people and vice-versa. Do I think he got what was coming to him? In a way, yes. In my eyes verbal violence is just as bad as physical violence. When you verbally hurt someone and they don't have the ability to fight back with words they will resort to fisticuffs. If you don't want to get hurt, physically or verbally, then don't start. If you use verbal violence, then don't come crying if you get hit in the face. Fact is that if you don't use violence, often it won't catch up with you. This time it did and you kind of had this one coming for a long time. You can't get away with being offensive for that long. Somebody was bound to snap.
I don't endorse violence in any way. I'll never use it, if people have it coming, I'm sure karma will bite them in the ass without my help.
Btw, you'd think that after that Mr I-don't-want-drama-in-my-own-life-but-here-I-am-tweeting-about-what-a-shock-it-is-and-making-'statements' would quit being so 'aggro', he lashes out at Travis and John Mayer. Uncool.

I believe everything happens for a reason. You got smashed in the face for a reason, probably because your eyes needed to be opened (see what I did there?) and because in a weird way you had it coming dude.

XO-reos
Monco

P.S.: I'm not going to re-write this (again). Again, violence is not the answer, don't resort to it when you have the choice not to. Don't deliberately hurt people with words or fists. Eventually you'll get hurt three times worse. One way or the other you WILL get what's coming to you, in any form.

Who ate us? Hi ate us! (But it's over)

I'm back, back from the dead. Even though I really wasn't. Exams are over, went well and will start again around August. My arm is decorated with an aquamarine heart. MTV movie awards are over. Decaydance signed a new band. The Sims 3 is taking over my life. "Judging Amy" is on tv and all is well.

Chris Bully got sentenced yester'. He got off with 180 hours of community service and he has to stay away from Riri at all times. Ehh well, as Good Charlotte once put it: "There's no such thing as 25 to life."

Eminem's new album came out a while ago. I absolutely adore(d) that man. I'm not so sure about that after watching MTV movie awards footage of him and Brüno. So here's the thing: I think everything was carefully planned as a goode ole prank. Eminem however didn't know about it. He got pissed for some reason (Which I don't think is very cool unless acted.) and took off. If it was acted: well done. If not: not very cool. I still like his music though.

While I was gone, I noticed there was quite a stirr over Decaydance's newest band. "How the hell did they get signed?" "Pete, what the hell?" "They suck!" "Bunch of bitches!" are comments I came accross when I looked them up on FOE. Art is art. Whatever people create that is unique, is art and sometimes it IS supposed to make you feel angry or uncomfy, but not always, Peter Wentz (comment in no way attached to the Millionaires debacle). Everybody's musical taste or taste in arts is different. We should remember that before we start to trash an individual band. I, myself don't particularly like what I hear when I listened to the Millionaires. But that is MY opinion. Maybe Pete and/or Gabe liked what they did, and therefore signed them. Some people out there might like the Millionaires and who are we to tell them that they have a bad taste in music. I don't believe in 'bad taste'. It is my right to say that I don't like them. It's Pete Wentz's right to like them and sign them. Let's not judge him for that. They got signed. Good for them. Let's just all agree to disagree.

What I don't agree on, though, is people not putting things in perspective. I adore Fall Out Boy, but if I had to choose between them and Michael Jackson in a poll, I would choose MJ. Because he's simply the best. I stand by my previous opinion that kids vote on hormones these days. I mean "Twilight" over "Slumdog Millionaire"? OMG Rpatzz is such a cutie, let's just vote for him. He's so hawt! Movie quality has nothing to do with the cuteness of the leading actor. Personally, I hated the acting jobs in the first movie. I respect the votes if the voters truly and in good conscience believe that "Twilight" was the best movie. But I bet that half of them haven't even seen the other movies and therefore shouldn't vote. I didn't vote. I hadn't seen the other movies. If you're going to vote, check the competition. Otherwise: stay the hell away from that "vote" button on the bottom of any page. This is the last time I've ranted about this particular subject. I'll just be aggravated in silence.

I'm somewhere halfway the third book of the "Twilight saga". I'm still not buying the vampire thing, plus the fact that I can't seem to get myself to read the rest of the book says a lot I think. It stopped grabbing my attention a while ago. I like the books, but as I put things in perspective, they are far, far from being the best books I ever read. They don't thrill me anymore, they never scared me, and they are somewhat predictable (and that was before I knew what was going to happen in the last two books). At the most they make me smile once in a while BUT it is well written. Plus the whole Edward perfect bf thing, is getting boring. I wouldn't want one of those. I want a human dude, down't to earth that can be a jackass sometimes. But that's just me. "Twilight" and the whole hype is starting to bore me. I will finish the books and I will see the movies, but I don't think it's going to make me like it more. And also that is the last I've said about the "Twilight" hype: I'm out, sorry. Fun for a while, but book 2 threw me off.

Either way, I have to go. See you guys on Sunday, the usual updating day!

My head's in heaven, my soles are in hell...
XO-reos
Monco

English breakfast tea...

It's been over a month since I last posted here, and in that month I've been pondering about what kind of blog I eventually want this to be. I came to the conclusion that I should write about what I love.
I love gossip.
I love scaring the crap out of myself by watching horror movies.
I love music.
I love movies and television series.
Hence I believe it is best to make this a horrifying television/music gossip blog.

Remember that one time I went on and on about how great the "Salem's Lot" remake was? I saw the original version at 'Media Markt' (Yeah! Product Placement) and I couldn't resist. The front has a Nosferatu-like vampire on it. Nothing like the ones we see everywhere now. I'm dying to see it. I'm in the process of watching "Kingdom Hospital" and I'm going to order the original Lars Von Trier version. Furthermore I will order "Let the right one in" as I'm dying to watch that too. I'm going to be checking out "Twin Peaks" soon too and "Ghost Whisperer". I have seen a fair amount of episodes on tv, but I've never seen the very first season.

Either way, I should get going. It looks like rain and that means no ballerinas today, so I'll get back to picking socks.

Not so! Alas! Not so. It is only the beginning!
XO-reos
Monco

Thriller

That's exactly what it was last Friday. I was sick and home, so I decided I might as well buy me some Jackson-comeback-last tour ever-tickets. I had my presale code, I tried using it for the presale but I was too late. Again, Friday I was, well, not late. The site just didn't let me in. I tried to get on the site for 5 hours, by that time every ticket available was sold out. I am beyond bummed. I have my reasons. I will not elaborate, but I will say this: "Michael Jackson is a musical genius."
I am happy to report that the second comeback is Eminem's. Marshal Bruce Mathers will be releasing a new album somewhere halfway through May. Personally I love him and his new song "Crack a Bottle".
In regards to what I wrote about Brown and Princess Riri, lookie-lookie what I found here.
And last but not least, Britney Spears' persian p*ssy was hanging out. Or that's what she told the audience. Because her mic was still on during one of the many wardrobe changes, the entire audience heard Britney inform the people downstairs that "My pussy was hanging out." Well at least she was aware of it this time.
This is it for tonight, so goodnight folks!

It's close to midnight, and something evil's lurking in the dark...
XO-reos
Monco

Bound, bound, bound and rebound

I don't have the time to update on all the 'ssip I have, but remember Rihanna and Christopher Brown? Well, the saga continues. On the 8th of February Mr Brown damn near killed Rihanna, I know I'm being dramatic but so is everyone else. I thought I'd join in on the fun. Anyway, after this she vowed never to return to Chris. Ever. She whined and cried and vowed and failed. Reports are that they are back together. For an encore they got married at P. Diddy's house. Congratulations to the most disfunctional couple in celebo-land. This will at least take the attention off Simpson and Wentz.
Michael Jackson is back. This is it. The final 10 shows in his life. I secretly hope that he pulls a Tina Turner and keeps coming back anyway. I wish I could go to one of the concerts but things are looking pretty grim. The official website www.michaeljacksonlive.com has 16,000 visitors per second. That's 60 full arenas per minute. I will never get in, I'm sure. I subscribed for early ticket-buying but I doubt I will receive my special code.
More gossip coming, bear with me. I know I haven't been updating a lot lately, I have my reasons, but this is my comeback. So I hope you guys do the same.

Hurry, hurry ...
XO-reos
Monco

Cryptic messaging

My apologies for the lateness of this all, but really I blame my doctor and a gastric bypass. Anyhow I have a fuckload of gossip to share so please be patient untill next Sunday!
I shall keep you posted...

XO-reos
Monco

Hook

I'm A Cranky Old Yank in a Clanky Old Tank on the Streets of Yokohama with My Honolulu Mama doing Those Beat-O, Beat-O, Flat-On-My-Seat-O, Hirohito Blues
Check back later for more on this...

XO-reos
Monco

Long time no see...

It's been a while. Let's cut the chitchat and get on with it. Not a lot has happened to me personally, so I've had to dig in the lives of others commonly known as: "Celebrities".

• Rihanna and X-t Brown are going to tie the knot. It appears that the knot is being tied in Chris's leash, because future Mrs. Brown prevented Alexandra Burke (English X-factor winner and massive fan) from going to an after-party Chris was also attending. Jealous much?
• GrandMadonna is coming to Belgium. I for one will not go, but I'm sure mucho other people would like to check her out. I would too, if only she was half as good as she once was.
• Musicals all around: Thriller as well as Obama are going to be turned into musicals. More on that later.
• More on Obama: The new President of the United States of America may, or may not be expecting a baby with beautiful wife Michelle. Looks like Sasha and Malia might be getting a baby brother or sister. Huzzah.

That's all for today folks. Oh yeah, commercial breaks: if you're a girl check out 'Lipsmackers' at Claire's. They come in all kinds of wonderful flavors. I already have the Coca-Cola Company flavs. They are amazing, and hydrate wonderfully!

The taste of my cherry chap stick...
XO-reos
Monco

No milk today...

Due to exams: next update on Wednesday.

XO-reos
Monco

First post New Year post

First off: Happy New Year to all of you who celebrated the thing a couple of days ago. Huzzah, 2009. Be fabulous.
As promised I dug into the lives of the celebrities we love most. My interest today, midlife crises.

1. Madonna-aaah. She was an icon, world's greatest girl, queen of pop. She started the pointy bra revolution (though I have to say it is mighty uncomfy), she crucified herself for art. She shocked, caused chaos, kicked shins and so forth. When she was young all of that was cutesy. At least she realizes she's getting a bit older. She's done and seen it all. One thing kablabla can't do is reverse age. So Madge has found the solution: ditch the old dude (Guy Ritchie) and surround yourself with young people. J. Timberlake, Britney Spears, Lil Wayne, Lourdes,... She's also doing this maniac workout thing that's supposed to keep you young. She's looking like the female version of the Hulk right now, only less green and huge. The popping vains remain the same though. I'm anti-working out, who's with me? Either way, she found Jesus on the way to a younger self, so she might be doing something right.
2. I adore Michael Jackson, I absolutely do. Dude on the radio tells us he's seriously ill, I freak. He can not die. Next thing I know he's healthy as a hippo. Then he's going to die again, some creepass lung disease. Perez Hilton confirms he's fit as a fiddle though. Jackson turned 50 not so long ago, if he's lucky he's in the middle of his life. And he's in a crisis, therefore midlife-crisis. Dearest Michael, I love you to death, but make up your mind about your money. Are you broke or filthy ritch? Your career. Are you going to come back to us? And your health. Because if you're going to die, I need to know. So I can start that Michael Jackson 'The Life Of A Genius' website.
3. Monkey George. Handsomest man alive. Prissy Paris. Well...girl...thing. She's like Cleopatra: That nose! I just always thought George Clooney of all people had higher standards. Oh and boy George, lose the 'stash...

Big hurrays for Prince, he's putting out a couple of new records this year.
Big boos for Katy Perry and Trav McCoy. I will get over it. Katy is still adore your style though and Trav, you know I adore you.
Big hugs for John Travolta.
Big ha-has for Akon since he's finally getting what he deserves.
Big aww for the Wentz family. For all the right and wrong reasons.
Big oops to the Twilight fragrance, doesn't it look familiar?
Big thumbs up to my favorite drummer, may this year be like the last one, but better. Don't settle down with her though.
A final big I told you so to Benji Madden, you could've gotten better.

Preach electric to a microphone stand
XO-reos
Monco