Thursday, January 21, 2010

Xtranormal Video Assignment

Larry King Live with Sarah Palin

This video was created using the site 'xtranormal' and details a fictitious interview between Sarah Palin and Larry King on 'Larry King Live' directly prior to the 2009 American Federal election. It addresses some genuine political issues, but is mostly a comic sketch. Enjoy!

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Soundtrack of My Life



Below is a list of songs which would ideally be included in the album entitled 'Within' (as portrayed above) :-

1. Blue October - Into the Ocean
They lyrics of this song aptly describe the immigrant experience, specifically that of migrating to Canada, as the composition addresses the various sensations one inevitably experiences when being relocated so suddenly and so utterly into a foreign environment. This song was thus chosen for its relevance to not only the move itself, but the subsequent sensations with which it is associated.


2. Frou Frou - Let Go
Both the lyrics and tone of this song work together to communicate the enormity of life, and consequently make for an exceptionally moving and inspirational piece which which depicts not only my views on how life should be lived, but the lyrics also serve to address the necessity of 'letting go' of troubles. The song is thus in itself a sobering experience, as it reminds me not only of the fact that life is to be enjoyed, but is powerful in its message of living a life without resentment. In essence, it boasts of an idealistic life which we would all wish to experience, and in this manner is of great value to me.


3. Rob Thomas - Small Wonders
Of similar nature to the afore mentioned 'Let Go', this song is profound by my reckoning as it portrays all of life's occurrences as 'small wonders', reinforcing my belief that life itself is a wonder, as well as that these events which we take for granted are in and of themselves truly memorable, and, as the song amply states, 'small wonders'.


4. Nilsson - Coconut
My purposes for selecting this song were two-pronged, as it comically addressed the nature and importance of doctors while implementing a Caribbean flair. As I am originally from the Caribbean, the song is reminiscent of my past experiences, whereas the driving theme of a doctor aiding villagers addresses my desire to one day become a medical practitioner. In this manner does the composition fortify my resolve by reminding me of my more pleasant experiences of the past, while simultaneously dealing with my future aspirations.


5. Jon Scmidt - Walk in the Woods
This song is merely an instrumental piece. Despite its apparent simplicity however, for me it is of great significance, as it is reminiscent of my formative years and the sancutary I could often find in simply strolling around rural areas in the environs of my hometown. At these times was I most at peace with myself, and perhaps represent the most memorable collection of experiences in my life


6. K'naan - Wavin' Flag
This paritcular piece was written by a human rights activist, and as such was written upon the premise that inspires hope for the future, and speaks about the potential and general nobility of the human spirit. This message, for obvious reasons, speaks to me, as it reinforces my belief that perseverance yields fruit in the end, and addresses my attitude to life resultantly.


7. Nobuo Uematsu - JENOVA
Critically acclaimed as the most difficult composition for solo piano ever created by the great composer Nobuo Uematsu, this piece was the driving factor in my desire to pursue the piano as a recreational activity, as it was, and ultimately is, my goal in terms of piano. This song was, in more ways than one, a key factor in the development of what has become somewhat of an obsession with the instrument, and has thus played a significant role in my life.


8. Arcade Fire - Wake Up
This song is one which truly speaks to my soul, as it deals largely with the inevitability of death. It singularly serves as the embodiment of the deaths of all relatives and pets who have passed on, and is, resultantly, a sobering experience. This song has always reminded me of loved ones lost. As such, it remains in my view a masterpiece, as well as an instrumental factor in my life.


9. Koji Kondo - Overworld
On a more amiable note, this song is a gateway into my early childhood, as it is the main theme of a video game which I spent the vast majority of my earlier days fawning over. Apart from the obvious memory of the game, the thing that is most appealing about this song is its ability to recapture that simpler, yet better time in my life wherein the innocence of childhood safeguarded against the complexities of life which we would later face.


10. Louis Armstrong - What a Wonderful World
As a song which may be viewed as one of the great masterpieces of our time, the lyrics of Louis Armstrong's 'What a Wonderful World' are demonstrative of a life of contentment. The song addresses the simplicity with which life may be viewed, as well as the more positive aspects of the world. It essentially summarizes all of my life's philosophies, and is quite possibly the most inspirational music I have ever had the pleasure of hearing. Hearing this song often reminds me of a Utopia, in which all troubles are rendered non-existent, and in this manner has it profoundly affected my life.